Astragalus Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses
Scientific Name: Astragalus membranaceus
Properties: Diuretic, Antioxidant, Anti-viral, Laxative, Vasodilator, Adaptogenic, Immune stimulant, Tonic, Human growth hormone stimulant, Radiation side effects protector
What is Astragalus?
Astragalus is an herb native to China.1 There are over 2,000 species of the astragalus herb, but only two are commonly used in alternative medicine: Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus.1 The part of the plant used is the four- to seven-year-old dried roots that are collected in the spring,2 and you can take it in supplemental extract pills.3
Historically, people have combined astragalus with other herbs to help strengthen the body’s immune system and combat disease.4 Among astragalus benefits, the astragalus herb contains antioxidants as well as has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.4 Because of this, people commonly use astragalus for cancer, combine other herbs with astragalus for colds, and even take astragalus for allergies.4 Some people also use astragalus for HPV.
Astragalus Uses and Health Benefits
Astragalus benefits are plentiful. Its immune-boosting powers make it popular to use astragalus for colds or take astragalus for allergies. That coupled with its powerful antioxidants also makes it a strong natural remedy for the following conditions:
- Mesothelioma - Mesothelioma is a tumor in the tissue that lines your lungs, heart, stomach, and other organs. It may be cancerous or noncancerous. Taking astragalus may help slow the growth of these types of tumors.5
- Bladder Cancer- Astragalus’ antioxidative powers can help prevent cancer and slow its progression. Take the supplement in capsule form several times per day to help fight bladder cancer.
- Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) - Another cancer type you can use the herb with is kidney cancer. You can also take astragalus for cancer treatment symptoms as it eases the side effects of chemotherapy.
- Leukemia - Leukemia patients may also take astragalus for cancer to reap its cancer-fighting benefits. For patients undergoing chemotherapy, they’ll also enjoy its powers in easing chemotherapy side effects.
- Mononucleosis - Mononucleosis--often simply called “mono”--is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and spread through saliva. The infection results in fever, swollen lymph glands, and sore throat. Astragalus can help boost the immune system to fight the virus and ease symptoms.
Other astragalus benefits include that it acts as an anti-inflammatory, which means that it may be effective in treating arthritis, heart disease, and diabetic kidney disease.5 It also protects the cardiovascular system and reduces blood pressure as well as helps prevent and regulate diabetes.5 You can even take it to help boost wound healing and prevent scarring.5
Astragalus Side Effects and Precautions
Although there are many astragalus benefits, it’s important to be aware of astragalus side effects. In general, the astragalus herb is safe when taken in recommended doses. However, taking too much can result in astragalus side effects like increased bleeding risk.6 It is also a mild diuretic, meaning that it will increase urination.6 It can also impact how long it takes the body to eliminate lithium.6 Be sure to talk to your doctor before using astragalus for HPV, cancer, tumors, or other conditions, especially if you have a bleeding disorder.