What is good to drink for replenishing blood and qi?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Ingredients commonly used in beverages for replenishing blood and qi include red dates, longan, angelica root (Danggui), astragalus root (Huangqi), and goji berries. Red dates are fundamental for tonifying the spleen and boosting qi, nourishing blood and calming the mind. Rich in iron and vitamins, red dates can be steeped alone or combined with other ingredients. When brewed, they produce a rich, fragrant infusion that helps improve sallow complexion and fatigue caused by deficiency of qi and blood. They gently nourish the spleen and stomach, promoting the production of vital energy and blood.

Herbal ingredients suitable for replenishing blood and qi generally include red dates, longan, angelica root (Danggui), astragalus root (Huangqi), and goji berries. The details are as follows:

1. Red Dates: Red dates tonify the spleen and benefit qi, nourish the blood, and calm the mind. Rich in iron and vitamins, they serve as a fundamental ingredient for boosting both qi and blood. They can be steeped alone or combined with other herbs. When brewed, they release a rich, sweet aroma and help improve sallow complexion and fatigue caused by deficiency of qi and blood. They gently nourish the spleen and stomach while promoting the production of qi and blood.

2. Longan: Longan benefits the heart and spleen, nourishes the blood, and calms the spirit. It effectively replenishes qi and blood quickly, relieving palpitations, poor memory, mental fatigue, and weakness. Use 3–5 pieces per serving; pour boiling water over them and steep for 5 minutes. The resulting tea is sweet and pleasant, ideal for individuals with deficiencies in both qi and blood, especially after late-night work or during periods of physical weakness.

3. Angelica Root (Danggui): Known for its classic blood-nourishing and blood-activating properties, Danggui also regulates menstruation and relieves pain. Sliced pieces can be steeped in boiling water or combined with red dates and goji berries. It nourishes liver blood and helps alleviate dizziness, blurred vision, and numbness caused by blood deficiency. Suitable for those primarily suffering from blood deficiency, it supports circulation to prevent blood stasis while enhancing blood production.

4. Astragalus Root (Huangqi): Huangqi strongly tonifies qi, raises yang energy, strengthens the defensive system, and stops excessive sweating. When used alone or paired with red dates in tea, it enhances digestive function and boosts energy levels in individuals with qi deficiency. It helps relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath, reluctance to speak, and spontaneous sweating. By strengthening qi, it provides the necessary foundation for blood production and is particularly suitable for daily use by those with predominant qi deficiency.

5. Goji Berries: Goji berries nourish the liver and kidneys, enrich essence, and support blood production. They not only nourish yin and blood but also assist in tonifying qi. When brewed together with red dates and longan, their synergistic effects enhance overall blood and qi replenishment. This combination helps address deficiencies in liver and kidney yin that lead to insufficient essence and blood. With a mildly sweet and refreshing taste, goji berry tea is suitable for long-term consumption as part of regular health maintenance.

Replenishing qi and blood should be done gradually. Avoid excessive intake of warming herbs to prevent heatiness. Control the amount used when brewing, and avoid making the infusion too strong. Combine herbal teas with regular sleep patterns and moderate exercise to promote optimal nutrient absorption.