Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is native to China and is been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is also called bei qi, huang qi, ogi, hwanggi and milk vetch. The root of the astragalus plant is typically used in soups, teas, extracts, or capsules. Generally it is used with other herbs, such as ginseng, angelica, and licorice.
Here are Few Uses of Astragalus:
- Traditionally Astragalus, combined with other herbs, is used to strengthen the immune system and in the healing of wounds and injuries.
- It is still used in China for chronic hepatitis and as an adjunctive therapy in cancer.
- Astragalus is used in traditional Chinese medicine for night sweats, diarrhea and for energy tonics that are taken daily at certain times of the year.
- It may also have mild antiviral activity and help with the prevention of common cold and upper respiratory infections.
- Astragalus is also used for various heart conditions. It may have a diuretic effect which would lower blood pressure and it may cause blood vessels to relax.
Side Effects and Caution:
- Astragalus may have interactions with medications that suppress the immune system, such as the drug cyclophosphamide which is taken by cancer and transplant surgery patients. Astragalus should not be taken on that scenario.
- ‘Locoweed’ species of astragalus have different side effects thus not recommended for any medicinal uses.
- People with autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, type-1diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus shouldn’t use astragalus unless recommended by a qualified health care practitioner.
- The safety of astragalus in pregnant or nursing women or children isn’t known. So best is to avoid taking in these cases unless recommended by a doctor.
- In any case consulting a registered medical practitioner is ideal before using astragalus.
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