Can American ginseng be steeped in water together with wolfberry?
Apr 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, American ginseng can be steeped in water together with wolfberry. American ginseng is cool in nature, with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, and has functions of nourishing qi and yin, clearing heat, and promoting production of body fluids. It is suitable for symptoms such as deficiency of both qi and yin, irritability with thirst, and asthenic heat with fatigue. Wolfberry is neutral in nature and sweet in taste, and has effects of nourishing the liver and kidney, and benefiting essence and eyesight. It is suitable for liver and kidney yin deficiency syndromes and premature aging, and can enhance immunity and relieve fatigue.
Generally speaking, American ginseng can be steeped in water together with wolfberry (Lycium barbarum). The detailed explanation is as follows:
American ginseng is cool in nature, sweet and slightly bitter in taste, and functions to nourish Qi and yin, clear heat, and promote production of body fluids. It is suitable for symptoms such as dual deficiency of Qi and yin, irritability with thirst, and fatigue caused by deficiency-heat. Wolfberry is neutral in nature, sweet in taste, and has effects of nourishing the liver and kidney, enriching essence, and improving vision. It is suitable for syndromes caused by yin deficiency of the liver and kidney and premature aging, and can enhance immunity, relieve fatigue, lower blood glucose, and reduce lipids. Drinking American ginseng and wolfberry together can combine their benefits, achieving effects of nourishing kidney yin, invigorating Qi and promoting production of body fluids, and clearing the liver to improve vision. This combination is suitable for individuals with dual deficiency of Qi and yin or yin deficiency of the liver and kidney, and helps alleviate fatigue, enhance immunity, and protect eyesight.
However, it should be consumed in moderation. Although American ginseng is cool in nature and wolfberry is neutral, excessive consumption may cause discomfort. Individuals with cold-deficiency constitution or cold abdominal pain with diarrhea should use it cautiously or reduce the dosage. If you are taking other medications, especially anticoagulant or hypoglycemic drugs, you should consult a physician before consumption to avoid potential drug interactions.
To ensure safety and effectiveness, it is recommended to consult a professional TCM practitioner or nutritionist before trying American ginseng and wolfberry tea, especially for pregnant women, children, elderly individuals, and those with chronic diseases. Additionally, it is important to consume it in moderation during daily use to avoid discomfort caused by excessive intake.
