Home Garden

Astragalus Root Tea Benefits

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), also known as huang qi or Chinese milk vetch, is a perennial herb indigenous to China, Siberia, Mongolia and Korea. The pale roots of this hairy-stemmed plant are collected when they are between 4 and 7 years old. These roots have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.
  1. Disease Prevention

    • Astragalus root is most commonly used to boost the immune system. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this herb is considered to be an adaptogen, or a substance that wards off stress and fatigue. More than 2000 years ago, astragalus was mentioned in the Chinese medical classic "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" as a stimulant of Chi, or vital energy. WebMD.com reports that astragalus is used to treat respiratory conditions, although further scientific research is required to validate its effectiveness.

    Lowering Blood Sugar

    • The nonprofit group Plants for a Future reports that astragalus root might lower blood sugar, thus helping people with diabetes.

    Improving Heart Health

    • According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, astragalus might lower blood pressure. This institution cites a study conducted in China in which astragalus root promoted significant improvement in patients with severe heart disease.