Can mulberry fruit and astragalus be steeped together in water for consumption?
Generally speaking, mulberry fruit and astragalus can be steeped together in water, but it is not recommended to consume excessive amounts. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Astragalus has a warm nature and sweet taste, and is known for its function of replenishing qi and uplifting yang. It may have a slight beany odor when steeped in water. Mulberry fruit has a sweet and sour taste with a slightly cold nature, which can not only neutralize the warmth of astragalus, but also add a natural fruity aroma, making the beverage smoother in taste. From a nutritional perspective, astragalus contains components such as astragalus saponins, while mulberry fruit is rich in vitamins and anthocyanins. When combined, they do not inhibit each other's nutrient absorption. Instead, the mixture can provide both the mild effect of replenishing qi and a refreshing sensation of stimulating saliva production.
When preparing the infusion, attention should be paid to using an appropriate amount of astragalus to avoid excessive intake that may lead to heatiness. Before steeping, astragalus should be thoroughly rinsed, and dried mulberry fruit should be quickly soaked in warm water to remove surface dust. Individuals with a hotter body constitution may reduce the amount of astragalus appropriately and increase the proportion of mulberry fruit. Those with a cold constitution due to spleen and stomach deficiency may slightly increase the astragalus amount while reducing the quantity of mulberry. It is recommended to consume the infusion the same day it is prepared to avoid bacterial growth due to prolonged storage.