What is Astragalus?what is function of Astragalus? seminal trace...Astragalus membranaceus Extract.Astragalus Root Extracts.Astragalosides.CAS.NO:85085-21-8.Tragacanth,Astragalus Gummifer Extract,Astragalus Polysaccharides.Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus...
 Botanical Description of Astragalus.
Astragalus Root Spices and Preparation.
Constituents and Phytochemicals of Astragalus Root.
Narrative History of Astragalus.
Modern Uses and Application of Astragalus(Astragalus root).
Improve immune function:Astragalus as antiviral agent.
Astragalus Cardiovascular effects.
Research Update:Anti-aging effect of astragalosides.
Astragalus Root combination and Suggestions.
Astragalus Observational Studies Case Reports.
Quantitative Analysis of Astragloside IV.
Uses based on tradition or theory:
Application,Administration and Dosing:
Botanical Description of Astragalus.:
Botanical Pinyin Name and Narrative literature:Astragulus is one of the best root medicine in Oriental tradition and a member of the pea family. It first mentioned in Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing. Chinese name, huang-qi, means "yellow leader" for it is a superior tonic to invigorate vital energy (qi).
Astragalus species:,A. membranaceus,A. gummifer,A. gracilis,A. adsurgens var. robustior
Latin:Radix Astragali seu Hedysari
Family: Leguminosae;
Common Names: Astragalus,Huang-qi, Huang Chi,Huang Ch'i,Buck Qi,Yellow Leader,Milk-Vetch Root,Tragacanth,Gum Dragon, Milk Vetch, Canada Milk Vetch, Membranous Milk Vetch, Slender Milk Vetch, Standing Milk Vetch, Astragali, Huang Qi (Chinese), Beg Kei, Bei Qi, Hwanggi.
Scientific/Medical Name(s): Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus
Botanical Full Name for Exracts Origin:Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao (A. mongholicus Bge.)
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is the common English name for huang-qi, a beautiful, herbaceous, perennial herb. According calligrapher, two characters make up the written Chinese word for astragalus. The top character, "huang," means yellow, the bottom, "qi," means venerable, referring to this herb's place as a superior tonic in Chinese medicine.
Synonyms: Astragalus trigonus, Astragalus gummifera, Astragalus mollissimus, Astragalus lentiginosus , astragel, baak kei, beg kei, bei qi, buck qi, Fabacea (family), goat's horn, goat's thorn, green dragon, gum dragon, gum tragacanthae, gummi tragacanthae, hoang ky, hog gum, huang-chi, Huang Qi, huangoi, huangqi, hwanggi, ji cao, Leguminosae (family), locoweed, membranous milk vetch, milk vetch, mongolian milk, mongolian milk vetch, neimeng hhuangqi, ogi, ougi, radix astragali, spino santo, Syrian tragacanth, tai shen, tragacanth, wong kei, yellow vetch, Zhongfengnaomitong.
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Properties: Sweet in flavor, slightly warm in nature, it is related to the spleen and lung channels.
Brief Description:Astragalus is an herb from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which is traditionally used for its immune enhancing properties, but is also recommended in TCM for "deficiency of chi" (life force) ¨C which might include symptoms such as lack of energy and fatigue. The plant is native to Northern China and Mongolia and there are over 2,000 types of astragalus worldwide
Plant Description:Astragalus is a perennial plant, approximately 40¡«80cm tall,and widely appear in Shanxi,Neimen and other north west province of China as well as Mongolia. It has hairy stems with leaves made up of 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets. The root is usually harvested from 4-year-old plants.
Native to Mongolia and northern and eastern China, astralagas is a member of the pea family, and is a low-growing, perennial shrub that reaches sixteen inches. It thrives in sandy, well-drained soil, with plenty of sun. It produces hairy stems and leaves divided into twelve to eighteen pairs of leaflets. A. gummifer is now found growing in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, northwest Iraq, and the border area between Iran and Iraq.
There are now more than 2000 species worldwide, including some 400 in North America. A. australis is an endemic plant of the Olympic Mountains in the US state of Washington. However, the medicinal varieties are found only in central and western Asia, where it has been extensively tested, both chemically and pharmacologically.
The root readily pulls apart and shreds into a million smaller pieces rather like tissue paper. A yellow core in the center of the sweet-tasting black root is the medicinal substance. The roots are harvested in autumn from four-year-old plants in several Chinese provinces and shipped worldwide. The latex is extracted by making an incision in the trunk and branches of trees growing in the wild.
Astragalus products are derived from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus or related species, which are native to China. In traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is commonly found in mixtures with other herbs, and is used in the treatment of numerous ailments, including heart, liver, and kidney diseases, as well as cancer, viral infections, and immune system disorders. Western herbalists began using astragalus in the 1800s as an ingredient in various tonics. The use of astragalus became popular in the 1980s based on theories about anti-cancer properties, although these proposed effects have not been clearly demonstrated in reliable human studies.
Some medicinal uses of astragalus are based on its proposed immune stimulatory properties, reported in preliminary laboratory and animal experiments, but not conclusively demonstrated in humans. Most astragalus research has been conducted in China, and has not been well designed or reported.
Astragalus Root Spices and Preparation:
Astragalus is native to northern Asia, but it now grows in most cool climate areas of Europe and North America, as well. Although astragalus has over 2,000 species, the one most used in medicine is Astragalus membranaceus. It usually grows as a small, bushy, perennial plant in dry, sunny areas.
The perennial grows to about 0.3 m by 0.3 m. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees, moths & butterflies. The plant cannot grow in the shade. It requires dry soil.
This herb is the root of perennial herbaceous plants Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch. ex Link.) Bunge., and Astragalus mongholicus Bunge., of the family leguminosae. Native to east Asia, the plant is grown on dry sandy soils in China, Mongolia.
The part of astragalus used in medicine is the root, which is long, thin, and woody with many small offshoots. Fresh roots are white, yellow, or cream-colored and they smell and taste somewhat like licorice. Astragalus roots are dried either whole or after being cut into slices, which may have been dipped into honey. In China, where astragalus is grown commercially from seed, plants must be 3 or 4 years old before their roots can be harvested. Because it is in high demand, astragalus may also be grown more quickly in bioreactors ?large tanks that use artificial conditions to grow plants or other organic material such as fungi or yeast.
In China, A. membranaceus is mainly produced in Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Shanxi, Gansu,Nign Xia,Heilongjiang, Jilin,north to the westernmost province of Xinjiang,west to the mountains of Sichun and other areas. Generally, only plants of more than 4 years old can be used.
It is found along forest margins, in shrub thickets, thin open woods, and grasslands near the edge of forests. The Chinese harvest its roots when plants are four to five years old. Before completely dry, the roots are sliced into thin diagonals or sliced lengthwise, producing a dried product that looks like a tongue depressor.
