Astragalus: A Gem of Traditional Chinese Medicine. What Are This Plant’s Health Benefits?

Traditional Chinese medicine has used the healing power of plants for centuries to maintain balance and harmony in the organism. Among these, the astragalus plant holds a place of honor, being recognized for its adaptogenic and immunostimulating properties. Considered a true treasure of nature, it has attracted the attention of researchers worldwide, who have confirmed many of its traditional benefits.

Learn everything about astragalus: when it is used, for what purposes, how it is administered, what properties it has, but also what contraindications it has. Only this way will you know if it could help you manage any health problems you face and you will consume it responsibly and knowingly.

Astragalus: plants that strengthen and protect the body

Originating from China, Mongolia, and Korea, astragalus has been used for thousands of years to fortify the body and protect it from diseases. The part with the strongest therapeutic properties is the root, which is harvested from mature plants, 4-7 years old. Adaptogenic properties are what make astragalus so valuable and appreciated in traditional medicine and beyond.

In this chapter, we will explore what astragalus is and its therapeutic properties. We will analyze how this traditional plant contributes to strengthening the body and protecting it against diseases.

What is astragalus?

Astragalus, a popular name for the plant known as *Huang Qi* in Traditional Chinese Medicine, or *Astragalus membranaceus* in botany, is an adaptogenic perennial plant from the legume family.

Adaptogenic plants are recognized for their ability to strengthen and protect the body. They act as natural “tonics,” helping the body adapt to stress and maintain its internal balance, known as homeostasis. Besides astragalus, other adaptogenic plants include: ginseng, rhodiola, ashwagandha, and Tulsi or holy basil. All of these increase stress resistance, have strong antioxidant effects, and support cognitive functions.

Astragalus and medicinal mushrooms, such as Reishi, Maitake, and Shiitake, are also often used together in Traditional Chinese Medicine to boost the immune system. For example, along with astragalus, Reishi mushroom helps reduce stress, improve sleep, and support the immune system. Astragalus and Maitake can help regulate blood sugar levels and support immune system health. In combination with Shiitake, astragalus improves immune function and reduces inflammation.

However, be sure to discuss such combinations with your doctor, especially if you have other health problems or are already undergoing medical treatment.

Astragalus root: physical and chemical properties

Astragalus root is yellowish-brown on the outside and whitish on the inside. It has a fibrous texture and can be quite tough. The taste is slightly sweet and mucilaginous, and the smell is faint and not very distinctive. They can vary in size, but generally range from a few centimeters to tens of centimeters in length.

Chemically, it is a rich source of bioactive compounds with essential roles in maintaining health:

• polysaccharides or *astragalans* – compounds that stimulate the immune system, increasing the activity of immune cells (macrophages, NK cells) and stimulating antibody production;

Arabinogalactans also have antiviral and antitumor properties.

• saponins – have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular protective, and hepatoprotective effects.

These contribute to regulating blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, and preventing blood clots.

• flavonoids – with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, flavonoids in astragalus protect cells from oxidative stress and help maintain blood vessel health;
• amino acids: the plant’s root contains a variety of amino acids, essential for protein synthesis and the proper functioning of the body.

The chemical composition of astragalus is complex. It is not limited to the above but includes a variety of other bioactive compounds: minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium, copper, cumestans, polyphenols, lectins, vitamins (especially vitamin E).

Although concentrations can vary depending on the part of the plant used (root, leaves, etc.) and its age, the nutritional richness of astragalus cannot be denied. Growing conditions and processing methods also influence these concentrations.

Astragalus plant: benefits and risks

In some places, astragalus is also known as “prairie lentil,” but this name is increasingly less used. In this chapter, we will discuss the health benefits of astragalus, as well as the potential risks associated with its use. We will explore how this adaptogenic plant can support the immune system and overall health. At the same time, we will present the precautions that should be taken to avoid side effects or interactions with other medications.

Astragalus: general properties and benefits

Astragalus is a plant with multiple health benefits, confirmed by scientific studies. The most fascinating is the astragalus root, with remarkable therapeutic properties. Its main effects and roles are as follows:

• adaptogen: helps the body adapt to physical and emotional stress, increasing resistance to stressors;
• immunostimulant: strengthens the immune system, protecting the body from infections;
• antioxidant: reduces oxidative stress and protects cells from damage caused by free radicals;
• anti-inflammatory: reduces chronic inflammation, involved in the onset of many diseases;
• cardioprotective: protects the heart and blood vessels;
• hepatoprotective: supports liver function;
• nephroprotective: protects the kidneys.

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Benefits of astragalus for your health

Due to its complex chemical composition, astragalus root has numerous therapeutic properties if administered correctly.

