Astragalus root

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).

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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.

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Functions

Antioxidant

A substance or agent that neutralizes free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues.

Cardiovascular Health

The overall function and condition of the heart and blood vessels, ensuring efficient circulation, nutrient delivery, and oxygenation throughout the body.

Diuretic

A 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 & Fatigue

Refer to the state of physical and mental vitality versus exhaustion, often influenced by lifestyle, stress, and underlying health conditions.

Hepatoprotective

A substance or agent that helps protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, inflammation, or disease, and supports its regeneration and overall function.

Hypoglycemic agent

A substance or intervention that lowers blood sugar levels, often used to manage conditions like diabetes or hyperglycemia.

Immune System Support

The measures or substances that enhance or maintain the proper functioning of the immune system, helping the body defend against infections, pathogens, and diseases.

Immuno-modulator

A substance or agent that helps regulate and balance the immune system, either enhancing or suppressing immune activity as needed to maintain optimal immune function.

Nephroprotective

A 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.

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