The Herb Astragalus

LATIN NAME:

Astragalus membranaceus

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The perennial herb astragalus, also known as Huan-Qi, yellow or milk vetch root, has sprawling stems and pale-yellow pea-like blooms. It grows about 16 to 36 inches tall and is native to the northern and eastern parts of China as well as Mongolia and Korea.

It has hairy stems with leaves made up of 12 to18 pairs of leaflets. The root is the medicinal part, and is usually harvested from 4-year-old plants.

The herb astragalus has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese Medicine. It is often used in combination with other herbs to strengthen the body against disease.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Traditional uses include the treatment of the following:

* treatment of colds and influenza.

* persistent infection

* fever

* asthma

* treats complaints such as chronic fatigue.

* fatigue or lack of appetite associated with chemotherapy.

* anemia

* wounds

* heart disease

* kidney disease

* hepatitis

* stomach ulcers

* beneficial effects of lowering high blood pressure.

* stimulates the immune system.

* aids in the flow of bile and liver function.

* may help in lowering glucose levels.

* also used to treat general digestive disturbances, including

diarrhea, gas, and bloating.

PREPARATIONS:

Over the counter:

The herb astragalus is available as a tincture (liquid alcohol extract), capsules, ointment, prepared tea and dried root.

Decoction:

Boil 1 oz. of astragalus root in 1 cup of water, simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. You can drink this three times a day.

Tincture:

Take 20 to 30 drops of daily.

Ointment:

Salve of 10% astragalus can be applied to the surface of wound, but do not apply to open wound without your doctor’s supervision.

Powdered Root:

Take 500 mg three or four times per day.

Part Used: Root

Collection: The root is harvested from 4 year old plants.

Actions: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, hepatic

Combinations: The herb astragalus can be combined with rhubarb root and bupleurum to treat uterine disorders.

SIDE EFFECTS: None serious.

Caution: Do not use while inflammation is present.

SPECIAL INFORMATION: Researchers in the United States have researched astragalus as a possible treatment for people whose immune systems have been compromised by chemotherapy or radiation.

The astragalus supplements used in these studies have been shown to speed recovery and extend life expectancy.