The Efficacy and Functions of Astragalus, Siler, and Atractylodes

Astragalus, Saposhnikovia, and Atractylodes are three commonly used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, each possessing unique therapeutic effects. When used together, they produce a synergistic effect that enhances the body's immunity and resistance to diseases.

1. Astragalus functions to invigorate qi and raise yang energy, consolidate the exterior to stop sweating, promote diuresis and reduce edema, generate body fluids and nourish blood, remove blood stasis and unblock meridians, discharge toxins and dissipate abscesses, and aid wound healing. It is especially effective in enhancing immunity and improving symptoms such as qi deficiency, fatigue, and spontaneous sweating due to exterior deficiency.

2. Saposhnikovia is an herb that disperses cold and relieves exterior syndromes, expels wind-damp, and is commonly used to treat conditions such as common cold due to wind-cold invasion and joint pain. Its inclusion enhances the formula's ability to expel pathogenic factors and prevent disease invasion, making it particularly suitable for individuals with weak constitutions who are easily affected by external environmental factors.

3. Atractylodes is warm in nature, with a sweet and bitter taste, and enters the spleen and stomach meridians. Its primary functions are to strengthen the spleen and replenish qi, dry dampness and promote diuresis, reduce sweating, and stabilize pregnancy. It is highly effective in treating symptoms such as spleen deficiency, poor appetite, loose stools, edema, and spontaneous sweating.

When combined, Astragalus serves as the principal herb (Jun Yao) to replenish qi and consolidate the exterior; Saposhnikovia acts as the assistant herb (Chen Yao) to dispel wind and relieve exterior syndromes; and Atractylodes functions as the adjuvant herb (Zuo Yao) to strengthen the spleen and replenish qi. Together, they achieve the therapeutic effect of invigorating qi, consolidating the exterior, and reducing sweating.