Pharmaceutial name: Radix Astragali Membranaceus
Botanical name:Astragalus membranaceus
Family:Leguminosae
Common name: Milk-vetch root, astragalus
Properties: Acrid, warm, toxic
Channels entered: Lung, spleen

Astragalus membranaceus is one of the traditional Chinese herbs that has gained recognition as a booster for the immune system. Astragalus is a stand alone herb or it can be blended with other herbs.

Amongst its functions in Chinese medicine are the lowering of blood pressure, improves endurance, it has a prolonged diuretic effect, protects liver function, tonifying and balancing the organs, and it can regulate blood sugar. It is also use to tone the spleen where poor appetite and fatigue and diarrhea are present. Also Astragalus is used for control of uterine bleeding.

One of the active compounds found in astragalus is a polysaccharide which helps stimulate the immune system. It can boost three fold the response of the immune sytem in advanced cancer, helping the body fight cancer after drug or radiation treatments. Other active compounds are monosacchrides, flavonoid, aklaloids, plus folic acid, and many trace minerals including zinc and iron.

Astragalus comes in many forms, including dry roots, powders and herbal teas. Chinese medicine blends astragalus with other herbs such as ginseng, eleuthero and licorice. There are many varieties of astragalus, some toxic. The varieties used in Chinese herbal medicine is relatively safe, but in rare cases it might cause rash.

If you have any questions about the safety of any herb used in Chinese medicine, consult with Dr. April L. Schulte-Barclay, DAOM, LAc