Astragalus

Amazing Astragalus!

Astragalus membranaceus – a perennial member of the pea family, astragalus is native to China and often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  As an adaptogen, astragalus helps the body to be more resilient in coping with internal and external stressors from mental and emotional stress to the cold and flu season.  Astragalus is supremely suited for boosting the immunity and helps to prevent colds, flu, bronchitis, mononucleosis, pneumonia, and a myriad of other infections. Astragalus improves digestion and aids the lungs. Energetically, astragalus improves the body’s defenses, or “wei qi” while reducing excessive sweating. Susun Weed says that astragalus is one of the best herbs for preventing contraction of Lyme disease. Astragalus also protects the liver and kidneys, and is specifically helpful in preventing immune-suppression caused by chemotherapy. It also has tumor-inhibiting activity and high levels of anti-oxidants.

  Astragalus has sweet and moist properties, and so it tastes great as a decoction or in foods. I like to make a nourishing infusion of it by putting 1 ounce in a quart jar and filling it with boiling water, then allowing it to steep for 4 hours or more. I then strain it, drink the liquid over 1 to 4 days, and re-boil the herb with 2 cups of water. It can be re-boiled again with 1 cup of water later. So, if you drink 1 cup per day, 1 ounce of astragalus will last a whole week! I drink this year round – in the summer to boost my immune system against Lyme disease, allergies, or anything else going around, and in the colder months to protect against cold and flu.

Another great way to ingest astragalus is to put a few “sticks” into your favorite soup recipe! Over the time it takes to cook, the immune-boosting constituents will be extracted into the soup. You can remove the sticks before eating, just like a bay leaf. I also put astragalus in my winter broth (look out for a recipe soon!). In the warmer months, you can use astragalus root powder in just about anything. I always put it in my home-made hummus – you can’t even taste it! It can be added to rice, hot chocolate, smoothies, yogurt, apple sauce, anything into which a powder can be mixed!

If you are the kind of person who gets colds and flu regularly, or just feels generally over-worked or  run-down, astragalus may be a great herb for you!

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Resources:
Winston, David & Maimes Steven (2007). Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Healing     Arts Press, Rochester VT.
Photo credit:
    http://www.methowvalleyherbs.com/2012/02/astragalus-supreme-protector.html
    http://www.herbalextractsplus.com/astragalus-root.html
This information is for educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional.