Description :
Astragalus, a member of the pea family, is an herbaceous perennial plant that is native to China. It grows to between 3 and 5 feet tall. It has sprawling stems and likes well drained, sandy soil. The leaves are made up of 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets, and hold small yellow flowers that grow in elongated spikes. The main root is a taproot and grows 3 to 4 feet straight into the ground. In China, Astragalus is used as a medicinal food in soups and stews in the winter months. Astragalus has lso historically been used by Chinese Herbologists and Naturopaths to help build the immune system and to treat liver disease.
History and Folklore:
Astragalus has been a foundational herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds and Hundredes of years. It is included in many traditional chinese formulas to support Wei Qi (Chi), or the conceptual “shield” which serves as a primary defense mechanism against pernicious threats to the system.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the roots of plants that are at least four years old. Dig as much of the root out of the ground as possible. Clean the root in water quickly after harvest. Slice thinly and dry in the oven on lowest setting or in a dehydrator on low setting. Store dried root in airtight containers and chop finely or grind into powder for teas, tinctures, or capsules.
Precautions:
Astragalus herb interacts with recombinant interleukin 2 and recombinant alpha interferon 1 and 2. It is speculated that astragalus would interfere with those on immunosuppressive drugs. As per TCM astragalus is avoided when there are heat signs or yin deficiency signs.
Herbal Actions:
Adaptogen, Diuretic, Cardioactive, Hepitic, Alterative, Anti-bacterial, Antiviral
Other Names:
Huang Qi, Beg Kei, Buck Qi, Huang Chi, Milk Vetch, Yellow Leader, Radix Astragali
Tincture Ingredients: Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Elijah –