The Herb Astragalus

Identification

• Astragalus is a perennial herb native to China. It grows approximately 1 foot high with a 1-foot spread. It has compound leaves made up of 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets that grow along a leaf stem. Astragalus roots are used in medicinal preparations. Astragalus is commercially available in capsule or tablet form, as well in tincture---or liquid alcohol extract form---and as a topical skin application.

Benefits

• Traditional Chinese herbalists prescribe astragalus as a treatment for chronic hepatitis and as part of cancer therapy. It is also used as a treatment and prevention for colds and respiratory disorders. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, astragalus contains chemicals that stimulate the immune system and protect the body from stress and disease.

Warning

• Although preliminary research suggests that astragalus may have benefits for the immune system, more studies are needed to validate the data. Astragalus interacts with medications that suppress the immune system; people who are taking immunosuppressant medication or corticosteroids should avoid this herb. Since astragalus may have other drug interactions, patients should ask a physician whether or not astragalus is safe for use.