The Healing Properties of Astragalus 

Native to China, astragalus has been for more than a thousand years in traditional Chinese medicine.  Traditional Chinese medicine is a medical system based on the concept that disease results from disruption in the flow of qi and imbalance in the forces of yin and yang.  Practices such as herbs, meditation, massage and acupuncture seek to aid healing by restoring the yin-yang balance and the flow of qi.  In the US, the herb gained popularity in the 1980s.

Astragalus is commonly known in China as bei qiln.  It is the traditional Chinese medicine, the vital energy or life force proposed to regulate a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health.  It is to be influenced by the opposing forces of yin and yang. 

Historically, the astragalus has been used in Chinese medicine usually in combination with other herbs to support and enhance the immune system.  It is still widely used in China for chronic hepatitis and as an adjunctive therapy for cancer.  It is also used to prevent and treat common colds and upper respiratory infections.  Astragalus has also been used for heart disease. 

The root of astragalus plant is typically used in soups, teas, extracts or capsules.  Astragalus is generally used with other herbs such as ginseng, angelica and licorice. 
Results from small or preliminary studies suggest that astragalus may benefit heart function and help the immune system fight infections.  A few studies have shown potential benefits for using astragalus in combination with another herb, glossy privet as an adjunctive therapy for cancer. 

However these studies were not well designed.  Other investigators are studying the effects of astragalus on the immune system.

Astragalus is considered safe for adults.  It may interact with other medications that suppress the immune system such as the drugs. Cytoxan and Neosan are taken by cancer patients and similar drugs taken by organ transplant recipients.  People should avoid using astragalus species such as “locoweed” that grow in the US   as these other species may have different effects and side effects.  Tell the doctor of any complementary and alternative practices you use.  Give him a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. 

Astragalus is well known for strengthening the immune system. Historical uses include oriental tonic and promoter of health, supports natural defenses and supports peripheral circulation.  Astragalan B, an active ingredient contained in astragalus, seems to work by binding to cholesterol on the outer membranes of viruses, destabilizing their defenses and allowing the body’s immune system to attack the weakened invader.  Astragalus shows support for peripheral vascular diseases and peripheral circulation.