Is the combination of Rehmannia glutinosa, Astragalus complanatus, and Paeonia lactiflora scientifically reasonable?

Jul 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang) nourishes yin and enriches the blood, Astragalus complanatus (Sha Yuan Zi) benefits the kidneys and consolidates essence, while Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao) excels at nourishing blood and soothing the liver. When used together, these three herbs can exert synergistic effects in alleviating symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or other discomforts caused by yin deficiency of the liver and kidney or blood deficiency, aligning with the principles of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment. In such cases, this herbal combination is considered reasonable. However, if the body is experiencing internal excess damp-heat or the initial stage of an external contraction, using these three herbs may potentially exacerbate the existing condition.

Generally speaking, for syndromes such as yin deficiency of the liver and kidney or blood deficiency, it is usually scientific and reasonable to use Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang), Astragalus complanatus (Sha Yuan Zi), and Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao) in combination after professional syndrome differentiation. However, it is unscientific and unreasonable to use them blindly without accurate syndrome differentiation or if the syndrome type does not match. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Rehmannia glutinosa can nourish yin and enrich blood, Astragalus complanatus can tonify the kidney and consolidate essence, and Paeonia lactiflora is effective at nourishing blood and soothing the liver. When combined, these three herbs can synergistically address symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue caused by yin deficiency of the liver and kidney, or discomfort caused by blood deficiency. This combination aligns with the TCM principle of syndrome differentiation and treatment, thus being reasonable in formulation.

If the body is experiencing internal excess damp-heat or the initial stage of external pathogenic invasion, using these three herbs may exacerbate the existing discomfort. Since all three herbs tend to be nourishing, their use in cases of damp-heat may promote dampness accumulation, while their use in external contraction conditions may trap the pathogen inside the body. In such situations, this combination does not meet the therapeutic requirements and may fail to achieve a regulatory effect.

Although Rehmannia glutinosa, Astragalus complanatus, and Paeonia lactiflora are commonly used Chinese herbs, they may also cause some side effects, such as allergic reactions, heatiness (excess internal heat), or increased burden on the liver and kidneys. The combination of Chinese herbs should consider individual constitution and specific syndrome type. It is important not to self-prescribe combinations. If discomfort occurs after taking these herbs and persists, professional guidance should be sought promptly.

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Shudihuang, Sand苑zi, and Baishao for anemia: Do they help?

Under normal circumstances, cooked Rehmannia root (Shu Di Huang), Astragalus seed (Sha Yuan Zi), and white peony root (Bai Shao) may help improve anemia to some extent, but they should be used appropriately. When using these three herbs as adjuvants for improving anemia, attention should be paid to purchasing high-quality products from reputable sources to ensure efficacy. They should be used under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid self-medication. Caution should be exercised in individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency or indigestion.

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Can Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang) and Tribulus terrestris (Sha Yuan Zi) be used together with Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao)?

In general, Sh熟地黄 (Rehmannia glutinosa) and Sha Yuan Zi (Astragalus complanatus seeds) can be used together, but usage should follow medical advice. Sh熟地黄 has a relatively greasy nature, and excessive or long-term use may impair stomach function, leading to indigestion and abdominal distension. Therefore, it should be used cautiously or in combination with spleen-strengthening and qi-regulating herbs by individuals with weak spleen and stomach or poor appetite. Although Sha Yuan Zi is relatively mild in nature, large single doses are not recommended for individuals with yin deficiency and fire hyperactivity, especially when used together with Sh熟地黄.

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Is it okay to cook a soup with prepared Rehmannia root, Astragalus seed, and white peony root together?

Under normal circumstances, Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa), Sha Yuan Zi (Astragalus complanatus), and Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora) can be cooked together in a soup. However, it is recommended to consult a professional physician before use. When preparing the soup, the amount of Shu Di Huang should not be excessive to avoid making the soup overly rich and greasy. Ingredients such as red dates and goji berries can be added to enhance the taste and nourishing effects. Sufficient decoction time is required, as Shu Di Huang has a hard texture; it is recommended to soak it for half an hour before cooking it together with the other herbs.

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Can the combination of Rehmannia glutinosa, Astragalus complanatus seeds, and Paeonia lactiflora regulate menstruation?

Under normal circumstances, the combination of Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang), Astragalus complanatus (Sha Yuan Zi), and Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao) can help regulate menstruation, although its effectiveness may be limited. Dosage adjustments should be made according to specific symptoms when regulating menstruation: for individuals with light menstrual flow, the dosage of Rehmannia glutinosa may be appropriately increased; for those experiencing significant abdominal pain during menstruation, the proportion of Paeonia lactiflora can be increased. Patients with weak spleen and stomach should control the dosage of Rehmannia glutinosa to avoid excessive greasiness that may impair gastric function and absorption. This combination should be discontinued during periods of heavy menstrual bleeding.