Astragalus

Astragalus

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Latin name: Astragalus membranaceus
Other names: Milk Vetch Root, Huang-qi (Yellow Leader)

A Remedy For

• Tendency to infection
• Weak heart

Astragalus boosts the immune system. It's taken for a variety of conditions that can benefit from improved resistance, including acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), burns and abscesses, chronic colds and flu, fatigue, night sweats, and loss of appetite. It has been used in the treatment of heart failure, liver disease, and kidney ailments. It's also taken to counter the toxic effects of cancer treatment and to relieve the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

What It Is; Why It Works
One of the most important herbs in Chinese medicine, Astragalus is a member of the bean family. Its yellow root (source of the Chinese name "Yellow Leader") contains compounds that stimulate the immune system.
In test-tubes, Astragalus has been found to promote the formation of antibodies and increase the production of T-cells, one of the body's key lines of defense against disease. A recent clinical trial verified the herb's ability to boost the supply of infection-fighting white blood cells.
Astragalus also has a proven ability to boost heart function and improve cardiac output. It helps relieve chest distress and breathlessness due to a weakened heart, discourages retention of salt and water, and tends to combat clots. Studies suggest that it may also help protect the heart from damage caused by the Coxsackie B virus.
This remarkable herb has also shown an ability to reverse artificially induced memory deficits, to improve muscle tone in the digestive tract, and protect the liver from mild toxicity. Its value for speeding recovery from cancer chemotherapy is, however, more controversial. When given in conjunction with the cancer drug cyclophosphamide, in at least two studies it made no difference.

Avoid If...
No known medical conditions preclude the use of Astragalus. However, because it stimulates the immune system, it should be used with caution by people on immunosuppresive therapy such as that given after an organ transplant, and by those with an autoimmune disease such as lupus or Grave's disease.

Special Cautions
When making Astragalus preparations, be sure to use Astragalus membranaceus only. Other plants in the Astragalus family, including the "locoweed" species found in the United States, can prove toxic.
Potential side effects include gas and loose bowel movements.

Possible Drug Interactions
Because of the herb's clot-fighting properties, it's best to avoid combining it with other blood-thinners such as Coumadin. You could face an increased risk of internal bleeding.

Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Check with your doctor before taking Astragalus while pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Prepare
Astragalus is available in capsule, tablet, and fluid extract form, and as dried root and prepared tea.
To make your own tea, boil 1 ounce of Astragalus root in 1 cup of water for 15 to 20 minutes.
In Chinese medicine, Astragalus is prepared by combining 1 part honey, 4 parts dried root, and a small amount of water in a wok or skillet, then simmering the mixture until the water evaporates and the herbs are slightly brown.

Typical Dosage
Capsules and tablets: Two or three 500-milligram pills 3 times a day
Fluid extract: 4 to 12 milliliters (about one-half to 2-1/2 teaspoonfuls) daily
Dried root: 2 to 6 grams daily

Strengths of commercial preparations may vary. Follow the manufacturer's labeling whenever available.

Overdosage
Astragalus contains a certain amount of selenium. Taken in large doses for sustained periods, this mineral can cause loss of hair, teeth, and nails, fatigue, and even paralysis.