Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) has its roots in Mongolia and northern China, a shrubby plant with tiny sprouts that produce small pod-like flowers. With its thick and dense roots, the fibers underneath the skin show a light yellow core. The name of the herb in Chinese is huang qi, which means, the “yellow leader” referring to the color of the root and it’s classification as one of the most important plants in Chinese medicine.
In the 1st century A.D, the herb was mentioned in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing or The Divine Man’s Classic of Medical Material. Chinese herbalists revere huang qi for its capability to stimulate qi or chi and awaken the body’s strength, increasing its resilience toward illness. Astragalus has its recognition and use in Fu Zheng therapy, which is a treatment designed to strengthen the body’s natural defenses. In modern day China, practitioners utilize the herb to help cancer patients who experience serious immune system disorders due to chemotherapy and other factors. In eastern medicine, astragalus is also used in the treatment of heart disease and hepatitis.
In the Western world, those who use herbal medicine define astralagus as an adaptogenic substance, protecting the body from the damage caused by physical and psychological stress.
It is said that it strengthens the immune system leading to its capability to fight off colds, lung infections, asthma, allergies, and digestive issues.
Astralagus is better used as a preventative measure to strengthen the immune system but it can also be used in a reactive manner to illness. Scientific studies showed that the herb improves the functioning and strength of white blood cells (the body’s natural defense system). Interferon levels are heightened when the herb is consumed preventing and treating viral and/or bacterial infections. Interferons are proteins within the immune system that fight off bacteria, viruses, and tumor growth.
Abundant in several other compounds, such as, flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, the plant is noted as quite useful for a variety of issues. The polysaccharides strengthen the immune system while the saponins guard the liver, prevent viruses, and help with glucose metabolism.
Beneficial qualities:
- Stimulates the body and mind
- Increases tolerance for physical and psychological stress
- Prevents viral and bacterial infections
- Assists in reducing allergies and asthma
- Strengthens the immune system
- Treats upper respiratory infections
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