Astragalus for Lung Qi Deficiency, Smart Combinations for Nodule Dispersal: Three Formulas to Improve Pulmonary NodulesPatients often ask me, "Dr. Shen, I have pulmonary nodules and I always feel short of breath
Astragalus for Lung Qi Deficiency, Smart Combinations for Nodule Dispersal: Three Formulas to Improve Pulmonary Nodules
Patients often ask me, "Dr. Shen, I have pulmonary nodules and I always feel short of breath. How can I improve my condition through dietary adjustments?" When it comes to replenishing Qi and nourishing the lungs, Astragalus is a remarkable herb. Astragalus, with its sweet and warm nature, targets the lung and spleen meridians. It boasts numerous benefits, including replenishing Qi and elevating Yang, strengthening the exterior and stopping sweating, promoting diuresis and reducing swelling, and nourishing blood and generating fluids. In the realm of TCM, it's revered as the "sacred herb for replenishing Qi."
I once encountered a 45-year-old Mr. Li who was diagnosed with a 4mm pulmonary nodule. He complained of shortness of breath and fatigue after contracting COVID-19, experiencing breathlessness even with minimal activity. He also suffered from coughing, persistent lethargy, easy fatigue, and poor sleep quality. Upon observation, his complexion appeared pale, his tongue coating was white and greasy, and his tongue body was slightly swollen classic signs of lung Qi deficiency. To address his condition, I prescribed a formula centered around Astragalus, Codonopsis, Atractylodes, Fritillaria cirrhosa, Platycodon, and Glycyrrhiza.
Astragalus, as the main herb, plays the role of replenishing Qi. Codonopsis assists Astragalus in enhancing its Qi-replenishing potency. Atractylodes strengthens the spleen and dries dampness. Fritillaria cirrhosa disperses phlegm and resolves nodules. Platycodon clears the lungs and relieves sore throat. Glycyrrhiza harmonizes the herbs while also possessing spleen-tonifying and Qi-replenishing properties. After a period of time, Mr. Li reported significant improvement in his health. His shortness of breath and fatigue subsided, and his overall well-being notably enhanced.
Astragalus's Qi-replenishing efficacy is remarkable, but to maximize its benefits, it can be paired with other herbs based on individual constitution and symptoms. Here are three clever combinations of Astragalus that can effectively replenish Qi and nourish the lungs, aiding in the dispersal of pulmonary nodules:
1. Astragalus + Lily
Lily, with its sweet and cool nature, targets the heart and lung meridians. It possesses the properties of nourishing Yin, moisturizing the lungs, calming the heart, and soothing the mind. Combined with Astragalus, it both replenishes Qi and moistens the lungs, offering potential assistance for pulmonary nodules accompanied by lung Qi deficiency and Yin deficiency with dry cough. For instance, patients experiencing dry cough with little phlegm, dry mouth and throat, and hot palms and soles can benefit from the combination of Astragalus and Lily, achieving the effects of nourishing Yin, moisturizing the lungs, replenishing Qi, and stopping cough.
2. Astragalus + Bamboo Shoot
Bamboo Shoot, with its sweet and slightly cool nature, targets the lung and stomach meridians. It has the ability to nourish Yin, alleviate dryness, generate fluids, and quench thirst. In conjunction with Astragalus, it achieves the effects of supplementing Qi, nourishing Yin, moisturizing the lungs, and stopping cough, improving the condition of lung Qi and Yin deficiency in individuals with pulmonary nodules. For example, patients experiencing cough with little phlegm, hoarseness, thirst, and fatigue can consider the combination of Astragalus and Bamboo Shoot, attaining the effects of supplementing Qi, nourishing Yin, moisturizing the lungs, and stopping cough.
3. Astragalus + Tangerine Peel
Tangerine Peel, with its bitter and pungent flavor and warm nature, targets the spleen and lung meridians. It has the properties of regulating Qi and strengthening the spleen, drying dampness, and transforming phlegm. When combined with Astragalus, it enhances the Qi-replenishing effect while concurrently assisting in regulating lung Qi, offering potential benefits for pulmonary nodules. For instance, patients experiencing chest congestion, cough with excessive phlegm, and poor appetite can consider the combination of Astragalus and Tangerine Peel, achieving the effects of replenishing Qi, regulating Qi, strengthening the spleen, and transforming phlegm.
It's crucial to note that while Astragalus offers numerous advantages for patients with pulmonary nodules, relying solely on it cannot fully cure the ailment. It requires a proper combination with other herbs while adjusting the dosage based on individual circumstances. Additionally, patients should consult a professional doctor for diagnosis before using Astragalus, strictly avoiding self-medication to prevent adverse reactions.
Let's prioritize our health, employ proper methods for dietary adjustments, and strive to mitigate the discomfort of illnesses.
Here are some precautions regarding the use of Astragalus:
- Constitutional Differentiation: Astragalus is warm in nature and not suitable for all constitutions. Individuals with excessive heat, Yin deficiency, and excessive fire should refrain from consuming Astragalus.
- Professional Guidance: The dosage and method of using Astragalus should be guided by a professional doctor to avoid adverse reactions.
- Long-term Consumption: Astragalus is not a quick-acting remedy and requires long-term consumption for optimal results.
- Contraindications: Astragalus should not be combined with certain medications, such as cold medications and antibiotics. Consult a doctor for specific details.
- Dietary Restrictions: Astragalus should not be consumed alongside certain foods, such as scallions, garlic, and radishes, as they can affect its efficacy.
This article aims to provide some reference points for patients with pulmonary nodules. Remember, this is merely a suggestion for TCM dietary therapy. The specific treatment plan needs to be adjusted based on individual circumstances. It's essential to consult a professional doctor for guidance.
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