Despite the fact that astragalus is one of the most popular tonic herbs in China, it is not that well known in the West. In China, the root, known as huang qi, has been used for thousands of years. It has a sweet taste and is a warming tonic particularly suited to young, active people, increasing stamina and endurance, and improving resistance to the cold. It is often combined with other herbs as a blood tonic. Investigations in China indicate that astragalus is diuretic and that it lowers blood pressure and increases endurance. A 2012 clinical trial found that 5 g a day of astragalus root helped to stabilize kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease, delaying the need for dialysis. American research has focused on the ability of astragalus to restore normal immune function in cancer patients. Clinical evidence suggests that, as with a number of other herbs, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy recover faster and live longer if given astragalus concurrently.
History & Folklore
According to tradition, the legendary emperor Shennong already knew the astragalus plant and described it in a three-part book volume. However, this "Classical Work of Roots and Herbs according to Shennong" was only compiled at the end of the Western Han Dynasty, i.e. around the turn of the century. Astragalus membranaceus has probably been used in medicine for thousands of years. The first written mention is from 300 BC in the Chinese medicinal herb book "Shen Ben Cao Jing". At the time of the Chinese Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644 AD), astragalus is known as a medicinal plant for the treatment of diabetes. Nowadays, and for a long time, Astragalus membranaceus is one of the 50 most important medicinal plants in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In Asia, tragacanth is also popular as a soup seasoning.In Central Europe, tragacanth has become known due to the interest in traditional Chinese medicine. Meanwhile, it is one of the most popular fashion medicinal plants.
Habitat & Cultivation
Astragalus is native to Mongolia and northern and eastern China. It is grown from seed in spring or autumn and thrives in sandy, well- drained soil, with plenty of sun. The roots of four-year-old plants are harvested in autumn.
Uses
Tonic & Endurance Remedy Astragalus is a classic energy tonic, perhaps even superior to ginseng for young people. In China, it is believed to warm and tone the wei qi (a protective energy that circulates just beneath the skin) helping the body to adapt to external influences, especially to the cold. Astragalus raises immune resistance and manifestly improves physical endurance.
Control of Fluids Though a vasodilator (encouraging blood to flow to the surface), astragalus is used for excessive sweating, including night sweats. It is also helpful in both relieving fluid retention and reducing thirstiness. It supports normal kidney function and is thought to protect the kidneys from damage.
Immune Stimulant Not a herb for acute illness, astragalus is nonetheless a very useful medicine for viral infections such as the common cold.
Other Uses treatment of prolapsed organs (especially the uterus), and beneficial to uterine bleeding; used in combination with quai, acts as a blood tonic for the treatment of anemia
Parts used
Dried Root In China, the root is a traditional tonic remedy used to increase energy levels and to help the body resist cold
Key Actions
Adaptogenic
Immune Stimulant
Diuretic
Vasodilator
Antiviral
Constituents
Triterpene saponins (astragolosides)
Isoflavonoids
Polysaccharides
Phytosterols
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 68.
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