Astragalus and Goji Berry Squab Soup: A Medicinal Dietary Overview

Astragalus (Huang Qi) and Goji Berry (Gou Qi Zi) Squab Soup – Medicinal Dietary Therapy Educational Overview

Introduction to Medicinal Diet

Astragalus and Lycium Berry Squab Soup is a classic traditional medicinal food, with Astragalus root (Astragali Radix), Lycium berries (Lycii Fructus), and squab as the main ingredients, complemented by ginger, scallion, and other seasonings. The soup has a clear broth and a mild, harmonious flavor. By combining the qi-tonifying herb Astragalus with the liver- and kidney-nourishing Lycium berries, and using the warm, moist meat of squab as the carrier, this soup becomes an excellent choice for nourishing and regulating the body during autumn and winter, as well as for those with a weak constitution.

The history of this medicinal food can be traced back to folk dietary therapy recipes from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with similar records found in ancient texts such as *Shi Liao Ben Cao* (Materia Medica for Dietotherapy). Astragalus and Goji Berry Pigeon Soup (Huang Qi Gou Qi Ru Ge Tang) is not only delicious but also, due to its properties of gently tonifying qi and blood without being drying or greasy, is highly favored by people of all ages. It is especially suitable for the sub-health conditions caused by high work pressure and irregular daily routines in modern life.

Efficacy of Medicinal Diet

The core therapeutic effects of Astragalus and Goji Berry Pigeon Soup lie in tonifying qi and securing the exterior, as well as nourishing the liver and kidney. Astragalus (Huangqi) enhances the body’s defensive qi, strengthening the ability to ward off external pathogens; Goji Berry (Gouqi) replenishes essence and marrow, brightens the eyes, and moistens dryness; pigeon meat itself is rich in protein, low in fat, and contains various amino acids and trace elements. Together, these three ingredients ameliorate symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, soreness and weakness of the lower back and knees, as well as dizziness and vertigo.

Regular consumption of Astragalus membranaceus and Lycium barbarum (Goji berry) Pigeon Soup can also aid in regulating immune function, promoting blood circulation, and providing beneficial support for postoperative recovery, postpartum deficiency, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Furthermore, the combined action of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides from Goji berries and Astragalus saponins from Astragalus helps to scavenge free radicals, delay aging, and contribute to a more rosy and radiant complexion.

Medicinal Diet Efficacy

From a nutritional perspective, Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) and Lycium barbarum (Goji berry) Squab Soup is rich in high-quality protein, multiple vitamins, and minerals, providing comprehensive nutritional support to the body. Especially for those who need to use their eyes for prolonged periods, the zeaxanthin and lutein in Goji berries can effectively alleviate visual fatigue and protect retinal health.

The effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, *Astragalus membranaceus* (Astragalus) is sweet and warm in nature, returning to the Spleen (SP) and Lung (LU) meridians. It is regarded as the “holy herb for tonifying qi” and is able to raise yang and lift sinking, boost defensive qi and secure the exterior, and promote urination to reduce edema. *Lycium barbarum* (Goji berry) is sweet and neutral, returning to the Liver (LR) and Kidney (KI) meridians. It excels at nourishing the Liver and Kidney, boosting essence and brightening the eyes. Squab (young pigeon) meat is salty and neutral, entering the Liver (LR) and Kidney (KI) meridians. It can nourish the kidney and supplement qi, expel wind and detoxify, and regulate menstruation to stop pain. When used together, these three ingredients jointly achieve the effect of supplementing both qi and blood, and regulating both yin and yang.

Astragalus and Lycium Pigeon Soup is particularly suitable for individuals presenting with concurrent “Qi deficiency” and “Yin deficiency.” In modern populations, patterns of “upper heat and lower cold” or “both Qi and Yin deficiency” are common—manifesting as fatigue and weakness, spontaneous sweating upon exertion (Qi deficiency signs), along with dry mouth, parched throat, and dry eyes (Yin deficiency signs). In this soup, the combination of Astragalus (Huangqi) and Lycium (Gouqi) tonifies Qi without fueling fire, and nourishes Yin without burdening the Stomach, embodying the TCM principle of “tonifying without causing stagnation, nourishing without causing greasiness.”

Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine

In terms of formula modification, the Astragalus and Goji Berry Squab Soup (Huang Qi Gou Qi Ru Ge Tang) can be regarded as a flexible variation of the Danggui Buxue Decoction (Angelica Sinensis Decoction for Tonifying Blood). By substituting squab for Danggui (Angelica Sinensis), it not only tonifies the blood but also enhances the nourishing power of “substances with blood and flesh affection.” This soup has good adjunctive therapeutic value for recurrent common colds, spontaneous sweating, and aversion to wind due to Lung and Spleen Qi Deficiency, as well as blurred vision and soreness of the lower back and knees caused by Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency.

Target Population

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) and Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) Pigeon Soup is suitable for a wide range of individuals. First, those with weak constitution and low immunity—such as the elderly, people recovering from serious illness, and patients with chronic diseases—can benefit from regular consumption to strengthen the constitution and reduce the incidence of colds. Second, office workers under high work pressure and those who frequently stay up late, as well as students with heavy academic workloads, may find this soup helpful in alleviating fatigue and improving memory and concentration.

Postpartum women with Qi and Blood deficiency during lactation are also suitable candidates for this medicinal dish (to be used under medical guidance). Huangqi Gouqi (Astragalus membranaceus and Lycium barbarum) Pigeon Soup can promote lactation and aid uterine recovery. Additionally, menopausal women with Liver-Kidney Yin Deficiency and Qi and Blood disharmony presenting with hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, and insomnia may benefit from moderate consumption, as it helps nourish Yin, reduce Fire, calm the Shen, and stabilize the spirit.

