Astragalus, also known as Huang Qi, is an herb with a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) spanning at least 2000 years. The astragalus root is a potent, non-toxic herb renowned for its diverse healing properties. Embraced in Eastern and Western medicine, the astragalus root benefits include enhanced immune function, improved seasonal allergy prevention, and reduced inflammation.
Current findings showcase remarkable health advantages. Whether utilized independently or as part of an herbal formula, astragalus root may help maintain health, particularly as the days grow colder.
About The Astragalus Root
Astragalus stands as one of the foundational herbs in TCM. Classified as a tonic herb, it is esteemed for its safety, adaptogenic properties, anti-inflammatory nature, and comprehensive strengthening effects on the entire system.
This perennial plant is indigenous to the northern and eastern regions of China, Mongolia, and Korea. Astragalus derives its medicinal benefits primarily from the root, typically harvested from 4-year-old plants.
Astragalus Root Benefits
There are many astragalus root benefits for addressing various health concerns within TCM. Benefits from this plant, rife with healing properties, include boosts to the immune system, inflammation reduction, and chronic fatigue relief. Additional research is ongoing and essential to ascertain the efficacy of astragalus in preventing and treating certain infections.
Immune System Boost
Astragalus contains beneficial plant compounds known to enhance the immune system. The immune system’s primary role is safeguarding the body against harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses that can lead to illness.
Evidence suggests that the astragalus root benefits may include stimulating white blood cell production, which is integral to the immune system in preventing illness. Astragalus may also help combat viral infections, encompassing the common cold and liver infections.
Within TCM, the astragalus root benefits in immunity primarily arise from its role as a qi tonic. One particular manifestation of qi is termed defensive qi. Defensive qi circulates beneath the body’s surface as a protective shield. This shield is instrumental in reducing the vulnerability of the body to external factors like cold and wind, which might otherwise lead to common illnesses.
Astragalus is a staple in TCM for fortifying qi and serving as a revitalizing tonic that restores depleted levels. It has a supportive influence on defensive qi. This involves stabilizing the body’s surface, reinforcing its resilience against external factors.
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation can cause pain and physical damage in conditions like arthritis and heart disease. Astragalus, enriched with saponins and polysaccharides, has been observed in studies to effectively curb inflammatory responses associated with various illnesses and conditions.
This anti-inflammatory ability is an especially valuable astragalus root benefit when grappling with colds or seasonal allergies, where sinus inflammation can result in discomfort and respiratory problems. One clinical investigation revealed that consuming 160 mg of astragalus twice daily may reduce sneezing and runny nose symptoms in individuals prone to seasonal allergies.
Chronic Fatigue
An initial study suggests that astragalus may contribute to the alleviation of tiredness in individuals grappling with chronic fatigue syndrome, particularly when used with other herbal supplements.
Herbal Formulas
Astragalus, or Huang Qi, can be used solely or as part of many formulas that aid in various health issues.
One herbal formula featuring astragalus is Huang Qi Wu Wu Tang, a 5-ingredient formula that serves to warm the meridians and dispel cold. It enhances qi, unblocks obstructions, and warms and harmonizes the channels.
Yu Ping Feng San is another formula that includes astragalus and helps invigorate the qi in the lungs and spleen, addressing concerns associated with dampness. This formula protects the body’s exterior, strengthening defenses against potential “wind invasions” linked to colds, the flu, and viral infections. Yu Ping Feng San offers benefits for individuals seeking to enhance their immune resilience. This makes it a valuable choice for those anticipating the onset of allergy season.
Quality Formulas And Benefits
Those seeking the astragalus root benefits should work with a licensed practitioner to acquire an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Given the individual variability in responses to herbal formulas, a professional well-versed in TCM can assess symptoms and tailor a suitable treatment plan.
Selecting herbal formulas crafted from high-quality ingredients is equally important. This guarantees optimal results and averts potential adverse effects from substandard herb sourcing. At KPC, our commitment to quality shows through in our adherence to the most rigorous guidelines.
KPC Herbs maintains an uncompromising stance on quality. We ensure that only ingredients and final products meeting the highest industry standards leave our facilities. As pioneers in herbal manufacturing, we aim to deliver the safest and most effective herbal formulas. Explore our catalog and learn about our manufacturing process through our website.
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*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner. This includes any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
