Astragalus

ASTRAGALUS, Astragalus propinquus

Family: Fabaceae (bean/pea)

Habitat: Northern China, Mongolia, and Siberia.

Flavor: Slightly woody, otherwise neutral

Parts Used: Root

How to Grow It: Scarify and soak the seeds before planting. Astragalus prefers grasslands adjoining forests and open thickets. Best in zones 4-9. It enjoys full sun to partial shade, with soil that is well-drained and has a neutral pH. This plant is a nitrogen fixer!

Method of Medicine: Astragalus may be used as a decoction or in a powder. Something I really love about this herb is that it may also be used in food, decocted in soups or stocks.

Contraindications: Use with caution while taking immunosuppressive pharmaceuticals, such as Cyclosporine or Corticosteroids, as it may weaken the effects of these medications. Symptoms of an overdose include headache, insomnia, dizziness, hot flashes, and hypertension.

Herbal Actions: Adaptogen, Immunomodulator, Antiviral, Antibacterial, Diuretic, Hepatoprotective, Cardioprotective, Antioxidant, and Tonic.

Helps Heal:

• ·       Bone marrow
• ·       Shortness of breath
• ·       Supports resistance of infection in lungs
• ·       Stimulates white blood cells
• ·       Boosts immune system
• ·       Increases energy and longevity
• ·       Supports digestion
• ·       Supports the heart and liver

Ever since I first got my hands on some Astragalus, I fell in love with its gentle support. Drinking the tea or having it in soup actively makes me feel healthier and more energized; and it’s super convenient to just drop into my soup stock while the soup is just beginning to boil. In order for Astragalus’ medicine to reach the peak of its potential, boil it in water or stock for 20 minutes in a covered pot before ingesting. If using it in a soup, be sure to remove the piece of root before serving up.

This herb is a tonic, which means it may be taken on a daily basis for gentle immune-boosting support. Of course, be sure to read the contraindications before taking it, in order to be aware in the case of any symptoms emerging. I like to suggest this herb to those who are allergic to grassy plants, like Oat Straw, Chamomile, or Echinacea, because the root doesn’t seem to affect them the same as those plants. With any herb, however, be sure to do your own research on it based on your own body, and just take tiny sips of the decoction upon first trying it to ensure no allergic reaction will occur.