LOG IN. UPLOAD PICTURES.
The Philippines has Zambo Mart to help propagate the Chavacano Language.
Difference between revisions of "Astragalus"
| Line 151: | Line 151: | ||
'''The Many Benefits of the Immune-Boosting Root Astragalus''' | '''The Many Benefits of the Immune-Boosting Root Astragalus''' | ||
*Source:http://naturalsociety.com/health-benefits-of-astragalus-boost-immune-system/ | *Source:http://naturalsociety.com/health-benefits-of-astragalus-boost-immune-system/ | ||
: | : By Christina Sarich | ||
In a world full of toxins from oil spills, the spoils of war, chemtrails, GMO, and numerous other environmental toxins, it behooves us to boost our immunity in as many ways as possible. Reducing stress levels and getting enough sleep are a great way to start, but there are some great natural herbs that can boost our natural immune response, and one of them is the Chinese herb astragalus. | In a world full of toxins from oil spills, the spoils of war, chemtrails, GMO, and numerous other environmental toxins, it behooves us to boost our immunity in as many ways as possible. Reducing stress levels and getting enough sleep are a great way to start, but there are some great natural herbs that can boost our natural immune response, and one of them is the Chinese herb astragalus. | ||
Revision as of 04:22, 7 April 2016
Astragalus: The medicinal herb Astragalus as an alternative herbal remedy to enhance the immune system - Native to China, astragalus has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. A whole medical system that originated in China. It is based on the concept that disease results from disruption in the flow of qi and imbalance in the forces of yin and yang. Practices such as herbs, meditation, massage, and acupuncture seek to aid healing by restoring the yin-yang balance and the flow of qi.. In the United States, the herb gained popularity in the 1980s.Common Name--astragalus, bei qi (In traditional Chinese medicine, the vital energy or life force proposed to regulate a person's spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health and to be influenced by the opposing forces of yin and yang.), huang qi, ogi, hwanggi, milk vetchLatin Name--Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus mongholicus Picture of Astragalus
Plant Description: Astragalus is a perennial plant, about 16 - 36 inches tall, that is native to the northern and eastern parts of China as well as Mongolia and Korea. It has hairy stems with leaves made up of 12 - 18 pairs of leaflets. The root is the medicinal part, and is usually harvested from 4-year-old plants.
- Huang qi (Astragalus membranaceus) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many centuries as a natural rejuvenating tonic. Currently, much of the pharmacological research on Astragalus is focused on its benefits for the immune system (Wang DC. "Influence of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) polysaccharide FB on immunologic function of human periphery blood lymphocyte". Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi 1989;11:180-183). The main constituents of Astragalus membranaceus include polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids and amino acids. (Bombardelli E, Pozzi R. "Polysaccharides with immunomodulating properties from Astragalus membranaceus and pharmaceutical compositions containing them". Eur pat 441278 A1;1994). Astragalus has also been studied for its ability to support lung health. (Niu HR, Lai ZH, Yuan L. "Observation on effect of supplementary treatment by Astragalus injection in treating senile pulmonary tuberculosis patients".
Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Cures for Diseases, Ailments & Illnesses that afflict Humans and Animals
Aloe Vera •
Astragalus •
Bankoro •
Bilberry •
Bitter Gourd (Ampalaya) •
Bitter Orange •
Black Cohosh •
Cat's Claw •
Chamomile •
Chasteberry •
Coconut •
Cranberry •
Dandelion •
Echinacea •
Ephedra •
European Elder Tree •
Evening Primrose •
Fenugreek •
Feverfew •
Flaxseed •
Garlic •
Ginger •
Ginkgo •
Ginseng (Asian) •
Golden Seal •
Grape Seed •
Green Tea •
Hawthorn •
Hoodia •
Horse Chestnut •
Kava •
Lavender •
Licorice •
Malunggay Moringa Oleifera •
Milk Thistle •
Mistletoe •
Passion Flower •
Peppermint Oil •
Red Clover •
Ringworm Bush (Akapulko) – Cassia alata •
Saw Palmetto •
St. John's Wort •
Tawa Tawa •
Turmeric •
Valerian •
Yohimbe •
accept the bitter to get better
 Astragalus plant | |||
| |||
| |||
 Astragalus plant with flowers | |||
 Astragalus Roots |
What Astragalus Is Used For
- Herbal remedy to boost immune system. Historically, astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, usually in combination with other herbs, to support and enhance the immune system. It is still widely used in China for chronic hepatitis and as an adjunctive therapy in cancer.
- It is a very useful protector of adrenal cortical function and regulates blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
- It is also used to prevent and treat common colds and upper respiratory infections.
- Astragalus has also been used for heart disease.
- Recent research confirms the positive effect of Astragalus on immune functioning and its ability to help the body fight against disease.
- Astragalus membranaceous (Huang Qi) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for many centuries as a natural rejuvenator tonic. Currently, much of the pharmacological research on Astragalus is focused on its immune-stimulating polysaccharides and other active ingredients useful in treating immune deficiency conditions.
