The Health Benefits of Astragalus

Astragalus is a perennial plant, about 16 to 36 inches tall, that is native to the Asian continent. It has hairy stems with leaves which make up 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets. The root is the medicinal part of the plant and is usually harvested when the plant is 4 years old. The dried root is used medicinally.Show more

Astragalus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for millennia. It is usually combined with other herbs to help strengthen the body against disease. Astragalus is called an adaptogen, meaning it helps protect the body against physical, mental, or emotional stress.

Astragalus may also help protect the body from some serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Both of which are serious conditions that are life threatening with no cure. In this case, prevention is always the best medicine. Diabetes alone requires a lifetime of medication and a permanent change in diet.

Astragalus is used by many to strengthen the immune system. As most of us know, the immune system is the body’s defense against disease. When our immune system fails us, we get sick. It contains antioxidants, which help to protect cells against damage. Which means preventing colds as well as upper respiratory infections. When we catch colds, it means that our immune system is not functioning efficiently. Astragalus may also aid in helping to lower blood pressure, blood sugar, and protect the liver. High blood pressure is known as the silent killer. It’s estimated that over 116 million people are on blood pressure medication today.

Astragalus is known to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as well. Many people also sometimes use it on the skin for wounds. This means that it’s also useful to use topically as well. This could be useful since even a tiny cut can lead to infection.

Researchers have looked into astragalus as a possible treatment for people who have immune systems that have been weakened by chemotherapy or radiation. In some studies, astragalus has been shown to help people recover faster and increase lifespan.

Research shows that astragalus may help people with heart disease and high cholesterol. Astragalus has few side effects. However, it does interact with a number of prescription medications. So always consult with your doctor first. Astragalus may also be considered a mild diuretic, meaning it helps rid the body of excess fluid.

Astragalus has been used for the following:

Adaptogen: Protects the body from stress and disease.

Anemia: One early study suggested astragalus may improve blood counts in people with aplastic anemia.

Colds and influenza: In TCM, astragalus is used as part of an herbal combination to prevent or treat colds.

Diabetes: Astragalus appears to lower blood sugar according to different studies.

Fatigue or lack of appetite from chemotherapy: Some studies suggest astragalus may help reduce side effects from chemotherapy.

Heart disease: Several studies have suggested that astragalus may act as an antioxidant and help treat heart disease. Other studies suggest astragalus may help to lower cholesterol levels.

Kidney disease: Early research suggests astragalus may help protect the kidneys and help treat kidney disease. In your body, the kidneys remove waste and extra fluid from your body. The kidneys also produce an active form of vitamin D that promotes strong and healthy bones.

Seasonal allergies: One study found that astragalus may help reduce symptoms in people who have allergic rhinitis or Hay fever.

Cancer: It is also suggested that astragalus may contain anti-tumor effects, specifically against melanoma and leukemia. Both of which are highly important to detect early for the best chance of survival.

Astragalus root may be available in a variety of forms:

Tincture (liquid alcohol extract)

Capsules and tablets, standardized and non-standardized

Topically for the skin

At recommended doses, astragalus has no serious side effects and can generally be used safely. It does interact with other herbs and medications so always seek advice from your doctor.

People with autoimmune disease should speak with their doctor first before taking Astragalus because it may stimulate the immune system.

Many practitioners recommend not using any single "adaptogenic" herb over long periods of time. Instead, they might suggest rotating among several "adaptogens" every couple of months.

If you take any of the following medications, you should not use astragalus without first asking your doctor:

Drugs that suppress the immune system: Astragalus may interfere with these drugs. If you have an autoimmune disease, or take any medication used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients, or corticosteroids, do not take astragalus.