Astragalus Root

Latin name: Astragalus membranaceus

Health Benefits of Astragalus Root

Astragalus root is amazing when it comes to boosting the immune system and fighting viral infections. If you are prone to colds and respiratory infection, astragalus root will help ward off these illnesses.  Astragalus helps to rebuild energy levels after long-term illness as well.  Studies have shown that astragalus stimulates the activity of white blood cells, which are an important component of the immune system to fight infection.  Health benefits:

• Can be used by people being treated for cancer by boosting their damaged immune systems.  It can boost the effectiveness of these treatments, help with side effects of the treatments, and also help the patient to recover more quickly.
• Increase antibodies which helps prevent and destroy viruses and other harmful microbes. 
• Helps lower blood sugar, so it is often used by those with diabetes.
• Particularly helpful in strengthening the spleen and the lungs.
• Treats and prevents chronic imbalances and long-term, recurring infections, even candida and Epstein-Barr virus.
• Boosts energy levels.
• Helps to reduce acids in the stomach and bowels, thus helps to relieve and cure stomach ulcers.
• Helps to prevent plaque from forming in arteries of the heart which can cause blockages.
• Can reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Promotes circulatory health.
• Protects the liver from a variety of liver toxins. The liver is an important organ in the body’s immune support system.
• Has been used to treat fatigue, diabetes, debility, urinary tract infections, edema, nephritis, ulcers, prolapse of organs, and night sweats.

Nutritional Benefits of Astragalus Root

• Contains many mineral trace elements such as zinc, iron, copper, magnesium, manganese, calcium, potassium, sodium, rubidium, and cobalt.
• A good source of selenium.

How to Use Astragalus Root

• May be taken as tea, in capsules, as tincture, or in food.

Cautions and Side Effects of Astragalus Root

• Generally considered safe and side effects are rarely reported.  Safe to use during nursing and pregnancy, and safe for children.
• May interfere with certain heart medications such as beta blockers, anti-coagulants, and certain diuretics. If you are taking any of these medications you must consult a physician before use.
• Because it is a member of the pea family, any person with allergies to any member of the leguminous family must exercise great caution.
• May counteract the effects of cyclophosphamide, a medication used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients.

Fun Facts About Astragalus Root

• There is also another species of astragalus root that grows in the southwestern United States.  It is also known as locoweed and is very dangerous.  It is called locoweed due to the side effects is has on animals that make them act “crazy,” which loco means in Spanish.