Astragalus membranaceus is characterised as a protective and supportive tonic herb that has long been used as a natural remedy for treating a variety of ailments.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is called Huang qi and is believed to produce numerous therapeutic effects. In a more modern context, you may also hear it referred to as Milkvetch Root.
In TCM, the use of this herb dates back to more than 2,000 years and according to TCM theory, the major benefit to taking astragalus root is its ability to nourish the body's vital energy and to improve immune function.
Numerous modern studies and trials are beginning to support many of the different health benefits associated with astragalus root that Chinese Medicine has spoken of for millennia now.
Read on below as we take you through some of the key benefits of taking astragalus root extract and how you can implement it in your daily routine!
Table Of Contents:
- How Does Astragalus Work?
- Does Astragalus Increase Testosterone?
- Does Astragalus Boost The Immune System?
- Is Astragalus Good For Arthritis?
- Is Astragalus Good For The Lungs?
- Final Considerations
How Does Astragalus Work?
There are a number of active compounds that help provide the numerous health benefits associated with astragalus with arguably the most important being polysaccharides. To keep it simple - these are complex carbohydrates found naturally in a number of plants and mushrooms.
Polysaccharides have been indicated to be effective in combatting a range of different viruses, bacteria and fungi, as well as helping to stimulate the immune system by strengthening the white blood cell count.
On top of that, they’ve also been shown to help with tissue repair and regeneration, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
Another key compound that is believed to deliver a range of health benefits in astragalus root is saponins.
Saponins are a type of steroid glycoside compound that is thought to help remove toxins from the body, cleanse the liver and kidneys and help lower cholesterol levels and rid the body of harmful toxins.
The last major active compound found in astragalus root thought to provide unique benefits are called flavonoids. Flavonoids are shown to have antioxidant effects which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Does Astragalus Increase Testosterone?
There is some scientific evidence to suggest that taking astragalus can help naturally increase testosterone levels and it can often be found as an ingredient in testosterone boosting supplements.
However, whilst there are some studies to suggest that astragalus may be effective in enhancing testosterone levels, the research is still relatively new.
One in vitro study conducted on rats found that the presence of astragalus had positive effects on the Leydig cell function which resulted in an increased production of testosterone.
Leydig cell function refers to the testes' ability to produce hormones such as testosterone. The effective functioning of this part of the male reproductive system is important for producing sperm.
Those who suffer from insufficient Leydig cell function may experience low libido or erectile dysfunction.
Although further research definitely needs to be done before any conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of astragalus in increasing testosterone, current studies indicate it may be a promising supplement for those looking to boost their testosterone levels.
Does Astragalus Boost The Immune System?
Astragalus has been used in TCM for millennia for its immune-boosting properties and more recently, studied extensively for its ability to strengthen the body’s immune system.
The immune-strengthening affects of astragalus root are thought to come from its ability to help increase the number of natural white blood cells (WBC) while also improving the activity of macrophages.
Macrophages are specialized cells that when activated, can release chemicals that destroy harmful substances.
Macrophages are also involved in a crucial process called phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is vital for the removal of microorganisms, foreign substances, and apoptotic cells.
As mentioned earlier - astragalus is known to contain a host of powerful active compounds such as saponins, polysaccharides, amino acids and vitamins which all combine to create a potent immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effect.
One study shows the impressively positive effects of astragalus on 48 patients who suffered from seasonal allergic rhinitis and their relieving symptoms after taking the natural substance. This study indicates that astragalus may be beneficial in easing symptoms of allergy due to the anti-inflammatory effects of its active compounds.
Astragalus is also considered to possess adaptogenic properties - meaning it can help the body improve its resistance to physical and psychological stress.
Is Astragalus Good For Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition that can cause significant pain and inflammation in joints. There are two main types of arthritis; osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis affects cartilage and bone while rheumatoid arthritis attacks the synovial membrane.
Both forms of arthritis cause joint stiffness and severe inflammation. However, some people believe that astragalus can help alleviate the symptoms associated with both forms of arthritis.
In an animal study conducted in 2010, researchers found that the polysaccharides found in astragalus root had a notable anti-inflammatory effect on rats that were genetically prone to developing arthritis.
It’s not realistic to draw human health conclusions from limited animal studies, but the results indicate that it’s definitely deserving of further research as a natural arthritis treatment.
Is Astragalus Good For The Lungs?
Many across the globe suffer from respiratory infections and diseases such as asthma and bronchitis.
Asthma is a chronic disease that results in airway obstruction while bronchitis is a type of lung infection that involves inflammation of the bronchi. Both of these respiratory problems are often treated using antibiotics.
Many people however prefer alternative therapies over conventional treatment for many different reasons and astragalus is often used as one of these treatments.
Studies show that astragalus has been used for thousands of years to treat respiratory conditions. It is believed that astragalus contains substances that boost immunity and fight off harmful microbes.
Astragalus has been a staple for treating respiratory issues for many thousands of years due to its powerful active compounds, and modern science is starting to confirm this.
One such study conducted on mice indicates that the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of astragalus root can be effective in easing symptoms for respiratory illnesses and diseases by opening and clearing the airways.
Again - a great starting point but much more research is needed to draw any firm conclusions.
Final Considerations
Astragalus has been a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine for many thousands of years, and now modern science is starting to take note and confirm some of the impressive health benefits that’s it’s said to provide.
From research into the effective activity of the active compounds found in astragalus to the clinical studies conducted presenting positive results from the analysis, there is evidence to support the belief that astragalus is good for you.
However, the research into the benefits of taking astragalus is still relatively new.
Therefore, if you have any concerns regarding your health, always consult your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements in order to avoid experiencing adverse effects.
Though the scientific exploration of astragalus is in its youth, the evidence from present studies suggests that astragalus may be an effective herbal tonic for improving health and wellness.
Such studies have indicated that the active compounds present in the substance are recognized for their activity and may potentially be effective in improving the state of the human body by reducing inflammation, protecting the body's cells and supporting immune function.
So if you're looking to implement herbal supplements into your daily routine for protective effects, astragalus dietary supplements may be worth a try.