Description

Astragalus, also called milk vetch root, is the root of the Astragalus membranaceus plant, which is a member of the pea family. This perennial grows to a height of 24 ft. (510 cm). It has white or yellow flowers and leaves with 1018 pairs of leaflets. The large yellow taproots of four- to seven-year-old plants are used for medicinal purposes. Although there are many varieties in the Astragalus family, Astragalus membranaceus is the sole medicinal type. The plant is found only in the grasslands and mountains of central and western Asia, principally in China, Taiwan, and Korea. Astragalus is a good source of selenium, an antioxidant and immune system stimulant.

General use
Astragalus is called Huang Qi in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and is considered to be an important tonic herb. It is used to strengthen what is called the wei qi, or the defensive energy of the body against disease. TCM identifies astragalus as being helpful in conditions involving the Spleen, the Lungs, and the Triple Burner. It is a warming tonic, and it improves the functioning of the qi (the flow of energy in the body), the Spleen, the Blood, and the fluids of the body. Astragalus is recommended for Spleen deficiency symptoms, such as diarrhea, fatigue, sweating, and lack of appetite. It is used as a tonic for the Lungs and is good for shortness of breath, asthma, and chronic lung problems. Astragalus is prescribed for arthritis, diarrhea, and nervous symptoms. It is often given to people who are in a state of generally poor or weakened health. Astragalus is classified as an adaptogen, an herb that increases the body's endurance and resistance to a wide array of physical, chemical, and biological stressors. Adaptogens help normalize the functioning of various body systems by affecting the action of hormones. Adaptogens are usually beneficial in treating chronic conditions. They have been found to enhance the immune response, reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and support the hormone systems, particularly the adrenal and pituitary glands. Adaptogens should be used for an extended period of timeat least six weeks. Astragalus helps the body function at its best level. It helps the body deal with stress and enhances overall immune function. It has been shown to stimulate production and activation of the white blood cells, which fight infection. It is highly recommended for preventing and alleviating colds and flu. Astragalus can be used to cure chronic weaknesses of the lungs. Because it improves blood circulation and heart function, astragalus is useful in treating heart disease. It has also been found to prevent or reduce blood clotting. Astragalus can be taken as a tonic for the kidneys. It has a diuretic (urine-producing) effect and so it flushes out the urinary system. It is thus very effective in treating kidney infections, proteinuria (too much protein in the urine), chronic prostate problems, and chronic urinary tract problems. Astragalus is helpful to those taking chemotherapy and radiation treatments. It reduces toxic side effects and enhances therapeutic effects. Cancer patients who take astragalus during or after cancer treatments tend to recover more quickly from the ill effects of the treatment, and they generally have better survival rates. This appears to be connected with the strengthening of the

immune system. Astragalus also stimulates the adrenal glands, whose functions are suppressed in cancer. The herb improves poor appetite, diarrhea, weakness, wasting, and night sweats. This makes it helpful for cancer patients as well as AIDS sufferers and those with other debilitating diseases. Astragalus is recommended as a tonic for the elderly. It protects cells from the aging process and may diminish other negative effects of aging. For example, it strengthens digestion, stimulates the appetite, and helps improve mental functioning. Astragalus shows promise in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. By itself or in combinations, it may be useful in treating viral infections, hypoglycemia, diabetes mellitus, chronic ulcers, insomnia, hyperthyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome, open wounds, liver problems, sexual dysfunction, fertility problems, and autoimmune diseases.

Preparations
Astragalus is available as a capsule, a tablet, a tincture, as a part of an herbal combination, as a prepared tea, and as a sweet dried root that can be eaten or made into tea. Traditionally, several slices of the root are often added to soups and stews. A strong tea can be made by boiling three ounces of astragalus root in three cups of water and letting the mixture steep for at least five minutes. Two or three cups of the unheated tea can be taken over the course of a day. In tincture form, 3060 drops of astragalus can be taken four times per day. Candied roots can be purchased ready-made or prepared in the home. Preparation involves combining four parts of the dried root with one part honey in water, then simmering until the herb is dried and brownish. In TCM, astragalus ointments are used to heal wounds, particularly those that are slow to heal.

Precautions
Since astragalus is a warming herb, its use should be avoided in heat conditions, such as fevers or agitated states. Astragalus membranaceus is the only species of its family to have a medicinal use; other species may be toxic. Therefore, local Western varieties should not be used. Use only the root portion of the plant; other parts of the plant may be poisonous.

Side effects
Sometimes individuals experience a slight stomach upset or allergic reaction to astragalus. However, it is generally a very safe herb, even at high doses.

