Astragalus Herbal Remedies
Known in China as a 'Qi' tonic, astragalus is one of the most beneficial immune tonics and cancer-fighting herbs. It increases the body's resistance to disease, strengthens the digestion, and improves the vitality of the immune system. Astragalus increases the 'bone marrow reserve', enabling the body to produce more immune effector cells {such as t-cells}, aiding the immune system in its fight against pathogens. In China, health practitioners prescribe astragalus as a daily tonic. Astragalus is often blended with other immune tonics such as ligustrum. Astragalus has a taste of SWEET and a temperature of WARM.
Astragalus Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Astragalus Decoction | 1 cup 2-3 x daily |
| Astragalus Powdered Extract | 2 capsules 2-3 x daily |
Astragalus Reference Information
| Latin Name | Astragalus membranaceus |
| Other Names | Milk vetch, huangqi |
| Part Used | Root |
| Herb Forms | Capsules, tablets, tinctures, bulk herb for teas. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Immune system |
| Cautions | Do not take during acute Infections. |
| Botanical Info | A perennial member of the pea family with small yellow flowers in elongated spikes. |
Supporting Research
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Bensky, D. and A. Gamble. 1986. Chinese Herbal Medicine. Seattle: Eastland Press.