Uses for the Chinese herb astragalus have been in practice for many centuries. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers many uses for the plant, as an integral part of the system of alternative medicine. The plant is native to China, but it has been popular as a supplement in the United States since the 1980s.
Types of Astragalus
There are many types of astragalus, with over 2,000 species of the plant. Of the 2,000 species, only two are used for medicinal purposes.
• Astragalus membranaceus
• Astragalus mongholicus
These two types of astragalus may go under a number of different names including:
• Bei qi
• Huang qi
• Ogi
• Milk vetch
• Hwanggi
• Astragalus
Uses for Astragalus
The Chinese herb is an important part of Chinese medicine, as it is used as an ingredient combined with other herbs. Other herbs commonly combined with astragalus include angelica, licorice, and ginseng, among others.
The primary use of the herb is to improve immune system function, but it has been used to treat medical problems as well, primarily chronic hepatitis and heart disease. In some cases, the herbal remedy is used to augment cancer treatments.
The root of the plant is the main source for medicinal uses, with this part of the plant administered in the following ways:
• Tea
• Extracts
• Capsules
• Soup
Scientific Backing
Little research is available about the effectiveness of the Chinese herb, but this does not mean that it is not effective. Preliminary studies suggest that the herb can be effective in improving heart functioning and it can be a natural immune system booster, especially when it comes to fighting infection.
When combined with glossy privet, the herb can be used as a complementary approach to treating cancer. Studies are still ongoing for this herb as an effective immune system booster. While studies are being conducted, many believe the ancient Chinese herbal remedy is very effective.
Locoweed
Locoweed is a form of astragalus that does not fall into the two main categories of the medicinal form of the herb. This component has strong side effects and it is not designed for medicinal purposes or for alternative medicine.
Side Effects
Some side effects can arise with use of astragalus. However, little is really known about the side effects. The problem stems from the simple fact that the herb is used in combination with other herbs, so some side effects may occur because of the other herbs, and not astragalus.
The herb is known to interfere with certain medications. Any medication taken by organ transplant recipients or any drugs designed to keep the immune system under control may become weakened with use of astragalus.
Always discuss using any herbal remedy with your physician, especially if you are in treatment for any illness, or if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant.
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