Indications

For computer workers, mobile phone users who frequently overuse their eyes, as well as middle-aged and elderly individuals, the combination of Gouqi (Lycium barbarum, goji berry) for nourishing the eyes and Huangqi (Astragalus membranaceus, astragalus) for raising yang can effectively alleviate dry eyes, gritty sensation, and blurred vision. For adolescents during their growth and development period, moderate consumption can also supplement nutrition and promote bone health.

Contraindications

Although Astragalus and Goji Berry Pigeon Soup is mild in nature and flavor, it is not suitable for everyone. During externally-contracted febrile conditions (e.g., common cold with fever, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis), it should not be consumed, as it may “close the door to retain the pathogen” and aggravate the illness. Those with pronounced internal Damp-Heat—manifested as a yellow, greasy tongue coating, bitter taste and halitosis, and sticky, sluggish stools—should also temporarily avoid it, as it may further promote Damp-Heat.

Contraindicated in those allergic to pigeon meat, Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), or Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum). For hypertensive patients with Liver Yang Hyperactivity (e.g., red face and eyes, headache and dizziness, irritability and anger proneness), large consumption is not recommended, as Astragalus has the effect of raising Yang, which may aggravate blood pressure fluctuations. Furthermore, pregnant women and patients with severe renal insufficiency should determine whether to use it under the guidance of a professional physician.

Contraindicated Groups

The digestive function of infants and young children is not yet fully developed, so it is not recommended to introduce such medicinal diets too early. Those who are taking other medications (especially anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and immunosuppressants) should consult a doctor or pharmacist before consumption to avoid potential drug interactions that may affect efficacy.

Proportions of Ingredients in the Formula

Main ingredients: 1 young pigeon (approximately 300-400 g); 15 g Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus root, Huang Qi); 10 g Lycium barbarum (Goji berry, Gou Qi Zi).

Ingredients: Fresh Ginger (Zingiber officinale) 3 slices (approx. 6g); Scallion (Allium fistulosum) 1 section (approx. 10g); Cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) 10ml; Salt (Sodium chloride) to taste (approx. 2-3g); Water 1500-2000ml.

Ingredient ratios in a formula

If used for those with significant Qi deficiency, Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) can be increased to 20 g, but should not exceed 30 g to avoid excessive warmth and dryness. Lycium barbarum (Goji berry) can also be adjusted according to individual constitution; for those with pronounced Yin deficiency, up to 15 g may be used, but for those with Spleen deficiency and loose stools, it should be reduced to 6–8 g. For the squab, it is best to select young pigeons approximately 60 days old, as the meat is tender and most nutritious.

Preparation Method

Step 1: After slaughtering the pigeon, remove the feathers and internal organs, cut off the claws and wing tips. Soak in clean water for 30 minutes to remove blood impurities. Then place in a pot of cold water, add 1 slice of ginger and 5 ml of cooking wine. Bring to a boil over high heat, skim off the foam, and remove the pigeon. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and set aside. This blanching step effectively removes any unpleasant odor and impurities.

**Step 2:** Rinse *Astragalus membranaceus* (Astragalus root) quickly under cold water, then soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Lightly wash *Lycium barbarum* (Goji berries) under cold water and drain. Slice *Zingiber officinale* (Ginger) and cut *Allium fistulosum* (Scallion) into sections. Place all prepared ingredients (except Goji berries) into a stew pot, add 1500 ml of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.

Step 3: When the pigeon is stewed until a chopstick can easily pierce through it, add the washed goji berries (Lycium barbarum) and continue simmering for 15–20 minutes. Finally, add salt to taste and cook for another 5 minutes before turning off the heat. Before serving, a small amount of chopped scallion or cilantro may be sprinkled on top to enhance aroma, but avoid overusing them so as not to mask the medicinal flavor of the dish.

Tips for Consumption

The best time for consumption is between 9-11 AM (when the Spleen Meridian (SP) is in its active period) or between 5-7 PM (when the Kidney Meridian (KI) is in its active period), as absorption of tonics is most effective during these times. Drink one small bowl (approximately 200-250 ml) per serving, 2-3 times per week. A course of treatment consists of four consecutive weeks.

2. It is recommended to consume both the meat and the soup together; the pigeon meat may be dipped in a small amount of light soy sauce or pepper salt as an accompaniment. Any remaining soup can be stored in the refrigerator, but should not be kept for more than 24 hours. Reheat thoroughly before drinking again. If a small amount of oil appears on the surface, it can be skimmed off with a spoon before consumption.

3. During menstruation, if there is heavy flow with pale color accompanied by cold pain in the lower abdomen, add 3 pieces of Fructus Jujubae (Chinese red dates) and 5 g of Arillus Longan (Longan) to the soup and simmer together to enhance the warming and nourishing effect. In hot summer weather, reduce Radix Astragali (Huang Qi) to 10 g, and add 10 g of Rhizoma Polygonati Odorati (Yu Zhu) and 8 g of Radix Ophiopogonis (Mai Dong) to balance the warm and cool properties, making the medicated diet more adaptable to seasonal changes.

4. This decoction has a mild medicinal property, but it should not be consumed together with radish (Raphanus sativus), mung bean (Vigna radiata), or other qi-breaking and qi-descending substances, as these may counteract the qi-supplementing effect of Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus, Huang Qi). If taking other nourishing Chinese medicinals simultaneously, it is recommended to maintain an interval of at least one hour to avoid interference among the tonic components.