Using Organic Astragalus

Organic astragalus has gone by many names in its history

, including milkvetch and loco weed. Botanically, the plant is classified as a legume, placing it with the same family as peas, beans and alfalfa; unlike its relatives however, it bears no pods.

Organic astralagus herb is known as huang-qi in its native region of northeastern China, Mongolia and Korea, where a great deal of bulk organic astralagus is obtained. A perennial, the astralagus plant grows to a height of three feet. The part of the plant that is used for herbal therapy is actually the root, which is harvested during the fourth year of growth.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) consider organic astralagus root to be "yang" in nature; these physicians use it to treat conditions that include poor appetite and lassitude as well as some conditions of the stomach and (in women) the uterus.

TCM practitioners dry bulk organic astralagus root and boil it in combination with ginseng. The resulting liquid is then strained and the decoction is administered to patients orally.

Organic astralagus root is also believed to have adaptogenic properties by strengthening the immune system and may actually lower blood pressure. However, there has been very little actual scientific research on organic astralagus carried out to confirm this. Some research being conducted by U.S. and Chinese pharmaceutical firms does suggest that organic astralagus root contains biochemical substances that may someday be used in the treatment of HIV and age-related diseases, but these studies are still in their preliminary stages.

Ointments made with organic astralagus may be applied to cuts and other wounds; in addition, it may be taken in powdered form in a capsule as well as a tincture.

There have been some claims that astralagus may also inhibit the growth of cancers and prevent diabetes. While research in this area is inconclusive, some U.S. studies show that astralagus supplements can help cancer patients in mitigating the damage to their immune systems following chemo or radiation therapy.

For people in normal health, the use of organic astralagus herb poses very little risk. However, until more is learned about it, organic astralagus root should not be used by people who suffer from autoimmune diseases. People who take anti-rejection drugs, particularly cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids, should avoid taking organic astralagus unless it is approved by their primary care physician.

In addition, organic astralagus herb is known to cause interactions with or reduce the effectiveness of certain over-the-counter medications.

Anyone who keeps a supply of bulk organic astralagus should consult with a licensed herbalist or naturopathic physician before attempting to use this herb for therapeutic purposes and avoid taking more than the recommended dosage.

by: Anne Harvester

POST COMMENT

Eczema Home Remedies: Defining Eczema Symptoms Eczema On Face, Never Again-eczema Symptoms, Gone Forever! Treating Eczema In Babies -winning The Battle With Eczema In Children Get The Scoop On Organic Astragalus Preparing Quick And Healthy Meals For Dinner How To Clear Acne A Basic Overview Your Eyesight Is Precious Keep It Working Perfectly Organic Ashwagandha And Its Uses What Are The Major Ingredients In Skin Lightening Creams? Organic Ashwagandha Root: Definitions And Uses Uses For Pure Vanilla Bean Powder Ignore The Myths And Discover How To Do Pilates Natural Sinus Treatment Programs