The root can be dug out in spring and autumn. The root is cleared of stem and leaves and of fibrous rootlets, cleaned, thoroughly moistened, cut into thick slices, dried and used unprepared or honey-processed.
Also called Membranous Milk Vetch Root and Chinese Astragalus Root.
Constituents and Phytochemicals of Astragalus Root:
Phytochemicals of Astragalus Root:ASTRAGALOSIDE-I,Astragaloside-II,Astragaloside-III,Astragaloside-IV,Astragaloside-V,Astragaloside-VI,Astragaloside-VII,Astraisoflavan,Astraperocarpan,Betaine,Calycosin,Formononetin,Gaba,Isoastragaloside-I,Isoastragaloside-II,Isoastragaloside-IV,Isoliquiritigenin,Ononin,Soyasaponin-I.
Active ingredients:total Astragloside, triterpene glycosides, polysaccharides. Astragalus contains numerous components, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides (e.g., astragalosides I-VII), amino acids, and trace minerals. Astragalus appears to restore T-cell (a specific type of white blood cell ) counts to relatively normal ranges in some cancer patients.
Astragalus contains several characteristic triterpenoid saponins known as Astragalosides which can be used for the identification and standardization of the plant . The principle compound, astragaloside IV is typically found at 0.15 mg/g. In addition it contains at least 6 isoflavonoids (total 0.02% w/w) including the estrogenic flavonoid fromononetin. Cell wall derived polysaccharides have been isolated from A. membranaceus var mongholicus and designated as astragalans I-III.
Key Components:asparagine,calcyosin,formononetin,astragalosides,kumatakenin,sterols.
Several chemical constituents of astragalus have been identified as potential active compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides and glycosides. Astragalus is often combined with other adaptogenic herbs, such as ginseng, and promoted as a guard against various internal and external stressors. Combination of astragalus with echinacea is common for protection against common infections of the mucous membranes (cold and flu).
Other Content:soyasapogenoside; formononentin; calycosin; canavanine;gama-aminobutyric acid; asparamide; prolin;trace minerals such as iron,zinc,etc;dimethyl 4,4-dimethoxy-5,6,5',6'-dimethylenedioxybiphenyl-2,2-dicar-oxylate; daucosterol; kaempferol; quercetin; quercetin-3-glucoside; isorhamnetin; formononetin4-O-glucoside; aspartic acid; threonine; serine; glutamic acid;glycine; alanine; methionine; isoleucine; leucinine; trytophan; phenylalanine; cystine; Beta-sitosterol; linoleic acid; linolenic acid; astrafalussaponin I,II,III; astragaloside V-VIII; kumatakenin; 1-3-hydroxy-9-methoxpterocarpan; choline; betaine; follic acid; astragaloside I,astragaloside II, astragaloside IV; 3S-(-)mucronulatol-7-D-glucopyranoside; astraglan I, astraglan II, astraglan III; etc.
Scientific Support:Most of the scientific data on astragalus comes from Chinese clinical evidence, where astragalus appears to stimulate the immune system in patients with infections. At least one clinical trial in the U.S. has shown astragalus to boost T-cell levels close to normal in some cancer patients, suggesting the possibility of a synergistic effect of astragalus with chemotherapy. In animal studies, astragalus extracts have been shown effective in preventing infection of mice by influenza virus, possibly by increasing the phagocytotic activity of the white blood cells of the immune system.
Narrative History of Astragalus:
Shen Nong, the founder of Chinese herbal medicine and the great Chinese Emperor around 5000 years ago first discovered astragalus, classified astragalus as a superior herb in his classical treatise Shen Nong Pen Tsao Ching (circa A.D. 100). The Chinese name huang qi translates as "yellow leader," referring to the yellow color of the root and its status as one of the most important tonic herbs. Traditional Chinese medicine utilized this herb for night sweats, deficiency of chi (e.g., fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite), and diarrhea.
Shen Nong is said to have eaten 365 medicinal plants over the course of his lifetime, until he turned green and died from toxic overdose. Emperor Shen Nung is remembered today as having a green complexion, long hair, long beard and a rather strong face with large eyes and hairy eyebrows. He is dressed completely in leaves and vines although he sits on the majestic throne of emperor of China. His court preserved his knowledge and findings, enabling generations of Chinese doctors to learn and expand upon his work, just one of the reasons medicinal knowledge and powers are so advanced in traditional China.
The plant is one of the oldest used medicinally, dating to about 200 BCE. It was known even then to balance the body systems and especially good for the lungs and spleen. The yellow colour of the root contributes to the Chinese name, huang qi, meaning "yellow leader". It has been used in China for thousands of years to strengthen qi (pronounced "chee"), the body's life force and protective energy. In Western terminology, this means to strengthen the immune system.
For more than 2,000 years, Chinese herbalists have used astragalus to supposedly help the human body build up energy and resist disease. It is the most commonly used herb in Chinese medicine. Conventional medical practitioners have recently become interested in the possibility that astragalus might lessen the side effects of chemotherapy.
Folk medicine in Europe and Arabia have used the herb for treating tumors of the eyes, liver, and throat.
Tragacanth is the latex that exudes from under the bark and is extracted by making an incision in the trunk and branches. When it dries, it forms flakes that swell in water to form a gelatinous mass used in various treatments, including that of constipation.
European botanists first wrote about its medicinal qualities in the 1700s.
Some of the poisonous species are referred to as Poison Milk Vetch or Loco Weed.
Some of the Native American names came about as a reference to its seeds which rattle in the pods when dried.
A tea of the root was used by the Dakota tribes as a febrifuge for children. The Lakotas pulverized the roots and chewed it for chest and back pains and to relieve coughing. Also, a vapour was inhaled to treat a child's aching chest. The roots were chewed and applied to cuts before they were bandaged. When combined with the roots of wild licorice, it arrested the spitting of blood. Lakota women who had little or no breast milk, chewed the roots to promote milk production. The Cheyenne used one species for cases of poison ivy or dermatitis. They also ground the leaves and stems and sprinkled the powder on weepy, inflamed, skin conditions.
When the explorer John Bradbury visited the Arikara village along the Missouri River in 1809, he was shown two new species of Astralagus, that were unknown to him, by the local medicine man.
Modern Uses and Application of Astragalus(Astragalus root):
 1.General Tonic:
In China, it has long been used as a classic energy tonic and is considered to be superior to ginseng for young people. It is believed to warm and tone wei qi (a protective energy that circulates just beneath the skin), helping the body to adapt to external influences, especially to the cold. It raises immune resistance, improves physical endurance, and encourages the body systems to function correctly.
By encouraging blood flow to the surface, the herb is effective in controlling night sweats, relieving fluid retention, and reducing thirstiness.
2.Invigorates qi to elevate yang:
Invigorates qi to elevate yang, consolidates superficies to stop sweating, induces diuresis to remove edema, and promotes pus discharge and tissue generation.
