Astragalus

Scientific Names

astragalus

Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus mongholicus
Astragalus propinquus

Common Names

Huang-qi

Milk-vetch root

Huáng qí

Astragale

Beg kei

Radix astragali

Parts Usually Used

The dried root is used medicinally.
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture

astragalus

Astragalus is a perennial plant, about 16 to 36 inches tall, that is native to the northern and eastern parts of China, as well as Mongolia and Korea. It belongs to the Fabaceae/Leguminosae family. The plant has hairy stems with leaves made up of 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets. The root, which is the medicinal part of the plant, is usually harvested from 4-year-old plants.

Different species of astragalus grow worldwide in places such as Southwestern Asia, the Chinese Himalayan region, the Americas, and Europe. Astragalus is a native tropical plant, mainly cultivated in Korea, China, and Mongolia. The plant thrives in temperate regions and is harvested for its roots.
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Where Found

Astragalus is primarily found in northern and eastern China, Mongolia, and Korea. It’s also distributed across parts of Southwestern Asia, the Chinese Himalayan region, the Americas, and Europe. The herb has been cultivated extensively in its native regions for centuries due to its medicinal properties. While there are over 2,000 species of Astragalus worldwide, only a few species (particularly Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus) are commonly used in traditional medicine and supplements.
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Medicinal Properties

Astragalus has been shown to contain numerous beneficial properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, anticancer, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, adaptogenic, anti-aging, and diuretic effects. It functions as an immune system booster, helping to protect the body against various stresses and diseases.

astragalus

As an adaptogen, it helps the body resist physical, mental, and emotional stress. Studies have demonstrated its ability to enhance immune function, reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative damage, and support overall health. The herb has also shown potential benefits for heart health, with research indicating it may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart function.

Research suggests that astragalus may help in the treatment of conditions like diabetes by helping regulate blood sugar levels. It has been studied for its potential to reduce side effects from chemotherapy, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Astragalus may also provide kidney protection, particularly for those with conditions affecting kidney function.
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Biochemical Information

The main active compounds in astragalus include:

Polysaccharides (Astragalus Polysaccharides or APS) – complex carbohydrates that consist mainly of glucose, rhamnose, galactose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, glucuronic acid, and galacturonic acid
Saponins (Astragalosides) – with Astragaloside IV being the most active
Flavonoids – including isoflavones, flavanols, isoflavanes, chalcones, and pterocarpans
Amino acids and trace minerals

The Astragalus polysaccharides are considered to be one of the most important bioactive compounds, responsible for many of the immunomodulatory effects. Astragaloside IV is known as the major active saponin and is often used as a quality marker in research. The isoflavonoids, particularly calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside, are dominant components among the flavonoids.

A proprietary extract called TA-65, derived from Astragalus, has gained attention for its potential to increase telomerase activity, which may have implications for aging and longevity.
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Legends, Myths and Stories

Astragalus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years, dating back more than 2,000 years. It was originally described in the Shennong’s Classic of Materia Medica, the earliest complete Pharmacopoeia of China written from the Warring States Period to Han Dynasty.

In traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is considered one of the most important “Qi tonifying” adaptogenic herbs. It is valued for its ability to strengthen the body’s primary energy, which we now understand as the immune system, as well as metabolic, respiratory, and eliminative functions.

The herb is often referred to as “huang qi” in Chinese, which translates to “yellow leader,” reflecting its status as one of the most important herbs in the Chinese medicinal system. It has traditionally been used to increase vitality, strengthen resistance to disease, and promote longevity.
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Uses

Astragalus has a wide range of traditional and modern medicinal uses:

Immune system support: Used to strengthen and regulate immune function, helping to prevent colds and upper respiratory infections
Adaptogen: Helps the body cope with various stresses (physical, mental, or emotional)
Cardiovascular health: May help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve heart function
Diabetes management: Used to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity
Liver protection: May help protect the liver from damage and support overall liver function
Kidney support: Used in the treatment of kidney diseases and to improve kidney function
Cancer adjunctive therapy: May reduce chemotherapy side effects and potentially enhance its effectiveness
Anti-aging: Some preparations may help slow cellular aging processes
Respiratory health: Used for asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions
Energy enhancement: Traditionally used to combat fatigue and boost energy levels
Wound healing: Applied topically to improve blood flow and speed healing
Seasonal allergies: May help reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, astragalus is commonly combined with other herbs in formulations to treat various ailments and promote overall wellness. Modern research continues to investigate its potential therapeutic applications across numerous health conditions.
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Formulas or Dosages

Astragalus is available in various forms and dosages, which may depend on the specific health condition being addressed:

For general immune support and wellness:

Dried root: 9-30 grams daily, usually prepared as a decoction
Capsules/tablets: 250-500 mg, taken 3-4 times daily
Tincture (liquid alcohol extract): 2-4 ml taken 3 times daily
Fluid extract (1:1): 4-8 ml per day

For specific conditions:

For seasonal allergies: Two 80-mg capsules of astragalus extract daily for six weeks
For chronic fatigue syndrome: 30 grams of astragalus root made into a decoction with several other herbs
For blood sugar control: 40-60 grams of astragalus as a decoction for up to four months
For kidney disease: 7.5-15 grams of powdered astragalus twice daily for up to six months to reduce the risk of infections
For congestive heart failure: 2-7.5 grams of powdered astragalus twice daily for up to 30 days, along with conventional treatment

Preparation methods:

As a tea/decoction: Let dried roots sit in water for 60 minutes, then boil for 20-25 minutes, remove and drink
Alternative method: Boil dried roots for 10-15 minutes, remove and drink

Doses of up to 60 grams per day for up to four months appear to be safe for most people. However, the appropriate dosage depends on factors like age, health status, and other conditions. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any herbal regimen.
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How Sold

Astragalus is commercially available in various forms:

Dried root (whole or sliced)
Powdered root
Capsules and tablets (standardized and non-standardized)
Liquid extracts and tinctures
Injectable forms (in some Asian countries for clinical settings)
Topical preparations for skin application
Teas (often combined with other herbs)
Granules
Decoctions
As an ingredient in herbal formulations and supplements

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, astragalus is also available as part of herbal formulas that combine multiple ingredients. Some proprietary extracts, such as TA-65 and AstraGin™, contain astragalus as a primary ingredient and are marketed for specific health benefits.
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Warning

While astragalus is generally considered safe when used appropriately, there are some important precautions to consider:

Astragalus may interact with medications, particularly:

Immunosuppressant drugs: Astragalus may counteract the effects of these medications due to its immune-stimulating properties
Medications for diabetes: May enhance the blood-sugar-lowering effects of these drugs, potentially causing hypoglycemia
Lithium: May reduce how well the body eliminates lithium, potentially increasing lithium levels in the body
Blood thinners: May increase the risk of bleeding when combined with anticoagulant medications

Astragalus should be avoided by:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient safety information
People with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other conditions where the immune system is overactive
Individuals scheduled for surgery, as it may affect blood sugar control during and after surgical procedures (discontinue at least two weeks before)

Possible side effects, though uncommon, may include:

Rash or itching
Nasal symptoms
Stomach discomfort
Diarrhea

Very high doses of astragalus may suppress the immune system rather than enhance it. It’s important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider before using astragalus, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Note that while Astragalus membranaceus is generally safe, some other Astragalus species can be toxic. For instance, several species that grow in the United States contain a neurotoxin called swainsonine and have caused “locoweed” poisoning in animals.
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