Astragalus: A Natural Booster Of Body's Immune System And Its Antioxidant Capability.


by Darshana Vaishnav, M.D. - Date: 2007-01-06 - Word Count: 308 Share This!

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a large genus of over 2500 perennial flowering species of herbs and small shrubs, belonging to the subfamily Faboideae of the legume family Fabaceae (the pea family). The genus, commonly known as milk-vetch root, is primarily native to the Northern Hemisphere and South America, although many species are also found in southwest Asia, southern Europe, northern Africa, and the Mediterranean and Himalayan regions.

The medicinal use of Astragalus is derived from the dried roots of the plant and has a balancing effect on bodily functions.

Astragalus has been used by practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to improve digestion, support the spleen, promote the discharge of urine, lower blood pressure, increase endurance and strengthen the body's overall vitality. In China, Astragalus is given to cancer patients to boost immunity after drug or radiation treatment. Additionally, in the US, Astragalus supplements that contain medicinally active compounds including a polysaccharide (from Astragalus) have been shown at institutions for cancer research to speed recovery of cancer patients by stimulating their immune system. Astragalus may be given to children as well to support their immune system, especially for the prevention and treatment of the common cold and chronic hepatitis. Clinically, it is used primarily for general digestive disorders such as diarrhea, gas, and bloating, as well as chronic phlegm production.

Astragalus is a good source of the essential trace mineral selenium which prevents cell damage caused by hydrogen peroxide and lipids and its antioxidation effect is a few hundred times better than Vitamin E. Recent research in China indicates that Astragalus may offer antioxidant benefits in people with severe forms of heart disease and improve their heart function.

Astragalus is often formulated with ginseng and other Chinese herbs and is available as herbal tea, drops, tinctures, extracts, fresh leaves and flowers or dried roots, root powder and in capsules.


Related Tags: cancer, blood pressure, liver, antioxidant, herb, astragalus, immune suppport, cardiovascular health

DrugNaturalTM is dedicated to providing you with natural health alternatives that promote resilience and long life. We feature Astragalus supplements as well as a variety of well-balanced immune support and antioxidant dietary supplements. We will continue to add new products to our website over time. Feel free to contact us today at 866-656-9500 or by email at drugnatural@drugnatural.com.

Darshana Vaishnav, M. D. is a board certified medical doctor with a medical degree from Penn State University. With over 20 years of medical practice in California behind her, she set up her website DrugNatural.com to promote dietary supplements. Her site offers natural vitamins, herbal and dietary supplements with reliable purity and consistency available only from physicians, naturopaths, pharmacies or healthcare providers.

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