ASTRAGALUS (Astragali membranaceus)

Parts used

Root

Properties

Adaptogen, alterative, antibacterial, antihydrotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, aphrodisiac, cardioalterative, diuretic, hypotensive, immunostimulant

ASTRAGALUS (Astragali membranaceus)

Primary nutrients

Betain, B-sitosterol, choline, glucoronic acid, sucrose

Astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years as an energy tonic and to enhance the immune system.

Studies by the American Cancer Society show the positive effects of astragalus on the immune systems of cancer patients tested. Those patients undergoing radiation and chemotherapy recovered faster and lived longer if they took astragalus during treatment. Studies seem to indicate that it increases the production of interferon, which can help the immune system in its function.

Astragalus also has antiviral properties, both preventive and defensive. Studies have found that astragalus can help reduce the duration and incidence of the common cold. In fact, astragalus has been used for many different ailments, including chronic fatigue syndrome, Epstein-Barr, pneumonia, emphysema, chronic infection, immune-related illnesses, digestion, chronic cough, malabsorption syndrome, prolapsed organs, uterine bleeding, chronic nephritis, excessive sweating, edema, abscesses, cysts and ulcers.