Astragalus(黃耆) is a popular herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
May Boost Your Immune System
Astragalus contains beneficial plant compounds that may enhance your immune system. It helps fight bacteria and viral infections in humans, including the common cold , upper respiratory and liver infection. Evidence shows that astragalus may increase your body’s production of white blood cells, which are the cells of your immune system responsible for preventing illness.
May promote the wound heeling
Astragalus had high potential in wound healing and its mechanism is by inhibiting inflammation, accelerating cell cycle and promoting the secretion of repair factors in wound healing mode. Research shows that Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) has positive effect on diabetic skin wounds and bed sores. APS is considered to be important in promoting wound healing. Those famous herbal formula for wound healing all contain large quantity of Astragalus as their first ingredient.
May Improve Heart Function
Astragalus may help improve heart function in those with certain heart conditions. It’s thought to widen the blood vessels and increase the amount of blood pumped from your heart.
Study shows patients with heart failure received 60 grams per day of astragalus by IV along with conventional treatment. They had significant improvements in symptoms than those receiving standard treatment alone. Additionally, some studies suggest that astragalus may reduce symptoms of myocarditis, an inflammatory condition of the heart.
May Alleviate Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy has many negative side effects. Astragalus may help alleviate some of them. Clinical study showed that people undergoing chemotherapy found that astragalus given by IV significantly reduced nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and improved the extreme tiredness associated with chemotherapy.
May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
The active compounds in astragalus root may help lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
In fact, it has been identified as the most frequently prescribed herb to help with diabetes management in China. Astragalus has been shown to improve sugar metabolism and reduce blood sugar levels.
Other Potential Health Benefits
Research shows that astragalus is beneficial at reducing symptoms of chronic fatigue and seasonal allergies. Test-tube studies suggest that it may also have anticancer effects. It also protects the liver, acts as a diuretic and benefits digestive functions.
Astragalus can be used by itself or in combination with other herbs. It is commonly found in immune boosting formulas and is also used to promote the functions of several other herbs, such as Dan Shen (Salvia) and Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis root).
Astragalus comes in several forms including: powdered granules, raw herb, tea and pills. The raw herb can be added to soups and stews while they cook, providing additional health benefits to the meal. I like to put them in the chicken soup to boost my energy. Astragalus tea is also a good choice. Add some Goji berry and jujubae with astragalus and you have a wonderful afternoon tea to boost Qi and blood instead of coffee.
Always discuss the use of herbs with your healthcare provider to prevent the side effects.