ASTRAGALUS: Herb Of The Month

Astragalus

Common name: Huang qi
Botanical name: Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus is native to northern China and the elevated regions of the Chinese provinces, Yunnan and Sichuan. The portion of the plant used medicinally is the four- to seven-year-old dried root, collected in the spring. While over 2,000 types of astragalus exist worldwide, the Chinese version has been extensively tested, both chemically and pharmacologically.

Medicinal uses and health benefits of astragalus

Astragalus strengthens metabolism and digestion, raises metabolism, aids in strengthening the immune system, and is used in the healing of wounds and injuries. Astragalus is an adaptogen, a type of nontoxic natural substance that helps the body maintain its normal balance of health and wholeness and increases the body’s endurance and resistance to a wide array of physical, chemical, and biological stressors. Astragalus enhances body energy. It promotes metabolism of serum and liver proteins, stimulates growth of antibodies, increases white blood cells  and thus increases resistance to viruses. Taken as a tonic, astragalus is believed to build stamina and vitality. Adaptogens help normalize the functioning of various body systems by affecting the action of hormones. Astragalus inhibits gastric secretions, reduces gastric acid, and thus helps cure stomach ulcers.

Astragalus strengthens immunity to disease. It demonstrates its strongest actions in cases of chronic (long-term) conditions through a tonic action. Astragalus has been traditionally used for strengthening the immune system and helping prevent bacterial and viral infections.  Astragalus stimulates production and activation of the white blood cells, which fight infection. It helps increase and protect the number of white blood cells in the body needed for a healthy immune response. Astragalus has certain inhibiting effects on molecular pathological changes caused by viruses, increases growth of plasma cells, stimulates synthesis of antibodies, and builds up body defense. By boosting the immune system, Astragalus may help reduce the risk of a person becoming ill with a bacterial or viral infection. Astragalus also stimulates the adrenal glands, whose functions are suppressed in cancer.

Astragalus may enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments for cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation. Many people undergoing cancer chemotherapy or radiation take astragalus to fortify their battered immune systems. Astragalus may also lessen the degree of side effects experienced with cancer treatments and improve quality of life. As an antioxidant it helps to counteract cell damage caused by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. It reduces toxic side effects and enhances therapeutic effects. Cancer patients who take astragalus during or after cancer treatments tend to recover more quickly from the ill effects of the treatment.
Astragalus has protective and strengthening effects on the heart. The saponins found in astragalus help prevent blood vessels from sticking together and fatty plaques from forming in the arteries of the heart which can block the flow of blood. Astragalus membranaceous may improve arrhythmias, creatinine phosphokinase levels, and cardiac function. Astragalus helps relieve chest distress and breathlessness due to a weakened heart, discourages retention of salt and water, and tends to combat clots. Astragalus may also help reduce high cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure.

How does it work?

Astragalus contains numerous active components, including polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, and saponins. Some test tube, animal, and preliminary clinical studies in China have demonstrated that astragalus may benefit immune function. This effect on the immune system may also benefit persons with cancer—particularly following chemotherapy. However, most studies with astragalus should be considered preliminary in nature and larger, more controlled studies are needed to determine what role astragalus may play in improving immune function or treating persons with cancer.

How much is usually taken?

•    In Chinese medicine, astragalus is typically recommended in large doses of 9 to 15 grams per day. This is often taken as a decoction after boiling in water. Capsules containing 400 to 500 mg of astragalus are also available. These may be taken at a daily dose of 3 to 4 capsules three times per day.
•    Alternatively, some traditional texts recommend 3 to 5 ml of tincture three times per day.

Are there any side effects or precautions?

•    Astragalus has no known side effects when used as recommended. Some traditional Chinese medical texts suggest that astragalus should not be taken at the beginning of an acute illness such as a cold or flu when symptoms such as a high fever and excessive thirst are present.