Interactions
Astragalus increases the effectiveness of other herbs when used in combinations. It is often used with Siberian ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus; Echinacea spp.; dong quai, Angelica sinensis; and Lingusticum wallichi. Astragalus may interfere with the actions of diuretics, phenobarbital, beta-blockers, and anticoagulants (substances that prevent blood clotting). Users of these medications should consult a healthcare provider before using the herb.

BOOKS
Graedon, Joe, and Teresa Graedon. The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1999. Green, James. The Male Herbal: Health Care for Men and Boys. Freedom, Calif.: Crossing Press, 1991. Hart, Carol, and Magnolia Goh. Traditional Chinese Medicine: The A-Z Guide to Natural Healing from the Orient. New York: Dell, 1997.

OTHER
"Astragalus." Go-Symmetry. <http://www.go-symmetry.com/astragalus.htm.> "Astragalus." The Herbalist. <http://www.theherbalist.com/astragal.htm.> "Astragalus." HerbsHerbals.com. <http://www.herbsherbals.com/astragalus.html.> "Astragalus." Pro Health International. < http://www.planet.eon.net/~wiggles/astra1galus.htm Patience Paradox

Astragalus Medicinal Plants Famous Chinese Herbal

herbs-medicinal | July 10th, 2010 - 2:42 am

Astragalus is a kind of medicinal herbal plant that known as Huang-qi in Chinese. Since the ancient, Chinese was recorded Astragalus (under the name of Huang-qi ) as the famous Chinese herbal in the higher-ranking category of three classes of herbs medicinal since the two thousands years ago when Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (attributed to the divine plowman emperor, ShenNong, who is thought to have lived about 4000 years ago) be in command.

astragalus membranaceus herbs medicinal plants However, this Chinese herbs medicinal healthcare of Huang-qi plant is no longer an obscure Chinese herb available only from China. In 1925 Astragalus membranaceus plant was presented to North America through USDAs Plant Introduction Office, arriving from the Botanical Garden in St. Petersburg. Germplasm is maintained through USDAs National Germplasm System. Astragalus membranaceus is an herbaceous perennial, growing to about 2 feet tall, with sprawling stems. The alternate leaves have 12-24 leaflets. Small, light yellow pea-like flowers arise from leaf axils. Astragalus is grown well from seed, though the seed, like many legumes, has a hard coat. If the small kidney-shaped seeds are nicked with a file, or rubbed between sand paper, then soaked in water overnight, they germinate easily, usually within a week. Seeds can be planted outside after the last frost in spring, and will sprout within 2-3 weeks. Medicinal herbal plant of Astragalus seems easily to be adaptable to growing in any conditions. It thrives in a deep, sandy in somewhat alkaline soil when well-drained. Good drainage is important. Each young seedlings develop 4-6 leaves, they can be cut to a spacing of one foot. The Chinese consider the quality of cultivated roots to be superior to wild-harvested Astragalus roots. The Astragalus seed is available for herb gardeners through versatile commercial sources including Horizon Herbs. Astragalus herbal plants in traditional Chinese medicine

Astragalus had known as Chinese herbs plant in traditional Chinese medicinal healthcare since a long time ago. The mythical Shen-Nong is depicted in ancient drawings with horns atop his head like the pagan God Pan. The listing of 365 herbs and descriptions attributed to him survives from about 2,000 years ago. Most of the herbs medicinal listed in the work are still the most important Chinese herbs medicinal healthcare.

In the Medical Case-book of Shi-shan (Shi Shan Yi An), published in 1531 huang-qi and its use with ginseng, still a well-known Chinese herbal prescription. With ginseng (Panax ginseng) it is used as a tonic for fatigue, general debility, lack of appetite, and spontaneous perspiration. Westerners were quick to realize the importance of this valuable Chinese herb. Writing on Astragalus his 1911 work, Chinese Materia Medica, G. A. Stuart noted, It is in great repute as a tonic, pectoral, and diuretic medicine, the diseases for which it is prescribed, therefore, are almost numberless. Astragalus herbs plant is accustomed as quicken vital energy (qi or chi) and strengthen body resistance in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has been applied in prescription medicinal drugs for shortness of breath (SOB), general weakness, and lack of appetite; also as a diuretic, and as the natural treatment for colds, flu, stomach ulcers, and diabetes. It is widely used in modern herbal practice in China. Astragalus is an official drug in the modern pharmaceutical of the Peoples Republic of China. In West herbal, Astragalus has been described as a diuretic, tonic, musculus pectoralis, and antipyretic. The shredded root, whole root, capsule products, teas, tinctures and additional product forms of huang-qi are generally available in health and natural food stores in North America. Astragalus herbal plant is becoming one of the better known Chinese herbs used as an immune system stimulant.

