GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The astralagus or Huang Qi plant hails from
China. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than two thousand years. The root
of the plant is commonly used in herbal remedies as a base
ingredient to help with various ailments.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
The astralagus root is used to promote wound healing and
stimulate the immune system by boosting white blood cell
production and coaxing them to work harder. Several studies conducted in China found that
astralagus improved survival in some cancer patients,
however the quality of these trials is doubtful, thus the
value of these findings is limited. Studies suggest that
oral or nasal use of the herb may also protect against the common cold and flu.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
One drop of tincture is taken two to three
times per day. The dried root is taken in dosages of 1- 4 grams three times per day. The most
potent astralagus supplements contain a standardized extract
of the root, with 0.5% glucosides and 70% polysaccharides.
Research suggests that the body can develop a tolerance to immune-stimulating herbs such
as astragalus if it is taken for long periods. Therefore
some experts recommend alternating astralagus with other
immune system-enhancing herbs such as
echinacea.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
No side effects have been reported, however,
pregnant women should not take astralagus without consulting their physician first.
