Astragalus Benefits | Immune Health, Energy and Longevity
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, commonly referred to as "Huang qi", which means "yellow leader". It has a sweet taste and is a warming tonic beneficial for increasing stamina and endurance. Astragalus is often combined with other herbs as a blood tonic.
Astragalus Pharmacology
Botanical Name
Astragalus membranaceus
Other Common Names
Huang Qi, Milk Vetch, Bei Qi and Hwanggi
Part Used
Root
Main Therapeutic Compounds
Triterpene saponins (astragolosides), Isoflavonoids (formonentin), Polysaccharides& Phytosterols
Herbal Actions
Adaptogenic
Immune stimulant
Diuretic
Vasodilator
Antiviral (Not for use during acute illness)
Astragalus Herbal Benefits
Adaptogen || Immune Support || Stress Relief ||
Energy || Longevity & Vitality
Immune-Stimulating
Astragalus has a long history as a potent immune-boosting herb. It stimulates the immune system, increases white blood cells, and supports antibody production, supporting the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria. Numerous clinical studies have shown Astragalus to encourage an increase in immune cells such as T-cells, natural killer cells, macrophages and immunoglobulin activity.
Adaptogen & Energy Boosting
Astragalus has adaptogenic actions, which helps the body adapt to physical and mental stressors, assisting overall health and vitality. It is beneficial for adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), post-viral fatigue and reducing the occurrence of common colds.
Longevity
For centuries, Astragalus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for longevity, restoring vital energy, and strengthening the body. Current research shows that Astragalus has potent anti-ageing properties and slows the ageing process of cells.
The saponin, Astragaloside IV, has shown benefits in reversing cell damage and in triggering telomerase, which prevents telomere shortening and slows down cellular ageing.
A telomere is the protective end of a chromosome. Telomeres are made of repetitious sequences of DNA that protect our chromosomes from damage. Each time a cell divides, the telomeres shorten and wear out. Eventually, the telomeres become so short that cell division stops and tissues quickly degrade. Current research suggests that Astragalus may protect telomeres from shortening and help manage degenerative disease and ageing.
Astragalus Typical Use
Tea & Infusion
2.5-4 grams daily in capsule, tablet or powder form.
Tincture & Liquid Extract
Typical use of Astragalus tincture or liquid extract is approximately 10mls daily, or as directed by your practitioner. Astragalus root is most effective when taken long term.
Herbal Combinations
Combines well with Siberian Ginseng, Ashwagandha, Reishi Mushroom, Rehmannia & Licorice.
Cautions & Safety
Avoid during acute infections and illnesses.
Not recommended during preconception, pregnancy and lactation..
If you have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical medications, please consult your primary healthcare practitioner prior to use.
References
Chevallier A. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. New York, NY: DK Publishing, 1996.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
Prieto JM, Recio MC, Giner RM, et al. Influence of traditional Chinese anti-inflammatory medicinal plants on leukocyte and platelet functions. J Pharm Pharmacol 2003;55:1275-82.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14604471/
Shao BM, Xu W, Dai H, et al. A study on the immune receptors for polysaccharides from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004;320:1103-11.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15249203/
Wang, R. T., Shan, B. E., and Li, Q. X. Extracorporeal experimental study on immuno-modulatory activity of Astragalus memhranaceus extract. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. 2002;22(6):453-456
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12585195/
Cho, W. C. and Leung, K. N. In vitro and in vivo immunomodulating and immunorestorative effects of Astragalus membranaceus. J Ethnopharmacol. 8-15-2007;113(1):132-141.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17611061/
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
DISCLAIMER
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal primary healthcare practitioner. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Naturopath Herbals nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their doctors or qualified health professionals before beginning any herbal product, nutritional supplement or lifestyle program.