Astragalus, Cimicifuga and Silkie Chicken Soup

Why people make this soup

In traditional Chinese food therapy, the concept of “sunken” or “fallen” qi is used to describe conditions where the body lacks the upward-holding energy needed to keep organs in their proper position. Women who have had multiple pregnancies, returned to physical work too soon after delivery, or spent long hours standing or crouching are particularly prone to this kind of depletion. This soup pairs two classic herbs — astragalus (bei qi) and cimicifuga (sheng ma) — with silkie chicken to create a deeply nourishing broth that has been used for generations to support energy, warmth, and structural integrity. It is also traditionally noted to help with other prolapse-type conditions such as stomach prolapse and rectal prolapse.

Method

1. Blanch the silkie chicken pieces in boiling water for a few minutes; drain and rinse.
2. Rinse the astragalus and cimicifuga and soak briefly.
3. Remove the pits from the red dates.
4. Place all ingredients into a pot with 2.1 L of water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for about 2 hours until the liquid reduces to approximately 600 ml.
6. Divide into two portions and drink throughout the day. A course of 10 servings is traditionally recommended before assessing results.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is also traditionally used for other prolapse-type conditions — stomach prolapse, rectal prolapse, and general pelvic heaviness — not just the uterus. That said, please do not use this soup while you have an active cold, flu, or any external infection. Wait until fully recovered first.

A note on astragalus dosage: using a full liang (37 g) is the traditional amount needed to produce a lifting effect. Using a much smaller amount (say, 5 g or less) may actually have the opposite effect and raise blood pressure in some people. If you or a family member has high blood pressure, please consult your doctor before trying this soup — or substitute the red dates for nan zao (southern dates), which are less warming.