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Astragalus

Description

Astragalus, also known as Huang qi, is a native herb to northern China. The translation of Huang qi means “yellow leader”, which refers to the roots yellow color and also to the importance of this herb as one of the most important tonic herbs in China. Astragalus is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to tonify the Spleen, the Qi (vital energy) and the Blood (nutritional dissemination). In this regard, it is applied to anorexia, fatigue, and diarrhea. Astragalus has been used traditionally in Chinese medicine for viral infections. It is valued as a tonic for building resistance to disease. Parts commonly used include the root (which may be made into a tincture, fluid extract or powder). Astragalus is very high in trace minerals and micronutrients.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Immune support - Viral infections - Asthma - Common cold/sore throat - Infection - Heart function

Clinical Applications/Research

Immune function

Astragalus improves metabolism to promote healing, increase energy and strengthen resistance to weakness and disease. It enhances the immune system and is especially effective for counteracting side effects of immune-suppressing agents such as radiation or chemotherapy. Astragalus contains antiviral properties that produce extra interferon in the body (proteins which are released by the white blood cells when a virus is present) and enhance T-lymphocyte function. It has been used successfully as a preventive measure in treating viral infections such as the common cold (Chang, HM & But PPH: Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Materia Medica, Vol 2 World Scientific Publishing, Teaneck, NJ. 1987:1041-1046). Chinese research indicates that astragalus is a valuable anticlotting agent in preventing coronary heart disease (Rector-Page, L., Healthy Healing: An Alternative Healing Reference, Healthy Healing Publications, 1992, pg. 64).

Viral Infections

Astragalus has been traditionally used by the Chinese to fight viral infections. A clinical trial with 10 patients suffering from a coxsackie B viral myocarditis showed improved natural killer cell activity in patients treated with astragalus, along with improved alpha and gamma-interferon levels (Chin Med J 1990;103:304-307). There is also evidence that astragalus can enhance macrophage action and antibody response (Phytotherapy Research 1989;3:148-153; Immunopharmacol 1990;20:225-233).

Asthma

Astragalus has clinically demonstrated the ability to reduce airway responsiveness in asthmatic patients (Wang H, et al, The effect of herbal medicine including astragalus membranaceus (fisch) bge,codonpsis pilosula and glycyrrhiza uralensis fisch on airway responsiveness. Zhonghua Jie He He Hu Xi Za Zhi 1998 May;21(5):287-8).

Heart function

In a study of 92 patients with ischemic heart disease, astragalus proved effective in markedly reducing angina pectoris, as well as improving electrocardiogram (ECG) and impedance cardiogram results (Li SQ, et al, Clinical observation on the treatment of ischemic heart disease with Astragalus membranaceus. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1995 Feb;15(2):77-80). In a study of 43 patients who had suffered a myocardial infarction (heart attack) within 36 hours, astragalus strengthened left ventricular function and reduced oxygen free radical damage. This observation not only suggests that the antioxidant effects of astragalus are part of its cardio-protective mechanism, but that anti-oxidants in general may have both a preventive and therapeutic effect on heart function (Chen LX, et al, Effects of Astragalus membranaceus on left ventricular function and oxygen free radical in acute myocardial infarction patients and mechanism of its cardiotonic action. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1995 Mar;15(3):141-3).

Contraindications/Toxicology

Caution should be exercised using astragalus with patients on immuno-suppressive therapy (transplants) and those with autoimmune diseases. The fibrinolytic effects of Astragalus warrant caution and careful monitoring of patients using anti-platelet / anti-coagulant / anti-thrombotic agents. (Gruenwald)

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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