Astragalus

Known in China as a “Qi” tonic, astragalus is one of the most beneficial immune tonics and cancer-fighting herbs. It increases the body’s resistance to disease, strengthens the digestion, and improves the vitality of the immune system. Astragalus increases the “bone marrow reserve,” enabling the body to produce more immune effector cells (such as t-cells), aiding the immune system in its fight against pathogens. Compounds from astragalus root have been shown to slow the aging process in animal cells by helping to preserve the length of telomeres at the ends of chromosomes. Long telomere length has been associated with human longevity, which might explain the reverence with which this herb is held in traditional Chinese medicine. In China, health practitioners prescribe astragalus as a daily tonic. It is often blended with other immune tonics such as ligustrum.

Astragalus promotes the production of white blood cells, helping the body produce antibodies and interferon to fight infections. Herbalists often recommend it for people who are experiencing frequent colds and flu, fatigue, and weakness in the limbs (when arms and legs feel heavy). With regular use, astragalus is thought to be one of the most important herbs to help strengthen the immune system and help the boy prevent and fight cancer and chronic viral syndromes. It is especially indicated for use during recovery from a serious or long illness because it promotes strong digestion and assimilation of nutrients. In the case of chronic illness, the herb is often taken daily for anywhere from 3 months to several years or more. More well-designed human trials are needed to confirm its status as a major healing herb for mainstream medical practice, but even without them, astragalus continues to be used widely in many cultures.

Astragalus has a taste of SWEET and a temperature of WARM.