Common Names
Astragalus root, Huang qi, yellow leader
Botanical Name
Astragalus membranaceus
Family
Fabaceae
Medicinal Uses
Cancer Prevention, Cardiovascular, Chinese, Colds, Fatigue, Immune, Kidney, Longevity Tonics, Sinus.
Properties
Adaptogens, AntiViral, Depurative, Digestive, Hypotensive, Immunostimulant, Nervine.
Parts Used
Root
Constituents
astragalosides and other immunostimulant polysaccharides, beta-sitosterol, flavonoids, and trace minerals, especially selenium.
Habitat
Astragalus is native to Mongolia and China. Cultivated in the U.S. and Canada.
Side Effects
Non toxic at any dosage. People who take warfarin should avoid astragalus because of the potential for bleeding. A class of high blood pressure medications known as beta-blockers may be less effective when taken with astragalus.
How to Prepare
To make a decoction of the root use 1 Tblsp. of the dried root per 2 cups of water and simmer for at least 20 minutes in a small, covered saucepan.
