Can pregnant women eat Codonopsis?

Codonopsis pilosula is a tonic medicine, and pregnant women are in a special physiological period, so they often need to be extra cautious in choosing medicines. So can pregnant women eat Codonopsis pilosula? Let’s talk about it below.

Other names of Codonopsis pilosula: Fangfeng Codonopsis pilosula, yellow ginseng, Fang Codonopsis pilosula, upper Codonopsis pilosula, and lion-head ginseng. There are about 39 species of Codonopsis pilosula in China, 21 of which are used for medicinal purposes and 4 are variants. It is a traditional tonic and qi-invigorating medicinal material commonly used in China. Codonopsis pilosula contains polysaccharides, phenols, sterols, volatile oils, vitamins B1 and B2, a variety of essential amino acids, baicalein glucoside, saponins, trace alkaloids, trace elements, etc. Codonopsis pilosula has the effects of nourishing blood and qi, strengthening the spleen, and antibacterial. It can improve immunity, activate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, improve microcirculation, and enhance the body's own hematopoietic function. However, it is not suitable for people with qi stagnation and excessive liver fire; it is also not suitable for people with strong evil but not weak body.

Codonopsis pilosula is a tonic herb that contains sugars, phenols, vitamins, amino acids, trace elements, etc. It can be taken in moderation during the second trimester of pregnancy. However, this kind of tonic will add fuel to the fire for expectant mothers with yin deficiency and internal heat, so it is best to avoid it.

The main effect of Codonopsis pilosula is to replenish qi. It is most suitable for people who usually feel tired, weak and lack of energy. People with weak lung qi who have a deep voice, feel short of breath, and become breathless with the slightest activity. Pregnant women with spleen and stomach qi deficiency, weak limbs, loss of appetite, and loose stools should also use Codonopsis pilosula. Dang Shen is often used in combination with Atractylodes macrocephala, Poria cocos, and roasted licorice. This is the famous prescription Sijunzi Decoction for replenishing Qi and strengthening the spleen. For those with weak lung and spleen qi, it is advisable to use a combination of Codonopsis pilosula, Astragalus membranaceus, Atractylodes macrocephala, Poria cocos, tangerine peel, Angelica sinensis, Cimicifuga heracleifolia, Bupleurum chinense, roasted licorice, ginger and jujube. This is the famous Buzhong Yiqi Decoction. Wolfberry wolfberry has various effects such as nourishing the kidney and essence, nourishing the liver and improving eyesight, replenishing blood and calming the mind. Regular consumption of wolfberry medicinal food can nourish the liver and kidneys, promote blood circulation in the human body, and help the endocrine system return to normal levels. Wolfberry is rich in carotene, B vitamins, vitamin C, various amino acids, minerals and other nutrients. It has a very good health-preserving effect on pregnant women and enhances their personal physique.