Can people with diabetes drink Huang Qi Gan Cao Chen Pi (a herbal tea made from Astragalus, licorice, and tangerine peel)?
Disease description:
I was just diagnosed with diabetes last week. Today, a friend gave me some astragalus, licorice root, and tangerine peel. I would like to ask whether people with diabetes can consume astragalus, licorice root, and tangerine peel?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Diabetes patients can drink water infused with Astragalus (Huang Qi), licorice (Gan Cao), and tangerine peel (Chen Pi), but should pay attention to moderation and individual conditions. Astragalus, licorice, and tangerine peel are all traditional Chinese herbs that offer various health benefits, such as replenishing qi and consolidating the exterior, regulating the spleen and stomach, and resolving phlegm to relieve coughing. The components in these herbs generally do not cause significant increases in blood sugar levels and may provide certain auxiliary therapeutic benefits for diabetes patients. However, because individuals differ in constitution and medical condition, their responses to herbal medicines may vary. Therefore, diabetes patients should consult a physician or pharmacist before consuming water infused with Astragalus, licorice, or tangerine peel, to determine whether it is suitable for them personally, as well as the appropriate dosage and frequency. At the same time, diabetes patients should also maintain dietary control, avoiding excessive intake of sugar and calories in order to keep blood sugar levels stable.
