Simple Guide to Commonly Used Chinese Medical Herbs
- 时间：
- 浏览：21
- 来源：TCM1st
If you've ever walked into a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) shop or scrolled through wellness blogs, you’ve probably heard names like astragalus, goji berry, or ginseng thrown around like superfoods. But what’s the real deal? As someone who’s spent years researching herbal remedies and advising clients on natural health choices, I’m breaking down the most commonly used Chinese medical herbs—backed by science, tradition, and real-world use.
Chinese herbal medicine isn’t just ancient folklore. According to the World Health Organization, over 80% of people in developing countries rely on traditional plant-based medicines for primary healthcare. In China, TCM accounts for nearly 40% of total healthcare services. That’s not something to brush off.
Top 5 Chinese Herbs You Should Know
Here’s a quick-reference table of the most popular herbs, their traditional uses, and what modern research says:
| Herb | Traditional Use | Active Compounds | Scientific Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astragalus (Huang Qi) | Boost immunity, reduce fatigue | Astragalosides, polysaccharides | ✅ Shown to enhance immune cell activity (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2021) |
| Goji Berry (Gou Qi Zi) | Improve vision, liver health | Zeaxanthin, polysaccharides | ✅ Antioxidant-rich; supports eye health (Nutrients, 2020) |
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Increase energy, reduce stress | Ginsenosides | ✅ Proven adaptogenic effects (Phytomedicine, 2018) |
| Reishi Mushroom (Ling Zhi) | Support sleep, calm mind | Triterpenes, beta-glucans | 🟡 Mild evidence for relaxation; more studies needed |
| Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) | Cool body heat, soothe eyes | Chlorogenic acid, flavonoids | ✅ Anti-inflammatory and mild antiviral properties |
As you can see, some herbs like astragalus and ginseng have solid clinical backing, while others like reishi show promise but need more rigorous study.
How to Use Them Safely
Just because it’s “natural” doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. For example, ginseng can raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals, and goji berries may interact with blood thinners. Always consult your doctor if you’re on medication.
Also, quality matters. A 2022 study found that 30% of herbal supplements in global markets were contaminated or mislabeled. Buy from reputable sources that provide third-party testing.
The Bottom Line
Chinese medical herbs can be powerful tools when used correctly. Whether you're looking to support immunity or manage daily stress, starting with well-researched options like astragalus or ginseng makes sense. Just remember: tradition + science = smarter choices.