Milk vetch root is commonly used in Chinese herbalism, where it is considered to be one of the 50 fundamental herbs.
Sweet and warm for invigorating qi and elevating yang, it is good for invigorating the spleen-qi and lung-qi and elevating the middle-jiao yang. It is always an important herb used to treat deficiency of the lung, lingering cough, deficiency of the spleen and stomach, and sinking of qi in the middle-jiao. Sufficient spleen-qi and lung-qi enable superficial qi to protect the body from diseases.
The herb is often used for deficiency of qi and spontaneous perspiration. In addition, sufficient qi can help blood and water circulation, controling and generating blood. Therefore, the herb can be used in proper compatibility with other herbs to treat blood stasis due to deficiency of qi, hemorrhage due to cold of deficiency type, paleness due to deficiency of blood, edema (abnormally large amounts of fluid in the intercellular tissue spaces) due to deficiency of the spleen and other syndromes.
3,Astragalus benefit uterine bleeding:
Astragalus is used to treat prolapsed organs and is beneficial in uterine bleeding.
In Chinese medicine, the herb Astragalus has been used alone, or in combination with other herbs, to treat liver fibrosis, acute viral myocarditis and other viral infections, heart failure, and small cell lung cancer, liver and kidney diseases, and amenorrhea.
4,Astragalus increase immune system:
Taken internally, Astragalus is commonly used to strengthen the immune system, especially in such immuno-compromised individuals as those with HIV or during chemotherapy.
Astragalus is the primary herb used in Chinese medicine to tone the immune system of the lungs. It is useful for conditions of immune deficiency that lead to spontaneous sweating. It is also used for spleen qi deficiency with symptoms of weak, low metabolism; edema; and prolapse of internal organs, as it raises the spleen yang and qi. It can be used for qi and blood deficiency caused by loss of blood or after childbirth.
Astragalus contains numerous active compounds which bolster immunity. The polysaccharides seem to stimulate white blood cell production and spurs the activity of killer T cells, increasing the number of cells and the aggressiveness of their activity. Increased macrophage activity has been measured as lasting up to seventy-two hours.
Astragalus increases the number of stem cells in the marrow and lymph tissues, stimulates their maturation into active immune cells, increases spleen activity, increases the release of antibodies, and boosts the production of hormonal messenger molecules that signal for virus destruction.
Studies at the University of Texas Medical Center found that astragalus was able to restore completely the function of cancer patients compromised immune cells.
Immune stimulation :Astragalus has been suggested as an immune system stimulant in preliminary laboratory and animal research, and in traditional accounts. Reliable human studies are lacking. High quality human research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.
Huang Qi from can enhance mice¡¯s humoral and cellular immune functions. Astraglalan can enhance the phagocytic activity of mice¡¯s abdominal macrophage, and increase the number of their macrophagocytes. It can also increase PHA-induced in-vivo lymphocyte transformation rate. Astragaloside has a limited stimulatory effect on immunity and humoral immunity. Astraglalan can increase mice¡¯s spleen size, and promote the proliferation of their intrasplenic cells, and promote anti-body synthesis.FAM has a stimulatory effect on the immunity of mice with low immunity and can regulate their immune function.
5. Astragalus benefit liver and act as antibiotics.:
Astragalus also increases production of interferon, a natural protein that stimulates production of other proteins that help prevent and fight viral infections.
It protects the liver from a variety of liver toxins, including carbon tetrachloride and the anticancer compound stilbenemide.
Chinese experiments indicated that the herb was able to protect against the absorption of toxic chemicals into the liver. Studies have shown that patients given the herb suffered less angina and had a greater improvement in the EKGs and other measurements than patients given such standard heart drugs as nifedipine. Chinese researchers report that the herb improves funtion of the heart's left ventricle after a heart attack, which they theorize may derive from the herb's antioxidant effects. Other Chinese researchers found heart-protective effects in people with Coxsackie B virus which can cause viral myocarditis. Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., and Proteus mirabilis.
Liver protection:Several animal and human studies report that astragalus may protect the liver from damage related to toxins or hepatitis B and C. Overall, this research has been poorly designed and reported. Astragalus alone has not been well evaluated. Better quality research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
6,Astragalus used for old disease and more others:
Astragalus is useful for the treatment of:Alzheimer's disease,Chemotherapy support,Common cold/sore throat,Immune function
Infusions are used to ward off or help treat colds and other infections, to improve heart function especially after a heart attack, to improve memory and learning, to temporarily increase urinary output, and to promote the healing of burns and skin sores.
A decoction of Astragalus root in combination with Chinese angelica is used to treat anemia but when combined with cinnamon, it is used to treat cold and numbness.
When Astragalus root is dry-fried alone or with honey added, it is used as a stimulating tonic and eaten with meals.Asragalus boosts the spleen when symptoms indicate that it is not functioning as it should. These symptoms include chronic fatigue, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite.
The herb is also used to treat anorexia, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, malaria, kidney inflammations, painful urination, prolapsed uterus, uterine bleeding or weakness, edema, water retention, skin ulcers that will not heal, fever, lack of stamina, and generalized weakness.
Tinctures are often used for night sweats.
7,Astragalus used for treatment of the kidneys:
Milk vetch root is used especially for treatment of the kidneys and also to avoid senility. The plant is often used in conjuction with other herbs such as Atractylodes macrocephala and Ledebouriella seseloides.Huang Qi can increase the albumin level in the plasma, decrease output of urinary protein, increase muscle protein, which in turn help provide the necessary amino acids, and improve the dysfunctional protein metabolism in glomerulopathy. This effect of Huang Qi can effectively prevent glomerular sclerosis. Moreover, administered to mice with experimental diabetes, Huang Qi has a protective effect on their kidneys.
8,Astragalus used to treat infertile men:
In traditional Chinese medicine, milk vetch root and milk vetch seed were used to treat infertile men. Tests have shown that the herb does increase sperm motility, or the vigorous activity of sperm.
9,Astragalus treatment for cancer:
Astragalus root is also used in the treatment of cancer, prolapse of the uterus or anus, abcesses and chronic ulcers, chronic nephritis with oedema and proteinuria. Recent research in the West has shown that the root can restore normal immune function in cancer patients. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy recover faster and live longer if given milk vetch root concurrently.
In addition,Astragalus root could be used in combination for treatment of Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head,treatment of Diabetes and Lowering Blood Sugar,Cardiovascular Diseases,Gastro-Intestinal Cancers,Treatment and Prevention of Liver Fibrosis,Coxsackie Virus Infections,Vitiligo,Hepatitis C Treatments,Treatment of Throat and Voice Disorders,Treating Scleroderma,Pain,Treatment of Alopecia,Patients with Renal Failure,Mind and Brain Disorders,Promote Well-Being,treat for Iron Deficiency Anemia
One of the problems of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer patients is a pronounced lowering of the body's already low immune response. Astragalus assists the recovery of the immune system through these difficult treatments. Experiments on different cancer sufferers in China have shown the herb to be effective against the cancer itself. The herb was shown to increase the productivity of T-cells and killer cells to both fight the cancer and enhance natural defence functions.
