The six superpowers of the astragalus

He astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a medicinal plant used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a tonic remedy for the chi or life energy, to relieve tiredness and lack of appetite and regulate intestinal transit, among many other applications.

for its properties dry root is used, which can be found in powder, liquid extract, or tablet form, although recent studies also point to the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the leaves. Here we will focus on the root, which contains a wide variety of active substances with proven health benefits.

Astragalus properties

According to a study published in Journal of Functional Foods, the dried root of the Chinese astragalus contains several types of active substances, including flavonoids, polysaccharides and saponins. Among its flavonoids, more than forty, we find quercetin and various isoflavones.

1. Strengthens immunity

The talus is capable of increase white blood cell count that can prevent and reduce infections by viruses and bacteria, including those that cause colds and flu.

Due to the stimulus it causes on immunity, the astragalus It is not recommended in people suffering from autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis, unless cleared by your doctor.

For the same reason it should not be taken if for any reason you are under treatment with immunosuppressants.

2. Helps the heart

It makes their job easier by dilating blood vessels, which promotes blood flow. It also deflates.

In a clinical study, 2.25 g of astragalus was administered twice daily for two weeks to heart failure patients, along with conventional treatment. These patients experienced improvements in their heart function over and above those who had taken drugs alone.

Plus the talus reduces myocarditis symptoms (inflammation of the heart muscle).

3. Control glucose

It is the most prescribed plant in China to control type 2 diabetes, along with treatment and diet. Studies show that improves glucose metabolism and reduces its levels in the blood. In animal studies it has proven that it can help lose weight (it has not been confirmed with people).

In China, doses of 40 to 60 g daily are administered to control glucose.

4. Promotes the proper functioning of the kidney

Astragalus reduces the presence of protein (proteinuria) in the urine, indicating an improvement in the function of this organ. Also reduces the risk of infection in people with kidney failure.

A review of studies published in Cochrane and conducted at Sichuan University indicates that a dose of 7.5 to 15 g of astragalus per day for 6 months reduces the risk of infection by 38% in people suffering from nephrotic syndrome.

5. Gives you more energy

In decoction and combined with other plants can reduce tiredness even in people with chronic fatigue.

According to a study conducted at Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, to treat chronic fatigue The traditional recipe called Lixu Jieyu is effective.

This consists of a decoction of 30 g of astragalus root, 30 g of kuzu, 15 g of Codonopsis lanceolata, 10 g root Salvia miltiorrhiza, 15 g cat grapes (phedimus aizoon), 10 g of epimeddium, 10 g of turmeric and 10 g of rhizome of Acorus gramineus. 100 ml of the decoction are taken twice a day.

6. Prevents allergies

A dose of 80 mg of extract twice a day reduces seasonal allergy symptoms such as rhinitis.

It can also improve allergic asthma in children, according to a Changchung University study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics.

Precautions and contraindications

Most people tolerate astragalus well, which is taken therapeutically in doses of 10 to 60 g daily. Some people may react with itching, rhinitis, nausea and diarrhea. Pregnant and lactating women should not take it.

Before taking any medicinal plant to treat symptoms you must be sure of its cause. Go to a medical professional with knowledge about medicinal plants to obtain a diagnosis and carry out a controlled treatment.