Astragalus for Bronchitis

Astragalus membranaceus is the botanical name for astragalus, a medicinal herb that may play a role in reducing the risk of certain health conditions. Although the results of scientific studies are inconclusive regarding the benefits of this astragalus, some research indicates that it may help strengthen the immune system and offer protection against certain illnesses.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a medical term that means inflammation in the passages providing air to the lungs. Acute bronchitis can flare up for a variety of reasons, but it usually occurs after a cold or other respiratory virus. In addition to the original viral infection, you may develop a secondary bacterial infection that can irritate your bronchial tubes. Chronic bronchitis is a condition that exists for more than three months and often has an underlying cause, such as emphysema. Acute bronchitis usually goes away on its own within 10 days, but sometimes requires medical treatment, such as antibiotics.

Astragalus

Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine often use astragalus as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a substance that exhibits strengthening properties, including the ability to protect against both physical and mental stressors. Traditional uses of this medicinal herb include ingesting it as a treatment for colds, influenza, asthma, anemia, fatigue, persistent infections and fever. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies involving the use of astragalus support the claims that this herb stimulates the immune system and has antiviral properties.

Dosing

The recommended dosing amounts for adults is three to four daily doses of either 250 to 500 mg standardized extract or 500 to 1,000 mg of powdered root. Doses higher than 25 g per day may suppress the immune system, however.

Precautions

Astragalus has no serious side effects, although it can act as a mild diuretic and can interact with certain medications. This herb can counteract the effects of cyclophosphamide, a medication that helps suppress your immune system after an organ transplant. It can also reduce the effectiveness of corticosteroids. Talk to your doctor before diagnosing yourself of treating an illness with an herbal medicine. Bronchitis may stem from a condition other than a viral or bacterial infection. Bronchitis may also develop into pneumonia, making it important to consult your doctor if a fever or cough worsen or persist longer than 7 to 10 days.