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immune

Astragalus Root

Astragalus membranaceus / A. mongholicus

黄芪

Pinyin: Huáng Qí

🌿

Plant Family

Fabaceae

Part Used

Root

Origin

Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Gansu, Heilongjiang, China

Safety Level

Safe

Overview

Astragalus is one of the most important immune tonics in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen the body's defensive energy (wei qi) and enhance overall vitality. Astragalus is widely researched for its immune-modulating and adaptogenic effects.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties

Nature (四气)

slightly warm

Flavors (五味)

sweet

Meridians (归经)

spleen, lung

Health Benefits

✓ Enhances immune function (increases white blood cell activity)
✓ Adaptogenic (helps the body cope with stress)
✓ May reduce frequency of colds and upper respiratory infections
✓ Cardioprotective (may improve heart function)
✓ Anti-aging and longevity potential (telomere research)
✓ May help reduce fatigue and increase stamina
✓ Liver-protective effects
✓ May help regulate blood sugar
✓ Kidney protective (reduces proteinuria)
✓ Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Traditional Uses

  • Tonify qi and strengthen the spleen
  • Raise yang qi (prolapse, fatigue)
  • Strengthen wei qi and stop sweating
  • Promote urination and reduce edema
  • Support wound healing and tissue regeneration
  • Chronic illness recovery

Active Constituents

The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:

Polysaccharides (astragalans - primary immune actives)Triterpene saponins: astragalosides I–IVFlavonoids: formononetin, calycosin, kaempferolAmino acids (including GABA)Minerals: selenium, zinc, ironAstragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (AMP)

Usage & Dosage

How to Use

Decoction (soup base), powder, tincture, extract, capsule. Often added to soups and broths as a food herb.

Suggested Dosage

9–30 g daily as dried root decoction; 2–4 g as powder; 2–4 mL tincture 3x/day; standardized extract: 500–1000 mg 2–3x/day.

Quality & Storage

Harvest Season

Spring or autumn, from plants 4–7 years old. Spring-harvested is considered slightly better for qi tonification.

Quality Indicators

Thick, long roots with yellow interior and light brown exterior. Should be sweet-tasting with a slight bean-like aroma. The best quality comes from Inner Mongolia and Shanxi. Mongolian astragalus (A. mongholicus) is considered premium.

Storage

Airtight container in cool dry place. Protect from moisture and insects. Good for 2–3 years.

Safety Information

Contraindications

Acute infections with fever (may "trap" pathogen inward - TCM concern)Autoimmune diseases (may stimulate immune response - use cautiously)Pregnancy (high doses - consult practitioner)Kidney transplant patientsThose with "heat" conditions in TCM diagnosis

Possible Side Effects

  • Generally very safe when used appropriately
  • Rare: mild digestive upset, bloating
  • Rare: allergic reaction
  • Very high doses may cause insomnia or restlessness in some people

Drug Interactions

  • Immunosuppressant drugs (may counteract effect - CRITICAL)
  • Blood thinners (mild effect)
  • Blood pressure medications (may lower blood pressure)
  • Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)
  • Diuretics (additive 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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