Codonopsis is one of the most famous and widely used Chinese tonic herbs. It is very mild and without any side effects, yet it is a superb Qi tonic. It invigorates the Spleen and Lung functions so that Qi is replenished and it promotes the production of body fluids. Codonopsis is also an excellent blood tonic and a major immune system tonic.

It is believed to have an action similar to that of Ginseng, but milder. It is often used in place of Ginseng in formulas that actually call for Ginseng to be used as a main Qi tonic, especially when the purpose of the formula is to invigorate the Spleen and Lung functions. This is totally acceptable in the Chinese herbal system.

Its blood building quality makes it especially good for people who are weakened due to illness. Codonopsis is extremely effective at relieving chronic fatigue. Many women use it to build blood and the Chinese consider Codonopsis to be an herb perfectly suited to nursing mothers, holding that Codonopsis helps produce milk and that the nutrients in Codonopsis are especially nourishing to babies. Codonopsis is an excellent herb for children. Codonopsis is mild yet it has powerful strengthening effects, especially on the digestive, respiratory and immune systems. It builds strong muscle in children.

It is rich in immune stimulating polysaccharides that are beneficial to . They have also been shown to be useful in supporting the immune systems of people with cancer who are using the herbs in conjunction with conventional cancer therapies. Codonopsis has been demonstrated to have radiation protection activity and can be effective in protecting cancer patients receiving radiation therapy from the side effects without diminishing its benefits. Codonopsis also has interferon-inducing activity that may be of importance in many immune deficiency conditions, including HIV infection.