This supportive and safe herb is a powerful tool to remain resilient and fortified in stressful times. Also known as Huang Qi in Chinese Herbal Medicine, or Milkvetch in western herbalism, astragalus is considered an adaptogen. Adaptogens are thought to help the body respond to stress and restore normal function more efficiently.
Many people use this herb as preventative medicine during times of stress and when they need an immune boost. It is a great way to support the body for those with frequent colds or chronic allergies. It can also provide relief for chronic fatigue or the negative symptoms caused by chemotherapy. When searching for a reliable source, always ensure the product was organically grown and processed. On the ingredient label it should specify that the parts of the plant used are the root, the root of the plant has the most potent active ingredients.
Other notable attributes of this plant friend include stability in a single herb dose and safety in long term dosing as a supplement. What this means is that astragalus can be taken on its own, without other herbs. It can be taken by itself as a tea or tincture, even though it is also commonly found in bigger immune boosting formulas. It is also safer to take a dose of astragalus for weeks or even months at a time with little side effects. Compared to other strong adaptogen and tonic herbs, it stands out as a long term option. Most sources recommend up to 60g daily for up to 4 months at a time.
If you do not have a specific health goal in mind, taking a dose of this herb once daily for several days a week to boost general immunity is a good place to start. Pair it with some Vitamin C or a Turmeric supplement for an anti-inflammatory and restorative metabolic cleanse. For a deeper detox, consider supplementing with Milk Thistle or Dandelion tea for 10 days after the immunity boost.
Pregnant women, small children, people with autoimmune diseases, those with liver disease, or using estrogen based prescriptions should avoid astragalus. Due to the immune system stimulation and natural blood thinning properties astragalus possesses it can disrupt the system of someone already treating these conditions with medication. Anyone taking certain prescriptions (including medications to suppress the immune system, hormonal treatments, anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, lithium, and diuretics) should talk to their doctor before taking astragalus.
You can read more about the herb here:
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus
You can read about uses and home preparation of the herb here:
https://www.finedininglovers.co.uk/explore/articles/five-astragalus-root-tea-recipes-you-need-know
https://www.clinikally.com/blogs/news/the-magic-of-astragalus-root-elevate-your-skincare-ritual
About the Author
I combine Traditional Chinese Medicine, nutrition, and a patient-centered approach to help individuals achieve lasting whole-body wellness.
