Astragalus

One of the most overlooked and underappreciated Chinese herbs is astragalus. This herb has been used as a diuretic, antibacterial, immunostimulant, warming tonic, vasodilator and for treatment of respiratory disorders.

This potent herb has been used in Chinese medicinal practice for ages to strengthen the “Wei Ch’i”, stimulating the immune response. In American studies, 90% of cancer patients had an increase in white blood cell count, improved resistance and enhanced digestion. It prevents chemotherapy and radiation damage to bone marrow and the immune system as well. Similar Canadian studies also indicate that astragalus does not target the cancer cells, but it does advance recovery and adrenal cortical function. Astragalus is also beneficial in treating circulatory disorders, AIDS and hepatitis.

In North America, a relative of astragalus known as locoweed is known to cause hallucinations in cows that ingest it. Astragalus however does not stimulate such reactions and is better known for its soothing qualities upon the mucous membranes especially during urinary or respiratory infection. It also benefits those with poor cardiovascular health and diabetics with hard to heal wounds. When used in conjunction with adaptogens such as ginseng, astragalus also helps the immune system to ward off colds and other winter ailments.

A number of ingredients in Astragalus contribute to its benefits. These include bioflavanoids, choline and astragalan B. Astragalan B is a polysaccharide used to effectively control bacteria and to protect the body against toxins. It binds to viruses, weakening their defenses and allowing the immune response to take over. Astragalus is also known to increase interferon production, thus enhancing T cell activity and resistance to viral conditions.

As such, this herb is traditionally utilized as a cold and flu remedy, befitting those stricken with reoccurring, chronic respiratory illnesses. Chinese herbalists have been said to place root slices of the plant in teas or soups to benefit from its prophylactic qualities throughout the year. Used as a nasal wash or ingested astragalus results in a shorter duration and decreased incidence of illness.

The bioflavanoids in astragalus are antioxidants that benefit the circulatory system. Those afflicted with angina, congestive heart failure or acute myocardial infarction may note improvement. More than 82% of heart patients displayed improvement on EKGs after administration of astragalus. After receiving injections, congestive heart failure sufferers professed that chest tightness, breathing and aerobic activity all improved. Those afflicted with a disorder known as Coxsackie B often find relief with astragalus due to its ability to regulate heart rhythms and to limit cellular damage.

Although it does not influence viral replication, astragalus has been shown to improve immune system function, fighting off viral infections such as HIV. However, in 1996 at the International AIDS conference, British Columbian labs proved that the administration of too much astragalus resulted in an immune suppression.

The Chinese culture has long used astragalus for the treatment of chronic hepatitis. It has proven to decrease glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) serum levels. Symptoms have been eliminated with one to two months of treatment.

Most often astragalus is seen in combinations to enhance the effects of other constituents. For example, when paired with ligustrum, anti-cancer activity is noted in the lung, cervix and breast. Those undergoing chemotherapy often benefit from the ability of astragalus to stabilize the immune response. Astragalus is also able to lower digestive toxicity and to stimulate bone marrow activity in these individuals.

As an herb that enhances “metal” properties, you would not want to use astragalus when experiencing asthma, heat stroke, fevers where sweating is desirable, or with any inflammatory condition. Its other benefits are numberous, especially when combined with other herbs. It can be found in many combinations including Fu Lei (LH-C) for the lungs, and Sheng Mai (Trigger Immune or IMM-C) for the immune system. Astragalus is utilized as an adaptagen in products designed to increase energy and reduce stress. It is also used in formulas for digestion, circulation and immunity.

Written by Lacreshia Laningham, CNP

 

Sources:

“Astragalus Asers Immunity”, www.healthwellexchange.com/nutritionsciencenews/…/astragalus.cf, 10/5/01

“What About Astragalus?”, www.drweil.com/archiveqa/0,2283,1150,00.html,

10/5/01

“Astragalus”, www.go-symmetry.com/astragalus.htm, 10/5/01

“Astragalus”, Natures Field, July/August 1995