Is it effective to take Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang) together with Astragalus complanatus (Sha Yuan Zi) and Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao)?

Aug 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

If symptoms such as weakness and soreness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, or blurred vision caused by deficiency of the liver and kidney, or pallor and irregular menstruation due to blood deficiency are present, combining these three herbs can produce a synergistic effect. Prepared Rehmannia Root (Shu Di Huang) nourishes the kidney and replenishes yin; Astragalus Seed (Sha Yuan Zi) strengthens the kidney and consolidates essence; White Peony Root (Bai Shao) nourishes the blood and soothes the liver. Together, they effectively nourish the liver and kidney and regulate qi and blood, thereby supporting the body's overall regulation and recovery.

Generally, under normal circumstances, consuming Rehmannia glutinosa (Sh熟地黄) together with Astragalus complanatus (Shayuanzi, 沙苑子) and Paeonia lactiflora (Baishao, 白芍) may help alleviate discomfort caused by liver and kidney deficiency and blood deficiency. However, this combination may not be effective for individuals whose constitutions or medical conditions are unsuitable. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, or blurred vision caused by liver and kidney deficiency, or pallor and irregular menstruation caused by blood deficiency are present, the combination of these three herbs may exert a synergistic effect. Rehmannia glutinosa nourishes kidney yin, Astragalus complanatus fortifies the kidney and consolidates essence, and Paeonia lactiflora nourishes blood and soothes the liver. Together, they can nourish the liver and kidney and regulate qi and blood, thus providing support for body regulation.

If the body constitution tends toward damp-heat, or the condition is caused by external pathogens or excessive internal heat, these herbs are all relatively nourishing in nature. Taking them together might exacerbate internal dampness or heat symptoms. This may not only fail to improve the condition but could also potentially cause discomfort such as abdominal distension or heatiness. In such cases, combining these herbs would be detrimental to the body's condition.

The combination of Rehmannia glutinosa with Astragalus complanatus and Paeonia lactiflora should be adjusted according to individual constitution and symptoms, avoiding long-term or excessive use. If discomfort occurs after consumption, usage should be stopped immediately and the condition monitored. If symptoms persist, timely professional guidance should be sought.

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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.