What is Astragalus?

Astragalus is one of the most widely used herbs in Asian medicine. It was first mentioned in Chinese medical texts from 2000 years ago. The root of the this plant is extensively studied in Asia. It is most well known for its effect on the immune system. It increases the activity of immune cells, resulting in more efficient responses to infection and reversing states of immune suppression. But that's only part of what it can do. Read on to learn more about this beneficial root, including how to find it in its most potent supplement form.

Top Astragalus Health Benefits

In contrast to the immune-boosting properties of some herbs, Astragalus can be taken for extended periods (several months) without showing a decrease in the immune system's response.

Astragalus for Stress

Try taking Astragalus when you feel stressed. This powerful herb is an adaptogen, which can help regulate your body in times of stress by providing a boost in energy without the jittery effects associated with caffeine. When most people think of stress, they often feel burned out and have diminished energy. However, stress can impact your body in many ways, including your immune system. Your immune system comprises a network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to protect you from infections and other health problems. When your immune system detects an intruder in your body, it sends lymphocytes to fight off the threat.

Antiviral and Immune Health Benefits

Astragalus has antiviral properties and supports a healthy immune response. It also helps to promote a healthy stress response and helps improve your resilience. This process stimulates the production of natural hormones, white blood cells, and other substances that help regulate your immune response. It contains saponins, which improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation. It has also been shown to support your body's ability to heal.

In addition to its benefits for the cold season, Astragalus helps reduce seasonal allergy symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, congestion and itchy eyes.

Cardiovascular System Benefits

It positively affects the cardiovascular system by protecting the heart from viral infections that damage heart tissue. Astragalus also improves shortness of breath and cardiac output in patients with congestive heart failure.

Anti-Aging Benefits

Cycloastragenols and astragalosides are constituents of the astragalus root that have been implicated in activating telomerase. A telomere is a region of repetitive DNA at the end of a chromosome; it protects the end from deterioration and allows cells to divide (which inevitably means shortening) without losing genetic material. Telomerase is an enzyme that initiates telomere synthesis and can add to the end of the telomere, ensuring that it does not wear down too much or too fast. Astragalosides have been shown to increase this enzyme production. Not only does this mean that Astragalus prevents depletion, but it may be capable of supporting a certain amount of telomere rebuilding. This makes up for what has been lost through the natural process of aging and DNA replication, which has numerous implications regarding anti-aging abilities.

Astragalus Supplements

The herb is often found in Chinese patent formulas mixed with other herbs, such as licorice and ginseng. These formulas are specially formulated to increase the power of single herbs by combining them with other synergistic herbs.

It is often available as a dried root, tincture or solid extract. Clinical doses range from 250 milligrams to more than 1 gram per day, depending on the herb's format.

Remember that clinical doses may be higher if you work with a practitioner.

You can safely take Astragalus for up to four months.

Important Information

Astragalus can generally be tolerated well by most people, with few side effects noted.

The Asian philosophy believes that the herb can boost the strength of the infecting organism and the patient. It should not be used when an individual has a fever. More research is needed about the use of this herb in HIV patients.

Because it has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, its use is not recommended.

Astragalus FAQs

What is Astragalus?

Astragalus is a root used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It effectively increases the body's ability to deal with stress and supports healthy immune function.

How Does Astragalus Work?

Astragalus can help boost your immune system by stimulating white blood cell production, which helps fight off infections and diseases. Studies suggest it can improve lung function and help with hypertension or high cholesterol.

What Does Astragalus Root Do?

Astragalus is a perennial plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It has many benefits for the immune system and is an anti-inflammatory agent.

How Much Astragalus Should I Use?

The amount of herb used depends on the format. Refer to the list above to determine the optimal dose.

Where Can I Buy Astragalus Supplements?

Most health food stores carry a good selection of astragalus supplements.