Who is not suitable to eat Huangqi

Huangqi is generally not suitable for consumption by people with yin deficiency and internal heat, early stages of colds, damp heat syndrome, pregnant women, and allergic constitution. Huangqi is a medicinal herb that replenishes qi, but some people may experience worsening symptoms or discomfort after taking it. It should be used with caution according to physical constitution.

1. People with yin deficiency and internal heat

People with yin deficiency and internal heat often present with symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, hot flashes, night sweats, and red tongue with little coating. Huangqi has a warm and nourishing nature, which may exacerbate the deficiency fire in the body and worsen symptoms. This group of people can follow the doctor's advice to use Yin nourishing and heat clearing drugs such as Liuwei Dihuang Wan, Zhibai Dihuang Wan, or Dabu Yin Wan for conditioning, while avoiding spicy and warm foods.

2. Patients in the early stages of a cold

often present with symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose. Huangqi has a stabilizing effect on the surface, which may cause blockages and hinder the dispersion of pathogenic factors. It is recommended to consider using Qi replenishing drugs after recovering from a cold. During this period, cold clearing granules, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, or Jingfang granules can be used to relieve symptoms.

3. People with damp heat syndrome

Common symptoms of damp heat include bitter and sticky mouth, yellow and greasy tongue coating, and yellow and red urine. Huangqi may help with dampness and heat generation, exacerbate discomfort such as chest tightness and bloating. This kind of constitution needs to clear away heat and remove dampness first. You can use traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations such as Ermiao Pill, Simiao Pill or Yinzhihuang Granule according to the doctor's advice. The diet should be light and dampness promoting.

4. Pregnant women

Pregnant women have special constitutions, and Huangqi, as a medicinal herb for promoting blood circulation and replenishing qi, may affect fetal development or cause uterine contractions. Medication during pregnancy should strictly follow the guidance of obstetricians, and if necessary, more peaceful Qi tonifying herbs such as Taizishen and atractylodes macrocephala can be used to avoid self consumption of Huangqi preparations.

5. Allergic constitution

Some people may have allergic reactions to Astragalus membranaceus or leguminous plants, and may experience symptoms such as skin itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. For the first use of Huangqi, it is recommended to conduct a low-dose test. If allergic reactions occur, immediate cessation of use and medical attention should be sought. Antiallergic drugs such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or dexamethasone tablets can be used as emergency supplies.

It is recommended to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for constitution identification before using Astragalus membranaceus, and avoid using it together with Western medicines such as antihypertensive drugs and anticoagulants. It can be paired with medicinal herbs such as goji berries and red dates in daily life. The single dose should not exceed 15 grams, and continuous use should not exceed one month. When experiencing symptoms of internal heat such as dry mouth and tongue, insomnia, and frequent dreaming, the dosage should be reduced or stopped. During the medication period, avoid eating detoxifying foods such as radish and strong tea, and maintain a regular daily routine to help with drug absorption.