Astragalus
(Astragalus membranaceus)
Also know as Milk vetch, huangqi
Botanical Information
A perennial member of the pea family with small yellow flowers in elongated spikes.
Working with Astragalus
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Capsules, tablets, tinctures, bulk herb for teas.
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.
Cautions
Safety concerns are minimal, and there are no contraindications during pregnancy. But keep in mind that in traditional Chinese medicine, tonic herbs are thought to strengthen the pathogen along with the immune system so are sometimes avoided during fevers in the acute phase of an infection.
Conditions treated with Astragalus
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
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Condition
Treatment Support
immune tonic
Application
capsules, tea
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.