Astragalus – 9 Essentials To Know Before Taking
June 19, 2023
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is one of the most popular “adaptogens,” a class of herbs believed to help your body defend against stress.
In This Healthy Insight:
- Who It’s For
- What It Is
- Ideal For
- What It Does
- How To Use
- Available Forms
- A Bit of History
- Fun Facts
- What the Plant Looks Like
Who It’s For:
People who feel overwhelmed and physically, mentally or emotionally exhausted.
What It Is:
Astragalus a flowering plant native to grassy areas of northern and eastern parts of China, as well as Korea and Mongolia. It’s a perennial plant and member of the pea family. The root has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for a variety of health issues. Astragalus contains more than 60 flavonoids, important for their antioxidants; polysaccharides for their nutritional value; and plant-based saponins for overall wellness.
Ideal For:
Energizing and fighting stress, immune support and general health.
What It Does:
Astragalus is a Qi tonic, also known as energy tonics. Not a stimulant, Qi tonics help your body function optimally, resulting in a natural increase in vitality, energy, stamina, strength, and longevity.
How To Use:
Astragalus is available in a liquid extract and in blends with other herbs, especially for immune and energy support. Always follow the suggested use.
Available Forms:
Slices of dried astragalus root are sold at Chinese groceries and some health food stores. Simmer slices of the root in tea or soups to add a nutty flavor. It’s also available in liquid extracts, capsules, tablets and teas.
A Bit of History:
Astragalus, also known as huáng qí or milkvetch, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Often combined with other herbs, it’s treasured for its ability to protect good health by combating physical, mental and emotional stress and bringing the body back into balance.
Since astragalus contains antioxidants that fight free radicals, it has recently become popular for supporting the immune system. It’s also been the subject of much research with positive findings overall.
Fun Facts:
- There are over 2,000 species of astragalus, but only two are primarily used in supplements — Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus
- Although astragalus bears beautiful flowers, the power of astragalus lies in its root
- Roots are harvested for medicinal use when the plant is 4 years old and sliced into long thin strips
- Astragalus’ Chinese name, huáng qí, means “yellow leader” due to its yellow root and the fact that it’s considered one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine
- Huáng qí is a popular medicine widely available in drugstores throughout China for respiratory and lung issues
What the Plant Looks Like:
Astragalus grows up to three feet in height and grows in grassy, sunny areas with sandy soil that allows for good root growth. It has hairy stems with about 15 pairs of leaflets and bears white or yellow pea-like flowers from June to July. The yellow root is cylindrical with a white inner pulp with a sweet, warm, nutty taste, which works well in soups (sliced like a carrot), teas and beverages, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
As always, speak to your health care provider before taking astragalus or any other herb.
