Astragalus Root
황기 (黃芪) · Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge
Tonic herb
Slightly warm
Sweet
Spleen, Lung
NatureSlightly warm
TasteSweet
MeridiansSpleen, Lung
Part usedRoot
FamilyFabaceae
CategoryTonic herb
Overview
Astragalus is the classic qi tonic for the body's surface. Where ginseng restores deep vitality, astragalus is traditionally used to firm the exterior, reduce spontaneous sweating, and support people who catch colds easily. In Korea it is a familiar ingredient in summer chicken soup (samgyetang).
In the Donguibogam
東醫
寶鑑
寶鑑
性微溫, 味甘, 無毒. 主虛損羸瘦, 益氣長肉, 止寒熱.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is slightly warm, its taste sweet, and it is non-toxic. It chiefly treats deficiency-wasting and emaciation, augments qi and builds flesh, and stops chills and fever.
Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam
- Tonifies qi, raises yang
- Firms the exterior, stops sweating
- Promotes urination, reduces swelling
- Supports wound healing
Traditional applications recorded in the classical text
- Fatigue with spontaneous sweating
- Frequent colds
- Poor appetite and loose stools
- Slow-healing wounds
Traditional preparation
Decoction 6–15g; often paired with ginseng or jujube in tonic soups.
Cautions
Caution: Traditionally avoided during acute infections with fever and in heat-excess patterns. Consult a professional.
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Frequently asked questions
How is astragalus different from ginseng?
Both tonify qi, but tradition assigns them different territories: ginseng restores deep, foundational energy, while astragalus strengthens the exterior and is often used preventively.
Why is astragalus put in samgyetang?
Its traditional role of augmenting qi and firming the exterior made it a natural addition to Korea's summer restorative chicken soup.
Sources
- 『동의보감』 탕액편, 허준, 1613 (원문) — 한문 원문
- 한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 원문 및 국역 자료 참조