Astragalus is an herb that was used traditionally in ancient China to strengthen qi (vital energy), aid in relieving fatigue, and support the immune system functions. Several related species, like A. alpinus and A. hypoglottis, are grown as ornamentals in gardens.
Astragalus properties and composition
Astragalus, also known as milkvetch, goat’s thorn, and radix astragali, belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to China, Korea, Siberia, and Japan. Medicinally used species include A. membraneceus, A. mongholicus, A. hoantchy, and A. atropilosulus, which is found in eastern Africa, i.e., Kenya and the Arabian Peninsula, and has reported traditional uses in childbirth.
The roots of Astragalus membranaceus are cylindrical and thick with a woody base. It has a pale yellowish-brown color. The stems are erect and unbranched, with the surface appearing hairy. It is green when still young but turns brownish with maturity. The leaves are hairy on both sides, pinnate, and green in color. The flowers are pea-like and yellowish-white in color. They have leguminous pods with small, kidney-shaped, smooth, and brown seeds.
Various compounds found in Astragalus include astragaloside, polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, sterols, amino acids, volatile oils, kaempferol, quercetin, and minerals like zinc, iron, Manganese, Copper and Tin.
Astragalus cultivation
Astragalus is propagated by seeds. Seeds are soaked in warm water 34 hours before being planted to improve germination. Seeds are planted directly onto the earth or seedbeds and covered lightly with soil. The ideal soil is of ph. 6-7.5 and is well-drained sandy loam or loamy soil. It thrives in the temperature ranges of 20-25 degrees Celsius and requires moderate water/rainfall. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight is sufficient to maintain this plant.
Harvesting is done after 2 to 4 years; this is when the compound concentration is highest. The part harvested for medicinal purposes is the root. Loosen the soil first with a spade or a hoe and dig out the root. Wash the harvested roots till clean and shade-dry for about 2 weeks until crispy. Store in paper bags in a cool, dry place, and for processed astragalus, store in airtight jars.
ASTRAGALUS BENEFITS AND USES
Astragalus Traditional uses
As an herbal remedy, Astragalus has been used as an immune modulator and as a tonic for the treatment of nephritis and diabetes. It was also used to counter fatigue.
Astragalus Benefits and pharmacological profile
Anti-aging effects- an extract filled with TA-65 was observed to have an age reversal effect on the immune system In vitro. (Liu 2017)
Anticancer properties– the isoflavone formononetin fights cancer progression by inducing apoptosis, arresting cell cycle, and targeting the halting of metastasis through disrupting various cancer pathways. (Jiang 2019)
Cardiovascular effects– adjunct therapy with huangqi helps in managing fatigue and quality of life in stroke patients. Xu 2020
Antidiabetic properties– study in people with type 2 diabetes showed improvement in glucose metabolism (Han 2013)
Immune effects– studies reveal that enhanced immune functions with reduced cytokines and inflammatory responses in subjects with systemic lupus, myasthenia gravis and herpes simplex keratitis (Niu 2009)
Astragalus Dosing
Common forms and dosing for adults include:
Teas– made from dried roots. Can be served between 9-30 grams a day.
Powdered root– 500-1000mg taken thrice a day.
Capsules/tablets– from compressed powders. Can be taken between 250-500 mg up to 4 times daily.
Astragalus Side effects and Interactions
- Diarrhea and nausea
- Allergic reactions like itching and hives
- Fatigue and dizziness
Use with caution alongside antihypertensives, as it can slightly lower blood pressure.
May inhibit the efficiency of immunosuppressants as they stimulate immune functions.
It affects water balance in the body; use with caution if on diuretics.
NB: Pregnant and lactating women, people with autoimmune disorders, and transplant patients should avoid taking astragalus.
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