Amazing Benefits of Astragalus Root
Astragalus Root or Astragalus membranaceus, is an herb that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Also known as Mongolian milkvetch or Huang Qi, the Chinese have always recognized and appreciated astragalus for its amazing health and anti-aging benefits. It’s one of the most potent immune-enhancing and disease-fighting plants we have access to and it’s become ever so popular today.
Astragalus is native to China and Mongolia and grows about 2 – 3 feet tall. It’s important to know that only the root is harvested for medicinal use when the planet reaches a specific age. So what makes this plant so powerful — it’s high concentrations of three components, polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids. Saponins lower cholesterol and boost the immune system, flavonoids are super high in antioxidant properties and polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory properties.
Astragalus Plant
Astragalus Benefits
There are amazing amounts of health benefits from using astragalus root. It’s an adaptogen herb that helps reduce stress, heal your adrenal glands, and regulate your immune and hormone systems.
♥ Anti-aging properties
♥ Anti-inflammatory properties
♥ Anit-cancer properties
♥ Amps up the immune system
♥ Contributes to cardiovascular health
♥ Calming effect on stress
♥ Regulates blood sugar levels and prevents diabetes
♥ Promotes wound healing & scar reduction
Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammation is a painful component of many illnesses. The various polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids can reduce inflammation and counter the immune-debilitating and harmful effects of chemotherapy.
Anti-Aging
Telomeres are the DNA at the end of a chromosome which makes it possible for our cells to divide. Each time a cell divides, our telomeres get shorter which leads to aging and illness. It has been shown that telomeres can be activated by the astragalus root resulting in cell living longer.
Anti-stress
When we’re under a lot of stress, our bodies can produce and excrete large amounts of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. It does this because it thinks we are being threatened and attacked. This can have a profound negative effect on our body as cortisol can suppress our immune system. Astragalus root can help by balancing cortisol levels and thereby reducing stress.
Boosts Immune System
Astragalus extract can activate T-cells which are responsible for numerous immune responses. They identify foreign immune triggers and kill viral infected and cancer cells on contact.
Wound Healing
Several studies have proven that astragalus can accelerate wound healing, scar minimizing, and reduce inflammation in diabetics. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties promote cell and tissue regeneration. It can be used either internally and externally for maximum benefits.
Chronic Asthma
Astragalus has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms linked to allergies and respiratory tract infections. It’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce hypersensitivity in and narrowing of the airways. It also reduces inflammation and mucus production and may even prevent asthma recurrence.
Healthy Blood Vessels
Bad diets can be detrimental to our arteries. Plaque build-up causes calcification and hardening of the arteries. This narrows the passage where blood flows and may eventually lead to a clogged artery and ultimately some serious health conditions. Astragalus has been shown to break down arterial plaque and improve cholesterol levels.
How to Use Astragalus
Astragalus is available in capsule, tablet, liquid extract, and powder form. You can also find it in tea form in most health food places. I have astragalus in powder form and add a small amount to my smoothies.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to offer any medical advice whatsoever. If you have any health concerns, see your healthcare provider.