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Astragalus
(Astragalus membranaceus)
Description
The dried root of the astragalus plant is a common component
of traditional Chinese herbal formulas (1). Traditionally,
it has been used to prevent illnesses in healthy individuals.
Studies show that astragalus extracts can strengthen the Immune
System.
Herbal Uses
Traditionally, astragalus has been used
to prevent illnesses due to its immunostimulant properties.
According to Chinese healing tradition, astragalus should
be used by healthy individuals and not in the early stages
of an Infection.
Suggested Intakes
Part of the plant used: ROOT.
Standardized extract, 1 g daily.
Boiled tea, 9-30 g dried root daily.
Supplemental Uses
Immune Stimulant:
Astragalus has been shown to stimulate parts of the Immune
System in humans. In one study, it increased the survival
time of mice affected with various diseases (2-3).
Preliminary research suggests astragalus
may be effective for treating the following:
Atherosclerosis, hyperthyroidism, Hypertension, Insomnia,
diabetes, chronic active Hepatitis, and the side effects of
cancer chemotherapy (4-9).
Safety and Precautions
Astragalus seems to be non-toxic. No significant
side effects were observed when taken long-term or in high
doses (10). Rare side effects are generally limited to mild
gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions.
As mentioned above, Chinese healing tradition
cautions against using astragalus in cases of acute Infections.
It is recommended that astragalus be used under the supervision
of a qualified Chinese herbalist.
Young children, pregnant or nursing women,
and patients with liver or kidney disease should take caution
when using astragalus, since safety for these groups have
not been established.
Interactions and Contra-Indications
Astragalus may potentiate hyperglycemic
and hyperuremic (excessive blood levels of uric acid) effects
of glucose elevating agents.
Dosage adjustments of antidiabetic drugs
may be required, therefore diabetics should consult with their
doctor before taking the herb.
Alkaloids, colchicine, sparteine and anorectic
drugs (fenfluramine) may potentiate the activity of astragalus.
The herb may interact with dopamine receptor
agonists, such as bromocriptine mesylate, and the analgesics
nalbuphine HCl and propoxyphene HCl.
Caution should be exercised when used with
CNS depressants or stimulants. Avoid use with procarbazine
antineoplastic agents.
Sedatives and beta-adrenergic blocking agents
may interfere with the herb’s anti-inflammatory activity.
References
1. Benksy D and Gamble A. Chinese herbal
medicine: Materia medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press, 1986:
457-459.
2. Hou Y, et al. Effect of Radix Astragali Seu Hedysari on
the interferon system. Chin Med J 94: 35-40, 1981.
3. Sun Y, et al. Immune restoration and/or augmentation of
local graft versus host reaction by traditional Chinese medicinal
herbs. Cancer 52: 70-73, 1983.
4. Benksy D and Gamble A. Chinese herbal medicine: Materia
medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press, 1986: 457-459.
5. Liang R, et al. Clinical study on braincalming tablets
in treating 450 cases of atherosclerosis. J North Chin Med
1: 63-65, 1985.
6. Xiao S, et al. Hyperthyroidism treated with yiqiyangyin
decoction. J Trad Chin Med 6(2): 79-82, 1986.
7. Zhang ND, et al. Effects on blood pressure and inflammation
of astragalus saponin 1, a principle isolated from Astragalus
membranaceus Bge. Acta Pharm Suec 19(5): 333-337, 1984.
8. Zhang H, et al. Treatment of adult diabetes with jiangtangjia
tablets. J Trad Chin Med 7(4): 37-39, 1986.
9. Zhou MX, et al. Therapeutic effect of astragalus in treating
chronic active hepatitis and the changes in immune function.
J Chin People's Liberation Army 7(4): 242-244, 1982.
10. Benksy D and Gamble A. Chinese herbal medicine: Materia
medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press, 1986: 457-459.
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