More specifically, here is what astragalus can do for human body health:

1. Strengthens the immune system. It is a strong immunostimulant, effective in preventing and treating colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. One study showed that astragalus reduces the frequency and duration of colds in children.
2. Protects the heart. It also has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, helping to regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and prevent blood clots. One study demonstrated that it improves heart function in patients with heart failure.
3. Helps control blood sugar. Some studies show how astragalus can help lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity, making it a useful adjunct in managing type 2 diabetes. One study showed that astragalus reduces HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term glycemic control) in diabetic patients.
4. Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The bioactive compounds in astragalus have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing chronic inflammation. Thus, the onset of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions, can be prevented.
5. Increases stress resistance. Through its adaptogenic properties, astragalus helps the body adapt more easily to stressful situations, whether physical or emotional. One study showed that astragalus reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and improves mood in people undergoing chronic stress.
6. Protects the liver. It stimulates liver cell regeneration and reduces inflammation, being useful in the treatment of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
7. Improves kidney function. It increases renal blood flow and reduces proteinuria (protein loss in urine), being beneficial in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy and other kidney conditions.

Astragalus: therapeutic indications and administration

Astragalus can be used as an adjunct in the treatment of a variety of conditions, including:

• flu and colds;
• respiratory infections;
• cardiovascular diseases;
• type 2 diabetes;
• chronic hepatitis;
• cirrhosis;
• diabetic nephropathy;
• cancer;
• chronic stress;
• chronic fatigue.

Dosage and recommended administration

A significant advantage of astragalus is that it can be consumed in various forms:

• capsules/tablets – this form is practical and the easiest to administer;

Typically, 250-500 mg of standardized astragalus extract is recommended, 1-3 times a day.

• powder, easy to add to smoothies, soups, or other dishes;

It is important to choose a quality powder, made from organically grown astragalus roots. The usual dose is 1-2 grams per day.

• tincture, obtained by macerating the root in alcohol: it is more concentrated than tea and absorbs faster into the body;

As a standard, 2-4 ml of astragalus tincture is administered, 3 times a day.

• tea, prepared by infusing the dried root.

Astragalus tea has a pleasant aroma and can be consumed daily to strengthen the immune system. Infuse 1-2 teaspoons of dried astragalus root in a cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes. 2-3 cups of tea can be consumed per day.

The recommended dose varies depending on the form of administration and the condition in question. Some specialists recommend taking astragalus in cycles, for example, 3 weeks of administration followed by one week of rest. It is essential to consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.

Astragalus in autoimmune diseases

Astragalus has multiple benefits for the immune system because it supports the production of immune cells and helps the body fight against infections and oxidative stress.

There are studies suggesting that astragalus may be useful in treating autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. However, more research is still needed to confirm all these effects.

Also, individuals with autoimmune diseases should consult a doctor before using astragalus, as it may interact with immunosuppressant medications.

Astragalus: contraindications and other aspects to be aware of

While astragalus is generally safe, there are some precautions and contraindications that are very important to keep in mind:

1. Astragalus is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there are not enough studies to confirm its safety.
2. Given that astragalus can stimulate the immune system, there is also a possibility that it may worsen some symptoms of autoimmune diseases in certain cases. It is essential to talk to a doctor before using astragalus if you suffer from an autoimmune disease.
3. Astragalus may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, and diabetes medications. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including dietary supplements.
4. Allergic reactions to astragalus are possible, but rare. If you notice symptoms such as: skin rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, discontinue the use of astragalus and consult a doctor.

While generally well-tolerated, mild side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or dizziness may occur after consuming astragalus. These disappear upon discontinuation of use. If they persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention.

Other contraindications for astragalus include:

• taking astragalus if you are allergic to plants in the legume family, to avoid skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing;
• organ transplantation, as it can interfere with immunosuppressant medications used after it;
• in some cases, administration for conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, liver or kidney diseases is contraindicated;
• also, astragalus can affect blood clotting. It is recommended to discontinue the use of astragalus at least two weeks before surgery.

It is important to remember that astragalus is a powerful plant with multiple effects on the body. While it can have significant beneficial effects, monitoring is essential, as there can also be unfavorable interactions.

In conclusion, astragalus is a plant with remarkable therapeutic potential, which can contribute to maintaining health and preventing diseases. With its adaptogenic, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, astragalus represents nature’s path to a balanced and healthier life. However, it is important to consult a specialist before starting any form of treatment to ensure it is right for you.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-963/astragalus

https://www.verywellhealth.com/astragalus-what-should-i-know-about-it-89410

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/astragalus-benefits

https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus