Overview – Astragalus (Astragalus propinquus) is considered one of the most important herbs in Chinese Medicine. Other names include Locoweed, Huang Qi, and milk-vetch. The roots are often used to make tea; they are yellow in color and taste slightly sweet. It is best to use Astragalus along with other herb such as garlic, ginseng, or Echinacea. Its medicinal benefit lies in its ability to fortify the immune system and protect the body from illness. It also gives the body energy and the ability to wage war against pathogens. 



It has anti-inflammatory, diuretic, pain relieving, adaptoge (protects against stress on the body), antibacterial, and immune system stimulating properties. The best place to find Astragalus root is a Chinese Market. A health foot store is going to have some in capsule form, but we think that the root is much more potent as a natural remedy. 



What Astragalus Can Treat – Diabetes, Poor Metabolism, Poor Immune System, Infections, Edema, Respiratory Infection, Hypertension, Lupus, Common Cold, Sore Throat, Cough, Heart Problems, Bronchitis, Fatigue, Weakness, Flu, Swine Flu, Nerve Damage

Treatment - Astragalus root can be added to any soup to make a tasty, immune-system boosting concoction that can fight bacterial and viral infections. You can also make a tea by boiling 1-1.5 tablespoons of Astragalus root. Drink 2-3 cups per day. The tea will be mildly sweet. If you are taking Astragalus supplements, take 1000 mg 2-3 times a day with meals. 
 


Various studies have been conducted that demonstrate the herb’s medicinal effects. One Chinese study showed that Astragalus can promote nerve regeneration: it "caused a marked enhancement of the nerve growth factor-mediated neurite outgrowth… animals… had a relatively more mature structure with larger mean values of myelinated axon number, enduneurial area, and total nerve area" (Changhua Christian Hospital).



How It Works – From the flavonoids derives Astragalus’ antioxidant properties. What this means is that it will fight any kind of free radical cells, which are cells with an odd number of electrons. This means that they can pair up with other cells and also make them free radicals. If this activity does not stop, many ailments can arise such as cancer.

It also lowers blood pressure to correct hypertension, will reduce inflammation, and also works as an antibacterial. 



Toxicity – Astragalus is a safe herb and there are no significant side effects. However, do not take if you have ulcers or a digestive tract infection. Do not take if you have any autoimmune disorder.

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