What are the benefits of Astragalus and Goji berries?

Dec 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, combining Astragalus (Huangqi) and Chinese wolfberry (Goji berry, or Gouqi) offers various health benefits, including reinforcing qi and raising yang energy, nourishing the liver and kidneys, enhancing immunity, invigorating qi to promote fluid production, and nourishing the skin. Astragalus and Goji berries can be consumed directly by steeping in water or added to porridge and soups. Since Astragalus has a slightly warming nature, individuals with a "heaty" constitution should reduce the dosage. Goji berries contain natural sugars, so diabetic patients should control their intake amount.

Under normal circumstances, combining Astragalus (Huangqi) and Chinese wolfberry (Gouqi) offers various health benefits, including invigorating Qi and raising Yang, nourishing the liver and kidneys, enhancing immunity, replenishing Qi to promote body fluid production, and nourishing the skin. The specific effects are analyzed as follows:

1. Invigorating Qi and Raising Yang

Astragalus enters the lung and spleen meridians and is particularly effective in tonifying the Qi of the spleen and lungs, while Goji berries assist in nourishing both Qi and blood. When used together, their combined effect enhances Qi supplementation, helping to alleviate symptoms caused by Qi deficiency such as fatigue, low energy, weak voice, and lack of motivation. This combination helps boost the body's Yang energy and is suitable for individuals with weak constitutions.

2. Nourishing the Liver and Kidneys

Goji berries target the liver and kidney systems, effectively nourishing Yin of these organs, while Astragalus supports the generation of kidney Qi through Qi tonification. Used together, they help relieve symptoms associated with liver and kidney deficiency, such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, vertigo, and blurred vision. This makes them especially beneficial for middle-aged and elderly individuals for daily wellness support.

3. Enhancing Immunity

Astragalus contains astragalus polysaccharides that can regulate the activity of immune cells, while Goji berries contain lycium polysaccharides known to enhance immune function. Their synergistic action strengthens the body’s resistance against external pathogens, reduces the likelihood of illnesses such as colds, and provides supportive benefits to the immune system.

4. Replenishing Qi and Promoting Body Fluid Production

Astragalus boosts Qi to facilitate the production of body fluids, thereby improving conditions caused by insufficient fluids due to Qi deficiency. Goji berries, being sweet and juicy, directly nourish body fluids. When consumed together, they help relieve symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, and throat discomfort, making them particularly suitable for use during dry weather or after physical exertion to restore both fluids and vital energy.

5. Nourishing the Skin

Goji berries contain nutrients such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help nourish the skin. Astragalus, by strengthening Qi, promotes blood circulation and facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients to the skin. Together, they improve sallow complexion and dry skin caused by deficiencies in Qi and blood, promoting a healthier and more radiant appearance.

When consuming Astragalus and Goji berries, they can be steeped directly in hot water or added to porridge or soups. As Astragalus has a slightly warming nature, individuals with excessive internal heat should reduce the dosage. Goji berries contain natural sugars, so people with diabetes should limit their intake. Both should be consumed in moderation—excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and impaired digestion.

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What should reed rhizome (bai maogen) be combined with to treat kidney disease?

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What are the contraindications and benefits of steeping Codonopsis, Astragalus, and Ophiopogon in water for drinking?

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What is good to drink for replenishing blood and qi?

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