Astragalus also finds application in the treatment and prevention of virally contracted colds and flu, bronchitis, cardiovascular problems including heart disease, blood pressure and glandular problems including those of the liver (hepatitis), kidneys (nephritis), spleen and adrenal gland. Astragalus strengthens the lungs, especially where they are chronically weak and there is a shortness of breath, and it aids in the recovery of any illness or injury requiring long-term immune system support. Most importantly, studies to date have shown Astragalus root to be non-toxic and safe to use on a long-term regular basis.
Cancer :Although early laboratory and animal studies report increased immune cell function and reduced cancer cell growth associated with the use of astragalus, there is no reliable human evidence in these areas. Due to a lack of well-designed research, a firm conclusion cannot be drawn.
10,Astragalus treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome(CFS):
Contention still surrounds the actual origins of this debilitating condition, but general consensus agrees that it results from severe viral infiltration of the body. The very chronic nature of CFS means that sufferers may greatly benefit from the anti-viral, long-term immune strengthening and overall tonic effects Astragalus exerts on the body.
11,Astragalus used to treat AIDS:
AIDS(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) develops from the HIV virus and invades and destroys parts of the immune defences of the body, eventually leading to overwhelming infection and/or cancer. The HIV virus is perhaps the most prominent medical example of immune dysfunction and Astragalus may prove very beneficial in helping delay the onset of AIDS through its anti-viral properties. It may also improve immune strength for AIDS sufferers.
12.Anti-viral activity:
Anti-viral activity has been reported with the use of astragalus in laboratory and animal studies. Limited human research has examined the use of astragalus for viral infections in the lung, heart (pericarditis), liver (hepatitis B and C), cervix (papilloma virus), and in HIV disease. Studies have included combinations of astragalus with the drug interferon, or as a part of herbal mixtures. However, most studies have been small and poorly designed. Due to a lack of well-designed research, no firm conclusions can be drawn.
13.Chemotherapy side effects:
In Chinese medicine, astragalus-containing herbal mixtures are sometimes used with the intention to reduce side effects of cancer treatments. Due to a lack of well-designed research, a firm conclusion cannot be drawn.
14.Coronary artery disease:
In Chinese medicine, herbal mixtures containing astragalus have been used to treat heart diseases. There are several human case reports of reduced symptoms and improved heart function, although these are not well described. High quality human research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
15.Heart failure:
In Chinese medicine, herbal mixtures containing astragalus have been used to treat various heart diseases. There are several human case reports of reduced symptoms and improved heart function, and diuretic ("water pill") effects, although these are not well described. High quality human research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
16.Low white blood cell count :
Astragalus has been suggested as an immune system stimulant in preliminary laboratory and animal research, and in traditional accounts. There are published reports from China of white blood cell counts increasing during the use of astragalus preparations, although details are limited. Reliable scientific study has not been conducted in this area. High quality human research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.
17.Myocarditis/endocarditis (heart infections) :
Anti-viral activity has been reported in laboratory studies and animal models of myocarditis/endocarditis. Human research is limited in this area, and further research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
18.Renal failure:
Several animal and human studies report that kidney damage from toxins and kidney failure may be improved with the use of astragalus-containing herbal mixtures. Overall, this research has been poorly designed and reported. Astragalus alone has not been well evaluated. Better quality research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.
19.Upper respiratory tract infection:
Astragalus is often used in Chinese medicine as a part of herbal mixtures to prevent or treat upper respiratory tract infections. Anti-viral activity has been reported in laboratory and animal studies, and in limited human reports. However, most studies have been small and poorly designed. Due to a lack of well-designed research, no firm conclusions can be drawn.
20.Diuretic effect:
Administered by hypodermic injection to rats, or by IV to dogs under anesthesia, the water decoction of Huang Qi at 0.5g/kg has a significant diuretic effect. The water decoction of Huang Qi at 0.2g/kg also has a diuretic effect on healthy humans.
21.Effects on the heart and blood vessels:
Administered to rats with spontaneous hypertension, Huang Qi can control the rise of their blood pressure. Huang Qi can also lower the blood pressure of cats, dogs, and rats under anesthesia. One study has used Huang Qi injection to treat 14 cases of heart failure due to qi deficiency, and reported increases in cardiac output, cardiac index, stroke output, and stroke index. Experiments on animals further show that Huang Qi has a positive cardiac effect, it can effectively protect the activity of 5¡¯-necliotidase, increase coronary blood flow, decrease coronary circulation resistance and troponin-T release, and generally help with postmyocardial infarction recovery.
22.Ant-inflammatory and anti-infectious effects:
Experiments show that Huang Qi has a protective effect on virus-infected cells, can counteract carrageenin-induced swelling in mice¡¯s hind feet, and inhibit increase in rats¡¯ capillary permeability induced by histamine and 5-HT.
23.Effects on the circulatory system:
Huang Qi has a corrective and stimulatory effect on the transformability of pathologically defective or damaged red blood cells. For red blood cells that have been incubated in vitro for a extended period of time, Huang Qi can help retain their transformability.
24.Anti-aging and anti-stress effects:
Huang Qi can improve the memory of aged mice, enhance the activity of cerebral and liver tissue SOD, and decrease the liver MDA level. Fed to mice at the dosage of 50g/kg, the water decoction of Huang Qi can increase the oxyproline hydroxyproline level in skin tissue, increase the weight of adrenal glands, and improve their tolerance of oxygen deprivation.
25.Anti-neoplastic effect:
Huang Qi can significantly improve the immunity of mice with solid tumor.Furthermore, Huang Qi has an anti-neoplastic effect on GNM cells, promotes the proliferation of thymocytes in mice with tumors, and inhibits S180 solid tumors.
Improve immune function:antiviral agent
Astragalus is taken by mouth primarily because it is thought to improve immune function in a number of different ways. Milk vetch root can strengthen nonspecific immunity, obviously enhance T-lymphocytic function, and has an obvious effect of promoting humoral immunity.
Multiple case reports and results from various studies of laboratory media, animals, and humans show that astragalus may improve the activity of existing immune cells and also may increase the production of new immune cells. Astragalus may also prompt the body to make other substances, such as interferon, which help to fight infections.
In addition, some research shows that oral astragalus has mild antiviral activity. Therefore, it may help to prevent colds and other respiratory infections when it is taken consistently over long time periods. It is not very useful for treating colds or flu, however. Both the possible immune-boosting and antiviral effects of astragalus make its use widespread among people living with AIDS and other chronic conditions, including chronic fatigue syndrome. Although it appears to be safe when used in limited amounts, little scientific information supports its effectiveness as an antiviral agent.
