Astragalus

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a flowering plant native to China, Mongolia, and Korea. The root, known as Radix astragali or Huang Qi, has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its health benefits. Ancient Chinese texts as far back as 2800 B.C. acknowledge Astragalus as an herb with several tonic and culinary uses. 

Historically, Astragalus has been used for everything from the common cold to cardiovascular support. It was also used to support kidney function, digestion, and wound healing. Due to its adaptogenic properties, Astragalus is an excellent herb to use in times of stress, whether that stress is mental or emotional, from infection or illness, or due to environmental toxins.

Astragalus’s potent constituents include polysaccharides, triterpenoid saponins, and flavonoids. Saponins called astragalosides and polysaccharides are the most studied due to their potential to protect the body against oxidative stress and encourage a healthy immune response. 

Astragalus has been shown in scientific studies to:

• Support a healthy immune response
• Support healthy kidney function
• Support a healthy cardiovascular system
• Encourage a normal response to seasonal stressors
• Support the body as it ages
• Help maintain a healthy nervous system