Astragalus Root
Astragalus is an herb whose benefits have served humanity centuries, especially in Chinese medicine. Some of its benefits are anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and even immune-boosting. In Chinese medicine, Astragalus and other herbs help the body fight diseases.
It is an adaptogen that strengthens the body to fight physical, mental, or emotional stress. It fights off free radicals, the root cause of many severe illnesses in our bodies.
Let us look at the benefits of Astragalus root for our body and how we can make good use of it.
Astragalus
In Chinese medicine, Astragalus is known as huάng qί or milkvetch and is a native plant of China, Mongolia, and Korea.
Its root contains medicinal properties and supplements in pills, powders, teas, and capsules. The basis of Astragalus has active compounds that make it so much beneficial.
Benefits of Astragalus Root
Although more scientific research is needed in this area to prove some of the benefits of Astragalus root since it has been in use for centuries, we cannot undermine these benefits altogether. Let us look at some of the benefits that Astragalus root can give us.
Strong Immunity
The primary use of astragalus root is to strengthen the immunity, so our body stays protected from infections and diseases.
It seems to increase the production of immune cells in the body. It also protects from colds and viral infections. It contains plant compounds that enhance our immune system.
Improve Cardiovascular Health
Astragalus root may help improve the condition of those suffering from certain heart conditions.
It helps to widen the blood vessels that run through the heart, which means more blood can flow. Some studies suggest that the astragalus root may help reduce the symptoms of Myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart. It also helps to lower blood pressure.
Protects Against Seasonal Allergies
Whether it’s monsoon or winter season, many of us are prone to allergies which makes our bodies vulnerable. It can be chills, fever, cold, cough, or shortness of breath. Including astragalus root extracts in our routine strengthens our immune system to fight off allergens.
Sexual Health
Astragalus root has been used in Chinese medicine to boost male fertility and libido. It encourages the healthy development of male hormones by optimizing testosterone.
Reduces Stress
Stress is not visible and may not have any symptoms, but it can degrade our health over time leading to chronic illness.
Astragalus root helps to get relief from stress and calms down our nerves. Anyone suffering from chronic stress, tension headaches, and mood swings can use astragalus root to get relief.
Improve Sleep
Regular consumption of astragalus root extract can help improve insomnia and irregular sleep patterns. It will also help promote overall health, which also helps in delivering better sleep and improves the sleep cycle.
Acts as an Anti-Aging Agent
It is one of the most popular benefits for which astragalus root has been in use for centuries.
Regular usage helps improve fine lines, age spots, wrinkles, and other age-related skin issues. Not only that, it improves overall health and keeps our cells and tissues healthy, which gives anti-aging benefits internally.
Reduces Side-Effects Of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy treats cancer but has several side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Studies show that astragalus root can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and help the patient recover from fatigue and weakness.
Control Blood Sugar Level
Astragalus root extracts can help reduce blood sugar levels in those with type 2 Diabetes. This herb is still prevalent in China to improve blood sugar levels.
Improving Aplastic Anemia
Early research shows that giving Astragalus extract through IV and other drugs increases the blood count and improve overall symptoms.
Improve Kidney Function
Astragalus shows positive effects on people suffering from kidney problems by increasing blood flow. It may also seem that astragalus root extract in Chinese medicine helps to protect the kidneys from internal and external infections (1).
Anti-diabetic supplement
Astragalus has a long history of being used as an anti-diabetic supplement in Chinese medicine. It reduces the blood glucose level at the fasting stage and also increases insulin sensitivity.
Side-Effects of Astragalus Root
You can easily take Astragalus root with other drugs or supplements. If you consume it safely, Astragalus will not have any adverse side-effect. Some mild side effects that may affect a few include an itchy nose, rash, runny nose, and mild diarrhea.
In high doses, the immune system may start suppressing, so it is not advisable for those who take immune-suppressing drugs to consume Astragalus root extract.
It may harm those suffering from immune system diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Pregnant and nursing mothers should not take astragalus root extracts or supplements. Just like any other supplement, always consult your doctor before consuming it.
How To Consume Astragalus Root?
Here are some ways of consuming astragalus root extracts:
- Have a cup of astragalus root tea.
- Add a scoop of astragalus powder with your juice or smoothie
- Or have a decoction
- You can even have a pill if you don’t want to go through much hassle.
There is no fixed dosage limit, but up to 60 gms daily can be taken as a safe consumption limit for four months. Although, we still need more in-depth research in this area to determine the fixed dosage that can give effective results.
Conclusion
Astragalus root has a history that spans centuries when it was the most popular and prized ingredient. It has numerous benefits for the body, such as controlling blood pressure, improving the function of kidneys, reducing fatigue, and keeping our body healthy.
As an organic substance, it helps maintain the immune system’s strength and fights off infections.
Due to its anti-oxidant properties, it helps to fight off free radicals in the body, which acts as a barrier against diseases. Since it can react with certain medications, make sure that you consult with your health care provider about this.