The Immune System Defence against illness:
The importance of the immune system, particularly in our polluted modern environment, should never be underestimated. Its prime function is to protect the body against infection and the development of disease, yet we often don't appreciate the continuous battle the immune system fights against would-be invaders of our body until it is too late. While other body systems have been studied for some time, immunology (the study of the immune system) is a relatively new and growing area of study. And for those that wish to nourish this last line of bodily defence, Astragalus presents as an exciting and effective answer to natural health protection and immune system strength.
Herbal Support for Depressed Immune Systems:
The dominating feature of Astragalus is its exceptional ability to benefit those suffering from chronic immune dysfunction. This occurs when the immune system has been so severely crippled, it is unable to sufficiently protect the body. It becomes vulnerable and open to attack from persistent and recurring infections or illness. Where Echinacea has consolidated its popularity as a short-term immune booster, Astragalus is establishing its importance in the long-term recovery of people with moderate to severely weakened immune systems. A mild antibiotic, it increases the activity of white blood cells and intensifies the action of interferon production (the substance that prevents the development of a virus in living cells) in the body. These attributes make it suitable for use as a preventative against recurring colds, flu and bronchitis, as well as an adjunct to treating chronic illnesses and supporting long term recovery from debilitating viral infections.
Astragalus and chronic Infection:
The therapeutic action of Astragalus may make it beneficial in the treatment of Glandular Fever, Ross River Fever and any persistent viral infections. The chronic nature of such illnesses means that the strength of the immune system can be so greatly weakened that it can take months or longer to fully recover. During this phase of convalescence when the immune system is regaining strength, the body is still susceptible to attack from viral invaders. Astragalus boosts the immune system over long periods of time and both protects and heals damage caused through chronic illness. Along with proper nutrition and ample rest, Astragalus is a powerful tool for immune system recovery.
Astragalus Cardiovascular effects.
Some evidence mostly from case reports in humans and studies of laboratory animals does suggest that chemicals in astragalus may have other medical uses. It has been used to treat high blood pressure because it may have diuretic effects that promote the elimination of excess water from the body. It may also have other cardiovascular effects that may benefit individuals with heart failure. In addition, astragalus may protect kidney tissue from damage when blood flow to the kidneys is blocked and then re-started. One small study of patients with hepatitis C showed improvement after 6 months of treatment with astragalus. Although this possible effect is not understood completely, it is believed that astragalus may help to reduce the side effects of radiation and drug treatments for cancer. Small studies of animals show that astragalus may increase sperm production as well as its activity (motility). Much more research is needed before astragalus may be recommended for oral use to treat any of these conditions, however.
It can strengthen the heart, obviously dilate peripheral, coronary, cerebral and intestinal vessels, and improve micro-circulation. The herb can rapidly but briefly reduce blood pressure, promote the development and maturity of blood cells, obviously induce diuresis (increased excretion of urine) and improve kidney funciton. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and antiaging effects.
Milk vetch root is a sweet tonic herb that stimulates the immune system and many organs of the body, whilst lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It is particularly suited to young, physically active people, increasing stamina and endurance and improving resistance to the cold--indeed for younger people it is perhaps superior to ginseng in this respect.
Research Update:Anti-aging effect of astragalosides:
Aging is a natural phenomenon that has a common symptom; motor and memory dysfunction. Also,there are a lot of assumptions concerning senescence,such as free radical degeneration and immune system dysfunction.
Astragalus is a kind of Chinese tonic herbs. Its active part is astragalosides (AST) and polysaccharides which are extracted from the root of Astragalus membranceus (Fisch) Bge. Previous studies from our laboratory showed that AST possessed an anti-aging effect, probably being related to its anti-oxidative properties. A pilot study from our laboratory demonstrated that AST had an immunomodulatory effect. However, the relationship of anti-aging effect of AST to immune response is unknown. The present study was therefore designed to investigate the anti-aging effect of AST and its relation with immunity, exploiting D-gal-induced senescent mice and the middle-aged mice.
Some Scientists from China Rotating rod test and step-down type passive avoidance test were performed to determine the effects of AST on motor and memory of D-galactose (D-gal)-induced senescent mice and the middle-aged mice. The proliferative response of splenocytes induced by Con A or LPS, IL-2 production of splenocytes induced by ConA of D-gal-treated mice and the middle-aged mice were also measured.
AST (40 mg;kg-1;d-1,ig, for 10 weeks) was found to ameliorate age-related alternations in both motor response and memory, enhance the deteriorated cellular immunity in D-gal-treated mice and the pre-aged (17-month-old) mice.
Conclusion: AST has an anti-aging effect on D-gal-induced senescent mice and has the effect of delaying senility of the middle-aged mice, which was related to its improvement of brain function and immunomodulatory effects.
Astragalus Root combination and Suggestions.:
1. For spleen-qi and stomach-qi deficiency, anorexia (uncontrolled lack or loss of the appetite for food), loose stool, or sinking of qi in the middle-jiao, lingering diarrhea, and visceroptosis (downward displacement of the viscera), the herb is often used in combination with dangshen, white atractylodes rhizome, liquorice, bupleurum root, cimicifuga rhizome and other herbs for strengthening the spleen, arresting diarrhea, invigorating qi and elevating yang, such as Buzhong Yiqi Decoction.
2. It is often used in combination with dangshen, schisandra fruit, tatarian aster root and other herbs for invigorating qi, nourishing the lung and arresting cough, to treat deficiency of the lung-qi, perspiration and short breath on exertion; and with ledebouriella root, white atractylodes rhizome, light wheat and other herbs for invigorating qi and consolidating superficies to stop sweating, to treat spontaneous perspiration due to exterior deficiency, or vulnerability to wind-cold due to failure of superficial qi to protect the body from disease.
3. For edema and difficulty in urination due to deficiency of qi and yang:it is often used in combination with prepared aconite root, white atractylodes rhizome, poria, umbellate pore fungus and other herbs for invigorating qi, warm-yang and inducing diuresis to remove edema.
4. It is often used in combination with Chinese angelica root, pangolin scales, chuanxiong rhizome, Chinese honeylocust spine and other herbs for warming and invigorating qi and blood, promoting the heal of sore and discharging pus, such as Tounong Powder, to treat chronic skin and external diseases, cold and deficiency of qi and blood; and with Chinese angelica root, cinnamon bark, dangshen, prepared rehmannia root and other herbs for warming and nourishing qi and blood, regenerating tissue and astringing sore, and treating chronic ulcer.
In addition, the herb can be used in combination with herbs for promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis, to treat numbness of limbs and the body.
Astragalus Root Suggestions:
Decoction: 10-15g, large dosages can use up to 30-60g.
