It is also referred to as milk vetch or huang qi. Astragalus comes from a kind of legume or bean. While there are lots of species of this bean, the Astragalus membranaceus is commonly contained in most Astragalus supplements. It is also believed to have numerous health benefits for different health conditions. This kind of bean appears to work by stimulating and maintaining the immune system. It includes antioxidant effects that slow down radical production. In the human body, these free radicals likely damage cells and also associated with many health issues especially aging. However, there is no known way to completely stop free radicals.
It is also a class of herbs found in the northern part of Asia which has been historically used to treat sickness and fatigue for many years now. Numerous health benefits are observed from using Astragalus. Astragalus contains a special class of polysaccharides that are very active biologically. It also causes the body to produce numbers of telomeres, a part in the DNA which protects and prevents chromosomes from degradation. Moreover, it also improves the replication rate of immune cells called macrophages.
It is also believed that Astragalus helps in slowing down aging. Since it protects the body from degradation, the aging process also slows down. It also causes the body to boost the production of a substance named “Telomerase”. It’s an enzyme which lets the production of greater number of telomeres. Aside from these things, Astragalus also helps heal wounds and improve sickness. There are some notable compounds present called calycosi, formononetin and astragaloside IV.
Astragalus Root Benefits
- Causes metabolic pathways and certain genes to be shutdown that would otherwise cause chemicals and blood to flow to wounds.
- It also reduces the quantity of nitric oxide release from your body cells that reduces inflammation.
- Activates other pathways and genes which also activate multiple immune cells.
- Since Astragalus is fairly robust at healing sickness, there are many people and professionals who try using this one. It has been used to reduce hemorrhage, treat swollen wounds, ulcers and serve as a complimentary input to cancer treatments. This supplement seems to be a good food for all individuals who have diabetes. This is because it helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels in the body. It is also used to treat upper respiratory infections, common cold and fibromyalgia. Thus, it is also used to help improve and develop overall weakness.
- Some also say that it stimulates the liver, spleen, lungs, urinary and circulatory system. Others use Astragalus to treat asthma, arthritis and nervous conditions and lower blood pressure and blood sugar. Hence, it has also been tested to help in treating common colds, breast cancer, lung cancer and hepatitis. When taken properly, it appears to be safe and only has few side effects. Nursing women or pregnant should avoid using this one. In addition, if you have an immune system disease such as lupus, multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis, refrain from using Astragalus root and supplements.
