Can Astragalus, Angelica sinensis, Codonopsis pilosula, red dates, Lycium berries, and longan be steeped together in water for drinking?

Dec 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

In general, Astragalus (Huangqi), Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Codonopsis (Dangshen), red dates, goji berries, and longan can be steeped together in water for drinking, but should be consumed in moderation. When preparing, make sure to rinse the ingredients thoroughly before steeping, and removing the shell from longan fruits helps release their flavor more easily. Do not use excessive amounts: three to five slices each of Astragalus and Codonopsis, one or two slices of Angelica sinensis, and five to six pieces each of red dates, goji berries, and longan are sufficient per serving.

Generally, Astragalus (Huangqi), Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Codonopsis (Dangshen), red dates, Lycium (Gouqi), and longan can be steeped together in water for drinking, but only in moderation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Astragalus is sweet in taste and warm in nature, effective for replenishing vital energy; Angelica sinensis is sweet, warm, and moist in quality, capable of nourishing and activating blood circulation; Codonopsis is neutral in nature and sweet in taste, good at strengthening the spleen and boosting qi. When used together, these three herbs provide tonification without stagnation and promote blood circulation without harming healthy body functions. Red dates are sweet and warm, beneficial for strengthening the spleen and nourishing blood; Lycium is sweet and neutral, able to tonify the liver and kidneys; longan is sweet and warm, helpful for nourishing the heart and spleen. These ingredients complement each other in nature and flavor, with no contraindications in combination. Steeping them together enhances their nourishing effects comprehensively, benefiting both qi and blood as well as internal organs, while also offering a smooth, pleasant taste suitable for daily wellness use.

When preparing, make sure to rinse the ingredients thoroughly before steeping. Removing the shell from longan helps release its flavor more easily. Do not use excessive amounts: 3–5 slices each of Astragalus and Codonopsis, 1–2 slices of Angelica sinensis, and about 5–6 pieces each of red dates, Lycium, and longan are sufficient per serving. Individuals with a hot constitution or those prone to heatiness should reduce the amount of longan. Avoid consumption during colds, fever, or digestive discomfort. To prepare, briefly rinse with warm water, then pour boiling water over the ingredients and let steep for ten minutes. Drink throughout the day as tea, and consume the infusion on the same day it is prepared to maintain optimal taste and effectiveness—do not store for extended periods.

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