Astragalus is an interesting herbal supplement that has promise in enhancement of the immune system

What is Astragalus?

Astragalus is a perennial plant that grows in China, Mongolia, and Korea. It is a part of the legume family and has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine. The medicinal part of the plant is actually the root, and that is harvested only after the plant is four years old. The root is dried and used as an extract, usually in conjunction with other herbal supplements. Astragalus can be used in tablet form, as a tincture (liquid), as an injection (used in hospitals and clinics in china), and is developed in lotion or cream form for use on the skin.

Medicinal Purposes of Astragalus

The Chinese traditionally have used astragalus in the treatment of any infection, respiratory ailment, or skin eruption, with some pretty good results. It has been considered the most important herbal supplement in the “bag” of ancient medicine men. In liquid form, it is used commonly for the treatment of stomach problems, gas, diarrhea and bloating.

As medical science continued to develop, the Chinese continued to see astragalus benefits as an herbal supplement for the same conditions, and adopted new uses as well. These new uses have included allergies, asthma, fatigue, anemia, heart and kidney diseases, and additional stomach ailments, particularly ulcers.

It appears that the Chinese now see astragalus supplement as a primary source of enhancement of the immune system, particularly in the prevention and severity reduction of colds, flu, bacterial infections, and other viral infections. It is known to contain valuable antioxidants as well, so its value as a defense against free radicals is potentially valid. Thus astragalus now shows promise in cancer prevention.

Astragalus Supplement in Cancer Treatment

Astragalus benefits do not include actual treatment once an individual gets cancer. It can assist in cancer prevention, however, as an antioxidant. American researchers are now studying its potential use, however, as a boost to the immune systems of cancer patients, whose systems have been compromised by chemotherapy and radiation.

Newer research is also being conducted in the potential astargalus benefits to patients with HIV and AIDS. As this disease progresses, the natural immune system is systematically weakened. Eventually, the patient with full-blown aids succumbs to bacterial or viral infections or cancer. It is hoped that strong doses of this natural supplement can boost immune systems in these patients as well, helping to ward off some of the diseases to which these victims often succumb.

Additional Potential Uses of Astragalus

Because of its antibacterial and antiviral benefits, astragalus can be included in cold and flu medications, along with other ingredients. As well, it may enhance the effects of certain antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and interferon.

A primary danger for transplant patients is the potential rejection of new organs. As a result, they are given a variety of anti-rejection drugs which can also suppress the natural immune system. Astragalus may prove beneficial in building up the immune system during this time and is already used for this purpose in many Eastern countries.

In some studies astragalus benefits have included the reduction of blood sugar and thus may provide natural supplement to other diabetes medications. The Chinese have long used astragalus in the treatment of diabetes, and it continues to be the only type of treatment available in rural areas, along with other herbs and diet restriction.

Many contemporary Chinese herbologists include astragalus in any herbal supplement regimen because of its great variety of benefits and its potential to act in conjunction with a variety of other herbal supplements positively.

Dosage and Precautions

Typical adult dose is from 1 – 25 grams per day, dependent upon weight. Children should receive a reduced dose based upon weight, and should not be given it with a fever. According to Chinese medicine, astragalus may cause a child’s fever to continue for a longer period of time.

Future Studies

American research on this herbal supplement has not been significant, although it is increasing as new information about the many varied uses is now known. It is possible that astragalus benefits may be quite numerous not just as a single herbal supplement but as a much-enhanced component of an herbal compound.