Can Sanqi (Notoginseng) and Hongshen (Red Ginseng) be taken together?

May 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Panax notoginseng (Sanqi) and red ginseng can be taken together, but their use should be appropriately adjusted according to individual constitution and health status to avoid allergies or adverse reactions. Sanqi is warm in nature and slightly bitter, and has the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, and nourishing blood. It is commonly used to treat blood stasis symptoms caused by conditions such as rectal bleeding, traumatic bleeding, and contusions. Red ginseng has functions including strengthening the body, nourishing the blood, and enhancing immunity.

Generally speaking, Panax notoginseng (Sanqi) and red ginseng can be taken together, but their use should be based on individual constitution and health status to avoid allergic reactions or adverse effects. The analysis is as follows:

Panax notoginseng is warm in nature and slightly bitter, possessing functions of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and nourishing blood. It is commonly used to treat symptoms of blood stasis caused by conditions such as rectal bleeding, traumatic bleeding, contusions, and injuries. Red ginseng has effects of strengthening the body, replenishing blood, and enhancing immunity. It is typically used to treat symptoms such as spleen deficiency, shortness of breath, fatigue, insomnia, and forgetfulness. The medicinal components of these two herbs do not conflict, and taking them together generally does not cause adverse reactions.

Red ginseng strongly replenishes vital energy (Qi), while Panax notoginseng nourishes blood. When used together, they can enhance the effects of invigorating Qi and nourishing blood. The blood-activating and stasis-resolving effect of Panax notoginseng combined with the Qi-tonifying effect of red ginseng helps improve blood circulation and alleviate pain symptoms caused by poor blood flow.

If a patient has an allergic constitution or is allergic to components of Panax notoginseng or red ginseng, it is not recommended to take them together to avoid allergic reactions such as itching or red rashes on the skin. Red ginseng is of a hot nature and should not be consumed for long periods or in excessive amounts, as this may cause heatiness (excessive internal heat). Meanwhile, the dosage of Panax notoginseng should also be reasonably controlled under the guidance of a physician according to individual constitution and medical condition.

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