Astragalus and Bupleurum Tea with Red Dates

Why people make this tea

Gastroptosis — a condition where the stomach sits lower than its normal position — is more common than many people realize. It tends to affect those who are naturally lean and slender, have lost significant weight, or have experienced a long illness. The characteristic complaint is a dragging sensation after eating, as if the stomach is pulling downward, often accompanied by easy fullness, bloating, belching, and general fatigue. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is understood as “sinking qi” — the upward-holding energy of the middle body being insufficient. Astragalus root (bei qi, also called huang qi) is one of the most important qi-tonifying herbs in Chinese food therapy; bupleurum (chai hu) specifically helps to raise and lift this qi; and red dates support the spleen and stomach. The combination is classical and time-tested.

Method

1. Rinse all ingredients briefly under cold water.
2. Place astragalus, bupleurum, and red dates in a pot. Add 1.5 L of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 hour until reduced to 600 ml (about 2 cups).
4. Strain and drink. The red dates can be eaten.
5. Take once daily; consult a practitioner for longer-term use.

Nourilo’s Tips

• Beyond gastroptosis, this same formula is traditionally used for uterine prolapse and chronic rectal prolapse (rectum falling out after bowel movements). If the problem is rectal prolapse, increase the astragalus to 19 g and add sheng ma (Cimicifuga racemosa / black cohosh) 11 g for added lifting effect.
• This formula is not appropriate for people with damp-heat diarrhea — loose, burning, or foul-smelling stools. In that case, a different, cooling formula is needed.
• For everyday dietary management of gastroptosis: eat smaller meals more frequently, chew thoroughly, avoid gas-producing foods such as legumes, milk, onion, and potato, avoid carbonated drinks, and keep stools regular. Very vigorous exercise and prolonged standing are also best avoided during the recovery period.
• Those with both gastroptosis and gastritis may benefit from adding sha ren (cardamom, Amomum villosum) 8 g and chao zhi ke (processed bitter orange shell) 11 g to this formula; cook with crucian carp or lean pork for a more substantial soup.