Can Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza be steeped together in water for consumption?
Apr 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza can be consumed together as a herbal tea, but it is important to use them in appropriate quantities. Both Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, and there are no contraindications for their combined use. Drinking them together as a tea can even enhance their therapeutic effects. Astragalus functions to invigorate qi, elevate yang, consolidate the exterior to stop sweating, promote diuresis, and reduce edema, while Salvia miltiorrhiza acts to invigorate blood circulation, remove blood stasis, promote menstruation, alleviate pain, cool the blood, and resolve abscesses.
Generally speaking, Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza can be consumed together as herbal tea, but they should be taken in moderation. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza are both commonly used traditional Chinese herbs. They have no contraindications in combination and can enhance each other's effects when consumed together as a tea. Astragalus functions to invigorate qi, support yang energy, reduce perspiration, promote diuresis, and alleviate edema. Salvia miltiorrhiza has effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, relieving pain by unblocking meridians, cooling the blood, and reducing swelling caused by heat.
Salvia miltiorrhiza can soften and dilate blood vessels, while Astragalus enhances myocardial contractility. When used together, this combination helps improve blood circulation and may help prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Both Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza can promote insulin secretion and reduce blood glucose levels to a certain extent. Additionally, Salvia miltiorrhiza can dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure, offering some auxiliary therapeutic benefits for patients with diabetes and hypertension.
Although Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza can be consumed together as tea, they are not suitable for everyone. Individuals prone to excessive internal heat (commonly referred to as "fireiness") may experience worsened symptoms due to the warming nature of Astragalus. Special populations, such as pregnant women, should also use them cautiously. Furthermore, moderation is important when consuming this herbal tea, as excessive intake may cause adverse effects. If any discomfort occurs during consumption, such as allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort, usage should be stopped immediately and medical advice should be sought.
