Astragalus

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a perennial plant native to Asian countries. The root is the medicinal part of the plant and is usually harvested from plants that have been grown for 4 years. It has often been combined with other medicinal plants to strengthen the body against disease. Astragalus is an adaptogenic plant, which means that it helps protect the body against stress, including physical, mental or emotional stress.

Astragalus is believed to stimulate the immune system. It has antioxidant effects that inhibit the production of free radicals. In the body, free radicals damage cells and are linked to many health problems associated with ageing. However, there is no known way to stop free radicals completely.

Astragalus is a natural dietary supplement used to treat various health problems, from the common cold to upper respiratory tract infections, fibromyalgia and even diabetes. There are supporters of Astragalus who use it for its possible heart benefits. They also claim that Astragalus stimulates the spleen, liver, lungs, circulatory system and urinary system for better functioning.

Astragalus is also used to treat osteoarthritis, asthma, nervous disorders, low blood sugar and high blood pressure.

Since it comes in many forms, and especially Astragalus capsules have varying concentrations, it is advisable to consult the product leaflet before starting to take it, as well as to ask your pharmacist and doctor about a possible Astragalus treatment.

At recommended doses, Astragalus has no serious side effects and is generally safe to use. Due to Astragalus' interaction with other substances, it is recommended that it not be combined with the following:

• medicines that suppress the immune system. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, are undergoing treatment with cyclophosphamide (a medicine used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients), or are undergoing treatment with corticosteroids, do not take Astragalus.
• Astragalus may make it harder for your body to filter lithium, so dangerous levels of lithium could build up in your body.

Due to a lack of studies on the use of Astragalus in pregnant or breastfeeding women, it is recommended that they do not use this supplement.

There is not much scientific evidence regarding the use of Astragalus in children. There have even been cases where, as a result of Astragalus being given to children with fever, the fever persisted longer than it would have done without any medication or dietary supplement. Always consult a specialist doctor about a possible Astragalus treatment for children.

Many experts in the field recommend not using herbs with adaptogenic effects for long periods of time. Instead, they have suggested that using a rotation system of several adaptogenic herbs every few months may be beneficial to the body in the long term.