Astragalus membranaceus
Pin Yin Medicinal Name: Huang Qi
Common Name: Astragalus or Milk Vetch
Astragalus membranaceus, commonly known as Milk Vetch, and as Huang Qi in Pin Yin, is one of the most popular Chinese herbs for tonifying qi. It is sweet and slightly warm and enters the spleen and lung meridians. It is used to stop sweating, replenish vital energy, to consolidate defensive qi (which translates to increasing immune function), to regulate water metabolism and to accelerate the healing of wounds (Him-che Yeung C.A.,O.M.D., Ph.D., Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas Vol.1). It is part of the formulas Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang and Yu Ping Feng San. Yu Ping Feng San has been a very popular formula in the last 2 years because it is used preventatively against external pathogens like colds and flus. It is the base formula for many of the preventative measures taken at Chinese hospitals currently for hospital staff.
Huang Qi has also been studied for its impact on the immune system. In a literature review from the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the authors concluded that Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus), “promotes the development of immune organs, enhances mucosal immune function, increases the quantity and phagocytic capacity of innate immunity, promotes the maturation and differentiation of acquired immunity cells, and improves the expression of antibodies in acquired immunity” (https://www.sciencedirect.com/).
Astragalus membranaceus is in the pea family and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-10. It needs very good drainage and sandy soil and is drought-tolerant. It can be direct-seeded in the spring and can vary in seed emergence from 2-4 weeks. The roots should be harvested in the Fall or Spring after 4 years of growth (Schafer, The Chinese Medicinal Herb Farm).
Huang Qi makes a wonderful addition to broths and soups to support the immune system and bring more energy. Ask your acupuncturist about its use in a formula that’s right for you.