Will drinking astragalus (Huangqi) worsen pharyngitis?

In general, whether drinking astragalus (Huangqi) will worsen pharyngitis depends on the individual patient's specific condition. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

For individuals in the recovery phase of pharyngitis or those with weak constitution, drinking astragalus usually does not exacerbate the condition. At this stage, inflammation has been controlled and only mild symptoms such as dry throat and fatigue remain. Astragalus can tonify qi and strengthen the body’s resistance, enhancing the resilience of the throat mucosa and supporting sustained recovery. When consumed, the dosage should be moderate, steeped in warm water, and not too concentrated to avoid irritating the throat.

However, for patients experiencing an acute episode or those with wind-heat type pharyngitis, consuming astragalus may worsen the condition. In these cases, symptoms such as redness, swelling, and sore throat are prominent, often accompanied by fever and yellow phlegm. Since astragalus has a relatively warming nature, taking it at this time may intensify internal heat, leading to aggravated inflammation and increased pain. Additionally, individuals with damp-phlegm constitution who experience a sticky sensation in the throat may also find their discomfort worsened by astragalus.

In daily life, it is advisable to drink plenty of warm water to keep the throat moist. Maintain a light diet, consume more nourishing foods such as pears and tremella, and avoid spicy and fried foods. Control your voice volume and avoid prolonged speaking. Keep indoor areas well-ventilated, use a humidifier to maintain proper humidity, and minimize exposure to dust and irritant gases. If symptoms recur, the underlying cause should be identified promptly and treated accordingly.