Astragalus: One of the Most Widely Used Medicinal Plants in Eastern Herbal Medicine
- ALEGIS
- Aug 1, 2024
- 5 min read
Discover the incredible benefits and important precautions of Astragalus, including its effects, contraindications, and usage methods.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), commonly known as Huang Qi, is renowned as the "King of Qi Tonic" in traditional Chinese medicine. This herb is a vital companion on the path to subtle wellness! Lauded as a top-grade herb in the ancient "Shennong Bencao Jing" and praised by Qing Dynasty physicians as the "most superior qi tonic," this herbal superstar has a rich history in Chinese communities. Curious about why its price surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and how to use Astragalus safely and effectively? Let’s dive into its benefits, precautions, and usage to ensure you harness its full potential!
Astragalus: The Nourishing "King of Qi Tonic"
Astragalus, belonging to the legume family, bears the scientific name Astragalus Membranaceus. This perennial herb boasts a robust root system, with roots that are yellow or yellow-brown, smooth or slightly wrinkled, and notably tough. Its leaves are pinnate, resembling elongated ovals or ellipses, and smooth on the surface. The flowers are bright yellow, blooming in the summer, and its fruits are pods that mature in autumn, containing multiple seeds.
The primary medicinal part is the root, typically harvested in spring and autumn, then dried after removing the fibrous roots and root heads. The root appears cylindrical, light brown-yellow or brown, with a strong fibrous texture and a powdery cross-section, often described as having a "chrysanthemum heart." It has a faint odor and a slightly sweet taste, with a hint of bean flavor when chewed. The best medicinal roots are thick, with a distinct chrysanthemum heart.
History, Culture, and Impact of COVID-19 on Astragalus
Astragalus has a documented history dating back over two thousand years in ancient China. First mentioned in the "Shennong Bencao Jing," it is classified as a top-grade herb, meaning it is mild in action and suitable for long-term use without toxicity. It has been widely used in health maintenance, dietary therapy, and nutritional supplementation. As a prime example of the food-medicine continuum, Astragalus is commonly used in soups, and teas, and integrated into daily diets for health benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its unique immune-boosting properties led to a surge in demand and prices, revealing a glimpse of Eastern herbal medicine's mystique to the Western world.
Traditional and Modern Therapeutic Effects of Astragalus
Astragalus is sweet in flavor and slightly warm in nature. It primarily benefits the spleen and lung meridians, enhancing qi (vital energy) and improving immune function. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was extensively used for prevention and post-infection recovery. Let's explore its traditional and modern documented effects and research findings.
Traditional Benefits of Astragalus
In Eastern wellness and medical theories, great emphasis is placed on "yang qi" and balance. Yang qi is a concept of energy, the driving force for the body's organs to function normally. Insufficient yang qi can lead to fatigue and susceptibility to cold. Prolonged deficiency can weaken bodily functions and lower immunity. As the "King of Qi Tonic," Astragalus is traditionally used to regulate immunity, nourish the body, and maintain health.
Historically, Astragalus has been well-documented in numerous classic texts. The "Zhen Zhu Nang" describes five key uses: "Supplementing deficiencies, boosting vitality, strengthening the spleen and stomach, relieving heat, and promoting healing." Here's a closer look at its traditional medicinal benefits:
Boosting Defense and Vitality: In traditional health systems, "qi" is distinguished as internal and external. Internal qi protects the body, while external qi circulates on the surface. Unprocessed Astragalus can enhance the body's external defense and regulate perspiration.
Promoting Healing and Regeneration: For individuals with poor blood circulation or persistent wounds, unprocessed Astragalus can enhance surface blood circulation, promoting pus discharge and wound healing.
Tonifying Qi and Elevating Yang: Processed Astragalus can strengthen the spleen and lungs, enhancing internal functions.
Reducing Edema: For swelling caused by qi deficiency, Astragalus can promote diuresis and reduce swelling. It also regulates perspiration, benefiting conditions like night sweats and water retention.
Modern Pharmacological Research and Clinical Applications
Modern scientific research has unveiled the broad medicinal benefits of Astragalus, confirming its traditional uses and revealing new therapeutic potentials. Key components include polysaccharides (astragalan), triterpene saponins (astragalosides), flavonoids, amino acids, phenolic acids, sucrose, and trace elements.
Pharmacological Actions of Astragalus
Astragalus polysaccharides exhibit significant immune-modulating effects, while astragalosides (I-VIII) have hypotensive, diuretic, cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and analgesic properties. Modern clinical applications include:
Immune Regulation: Enhances immune function, promoting T cell proliferation, crucial in anti-cancer and antiviral treatments.
Anti-aging: Enhances cellular metabolism, extends cell life, and possesses antioxidant properties.
Stress and Fatigue Relief: Increases muscle contraction force, energy metabolism, and glycogen synthesis, combating fatigue and improving endurance.
Additional Benefits: Research suggests anti-cancer properties, wound healing acceleration, diabetes management, and chronic asthma relief.
Usage, Precautions, and Contraindications of Astragalus
Usage Methods
Astragalus Tea: A simple and effective way to enjoy Astragalus's health benefits. Boil 10-15 grams of Astragalus slices in water for 10-15 minutes, strain, and drink daily.
Astragalus Soup: Incorporate Astragalus into soups like chicken, fish, or rib soups. Add 10-20 grams of Astragalus slices during cooking for a nutritious and tasty meal.
Astragalus Porridge: Cook 10-15 grams of Astragalus slices with rice for a nourishing porridge, ideal for mornings or evenings.
Astragalus Wine: Soak 50 grams of Astragalus slices in 500 ml of white wine for two weeks. Drink 10-20 ml daily for health benefits.
Precautions and Contraindications
While Astragalus is highly beneficial, certain individuals should avoid its use:
Fever and Inflammation: Not suitable for treating inflammation or fever, as it may prolong recovery.
Infections: Avoid infections like colds or flu to prevent delayed healing.
Hot Constitution: Those with a hot constitution, prone to dryness and heat, should use it cautiously.
Menstrual Period: Women should avoid heavy menstrual periods.
Pre- and Post-Surgery: Those undergoing surgery or taking anticoagulants should avoid Astragalus due to its blood-regulating properties.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with immune system disorders should use Astragalus under professional guidance.
Conclusion
Astragalus is a versatile herbal gem in traditional Chinese medicine, offering a myriad of health benefits. Its immune-boosting, heart-protective, and anti-aging properties make it a valuable resource in modern healthcare. When used correctly, Astragalus can enhance your overall well-being. However, always consider personal health conditions and consult professionals to maximize their benefits safely.
Through deeper understanding and appropriate use of this "King of Qi Tonic," we can harness the power of this ancient Eastern herb to support health, especially in challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, always avoid using Astragalus during active infections or inflammatory conditions to prevent delaying recovery.
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