7 good reasons to discover astragalus

2016-10-24

The astragalus plant is native to China, and has been used for over 2,000 years for its health benefits. What are those benefits and why are they important? Here are seven good reasons to use astragalus.

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Astragalus slows aging naturally

When used therapeutically, astragalus fights cellular aging and oxidative stress, which result from various internal and external pressures. The antioxidant properties of astragalus help the body regenerate and recover more effectively at any stage of life. Astragalus is also known to limit free radicals. The anti-aging properties of astragalus are remarkable!

Astragalus has a beneficial effect on the immune system

Astragalus plays a leading role in the rich pharmacopeia of Chinese Traditional Medicine (CTM) and is widely used in Asia to boost the immune system (CTM practitioners only use the roots of the astragalus plant). The most important active ingredients of astragalus include saponins and flavonoids, which make the plant a natural and effective treatment for colds and the flu. Astragalus can also be used preventively in autumn to strengthen immune defenses.

Astragalus doesn’t cause any side effects

Astragalus is one of the most commonly used herbal medicines, but there is a striking lack of scientific data on its possible side effects. Nonetheless, astragalus is not believed to cause side effects (when used normally) or addiction, and can thus be used long-term without risk. Astragalus may not be recommended, however, for two types of patients; people who take immunosuppressant therapy or have an autoimmune disease should consult a naturopathic physician before taking astragalus.

Astragalus is adaptogenic

Adaptogenic plants have the capacity to strengthen the body’s resistance to all forms of stress (physical, mental, exterior). Adaptogenic plants (ginseng is the best-known) are important because they have direct effects on the body’s natural capacity rather than on symptoms (the effects of stress). Adaptogenic plants also normalize physiological functions.

The body absorbs astragalus easily

Astragalus comes in various forms, but all are very easy to use and produce benefits quickly. Astragalus roots can be dried and used in a decoction or soup. They can also be ground and formulated as food supplements (taken as capsules) or as a powder (which can be sprinkled on food). Astragalus extract is made from pure astragalus and is taken as drops.

Astragalus is a stimulant

Asian people have used astragalus as a tonic since ancient times, and the earliest Chinese medical treatise, the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, describes its use. Astragalus is valued for its stimulating effects on the body, and it counters fatigue and general weakness (which often result from illness) while stimulating appetite. In Chinese medicine, astragalus is also known for strengthening Qi or Yang (energy).

Astragalus prevents respiratory illness

Chinese Traditional Medicine uses astragalus root preparations to treat viral and bacterial respiratory illnesses (such as rhinitis or bronchitis). CTM practitioners consider astragalus a preventive treatment of choice for patients prone to respiratory problems. Astragalus is even more valuable because respiratory illnesses can become chronic in some people who haven’t used preventive treatment.

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