Astragalus – the root that can boost the immune system!
Astragalus root that can boost the immune system among other benefits, astragalus can protect you against seasonal colds . Plus, stepping into the supplement aisle can be overwhelming, especially when you’re not even sure what adaptogens are and if they’ll actually help you.
First, a quick breakdown: adaptogens are edible, non-toxic herbs that help the body adapt to a variety of stressors .
While it’s fun to imagine him as the astral cousin of asparagus , it’s not a fantasy. The root of it is a very real and powerful immune booster that is worth learning about and incorporating into a healthy lifestyle.
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What is astragalus?
It remains a favorite in MTC today and is considered one of the best tonic herbs available. Whether to energize the body , strengthen immunity , or nourish and satiate the appetite, it can ward off physical and mental stress and help fight various ailments.
What are the health benefits of astragalus?
While there are over 2,000 species of astragalus , only two are used primarily in medicinal and nutritional supplements , Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicu.
Containing three active plant compounds , saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides, astragalus can provide a number of immune and antioxidant benefits , especially when taken daily.
First, saponins have been observed to lower cholesterol , boost the immune system, and potentially prevent cancer . Flavonoids have antioxidant qualities that can decrease free radical damage and can help prevent immunodeficiencies, heart disease , and cancer.
Polysaccharides ( polymeric carbohydrates ) are bioactive compounds that have antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiviral benefits.
1. Protects from colds, flu and allergies:
For starters, this root is widely used to help treat cold and flu , as well as seasonal allergies .
Herbalist and founder of Urban Moonshine, Jovial King, and clinical nutritionist, Dr. Josh Ax, recommend using adaptogens regularly in your routine. Especially before the cold winter months arrive, because astragalus can help prevent colds and upper respiratory illnesses .
Plus, studies show that it can increase white blood cell counts, which helps the immune system ward off disease.
2. Improves heart health:
In addition to its protective and antiviral capabilities, astragalus has been studied for its heart health benefits . It has been shown to strengthen blood vessels and increase blood flow to the heart.
For example, a clinical study focused on patients with chronic heart failure found that those who took astragalus experienced more improvements in heart function compared to the group who did not.
3. Helps with chemotherapy side effects:
In patients with negative side effects from chemotherapy , astragalus may be helpful. According to a clinical study, patients undergoing chemotherapy while taking intravenous astragalus had symptoms of nausea reduced by 36%, vomiting reduced by 50%, and diarrhea reduced by 59%.
Additionally, the use of astragalus can slow and slow tumor growth while building cancer-fighting cells in patients undergoing chemotherapy for liver cancer.
4. It can help manage diabetes:
The active compounds in astragalus may also help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin levels and reducing inflammation .
In China, it is the most frequently prescribed herb for diabetes management . A 2016 study showed that taking the herb every day improved blood sugar levels after fasting and after meals for those with type 2 diabetes.
5. Supports kidney function:
Lastly, it can also support healthy kidney function and has often been used to treat kidney disease in China. But more research is needed for conclusive observations.
Possible side effects of astragalus:
Astragalus is safe with no known serious side effects, although it can have some side effects when mixed with other herbs or supplements .
Our suggestion: start with small doses. Some animal studies have revealed that it may not be safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
“People with autoimmune diseases should talk to their doctors before starting astragalus because of its ability to stimulate the immune system. Individuals with conditions such as multiple sclerosis , rheumatoid arthritis and other immune system conditions may be especially sensitive to astragalus ,” warns Josh. Ax.
How to use the talus?
Astragalus supplements come in capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas . In addition to its medicinal benefits, its distinctive flavor profile makes it an exciting addition to foods and beverages: it’s earthy, a bit bitter and yet a little sweet.
According to herbalists and medical studies, it combines well with other supplements like echinacea , ginseng , licorice , sage , and dang gui (angelica sinensis root).
Its antimicrobial abilities make it useful for skin irritations and atopic dermatitis. Because of its antioxidant components , it can help fight free radical damage and reduce fine lines and sunspots .
Los Angeles clinical herbalist and founder of Zizia Botanicals, Abbe Findley, uses astragalus frequently with clients, stating, “It works well in a variety of herbal preparations. My favorites include tincture, tea , powder and cooking with it. I use astragalus in my herbal practice to build immunity , improve energy levels, and recommend it as a tonic herb for those with chronic health issues. ”
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Findley recommends adding 1 to 2 tablespoons to soup, stock or rice during the cooking process, or making it into a hot tea by adding a teaspoon to hot water.