What Is Astragalus?

Astragalus is commonly known as milk vetch.

Astragalus is a large family of annual and perennial flowering herbs. It is also known as milk vetch and in China as huang qi (or huangqi). Although primarily native to China, some of the 2000 species of astragalus grow naturally in Europe. 12

Biologically Active Compounds in Astragalus

In the west, extracts from astragalus have been used in industries for decades for non-medicinal purposes. Now modern research is beginning to support how astragalus is used in traditional herbal medicine. Studies show that many of the over 200 compounds in astragalus have useful properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. 1-4

These beneficial compounds include: 1, 24-7

Potential Health Benefits of Astragalus

Astragalus is widely cultivated for its roots and has been used for medicinal purposes in both humans and animals for thousands of years. It is considered an adaptogenic herb, and in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is prescribed to support: 1-48

Astragalus is also used in traditional Palestinian medicine. Of the 4 species of astragalus most frequently used in Palestinian folk medicine, Astragalus boeticus has the most potent antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. 9

Species of Astragalus Used

The two species which have been tested the most for pharmacological significance are Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus. Recent studies suggest that other species of astragalus may also have beneficial properties, particularly in cardiovascular disease, protecting liver health, and treating psoriasis210-13

Diseases & Conditions Researched Using Astragalus

Modern research on astragalus suggests that the ancient medicinal herb (and/or its compounds) could help prevent or treat many health conditions and disease complications. These include: 

Astragalus in herbal formulas or combined with conventional treatment drugs may also help improve survival rates and/or lifespans in people with chronic disease. It may even help keep your pets healthy. 335

Natural Life Extension?

Astragalus appears to have real anti-aging properties. In fact, one compound in the roots of A. membranaceus can actually increase the length of chromosome tips. Called telomeres, these segments of DNA help protect DNA, and telomere length is linked to lifespan. 47475

Stabilizers and emulsifying agents. 12
Astragalus aleppicus, Astragalus angustifolius, Astragalus annularis, and Astragalus boeticus9
Astragalus complanatus and Astragalus corniculatus10-1111
Astragalus gummifer12
Astragalus sinicus13
Ranging from lab, animal, and population studies to randomized, controlled clinical trials.
Topical 1% astragalus extract prompted hair regrowth in animal studies. 50
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