Can Astragalus root (Huang Qi) be steeped in water and consumed long-term?

Generally speaking, it is not recommended to consume astragalus (Huang Qi) water for a prolonged period. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Astragalus, as a traditional Chinese herb, offers various health benefits, such as regulating qi deficiency and promoting beauty and skin health. For individuals experiencing symptoms like fatigue due to qi deficiency, poor appetite, loose stools, chronic diarrhea, or rectal prolapse, moderate consumption of astragalus-infused water can be beneficial. When consumed appropriately, astragalus water can be advantageous to health without causing harm.

However, long-term consumption of astragalus water may increase the burden on the spleen, stomach, liver, and kidneys, which could be detrimental to overall health. Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders or impaired liver and kidney function should be especially cautious. Additionally, those with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, women during menstruation, pregnant women, and patients with wind-heat type colds should avoid consuming large amounts of astragalus water, as it may worsen existing conditions or cause adverse reactions.

It is recommended to follow the guidance of a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to appropriately determine the dosage and frequency of use, avoiding blind, long-term, or excessive consumption. While drinking astragalus water, attention should also be paid to maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods that may interfere with the herb's effectiveness or exacerbate existing health conditions.