
Astragalus
Astragalus propinquus (syn. Astragalus membranaceus)
Fabaceae (Legume Family)
Prominent in Chinese medicine for boosting the immune system and overall vitality.
Other names:
Milk Vetch, Huang Qi (Chinese).

Superpower
Boosts immune system and protects against stress.
Uses
Immune enhancement, cardiovascular protection, and energy boosting. Weakened individuals with night sweats, prolapsing organs, frequent infectious illness, poor digestion and nutritional status, general lack of vitality. Helps the body adapt to external influences, especially to the cold. A vasodilator (encouraging blood to flow to the surface). Not an herb for acute illness, astragalus is helpful for viral infections, take as a tonic herb for the immune system for prevention of illness.
Cautions
Not be used to treat acute infections, such as in the onset of cold or flu.
Known Chemical Constituents
Polysaccharides, triterpenoid saponins (astragalosides), Phytosterols (isoflavones), Amino acids (GABA), Flavonoids.
Botanical Description
Native to Mongolia and northern and eastern China. Perennial plant with hairy stems, leaves divided into many leaflets, and pale yellow flowers.
Fun Facts
Known as “Huang Qi” in China, meaning “yellow leader”.
Parts Used
Root
Harvest
The roots of 4 year old plants are harvested in autumn.
Preparations
Root used in soups, teas, and extracts.
Sacred Rituals
Used in rituals to protect against physical weakness.
Affirmations
“I am protected and my vitality restored.”
Spiritual Associations
Used for protective and energizing affirmations.

Functions
A substance or agent that neutralizes free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues.
Cardiovascular HealthThe overall function and condition of the heart and blood vessels, ensuring efficient circulation, nutrient delivery, and oxygenation throughout the body.
DiureticA diuretic is a substance that promotes the increased production and excretion of urine, helping the body eliminate excess fluids and salts through the kidneys.
Energy & FatigueRefer to the state of physical and mental vitality versus exhaustion, often influenced by lifestyle, stress, and underlying health conditions.
HepatoprotectiveA substance or agent that helps protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, inflammation, or disease, and supports its regeneration and overall function.
Hypoglycemic agentA substance or intervention that lowers blood sugar levels, often used to manage conditions like diabetes or hyperglycemia.
Immune System SupportThe measures or substances that enhance or maintain the proper functioning of the immune system, helping the body defend against infections, pathogens, and diseases.
Immuno-modulatorA substance or agent that helps regulate and balance the immune system, either enhancing or suppressing immune activity as needed to maintain optimal immune function.
NephroprotectiveA nephroprotective is a substance or intervention that protects the kidneys from damage and supports their function by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, or exposure to toxins.
