In the Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) system, Astragalus is revered as a tonic for supporting longevity. By benefitting healthy cell proliferation and DNA repair, it keeps the body fine-tuned and operating more efficiently. Often these tonics were used daily and considered as important as food intake.
Astragalus is also used in TCM to support the wei qi, the energy which moves below the skin layer and helps in defending or protecting the body from external influences. It is believed that Astragalus closes off the body to these influences and so protects the body. However, because of this property, they also feel it is not good in the acute setting of illness because it can "trap" these external influences in the body and this makes it harder for the body to heal.
Modern research on Astragalus has shown the herb to be of value in supporting varying immune cells and their function. Thus, it would be of benefit to those looking to support resiliency to environmental stressors and seasonal ailments.
It is also used to aid those with deficient qi or those experiencing feelings of weakness, fatigue, poor appetite and those who are prone to seasonal illness. Astragalus may also be used in formulas to support the spleen qi which, when deficient, is said to correlate with poorer cellular immune function.
The tonifying action of Astragalus has been shown to support and positively impact the function of the lungs and respiratory system. This would be useful for those persons experiencing chronic lung concerns or those who seem prone to pick up seasonal respiratory discomforts often.
Astragalus is also utilized in TCM to support the heart and cardiovascular system, as well as aiding the liver. Some practitioners also utilize this herb to support those who seem more responsive to environmental irritants and various dietary components. The balancing effect it has in the body turns down the dial on their responses.
Finally, it appears that modern research has demonstrated value in utilizing Astragalus to support healthy blood sugar levels in the body. This would make the herb useful for those who tend towards unstable blood sugar balance in the blood and those who have less than optimal diets, being high in sugars and carbohydrates.
Here at WishGarden Herbs you can find Astragalus in our Kick-Ass Daily Immune Support formula. This formula contains a blend of Astragalus, Echinacea purpurea, burdock, nettle, Red Clover, cleavers and Hawthorn berry. This nutritive formula provides nourishment and building blocks for optimal cellular function, in addition to supplementing the healthy function of our immune system. If you feel the need for daily, long-term support, this is the formula for you.
Astragalus can also be found in our Daily Immune Builder For Kids formula.
Dr. Shawn Manske attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, one of seven accredited four-year, post-graduate Naturopathic Medical schools in North America, and received his Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine. He practiced as an ND for five years in Ontario, Canada, before moving to Colorado. He's currently a Territory Accounts Manager and Senior Educator at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or sell any product.
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