Although astragalus is usually combined with other herbs, it is available by itself in capsules that generally contain between 250 mg and 500 mg of powdered astragalus root. If it is taken separately, oral doses of astragalus typically range from 1,000 mg to 30,000 mg (one gram to 30 grams) of powdered root per day in two or three doses. Although doses can be much higher, some evidence shows that doses above 28,000 mg (28 grams or about one ounce) per day are no more effective than lower doses. Higher doses may also increase the risk for side effects. If a single-ingredient astragalus product is used, the directions on the package that is purchased should be followed for the condition being treated.
Astragalus can be made into a tea by boiling up to 120,000 mg (120 grams or about 4 ounces) of the fresh, whole root in about one quart of water. A typical dose of astragalus tea is 2 cups to 4 cups per day, although no real limits are placed on its use. Due to its pleasant taste, astragalus tea is sometimes served as a beverage.
In North America, astragalus products generally are not standardized. Standardization by the manufacturer assures the same amount of active ingredient in every batch of the commercial preparation. Oral astragalus products sold in this country may have different amounts of active ingredients depending on where and when they were grown and how they were processed and stored.
Astragalus ointments generally contain 10% of astragalus and they are applied as often as needed. In Asia, injectable forms of astragalus and herbal combinations containing astragalus are used in hospitals and clinics. Injectable forms of astragalus are not available in the United States.
Summary:
In western countries, astragalus is used mostly to enhance immune function. It is also promoted for preventing colds, but no clinical studies support that claim.
Risks:
Due to possibly unpredictable effects on the immune system, astragalus should not be taken by transplant recipients or by individuals who have autoimmune conditions. Little is known about the possible effects of astragalus for developing babies or infants. Therefore, its use is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Side Effects:
No side effects have been attributed to the use of astragalus, but not enough information about it is available to determine whether or not side effects are possible.
Interactions:
The immune system effects of astragalus make using it inappropriate while taking corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs. It may enhance the effects of antiviral drugs.
Interactions with Prescription Drugs:
In theory, astragalus may interfere with the effects of corticosteroids, which are often used for a variety of inflammatory conditions including arthritis, asthma, cancer, eye conditions, and skin infections. Commonly prescribed corticosteroids include:
beclomethasone (Beconase, Vancenase) ;dexamethasone (Decadron) ;hydrocortisone ;methylprednisolone (Medrol) ;prednisolone ;prednisone (Deltasone) ;triamcinolone (Azmacort, Nasacort)
It is believed that astragalus may decrease the effects of drugs used to decrease the function of the immune system after organ transplants or in other conditions. Taking astragalus is not recommended for patients who take immunosuppressant drugs such as:
azathioprine (Imuran),CellCept,cyclosporine,Prograf,Rapamune,Zenapak
While no reports are found in the medical literature and consequences are unknown, taking astragalus may possibly increase the antiviral effects of drugs such as:
acyclovir;amantadine;Foscavir;interferons (including Alferon N, Intron A, Pegasys, PEG-Intron, and Roferon-A);non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (including Rescriptor and Viramune);nucleoside-analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (including Hivid and Retrovir);protease inhibitors (including Crixivan, Fortovase, and Norvir);Relenza,ribavirin,Tamiflu
Astragalus Observational Studies Case Reports:
Left ventricular function and superoxide dismutase activity of red blood cell was increased in a study with 43 acute myocardial infarction patients Chen 1995
T-lymphocyte profile of peripheral blood is improved by A. membranaceus therapy in viral myocarditis patients Huang 1995
Angina relief was obtained with A. membranaceus in a study comparing it against nifedipine & Salvia in 92 ischemic heart disease patients Li 1995
Adding TCM (leaf of Asiatic Ginseng, root of Astragalus membranaceus Bge, etc) and other adjuvants to chemotherapy improved cancer survival in small cell lung cancer patients Cha 1994
Cardiac output increased from 5.1 to 5.9 L/min after 2 weeks Astragalus membranaceus in 20 angina patients Lei 1994
Chronic renal failure symptom scores was decreased from 12.5 to 5.6 in 36 patients by Baoyuan Dahuang Decoction (Panax ginseng, Astragalus membranaceus, Cassia cinnamomi, Glycyrrhiza uralensis & Rheum palmatum) Sheng 1994
In patients with positive ventricular late potentials, electrocardiogram was normalized in 13.6% (of 22) by Astragalus membranaceus and 12.5% (of 16) by lidocaine Shi 1994
320 patients with chronic hepatitis B had greater improvement with Yi-ganning (Astragalus membranaceus , Artemisia capillaris, Codonopsis pilosula, etc.) than oleanolic acid controls Zhang 1993
Ozone induced radicals are scavenged by Huayu (Angelica sinensis, Paeonia lactiflora, Ligusticum wallichii, Spathollobus suberectus, Hirudo nipponica, Tabanus bivittatus, Paeonia suffroticosa, Astragalus membranaceus) Zong 1993
Shen-Qi (Ginseng-Astragalus) reduced the toxic effects of chemotherapy in 176 cases of malignant tumor of the digestive tract, maintaining immunology parameters Li 1992
Ventricular late potential duration was shortened by Astragalus membranaceus in a small number of patients Shi 1991
Cardiac functional indexes improved in 26 patients by Kang Er Xin-I (Lonicera japonica, Ophiopogon japonicus, Astragalus membranaceus mainly). It also inactivates Coxsackie B3 virus Yan 1991
Chronic cervicitis treatment by interferon is synergized by Astragalus membranaceus Qian 1990
Coronary heart disease improvement of angina (episodes reduced 90%), ischemic ST-T in ECG (56%), treadmill exercise (348 to 503 M), left ventricular function, etc, by Yi-qi Huo-xue (Ginseng, Astragalus and Angelicae Sinensis Liao 1989
Graft reaction was increased in 18 healthy and 9 cancer patients by Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharide extract FB Wang 1989
Stroke treatment with Salvia miltiorrhiza + Astragalus + Puraria Wu 1989
Synergism of Astragalus membranaceus with interferon in the treatment of cervical erosion and their antiviral activities ' (chinese, clinical trial, no abstract) Qian 1987
'Treating amenorrhea in vital energy-deficient patients with angelica sinensis-astragalus membranaceus menstruation-regulating decoction ' (no abstract) He 1986
Local graft versus host reaction (assay for T-cell function) is restored in 9 out of 10 patients by Astragalus membranaceus extract (10 microgram/ml) Sun 1983
Pharmacology and clinical research:Astragalus is an immunostimulant and enhances the activity of NK cells, and increases phagocytotic activity. Both the polysaccharides and saponins may be involved in the enhanced immune function. Astragalus treatment restored immune function in a small study of cancer patients and significantly improved white blood cell counts in larger trials with patients with leukopoenia. In animal models, Astragalus decoctions improved learning performance in maze tests and endurance models. There has been considerable research on the application of Astragalus in treatment of viral diseases including hepatitis B, parainfluenza and coxackie B2 virus where Astragalus treatments have had a protective effect on the host cells. Clinical results in the viral area have had mixed outcomes. Astragalus provided significant relief from angina compared to controls in a trial with 92 patients suffering ischaemic heart disease.
