Astragalus Herb
Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus herb is crucial during the cold and flu season!
Used since ancient times in Chinese medicine this root is fairly new in the West.
Its introduction into the West is a result of the research showing immune system benefits.
Astragalus is known to stimulate the body's natural production of interferon.
What is interferon?
Interferons are natural cell-signalling proteins produced by the cells of the immune system.
They are produced in response to challenges such as viruses, parasites and tumor cells.
This herb is known as an immunomodulator. Modulators help to bring balance.
An immunomodulator has the ability to stimulate and suppress the immune
system depending on what the problem is.
This is beneficial for those with autoimmune complications but who also have immune deficiency.
In traditional Chinese medicine astragalus is used to invigorate vital energy and strengthen resistance to disease.
Research shows that astragalus root stimulates the immune system in many ways:
- It increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and lymph tissue and encourages their development into active immune cells.
- It appears to help trigger immune cells from a "resting" state into heightened activity.
- One study showed that astragalus root helps promote and maintain respiratory health.
- It also enhances the body's production of immunoglobulin and stimulates macrophages.
- Astragalus can help activate T cells and natural killer cells.
- Several studies also show that astragalus proffers heart-protecting effects, including protection against oxidative damage.
- The flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides found in astragalus root help minimize free radical damage on membranes.
I like taking this herb on a regular basis throughout the cold and flu season. Especially now with the concern of H1N1!
Not only is it beneficial for the immune system it helps to protect the liver. Sometimes it is used
along with other drug therapies to reduce the toxicity and other side effects of pharmaceutical drugs.
It has been used to treat the side effect of low white blood cell counts in steroid and anti cancer therapies.
It has also been used increase the effects of certain anti-cancer drugs, thus lowering the drugs dosage and its
potential side effects.
So, how can we use this astragalus herb?
Astragalus can be bought in dried, sliced pieces, somewhat like a tongue depressor.
I like adding a couple pieces to my homemade soups. Just remove before serving.
The whole family derives the benefits of this immune herb without knowing it!
12-15 ml of a 1:5 tincture can be taken daily. Half the dose for children.
Make an astragalus decoction! Place 3 tablespoons of root into 1 quart cold water.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain.
Drink throughout the day.
Safety considerations: Astragalus is safe for pregnant women and children.
It may be incompatible with immunosuppresive drugs.
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