Astragalus
Botanical name
Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus propinquus)
Common Names
Huang Qi
FAMILY
Fabaceae
Description
A perennial originating from Siberia, central Mongolia and north-east China.
Part supplied
The chopped root.
Food Use
Recipes
Use 1 teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of boiling water to make a tasty tea. Infuse for 5-10 minutes. Sweeten with honey or lemon to taste.
Alternatively add half a teaspoon (2.5 ml) of tincture to a cup of warm water for a quick alternative to tea.
The herb can be added as a flavouring to gin, vodka and other infusions.
Medicinal Use
Medicinally, it is used to treat the common cold, upper respiratory infections, fibromyalgia, and diabetes. Practitioners of traditional chinese medicine use it to boost the immune system and as an anti-bacterial and anti-viral agent.
Key actions: Adaptogenic, tonic, immune enhancing, antioxidant, hypotensive.
In clinic: Herbalists use this herb to treat unusual uterine bleeding, fatigue with a lack of appetite.
If you are interested in the medicinal use of this herb please consult a herbalist. Herbs are generally used at medicinal strength, in blends, prescribed for each unique patient's condition.
Directions
Decoction: 1 teaspoon of root (3 to 10 g) to a cup of cold water, bring to the boil and leave to sit for 15 minutes. Or steep 1 teaspoon bark in cold water overnight. Flavour with lemon, ginger or honey if desired. Drink 3 times a day unless otherwise told by a medical herbalist.
Tincture: Take 2.5 ml (1:3 in 25% tincture), 3 times a day or as directed by a practitioner.
Fluid extract: 1:2 Take 1.5 to 2.8 ml, 3 times a day or as directed by a practitioner.
Other Uses
Cosmetic Use
None known.
Other Uses
None known.
Cautions
Contraindications
This herb is considered safe in food amounts. Do not take if you are allergic to this plant or other members of this plant's family (Fabaceae). Not all herbs are suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for young children. If in doubt, please ask us or your medical herbalist.
Side effects
None known. Plant extracts cause few side effects when taken correctly but if a side effect is experienced please contact us.
Interactions with drugs
May interact with cyclophosphamide by lessening its effects.
Herbal remedies and supplements can interact with medicines. If you are taking medication please check with your medical practitioner, or call us, before taking herbs, supplements and medication together.
More Information
Articles
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Recipes
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