Quantitative Analysis of Astragloside IV.:
Objective: To develop a method to determine Astragaloside IV in spray-dry of Rad ix Astragali by HPLC-ELSD.
Methods:ELSD was used to determine directly Astragaloside IV in sp ray-dry of Radix Astragali on Elite-OSD column, using CH3CN-H 20(36:64) as a mobile phase. The flow rate was 1.0 ml/min. The temperature of drift tube for ELSD was 105¡ãC and the flow rate of N2 was 2.84 ml/min.
Results:The recovery of the added sample was 91.68% and RSD 1.6 4 %. Soluble amylum was helpful for spray-dry but it can influence was determinat ion of Astragaloside IV.
Conclusion:The method is accurate and can be used in the determination of Astragaloside IV in spray-dry of Radix Astragali. Better adjuvant should be found.
Uses based on tradition or theory:
The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), aging, AIDS/HIV, allergies, Alzheimer's disease, anemia, angina, ankylosing spondylitis, anorexia, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, asthma, blood thinner, bone-marrow suppression from cancer or HIV, bronchitis, cardiac ischemia, cervicitis, "chi deficiency" (fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite), chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic hepatitis, cleanser, cyclosporine-induced immune suppression, cytomegalovirus, dementia, demulcent, denture adhesive (astragalus sap), dermatitis, diabetes, diabetic foot ulcers, diabetic neuropathy, diarrhea, digestion enhancement, diuretic (urination stimulant), edema, fatigue, fever, gangrene, gastrointestinal disorders, genital herpes, graft-versus-host disease, hearing damage from toxins/gentamicin, heart attack, hemorrhage (bleeding), hemorrhoids, herpes simplex keratitis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, HIV/AIDS, hyperthyroid, insomnia, irregular menstruation, joint pain, laxative, leprosy, leukemia, liver disease, low blood platelets, lung cancer, memory, menstrual disorders, metabolic disorders, minimal brain dysfunction, myalgia (muscle pain), myasthenia gravis, nephritis, night sweats, palpitations, pelvic congestion syndrome, postpartum fever, postpartum urinary retention, prostatitis, rectal prolapse, rotovirus enterocolitis (infants), shortness of breath, smoking cessation, smoking withdrawal symptoms, sperm motility, stamina/endurance enhancement, stomach ulcer, stroke, sweating (excessive), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), tissue oxygenation, uterine prolapse, uterine bleeding, weight loss, wound healing.
Application,Administration and Dosing:
Medicinal Indications of astragalus root:
Colds and influenza,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.
Key Actions:adaptogenic,antiviral,antioxidant,cardiovascular toner,diuretic,immune stimulant,laxative,liver protector,strengthens gastrointestinal tract,tonic,vasodilator
It is also used to treat general digestive disturbances, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
Safety:When used as recommended, astragalus has no known side effects, but gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea are possible at high intakes.
Astragalus should not be used for cases of excess or when there is deficiency of yin with heat signs, and it should not be used when there is stagnation of qi or dampness, especially when there is painful obstruction.
Value:Astragalus is available as a single-ingredient supplement, but it may be even more effective in lower doses (100-200 mg/day) when combined with other immune-stimulating herbs and nutrients.
Administration and Dosing:
Dosage:Approximately 500 mg per day is recommended for stimulation of the immune system and to provide resistance to the effects of stress. Divided doses of 250 mg per day of a standardized root extract are preferred.
The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.
Standardization:Standardization involves measuring the amount of certain chemicals in products to try to make different preparations similar to each other. It is not always known if the chemicals being measured are the "active" ingredients. Anecdotal reports have recommended astragalus to be standardized to a minimum of 0.4% 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-isoflavone-7-glycoside per dose. However, since astragalus is often added to herbal mixtures with unclear amounts used, standardization is not always possible.
Adults (18 years and older):General use by mouth: In Chinese medicine, astragalus is used in soups, teas, extracts, and pill form. In practice and in most scientific studies, astragalus is one component of multi-herb mixtures. Therefore, precise dosing of astragalus alone is not clear. Safety and effectiveness are not clearly established for any particular dose. Various doses of astragalus have been used or studied, including 250 to 500 milligrams of extract taken 4 times daily; 1 to 30 grams of dried root taken daily (doses as high as 60 grams have been reported); or 500 to 1000 milligrams of root capsules taken 3 times daily. Dosing of tinctures or fluid extracts depends on strength of preparations.
Intravenous (IV): For non-small cell lung cancer, 60ml has been given intraveneously per day.
Note: In theory, consumption of the tragacanth (gummy sap derived from astragalus) may reduce absorption of drugs taken by mouth, and should be taken at separate times.
Children (younger than 18 years):There is not enough scientific data to recommend astragalus for use in children.
Safety:
Allergies:In theory, patients with allergies to members of the Leguminosae (pea) family may react to astragalus. Cross-reactivity with quillaja bark (soapbark) has been reported for astragalus gum tragacanth.
Side Effects and Warnings:
Some species of astragalus have caused poisoning in livestock, although these types are usually not used in human preparations (which primarily include Astragalus membranaceus ). Livestock toxicity, referred to as "locoweed" poisoning, has occurred with species that contain swainsonine ( Astragalus lentiginosus, Astragalus mollissimus, Astragalus nothrosys, Astragalus pubentissimus, Astragalus thuseri, Astragalus wootoni ), or in species that accumulate selenium ( Astragalus bisulcatus, Astragalus flavus, Astragalus praelongus, Astragalus saurinus, Astragalus tenellus ).
Overall, it is difficult to determine the side effects or toxicity of astragalus, because it is most commonly used in combination with other herbs. There are numerous reports of side effects ranging from mild to deadly in the United States Food and Drug Administration computer database, although most of these are with multi-ingredient products, and cannot be attributed to astragalus specifically. Astragalus used alone and in recommended doses is traditionally considered to be safe, although safety is not well studied. The most common side effects appear to be mild stomach upset and allergic reactions. In the United States, tragacanth (astragalus gummy sap) has been classified as GRAS (generally recognized as safe) for food use, but astragalus does not have GRAS status.
Based on preliminary animal studies and limited human research, astragalus may decrease blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication adjustments may be necessary.
Based on anecdotal reports and preliminary laboratory research, astragalus may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.
Preliminary reports of human use in China have noted decreased blood pressure at doses below 15 grams and increased blood pressure at doses above 30 grams. Animal research suggests possible blood pressure lowering effects. Due to a lack of well-designed studies, no firm conclusions can be drawn. Nonetheless, people with abnormal blood pressure or taking blood pressure medications should use caution and be monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. Palpitations have been noted in human reports in China.
