Can Huang Qi Jing and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan be taken together?

Feb 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Huangqi Jing and Liuwei Dihuang Pills can be taken together, but this should be done under the guidance of a physician. Huangqi Jing's main ingredient is Astragalus (Huangqi), which functions to nourish the blood, replenish vital energy, fortify the body's resistance, and stop perspiration. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as qi deficiency with blood insufficiency, spontaneous sweating due to superficial deficiency, low energy, or physical weakness following a prolonged illness. The Liuwei Dihuang Pill, on the other hand, is composed of Prepared Rehmannia Root (Shudi Huang), Cornus Fruit processed with wine (Jiuyurou), Tree Peony Bark (Mudanpi), Yam (Shanyao), Poria (Fuling), and Water Plantain Root (Zexie).

Generally speaking, Astragalus Extract and Liuwei Dihuang Pills can be taken together, but this should be done under the guidance of a physician. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Astragalus Extract primarily contains astragalus root, which functions to enrich blood, nourish qi, strengthen the body's resistance, and stop perspiration. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as qi and blood deficiency, spontaneous sweating due to superficial deficiency, fatigue, or weakness following a prolonged illness. Liuwei Dihuang Pills are composed mainly of herbs including rehmannia root (prepared), cornus fruit (steamed with wine), tree peony bark, Chinese yam, and poria, and are primarily used for nourishing yin and tonifying the kidneys. They are often used to treat symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, soreness and weakness of the lower back and knees, night sweats, and seminal emission caused by kidney yin deficiency. From the perspective of drug composition and effects, there are no obvious contraindications between the two formulas, and they can be taken together when each is indicated.

However, if one has a constitution characterized by excessive yang and internal heat, manifested as symptoms such as oral ulcers, swollen and painful gums, or constipation, taking these two medications together may exacerbate internal heat symptoms. In such cases, caution should be exercised or these medications should be avoided altogether.

It is best to consult a physician before taking these medications to ensure safety and efficacy. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular作息 (作息 should be replaced with appropriate English term like "rest and activity cycles" or "daily routines"), balanced diet, and proper作息, can help enhance treatment outcomes.