Astragalus is a perennial herb that grows in many parts of Asia. The plant itself is unremarkable, with many small green leaves and stems; it may reach a height of 3 feet. However, its root has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine for thousands of years. It is recommended as a general health tonic to prevent illness, and it may be useful in treating several disorders, including respiratory illness, heart disease and cancer. However, there is only limited scientific evidence to support these health claims. Some preliminary research indicates it may have potential benefits for the immune system. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, is currently funding studies of the effects of astragalus on the body, particularly the immune system. Consult your doctor to determine if adding astragalus to your regimen is appropriate for you.
Properties of Astragalus
Astragalus contains compounds with antioxidant properties that help the body remove free radicals. Free radicals are by-products of metabolism that may cause damage to DNA and cell membranes. Astragalus extract may also help destroy bacteria and viruses, making it potentially useful in fighting off infections. It may also help combat cancer by stopping the growth of tumor cells, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC.
Effects on the Immune System
Astragalus root is traditionally used to support the immune system. It is commonly recommended to fight off colds, the flu and other respiratory illnesses. According to the MSKCC website, the root stimulates immune cells called natural killer cells to destroy invading organisms, and it causes other cells to produce natural compounds that fight disease. Astragalus may also reduce the immunosuppression that often follows treatment of cancer patients with chemotherapy drugs.
Astragalus and Cancer
Astragalus may slow the growth of cancerous tumors by stopping division of cancer cells, and it may help protect the liver and other organs from the effects of carcinogens, according to MSKCC. It also may help immune cells fight cancer by supporting their production of natural compounds that destroy cancer cells. Finally, it may make some chemotherapy drugs more effective against several types of cancer.
Other Uses
Astragalus root is sometimes added to skin cream for topical use in treating wounds and other skin lesions. It is also used traditionally to support the function of the heart and to improve the symptoms of several cardiac disorders. These include angina, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Astragalus may thin the blood, possibly helping it strengthen the circulatory system and fight heart disease.
Dosage and Precautions
Astragalus root is available from most health food stores as a liquid extract or in powdered form, either loose or standardized in capsules. It may be added to soups or other foods or brewed as a tea. Capsules may be taken at a dosage of 250 to 500 mg, three or four times daily. Astagalus is generally considered to be safe. However, it may interact with some prescription medications, including blood thinners or drugs that affect the immune system. Discuss the possibility of any drug interaction with a doctor before consuming astragalus.
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