Can Astragalus and American ginseng be steeped together in water for drinking?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, Astragalus (Huang Qi) and American ginseng (Xi Yang Shen) can be steeped together in water for drinking, but excessive consumption is not recommended. When purchasing, choose Astragalus with complete slices and firm texture, and American ginseng with a strong ginseng aroma. After washing, steep them in boiling water, cover and let stand for 10 minutes before drinking. They can be re-steeped until the flavor becomes weak. This drink should be avoided by individuals with colds, fever, or internal damp-heat to prevent worsening of symptoms. Do not consume large amounts at one time.
Generally, Astragalus (Huang Qi) and American ginseng (Xi Yang Shen) can be steeped together in water for drinking, but excessive consumption is not recommended. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Astragalus is warm in nature and sweet in taste, primarily functioning to tonify qi and raise yang; American ginseng is cool in nature and slightly bitter and sweet in taste, excelling in replenishing qi, nourishing yin, clearing heat, and promoting body fluid production. When used together, their properties balance each other—this combination avoids the overly warming and drying effect of Astragalus that may cause internal heat, while also compensating for the relatively weaker qi-tonifying effect of American ginseng. It is particularly suitable for individuals with deficiency of both qi and yin. Steeping them in water allows effective ingredients to be easily extracted, resulting in a mild, harmonious flavor. This infusion can help restore vital energy to relieve fatigue, while simultaneously nourishing yin and alleviating dryness, especially benefiting those with deficient constitution who are prone to heat symptoms.
When purchasing, choose Astragalus slices that are intact and firm in texture, along with American ginseng that has a strong characteristic aroma. After rinsing thoroughly, steep in boiling water, cover, and let it steep for 10 minutes before drinking. It can be re-steeped until the flavor becomes weak. This drink should be avoided during colds or fever, or by individuals with internal damp-heat, to prevent worsening of symptoms. Dosage should be moderate: 5–10 grams of Astragalus and 3–5 grams of American ginseng per serving are appropriate. Store the herbs sealed in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture and mold; discard if any abnormalities in appearance or odor occur.
