Astragalus

(Astragalus membranaceus)

Astragalus is a well known immune enhancing herb. It is widely used in the Chinese traditional medicine and is known as anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral. Polysaccharides in this plant are immune enhancing.

During outbreaks of cold it is advisable to take Astragalus due to its positive effects on the immune system. The herb can also be taken as a daily tonic if you are suffering from sinusitis or bronchitis. If you go to an herbal provider and ask for this plant, he will present you with its roots. The roots bear slightly sweet taste. In China it is still used, among other herbs as a general tonic and during cold and flu attacks.
Astragalus is used in a wide range of health conditions like allergies, bronchitis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Diabetes, Digestion problems and Hypertension. The medicine is even used during chemotherapy as being an immune enhancer it helps protect the body from the side effects.

Studies and experiments with this herb proved its effectiveness in urinary tract infections, malaria, stress and Vaginitis. Available medical records do not show serious side effects related to this herb, however, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor before use. Astragalus stimulates white blood cells activities and produces antibodies and interferon. This is the reason it is good for the immune system. Toxicity of the plant is extremely low.

There have been many epidemics announced by health authorities around the world. Emergence of such outbreaks has shaken the world population. Astragalus is one of the solutions we should use as an immune enhancing herb. Generally, during spread of such diseases, we should take Astragalus for long period, four to six weeks may be. One of the reasons why it is so widely used in China is because is good for both preventing and treating diseases.

In ancient china the herb has a history of being a stress combatant. Herbal doctors have prescribed this great medicine for problems related to stress and emotions. Polysaccharides found in Astragalus help strengthen the immune system. Its anti-bacterial properties help our body fight infections, being a good anti-oxidant, prevents damage to our cells. Recent studies have shown that Astragalus slows down the aging process by keeping the cells young and protect them from diseases.

Astragalus is known commonly by other names such as Milk Vetch, Goat’s Thorn and Locoweed. In Chinese medicine, root of this plant is generally used. Due to a wide range of benefits that can be obtained from this plant, many supplements containing Astragalus have emerged and are widely available at herbal stores. Although no serious side effects are reported, it is still a good idea to consult your physician before taking them.