Can people with high blood sugar consume Astragalus, Lycium barbarum (wolfberry), red dates, and Angelica sinensis (dong quai)?

Jul 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My mother-in-law always experiences frequent urination, fatigue, and elevated blood glucose levels. Can she consume Astragalus (Huang Qi), wolfberry (Gou Qi Zi), red dates (Hong Zao), and Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) for high blood sugar?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Patients with high blood sugar can consume Astragalus (Huang Qi), wolfberry (Gou Qi), red dates (Hong Zao), and Chinese angelica (Dang Gui), but they should pay attention to moderation and overall dietary control. Astragalus, wolfberry, red dates, and Chinese angelica are common traditional Chinese herbs that offer various health benefits, such as promoting blood circulation, enhancing immunity, calming the mind, and improving sleep quality. For patients with high blood sugar, moderate consumption of these herbs may help regulate bodily functions, but excessive intake could lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Astragalus is known for its effects of replenishing qi, strengthening the immune system, promoting diuresis, and detoxification; wolfberry is rich in vitamins and minerals and is commonly used to nourish the liver and kidneys and improve vision; red dates can invigorate the spleen, replenish qi, nourish the blood, and calm the mind; Chinese angelica is particularly effective in promoting blood circulation and alleviating menstrual pain. If necessary, patients should seek timely medical advice and follow the guidance of their physicians for proper treatment.