Based on animal study, astragalus may act as a diuretic and increase urination. In theory, this may lead to dehydration or metabolic abnormalities. There is one report of pneumonia in an infant after breathing in an herbal medicine powder including Astragalus sarcocolla .
Astragalus may increase growth hormone levels.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
There is not enough scientific evidence to recommend the safe use of Astragalus membranaceus during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Studies of toxic astragalus species, such as Astragalus lentiginosus or Astragalus mollissimus (locoweed) have reported harmful effects during animal pregnancies, leading to abortions or abnormal heart development.
Acute toxicity(LD50): LD50 (mice/abdominal injection/herb decoction): [40-5g~40+5g]/kg.
Interactions with Drugs:
Based on preliminary animal studies and limited human research, astragalus may decrease blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare provider, and medication adjustments may be necessary.
Preliminary reports of human use in China have noted decreased blood pressure at doses below 15 grams and increased blood pressure at doses above 30 grams. Animal research suggests possible blood pressure lowering effects. Although well-designed studies are not available, people taking drugs that affect blood pressure should use caution and be monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. It has been suggested that beta-blocker drugs such as propranolol (Inderal?) or atenolol (Tenormin?) may reduce the effects on the heart of astragalus, although this has not been well studied.
Based on anecdotal reports, astragalus may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin?) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix?), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin?, Advil?) or naproxen (Naprosyn?, Aleve?).
Based on animal research and traditional use, astragalus may act as a diuretic and increase urination. In theory, this may lead to dehydration or metabolic abnormalities (low blood sodium or potassium), particularly when used in combination with diuretic drugs such as furosemide (Lasix?), chlorothiazide (Diuril?), or spironolactone (Aldactone?).
Based on laboratory and animal studies, astragalus may possess immune stimulating properties, although research in humans is not conclusive. Some research suggests that astragalus may interfere with the effects of drugs that suppress the immune system, such as steroids or agents used in organ transplants. Better research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be reached.
Some sources suggest other potential drug interactions, although there is no reliable scientific evidence in these areas. These include reduced effects of astragalus when used with sedative agents such as phenobarbital or hypnotic agents like chloral hydrate; increased effects of astragalus when taken with colchicine; increased effects of paralytics such as pancuronium or succinylcholine when used with astragalus; increased effects of stimulants such as ephedrine or epinephrine; increased side effects of dopamine antagonists such as haloperidol (Haldol?); and increased side effects of the cancer drug procarbazine.
In theory, consumption of the tragacanth (gummy sap derived from astragalus) may reduce absorption of drugs taken by mouth, and should be taken at separate times.
Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements:
Based on preliminary animal studies and limited human research, astragalus may decrease blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking herbs or supplements that affect blood sugar. Possible examples include Aloe vera , American ginseng, bilberry, bitter melon, burdock,fenugreek, fish oil, gymnema, horse chestnut seed extract (HCSE), marshmallow, milk thistle, Panax ginseng, rosemary, Siberian ginseng, stinging nettle and white horehound. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare provider, and dosing adjustments may be necessary.
Preliminary reports of human use in China have noted decreased blood pressure at doses below 15 grams and increased blood pressure at doses above 30 grams. Animal research suggests possible blood pressure lowering effects. Although well-designed studies are not available, people taking herbs or supplements that affect blood pressure should use caution and be monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. Herbs that may lower blood pressure include aconite/monkshood, arnica, baneberry, betel nut, bilberry, black cohosh, bryony, calendula, California poppy, coleus, curcumin, eucalyptol, eucalyptus oil, ginger, goldenseal, green hellebore, hawthorn, Indian tobacco, jaborandi, mistletoe, night blooming cereus, oleander, pasque flower, periwinkle, pleurisy root, shepherd's purse, Texas milkweed, turmeric, and wild cherry.
Based on anecdotal reports, astragalus may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs or supplements that increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases. Some examples include: alfalfa, American ginseng, angelica, anise, Arnica montana , asafetida, aspen bark, bilberry, birch, black cohosh, bladderwrack, bogbean, boldo, borage seed oil, bromelain, capsicum, cat's claw, celery, chamomile, chaparral, clove, coleus, cordyceps, danshen, devil's claw, dong quai, evening primrose, fenugreek, feverfew, flaxseed/flax powder (not a concern with flaxseed oil), ginger, grapefruit juice, grapeseed, green tea, guggul, gymnestra, horse chestnut, horseradish, licorice root, lovage root, male fern, meadowsweet, nordihydroguairetic acid (NDGA), onion, papain, Panax ginseng, parsley, passionflower, poplar, prickly Ash, propolis, quassia, red clover, reishi, Siberian ginseng, sweet clover, rue, sweet birch, sweet clover, turmeric , vitamin E, white willow, wild carrot, wild lettuce, willow, wintergreen, and yucca.
Based on animal research and traditional use, astragalus may act as a diuretic and increase urination. In theory, this may lead to dehydration or metabolic abnormalities (low blood sodium or potassium), particularly when used in combination with herbs or supplements that may possess diuretic properties. Examples include artichoke, celery, corn silk, couchgrass, dandelion, elder flower, horsetail, juniper berry, kava, shepherd's purse, uva ursi, and yarrow.
Based on laboratory and animal studies, astragalus may possess immune stimulating properties, although research in humans is not conclusive. It is not known if astragalus interacts with other agents that are proposed to affect the immune system. Examples include bromelain, calendula, coenzyme Q10, echinacea, ginger, ginseng, goldenseal, gotu kola, lycopene, maitake mushroom, marshmallow, polypodium, propolis, and tea tree oil.
In theory, consumption of the tragacanth (gummy sap derived from astragalus) may reduce absorption of herbs or supplements taken by mouth, and should be taken at separate times.
 Scientific References:
1.What is Astragalus?what is function of Astragalus?.
 Claims & Warning:
Claims: Information this web site presented is meant for Nutritional Benefit and as an educational starting point only, for use in maintenance and promotion good health in cooperation with a common knowledge base reference...Furthermore,it based solely on the traditional and historic use or legend of a given herb from the garden of Adonis. Although every effort has been made to ensure its accurate, please note that some info may be outdated by more recent scientific developments......
Pharmakon Warning: The order of knowledge is not the transparent order of forms and ideas,as one might be tempted retrospectively to interpret it; it is the antidote....(Dissemination,Plato's Pharmacy,II.The Ingredients:Phantasms,Festivals,and Paints;138cf. Jacques Derrida.).
And as it happens,the technique of imitation,along with the production of the simulacrum,has always been in Plato's eyes manifestly magical,thaumaturgical:......and the same things appear bent and straight to those who view them in water and out,or concave and convex,owing to similar errors of vision about colors, and there is obviously every confusion of this sort in our souls.And so scene painting (skiagraphia) in its exploitation of this weakness of four nature falls nothing short of witchcraft (thaumatopoia), and so do jugglery and many other such contrivances.(Republic X,602c-d;cf.also 607c).
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