🌿 Folk Prescriptions

Codonopsis root is a commonly used herb for tonifying Qi. It has a neutral nature and sweet taste, entering the spleen and lung meridians. It effectively strengthens the middle energizer, boosts Qi, harmonizes the stomach, and nourishes blood. It is especially suitable for individuals who are chronically fatigued, lack energy, feel short of breath, and experience dyspnea even with slight activity—typical signs of Qi deficiency. Since tonifying Qi also aids in generating blood, Codonopsis is also appropriate for those suffering from both Qi and blood deficiency, presenting with pale complexion, dizziness, poor appetite, loose stools, and frequent colds. Although its effects are milder than ginseng, its functions are essentially similar, and it is significantly more affordable. Therefore, except in critical conditions, Codonopsis can generally substitute for ginseng.
Analysis shows that Codonopsis contains polysaccharides, glucose, fructose, inulin, sucrose, phosphates, and 17 amino acids—including seven essential amino acids (like lysine) that the human body cannot synthesize. Additionally, it contains saponins, volatile oils, fats, and 14 trace elements such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and iron—all of which form the material basis for its tonic properties.
Codonopsis can be used alone for tonification. Take 500 grams of Codonopsis, wash thoroughly, cut off the root head, place in a container, steam once or twice daily for three to four days until soft and sticky. The resulting dried Codonopsis is sweet with a fragrant aroma. Consume 10–15 grams each morning and evening by chewing. Alternatively, decoct Codonopsis, heat and concentrate the liquid until thick, then mix with an equal amount of sugar or honey while hot, stirring evenly into a Codonopsis paste. Take one tablespoon dissolved in warm water twice daily. There are also many ready-made Chinese medicines with Codonopsis as the primary ingredient, such as *Shenqi Paste* and *Shen Zhu Ling Cao Mixture*. Patients with Qi deficiency or combined Qi and blood deficiency may choose appropriately.
If you use 500 grams of Codonopsis, 250 grams of Adenophora root, and 120 grams of longan flesh, boil down to a thick syrup that forms beads when dropped. Store in a porcelain vessel. Take one wineglassful with warm water on an empty stomach. This formula clears the lungs, improves voice, replenishes vital energy, and strengthens muscles. Regular use benefits Qi tonification, spleen health, stomach harmony, and blood nourishment, greatly enhancing physical constitution. For pediatric simple indigestion, use 12 grams each of Codonopsis, Atractylodes, Poria, Chinese yam, and stir-fried Lablab bean, 9 grams each of lotus seed and coix seed, 6 grams each of licorice and platycodon, and 4 grams of sand ginger. Decoct and take orally. This formula strengthens Qi and spleen, promotes diuresis, and resolves dampness. After treatment, children show increased urination and reduced bowel movements, often eliminating the need for intravenous fluids. Use 15 grams of Codonopsis, 12 grams of Astragalus, and 9 grams of Poria, decoct and take orally. This has shown certain efficacy in treating proteinuria caused by nephritis or nephrotic syndrome, and also helps strengthen Qi, tonify the spleen, and promote urination.
<Codonopsis Root>