Naturopathic health

Astragalus root information

Chinese herbal medicine practitioners most commonly use Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) as a general tonic and specifically for boosting the immune system.

Astragalus can be used for:

General immune boosting

Treating colds and flu

Angina

Hepatitus

Kidney & bladder infections

Alzheimer's disease

Chemotherapy support

Antitumour

There is plenty of research on Astragalus click her to find out more

Side effects and contraindications

Astragalus is considered safe for most adults. Its possible side effects are not well known because astragalus is generally used in combination with other herbs. It may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, such as the drugs taken by some cancer patients and similar drugs taken by organ transplant recipients.

It is generally advised that pregnant women should always check with their herbal practitioner before taking herbal remedies.

Active Compounds:  

Astragalus contains numerous components, including asparagine, calycosin, choline, betaine, flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides (e.g., astragalosides I-VII), amino acids, and trace minerals.

What Chinese Medicine says about Astragalus

Chinese Medicine defines Astragalus as a 'Qi Tonic' that tonifies the Wei Qi, the part of the Yang that circulates just below the skin surface

It also tonifies Spleen Qi strengthening digestion improving metabolism, increasing appetite and treating diarrhea.

In traditional Chinese medicine and Western clinical herbal medicine, astragalus is usually used in combination with other herbal remedies and is very seldom used as a single herbal treatment.

 

Adult Tincture Dosage:

Based on a tincture with a herb to alcohol ratio of 1:3 take 2ml to 4ml three times a day

When buying herbal remedies always buy tinctures not pills or capsules. Click here for more information and advice on buying herbal remedies.

Naturopaths treat the whole person not just the disease or condition. That's why you cannot use this site for diagnosis or treatment. The information we provide should not be treated as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. We recommend that you visit a qualified naturopath or find a GP who is sympathetic to a naturopathic approach. Click here for our full disclaimer.

Further reading:

L Tierra, 2003, Healing with the Herbs of Life, Crossing Press

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