Astragalus the famous Chinese herbal In traditional Chinese medicine, the Astragalus dried root uses in 9-15 g of doses. simmered in a quart of water down to a pint. The dried sliced root, which looks like a tongue depressor, is the form the dried is supplied from Chinese sources. Tinctures, tablets, capsules, powdered herb, extracts, and combination products are found in the American herb market. It is often combined with ginseng. Typically, capsules deliver a dose of up to 500 mg. Two average capsules three times a day would be equivalent to a dose of 3-4 g. For commercial products, follow manufacturers label instructions.

Astragalus plant is an important herb in Chinese herbal traditions for over two millennium, and becoming increasingly important in the American market. Traditional healthcare treatment use has been confirmed by numerous pharmacological studies and some clinical studies. Scientists have demonstrated immune-stimulant activity, antiviral effects and an immune-restorative function in various cancers. Its acceptance in the American market will be further solidified by well-designed, controlled clinical trials. These studies have yet to be

Immunity

Phytomycin 90 caps - Supports immune system The preparation is based on a standardized extract of the Indian herb Andrographis paniculata, in addition to concentrated extracts of Astragalus and Ginger, which support and improve its effect. In addition to its implements for infections, the preparation is also used as support for those who suffer from malignant tumors and for those undertaking chemotherapy. Direction of use: 1-2 capsules, 3 times a day, before meals with water PRICE: 49.00 Further Information

This product blend two very powerful herbs: Andrographis paniculata & Astragalus membranaceus. This combination suggest a strong immune system that can help you with healing yourself. Andrographis paniculata is a herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae, native to India and Sri Lanka. It's extract is traditionally used as a medicine to treat different diseases in India, China and Southeast Asia. In the present study, we evaluated the anticancer and immunomodulatory activity of the methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata in human cancer and immune cells.Scientists have studied this herb for nearly thirty years. It is widely cultivated in southern Asia, where it is used to treat infections and some diseases, often being used before antibiotics were created. Mostly the leaves and roots were used for medicinal purposes. Andrographis paniculata, the Kalmegh of Ayurveda is an erect annual herb extremely bitter in taste in each and every part of the plant body. The plant is known in northeastern India as Maha-tita, literally king of bitters and known by various vernacular names. It is also known as Bhui-neem, since the plant, though much smaller in size, shows similar appearance and has bitter taste as that of Neem (Azadirachta indica). The methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata was fractionated into dichloromethane, petroleum ether and aqueous extracts and screened for bioactivity. Our results indicate that the dichloromethane fraction of the methanolic extract retains the active compounds contributing for both the anticancer and immunostimulatory activity. In Malaysia, it is known as 'Hempedu Bumi' literally means 'bile of earth' since it is one of the most bitter plant that are used in traditional medicine. In tamil it is called

as 'Sirunangai' or 'Siriyanangai'. Incidentally, the genus Andrographis

consists of 28 species of small annual shrubs essentially distributed in tropical Asia. Only a few species are medicinal, of which A. paniculata is the most popular. For the ones the really looking in to details, Dichloromethane fraction significantly inhibits the proliferation of HT-29 (colon cancer) cells and augments the proliferation human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs) at low concentrations. On further fractionation of the dichloromethane extract we could isolate three diterpene compounds, i.e. [1] andrographolide, [2] 14-deoxyandrographolide and [3] 14-deoxy11,12-didehydroandrographolide. Andrographolide showed anticancer activity on diverse cancer cells representing different types of human cancers. Whereas all the three molecules showed enhanced proliferation and interleukin-2 (IL-2) induction in HPBLs. Astragalus has been valued by the Chinese for centuries for its ability to enhance our immune system and its stress-fighting properties. Its primarily used for its immune stimulating properties. In vitro, animal, and anecdotal human data show reduction of immune suppression following chemotherapy.

Astragalus-based herbal formulas may enhance the effect of platinum-based chemotherapy. An herbal formula using astragalus as major ingredient has been shown to reduce fatigue in athletes. Astragalus increases M-cholinergic receptor density in senile rats, which suggests that it may have a role in combating senility. It can also delay chemical-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. To date, no significant adverse events have been reported. Patients on immunosuppressants, should not take this supplement. Herbal astragalus preparations should be administered only by oral route. Astragalus has been valued by the Chinese for centuries for its ability to enhance our immune system and its stress-fighting properties. Scientists commonly refer to astragalus as an adaptogen, meaning it can actually modify the body's response to stress and infections. The root of this plant is used to make a standardized extract. Ingredients: Herbal extracts of the following: Andrographis paniculata - 100 mg

Astragalus membranaceus - 200 mg Zingiber officinalis A food supplement Contains 90 capsules Each capsule contains less then 10 Kcal Net. Wight: 40.5 gr. Keep in a cool and dry place Distributed by: Production code 2537, Israel Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women, nursing mothers and those on prescription medication, should consult a physicia - 50 mg