Astragalus - The Yellow Leader

Astragalus is a plant that is native to Northern China. The medicinal portion of this plant is the root, which is collected in the spring, needs to be dried for four to seven years. Astragalus Membranaceus, , is the root of a plant member of the Pea family and is native to Northeast China, it is now also cultivated in the United States. In China, the Astragalus root is known by the name "Huang-qi". The name means "Yellow Leader" because it is one of the superior tonic roots used in traditional Chinese medicine. Astragalus was first mentioned in the 2000 year old classic "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing".

Some of the known active components of Astragalus includes flavonoids, free amino acids, trace minerals and polyphenols. Astragalus has been used to stimulate energy and general weakness, lack of appetite, treatment of colds, flu, abdominal ulcers and Diabetes. Astragalus is still widely used today in Chinese medicine and the importance of this herb is becoming known more to our traditional and natural medicine practitioners. Astragalus has been said, that no single compound has such wide ranging effects in the treatment or enhancement of cellular communication. Polysaccharides from Astragalus are used in the enhancement of the Immune System by the use of Glyconutrients. It is known to be a immunostimulant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agent. In China Astragalus is commonly used on Cancer patients undergoing radiation and / or chemotherapy to stimulate their immune system, during and after treatment. Astragalus has been used in the treatment of AIDS, Allergies, Arthritis, Bronchitis, Cancer, Candida, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Heart Disease, Hepatitis, HIV, Hypertension, Immune System, Kidney Disease, Leukemia, Liver Disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Debility, Diabetes, Digestion, Edema, Fibromyalgia, Malaria, Stress, Ulcers, Urinary Tract Infections and Vaginitis. Astragalus provides one of the Eight Essential Sugars considered essential to life that are used in Glyconutrients.

Astragalus has been prescribed for centuries for general weakness, chronic illnesses, and to increase overall vitality. The genus Astragalus is a very large group of more than 2,000 species distributed worldwide, and is commonly known as milk-vetch root. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Astragalus is classified as an herb that tonifies the qi and is indicated for symptoms of spleen qi deficiency such as diarrhea, fatigue, and lack of appetite. Astragalus tonifies the lung qi and is used in cases of frequent colds, spontaneous sweating, and shortness of breath. Astragalus is typically prescribed as a dried root, powdered, or in a decoction. Classically, Astragalus is prescribed in combination with other Chinese medicinal herbs, depending on the desired therapeutic effect and the specific TCM diagnosis. Astragalus root has been used to promote immune function and as a tonic to build stamina. Research shows Astragalus root stimulates the immune system in many ways. Astragalus increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and lymph tissue and encourages their development into active immune cells. It appears to help trigger immune ceils from a "resting" state into heightened activity. One study showed Astragalus root helps promote and maintain respiratory health. It also enhances the body's production of immunoglobulin and stimulates macrophages. Astragalus can help activate T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells.

USES OF ASTRAGALUS
Astragalus is claimed to help the immune system, and to increase the body's resistance to common viruses.
Astragalus helps in preventing colds and influenza
Astragalus acts as a natural treatment for Persistent infection, Fever, Night sweats, Multiple allergies, Shortness of breath, Chronic fatigue, Fatigue or lack of appetite associated with chemotherapy, Anemia, Wounds, Stomach ulcers, Uterine bleeding & Prolapsed uterus.
Astragalus is also used to treat general digestive disturbances, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
Astragalus promotes resistance against disease & Mild Stimulant.
Astragalus reduces blood pressure by helping to rid the body of excess water weight.
Astragalus may be helpful in congestive heart failure.