Astragalus Root Organic You Ji Huang Qi 1lb Nuherbs Organics

Herbal Information on Astragalus Root Organic Sliced Form

What is Astragalus?

Astragalus is a genus of herbs in the legume family, with over 2,000 species. The most commonly used species in traditional medicine is Astragalus membranaceus. Known as "Huang Qi" in Chinese, Astragalus has been a fundamental component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. It is valued for its purported health benefits, particularly in enhancing the immune system and increasing energy.

Key Benefits of Astragalus:

1. Immune System Support: Astragalus is believed to boost the body's natural defenses, helping to ward off illnesses.
2. Energy Enhancement: Often used to combat fatigue and increase vitality.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: Contains properties that help reduce inflammation.
4. Antioxidant Effects: Protects cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals.
5. Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
6. Anti-Aging: May have properties that slow the aging process and improve longevity.

Research on Astragalus:

1. Immune System Support:

   • A study highlighted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) indicated that Astragalus might reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections in children with nephrotic syndrome when compared to prednisone alone, although the quality of these studies was low​ (NCCIH)​.

2. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):

   • Research conducted at Keio University Hospital in Tokyo investigated the effects of Astragalus root on patients with mild to moderate CKD. The study found that Astragalus-containing preparations might help improve kidney function as measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)​ (Frontiers)​.

3. Anti-Tumor Effects:

   • Several studies have explored the immunomodulatory and anti-tumor properties of Astragalus polysaccharides (APS). APS has been shown to enhance the body's immune response against tumors by promoting T cell proliferation and regulating cytokine production. Clinical applications include combining APS with chemotherapy and radiotherapy to improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects​ (Frontiers)​.

4. Telomerase Activity and Anti-Aging:

   • The branded Astragalus extract, TA-65, has been studied for its potential to enhance telomerase activity, which is associated with anti-aging effects. However, studies on TA-65 have shown mixed results regarding its impact on lifespan extension and its efficacy might be limited by its bioavailability​ (Examine.com)​.

Common Name:  Astragalus Root
Botanical Name:  Astragalus membranaceus root
Channels / Meridians: Lung, Spleen
Pin Yin Name:  Huang Qi
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 1 lb.
Form:  Sliced, cut, not uniform pieces
Organic:  Yes, Certified Organic

Best Ways to Use Astragalus Root

Astragalus root is a versatile herb with numerous health benefits. Here are the best ways to use it:

1. Tea:

   • Ingredients: Dried astragalus root slices or powder.
   • Instructions:
     1. Boil 1-2 tablespoons of dried astragalus root in 3 cups of water.
     2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
     3. Strain the liquid and drink the tea warm.
   • Benefits: Boosts immunity, improves energy, and promotes overall well-being.

2. Tincture:

   • Ingredients: Dried astragalus root, alcohol (vodka or brandy).
   • Instructions:
     1. Fill a glass jar with dried astragalus root.
     2. Cover the root with alcohol, ensuring it is fully submerged.
     3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it occasionally.
     4. Strain the liquid into a dropper bottle.
   • Dosage: Take 1-2 droppers full (approximately 30-60 drops) daily.
   • Benefits: Convenient and potent way to consume astragalus for immune support

3. Broth/Soup:
   Astragalus Root Chicken Soup Recipe

   Ingredients:

   • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
   • 4-5 slices of dried astragalus root
   • 6-8 slices of fresh ginger
   • 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
   • 6-8 cups of water or chicken broth
   • 2-3 carrots, sliced
   • 2 stalks of celery, sliced
   • 1 onion, chopped
   • 1-2 teaspoons of salt (to taste)
   • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
   • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of goji berries (for added nutrients)

   Instructions:

   1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water. If desired, you can remove the skin for a lighter soup.

   2. Boil the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 5-10 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the chicken pieces.

   3. Simmer the Soup:

      • In the same pot, add 6-8 cups of fresh water or chicken broth.
      • Add the rinsed chicken pieces, astragalus root slices, ginger slices, and crushed garlic.
      • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
      • Cover and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and the broth is flavorful.

   4. Add Vegetables:

      • Add the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped onion to the pot.
      • Continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

   5. Season the Soup:

      • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
      • If using goji berries, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

   6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.

   Tips:

   • Astragalus root: Ensure you remove the slices of astragalus root before serving, as they are woody and not meant to be eaten.
   • Optional Ingredients: Feel free to add other herbs or vegetables according to your taste.

   This Astragalus Root Chicken Soup is not only nutritious but also has potential immune-boosting properties thanks to the astragalus root. Enjoy a warm bowl today.

4. Topical Application:

   • Ingredients: Astragalus root extract or infused oil.
   • Instructions:
     1. Apply the extract or oil to the skin to help with wound healing and reduce inflammation.
     2. Massage gently into the affected area.
   • Benefits: Supports skin health and healing.

Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Organic
Caution:   Do not use if pregnant or nursing. May interact with medications. Do not use if a diagnosis of Lyme Disease is over 6 months. 

California Prop 65 

Naturally Occurring Components:  astragaloside I, astragaloside II, daucosterol, beta-sitosterol,
palmitic acid, sucrose, astragalus saponin A,B,C, 2',4'-dihydroxy-5, 6-dimethoxyisof lavane,
kumatakenin, choline, betaine, folic acid, calyxosin, formononetin,
cycloastragenol, astragaloside I,II,III,IV, and antibacterial ingredient, L-3-hydroxy-9-methoxpterocarpan

Summary of Astragalus Root

• Sweet
• Slightly Warm
• Supports a Healthy Immune System
• Classified as an Adaptogen Herb
• Protects the Cardiovascular System
• Traditional used in Chinese Medicine.
• Discussed in S. Buhner Book "Healing Lyme"

Studies have found astragalus root to have many health benefits including anti-oxidative-stress, 
anti-inflammatory, immuno-regulation, vascular protective effects, anti-neurodegeneration, and anti-aging effects. 

Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.  

Nuherbs

Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by in-house lab and independent
third party lab. In-house lab is equipped with
instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatograph,
moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared
spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer,
gas chromatograph, etc.

In addition, the following additional tests are performed:

• Microbacteria
• Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen)
• Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
• Sulfur Free 
• GMP - Good Manufacturing Practices 

Traditional Chinese Herbs

Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare,
and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs (Teas) emphasize harmony, and balance.      

Reference:
http://alternativehealing.org/huang_qi.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astragalus
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/astragalus
https://draxe.com/astragalus/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758356/
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/astragalus
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26916911/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus#immune-system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/astragalus