Herbal Information on Astragalus Root Medium Sliced Form
What is Astragalus Root?
Astragalus root, derived from the plant Astragalus membranaceus, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb known for its powerful immune-boosting and adaptogenic properties. Often referred to as Huang Qi in Chinese medicine, astragalus has been used for centuries to strengthen the body’s natural defenses and enhance vitality. The root is typically harvested from mature plants that are at least four years old, ensuring a high concentration of active compounds.
Key Active Compounds
- Polysaccharides: These are known for their immune-enhancing effects.
- Flavonoids: Potent antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
- Saponins: Known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Health Benefits of Astragalus Root
Astragalus root offers a wide range of health benefits, making it a versatile addition to any wellness routine.
1. Immune System Support
Astragalus root is renowned for its ability to boost the immune system. It helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections and diseases.
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects
The anti-inflammatory properties of astragalus can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which is beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Antioxidant Protection
Astragalus root is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect against cellular damage. This can help slow the aging process and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
4. Cardiovascular Health
Astragalus root supports heart health by improving circulation and reducing blood pressure. It also helps prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
5. Adaptogenic Properties
As an adaptogen, astragalus helps the body resist physical, mental, and emotional stress. It supports adrenal function and helps maintain energy levels, making it a popular choice for combatting fatigue.
6. Kidney Health
Astragalus is often used to support kidney health by enhancing kidney function and protecting against damage from toxins and inflammation.
7. Diabetes Management
Some studies suggest that astragalus may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
How Does Astragalus Benefit Those with Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is a complex, multi-systemic condition caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, typically transmitted through tick bites. The disease can cause a range of symptoms, from fatigue and joint pain to more severe complications like neurological disorders. Managing Lyme disease can be challenging, and while antibiotics are the primary treatment, many people seek additional support through natural remedies. Astragalus root is one such remedy that has gained attention for its potential benefits in managing Lyme disease.
****Be cautious: if you have had Lyme disease for more than six months, you should avoid using astragalus root***
Immune System Support
One of the most significant ways astragalus helps with Lyme disease is through its immune-boosting properties. Astragalus root stimulates the production of white blood cells, particularly T-cells and macrophages, which play a crucial role in defending the body against infections. By enhancing the body's immune response, astragalus helps in:
- Fighting Infection: It helps the immune system recognize and attack the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria more effectively, reducing the severity of the infection.
- Preventing Recurrence: By boosting overall immunity, astragalus can help prevent the recurrence of Lyme disease symptoms.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Astragalus root is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can be particularly beneficial for managing the inflammation associated with Lyme disease. Inflammation is a common response to bacterial infection and is responsible for many of the symptoms of Lyme disease, such as joint pain and swelling. Astragalus helps to:
- Reduce Joint Pain: By decreasing inflammation, astragalus can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness, common symptoms of Lyme disease.
- Minimize Neurological Inflammation: It may also help reduce inflammation in the nervous system, potentially alleviating symptoms like headaches and cognitive issues.
Antioxidant Protection
Lyme disease can cause oxidative stress in the body, leading to cell damage and contributing to the progression of the disease. Astragalus root is rich in antioxidants, which help:
- Neutralize Free Radicals: By reducing oxidative stress, astragalus protects cells from damage and supports overall health.
- Enhance Recovery: Antioxidants in astragalus can help the body recover from the cellular damage caused by the Lyme bacteria and the immune system's response to the infection.
Adaptogenic Properties
Astragalus is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body resist and adapt to stress. This can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with Lyme disease, who often experience:
- Chronic Fatigue: Astragalus helps improve energy levels and reduce fatigue, a common and debilitating symptom of Lyme disease.
- Improved Resilience: It supports the body's ability to cope with physical and emotional stress, aiding in overall resilience and recovery.
Supports Detoxification
Lyme disease and its treatment can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body. Astragalus supports liver function and helps:
- Promote Detoxification: It enhances the liver's ability to detoxify and eliminate harmful substances, which is crucial for managing the die-off reactions (Herxheimer reactions) that occur when Lyme bacteria are killed off.
- Reduce Toxin Load: By aiding in detoxification, astragalus can help reduce the symptoms associated with toxin buildup, such as headaches and muscle pain.
Enhances Blood Circulation
Astragalus has properties that improve blood circulation, which is essential for:
- Delivering Nutrients and Oxygen: Better circulation helps ensure that nutrients and oxygen are efficiently delivered to tissues, supporting recovery and healing.
- Removing Waste Products: Improved circulation also aids in the removal of waste products and toxins from tissues, enhancing overall health and recovery from Lyme disease.
Potential Synergy with Conventional Treatments
While astragalus alone is not a cure for Lyme disease, it can be a valuable adjunct to conventional treatments such as antibiotics. It may help:
- Enhance Antibiotic Effectiveness: By boosting the immune system, astragalus can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics in fighting the Lyme bacteria.
- Reduce Antibiotic Side Effects: Its detoxifying properties can help mitigate some of the side effects associated with long-term antibiotic use, such as liver stress and gastrointestinal issues.
How to Use Astragalus Root
Astragalus root can be incorporated into your health routine in various forms. Here are some common methods:
Teas and Decoctions
Astragalus root can be boiled to make a tea or decoction. To prepare, simmer 10-15 grams of dried astragalus root in 500 ml of water for 30 minutes. Strain and drink up to three cups a day.
Tinctures
Astragalus tinctures are concentrated extracts that can be taken directly or added to water or juice. Typically, 1-2 ml is taken two to three times daily.
Topical Applications
Astragalus can also be used topically in creams or ointments to help heal wounds and reduce inflammation on the skin.
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: 500 grams (1.1 pounds)Size
Form: Medium Slices, Unsulfured
Origin: China
Brand: Plum Flower
Cautions:
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Autoimmune Diseases: Astragalus may stimulate the immune system, potentially exacerbating autoimmune conditions such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Post-Lyme Disease: For individuals who have had Lyme disease for more than six months, astragalus root may not be advisable as it could potentially exacerbate symptoms.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited research on the safety of astragalus during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid using it during these times unless directed by a healthcare provider.
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Surgery: Astragalus may affect blood sugar levels and interfere with blood clotting, which can complicate surgical procedures. It is recommended to stop using astragalus at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
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Medication Interactions: Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system (such as corticosteroids), anticoagulants (blood thinners), and other drugs affecting blood sugar levels.
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Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including skin rash, itching, or digestive upset. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
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Dosage and Quality: Using astragalus in high doses or for prolonged periods can lead to adverse effects.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
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
Additional Information on Huang Qi
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. (1)
Benefits 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"
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.
Plum Flower Quality Testing Statement
At each of the GMP certified facilities of the manufacturing partners is an in-house lab where extensive quality control analysis is performed. Testing ranges from basic organoleptic and microscopy to higher-level analytical techniques including High Performance Thin Layer Chromotography (HP-TLC) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to confirm identification, ensure potency and to test for active constituents when necessary.
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://draxe.com/astragalus/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758356/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26916911/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus#immune-system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/astragalus
