Codonopsis is a relatively inexpensive herb that is often substituted for Panax ginseng in herbal tonics. It is believed to have an action similar to that of Ginseng, but milder. Often used by poorer Chinese patients, it is commonly referred to as "poor man's ginseng". It's relatively low cost does not diminish it's place as one of the more important Chinese herbal medicines.

Codonopsis has been used as an astringent in excessive uterine bleeding, and for rheumatic and other joint pains, and described as an aphrodisiac, general tonic and styptic...Pharmacological research has confirmed that the herb promotes digestion and metabolism, helps to strengthen the immune system, stimulates the nervous system, dilates peripheral blood vessels, and inhibits adrenal cortex activity, thereby lowering blood pressure. ^{Steven Foster and Yue chongxi . Herbal Emissaries}