Astragalus: Your Winter Immune Builder
By Tierney P. Salter
For the winter months ahead, Astragalus
is an herb worth having in your natural medicine chest. It helps
fortify and strengthen the entire body so you're more resistant
to viruses and infections. It is an excellent herb for those who
easily catch or have a hard time kicking infections and viruses,
such as colds and flu. Astragalus is also a useful adjunct therapy
for conditions such as cancer, Epstein Barr, Hepatitis C and the
HIV viruses; glandular disorders which affect the liver, kidneys,
spleen, and adrenal gland problems; vascular problems that include
heart disease and vascular degeneration.
Known as "Huang-Qi" in China, Astragalus is the root
of the Astragalus membranaceus, a type of milkvetch in the pea
family. This famous Chinese root grows in the grasslands and on
the mountainsides in Sichuan, the Chinese province renowned for
its production of ginseng. Cut into thin slices that look like
long tongue depressors, this creamy-white root has been a favorite
of Chinese doctors for centuries as a Q1 tonic, or energy tonic,
to strengthen the body's overall vitality, improve digestion and
support the spleen. The taste of the root is sweet and leaves
one with a warm feeling inside.
It was first mentioned in Shen Nong Ben Cao, the 2,000-year-old
Chinese herbal book. According to the Chinese, Astragalus strengthens
the body's 'chi' or 'Qi,' the body's vital energy. This energy-giving
quality can be very helpful for chronic degenerative conditions
and for those whose energy becomes depleted while undergoing chemotherapy
or radiation. The Journal of the American Cancer Society indicates
Astragalus appears to strengthen the immune system in a number
of patients undergoing conventional cancer therapies. It helped
restore T-cell function in nine out of 10 cancer patients.
Today, Astragalus is known as an adaptogen, which means it helps
one better adapt to stress and has a balancing effect on bodily
functions, such as supporting digestive functions, helping to
balance blood pressure and improving circulation. First, it enhances
cell metabolism, which lengthens the lifespan of cells and increases
its energy output. Secondly, it supports protein synthesis in
the liver, which increases nutrient absorption and energy. Third,
it boosts the immune system, making the body more resistant to
infection and disease. Fourth and finally, it increases the health
of the adrenal glands, which improves metabolic functions.
A summary of the medicinal qualities of Astragalus:
· Boosts immune system
· Improves circulation
· Prevents colds and flu
· Increases energy
· Alleviates acute conditions
· Cleanses liver and kidneys
· Useful for degenerative disorders
· Strengthens digestion
We all have specific areas in our bodies that are more susceptible to infection. This winter, encourage your body's resistance to unwanted conditions by making Astragalus your herb of choice.
Dose:
Acute: 20-30 drops in water 5-7 times a day.
Maintenance: 20-30 drops in water 2-3 times a day. Can be taken
on a regular basis to support the immune system.
Tierney P. Salter, a practicing clinical herbalist for 20 years, is owner of The Herbalist in Seattle. Visit The Herbalist Web site at http://www.theherbalist.com