Astragalus

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years, often in combination with other herbs, to strengthen the body against disease. Astragalus contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage caused by free radicals. Astragalus is used to protect and support the immune system, for preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, to lower blood pressure, to treat diabetes, and to protect the liver.
Astragalus has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Astragalus is sometimes used topically for wounds. In addition, studies have shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, suggesting that it is indeed effective at preventing colds.
Researchers have investigated astragalus as a possible treatment for people whose immune systems have been compromised by chemotherapy or radiation. In these studies, astragalus supplements have been shown to speed recovery and extend life expectancy. Research on using astragalus for people with AIDS has produced inconclusive results.
Recent research indicates that astragalus may offer antioxidant benefits to people with severe forms of heart disease, relieving symptoms and improving heart function. At low to moderate doses, astragalus has few side effects, although it does interact with a number of other herbs and prescription medications.



Traditional uses include the treatment of the following: Colds and influenza, persistent infection, fever, multiple allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue, chemotherapy side effects, anaemia, wounds, heart disease, kidney disease, hepatitis, stomach ulcers.
Astragalus is also used to treat general digestive disturbances, including diarrhoea, gas, and bloating.
Astragalus may be given to children to support the immune system but should not be used if the child has a fever because, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, it may make the fever last longer or grow stronger. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 lb (20 - 25 kg), the appropriate dose of astragalus would be 1/3 of the adult dosage.
For adults, doses from 1 - 25g of the herb per day are sometimes used. Higher doses may suppress the immune system.
At recommended doses, astragalus has no serious side effects and can generally be used safely. Astragalus does interact with other herbs and medications.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor before taking any medication, including herbs.
If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use astragalus without first talking to your health care provider:
Astragalus may increase the effects of some antiviral medications such as acyclovir and interferon.
Astragalus may counteract the immune-suppressing effects of cyclophosphamide, a medication used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients, as well as corticosteroids.
Astragalus may lower blood sugar, making the effects of diabetes drugs stronger.
Astragalus may lower blood pressure, making the effects of hypertension drugs stronger.
Astragalus is a diuretic and may make the effects of other diuretics stronger.
Astragalus may make the effects of anticoagulants stronger, increasing the risk of bleeding and stroke.