Can drinking water infused with Huang Qi (Astragalus) lower blood pressure?

Apr 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
The active ingredients in Astragalus, such as astragalus polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids, have diuretic, anti-edema, and blood-activating effects. When a larger dose of Astragalus is used to make tea, these effects may be enhanced, thereby helping to lower blood pressure. At the same time, Astragalus also has protective effects on the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, increases renal blood flow, has diuretic properties, and protects against kidney damage.

  Drinking water infused with Huang Qi (Astragalus) may, to some extent, assist in lowering blood pressure, but it is not a medication directly intended for treating hypertension. If any physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and then follow the doctor's instructions for appropriate management.

  The active ingredients in Huang Qi, such as astragalus polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, and others, have diuretic and anti-edema properties, as well as the ability to promote blood circulation. When larger doses of Huang Qi are used to prepare the infusion, these effects may be enhanced, potentially aiding in lowering blood pressure. Additionally, Huang Qi offers protective benefits to the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems, increases renal blood flow, has diuretic effects, and protects against kidney damage, playing a positive role in the treatment and prevention of complications associated with hypertension. However, this does not mean that Huang Qi can replace antihypertensive medications.

  For patients with moderate to severe hypertension, simply drinking Huang Qi-infused water will not achieve effective blood pressure reduction. It is essential to follow medical advice and take prescribed antihypertensive medications regularly. Before trying any complementary therapies, patients with hypertension should first consult a qualified physician to ensure their safety and appropriateness, avoiding any delay in receiving standard medical treatment.

  Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, appropriate physical activity, avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption, and regularly monitoring blood pressure levels, while following medical guidance for treatment.