Tonify qi
Huang Qi
黄芪
Astragalus root
Astragalus membranaceus
Tonifies qi and is said to firm the surface.
Not for self-dosing. This page is not a formula, not a strength, and not a substitute for a licensed herbalist or physician.
Category
Warm · Sweet
Meridians entered
Traditional uses
The common qi tonic for tiredness, a weak appetite, and a surface that catches every cold, in the traditional story. Also used to lift sinking qi and to support healing of slow wounds in classical surgery notes. It does not “boost immunity” as a slogan.
Common pairings
- Dang Gui 当归
Qi and blood, the pair of Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang. Astragalus is used in a larger amount in that lesson.
- Bai Zhu 白术
Two spleen qi tonics, one more lifting, one more drying of damp.
Cautions
Not for self-dosing. Traditionally held back when there is an acute exterior excess or significant heat. Care with autoimmune disease and immunosuppressant drugs — talk to a clinician rather than guessing.
Points with a similar aim
Great Abyss
Wrist-pulse point for lung qi and the vessels category.
Use caution
Arm Three Miles
Forearm muscle point for arm fatigue and elbow tension.
Leg Three Miles
The leg point people learn for digestion and everyday energy.
Great Wrapping
Side-of-chest great luo. Learn the idea; press only the muscle, lightly.
Use caution
Spleen Shu
Spleen transport point for tired digestion.
Use caution
Origin Pass
Below the navel, a source-qi point. Gentle, and cautious in pregnancy.
Use caution
Sea of Qi
Just below the navel, the “sea of qi” people warm with a palm.
Use caution
Hundred Meetings
The crown. Fingertips, not force.