Astragalus
Astragalus membranaceus
黄芪
Pinyin: Huáng Qí
Plant Family
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Part Used
Root
Origin
Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Heilongjiang provinces of China, Mongolia
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Astragalus is a perennial legume with yellow flowers that grows in the dry, sandy regions of northern China and Mongolia. Its thick, fibrous roots have a sweet taste and are one of the most important qi-tonifying herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Astragalus has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen the body's "wei qi" (defensive qi) and improve overall vitality. It is considered a "superior" herb in the Shennong Bencao Jing - safe for long-term use.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
slightly warm
Flavors (五味)
sweet
Meridians (归经)
spleen, lung
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Tonifies qi - especially spleen and lung qi
- Strengthens wei qi (defensive qi) and improves immune function
- Promotes diuresis and reduces edema
- Sheng yang (lifts yang) - for prolapse and chronic diarrhea
- Promotes discharge of pus and tissue regeneration (external)
- Used for chronic fatigue and weakness
- Excessive sweating due to qi deficiency
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Available as dried sliced root, powder, capsules, liquid extract, or injectable (in TCM hospitals). Most commonly used in decoctions, soups, or as a daily tonic tea. Pairs beautifully with other tonic herbs.
Suggested Dosage
Decoction: 9-30g of dried root, simmered 20-40 min. Powder/Capsules: 500-2000mg daily. Standardized extract: 250-1000mg daily (standardized to astragalosides).
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Spring or autumn, from plants 3-4 years old. Autumn-harvested roots from Inner Mongolia are considered the best quality.
Quality Indicators
Thick, long roots with yellow-white interior and fibrous texture. Sweet taste (like sweet pea or licorice). The best quality is from Inner Mongolia and Shanxi - "Meng Qi" and "Jin Qi" respectively. The outer bark should be light brown with longitudinal wrinkles.
Storage
Store dried root in airtight container in cool, dry place. Can be stored for 2-3 years. Protect from moisture and insects.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Acute infections, fever, or inflammatory conditions ("traps pathogens inside")Excess heat or yin deficiency with heat signsAutoimmune conditions (may stimulate immune system)Organ transplant recipientsEndometriosis or uterine fibroids (estrogen-like effects)Pregnancy (uterine stimulant effect in large doses)
Possible Side Effects
- Generally very safe and well-tolerated
- Mild digestive upset (rare)
- Skin rash (very rare)
- May worsen autoimmune flares in susceptible individuals
Drug Interactions
- Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, etc.)
- Antidiabetic medications (may enhance blood sugar lowering)
- Blood pressure medications (may lower blood pressure)
- Anticoagulants (mild effect)
- Lithium (may increase levels)
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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