How Astragalus Is Used
- The root of the astragalus plant is typically used in soups, teas, extracts, or capsules. Astragalus is generally used with other herbs, such as ginseng, angelica, and licorice.
- Use the herb in tea to improve immunity or to reduce symptoms of an existing cold or flu. Use 1 tbsp. of the dried herb and steep in warm water.
- Reduce the chance of stress on the immune system and the overall health by taking Astragalus supplements in the colder months, since stress from daily life can break down the immune system and cause more sever illness.
Herbal Remedy Products with Astragalus as part of the ingredients
|
|
What the Science Says about Astragalus
- The evidence for using astragalus for any health condition is limited. Results from small or preliminary studies suggest that astragalus may benefit heart function and help the immune system fight infections.
- A few studies have shown potential benefits for using astragalus--in combination with another herb, glossy privet (Ligustrum lucidum)--as an adjunctive therapy for cancer. In general, however, these studies were not well designed.
- NCCAM-funded investigators are studying the effects of astragalus on the body, particularly on the immune system.
Side Effects and Cautions about Astragalus
- Astragalus is considered safe for most adults. Its possible side effects are not well known because astragalus is generally used in combination with other herbs.
- Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, such as the drug cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar) taken by cancer patients and similar drugs taken by organ transplant recipients.
- People should avoid using astragalus species such as "locoweed" that grow in the United States, as these other species may have different effects and side effects.
- Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
- Astragalus should not be used in cases of acute infections or fevers.
Overview of the Astragalus plant
From the University of Maryland Medical Center
Astragalus ( Astragalus membranaceus) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years, often in combination with other herbs, to strengthen the body against disease. It contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage caused by free radicals, byproducts of cellular energy. Astragalus is used to protect and support the immune system, for preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, to lower blood pressure, to treat diabetes, and to protect the liver.
Astragalus has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic (helps eliminate fluid from the body) properties. It is sometimes used topically for wounds. In addition, studies have shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, suggesting that it is indeed effective at preventing colds.
In the United States, researchers have investigated astragalus as a possible treatment for people whose immune systems have been compromised by chemotherapy or radiation. In these studies, astragalus supplements have been shown to speed recovery and extend life expectancy. Research on using astragalus for people with AIDS has produced inconclusive results.
Recent research in China indicates that astragalus may offer antioxidant benefits to people with severe forms of heart disease, relieving symptoms and improving heart function. At low to moderate doses, astragalus has few side effects, although it does interact with a number of other herbs and prescription medications.
The Astragalus Roots
|
|
The dried root is used medicinally. Medicinal Uses and Indications Traditional uses of Astragalus include the treatment of the following: Colds and influenza, Persistent infection, Fever, Multiple allergies, Asthma, Chronic fatigue, Fatigue or lack of appetite associated with, chemotherapy, Anemia, Wounds, Heart disease, Kidney disease, Hepatitis, Stomach ulcers It is also used to treat general digestive disturbances, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
China used astragalus root for thousands of years as a tonic herb to strengthen qi –which means to strengthen the body’ life force and protective energy. In the Western world, strengthening qi means to strengthen or bolster the immune system. Astragalus is touted for its ability to give the immune system a powerful boost. It is used to stimulate the immune system, strengthen digestion, and increase metabolic activity. Scientific research has found that astragalus root is effective against several chronic diseases such as diabetes, stomach ulcers, cancer, and high blood pressure. With mild anti bacterial, anti viral and anti inflammatory properties, the herb appears to benefit the immune system and respiratory tracts. Astragalus appears to work by stimulating the immune system. It has antioxidant effects that inhibit free radical production. In the body, free radicals damage cells and are linked to many health problems associated with aging. As an adaptoge with anti oxidant benefits, Astragalus root may well help the body fight the effects of various stresses. It’s also benefit for cancer sufferers, helping to speed recovery after chemotherapy. |
Astragalus Root Available Forms
Astragalus root may be available in a variety of forms:
Tincture (liquid alcohol extract)
Capsules
Injectable forms for use in hospital or clinical settings
Ointments for the skin
How to Take the Astragalus Herb
- Pediatric
- Astragalus may be given to children to support the immune system but should not be used if the child has a fever because, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, it may make the fever last longer or grow stronger. The dose should be determined by adjusting the recommended adult dose to account for the child's weight. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 lb (20 - 25 kg), the appropriate dose of astragalus would be 1/3 of the adult dosage. However, because strengths and concentrations will vary with different preparations, dosages should be determined on an individual basis. Any long-term dosage should be determined by your doctor.
- Adult
- Doses from 1 - 25 g per day are sometimes used. Higher doses may suppress the immune system. Recommended doses are as follows:
- Decoction (strong boiled tea): 3 - 6 g of dried root per 12 oz water, three times per day
- Fluid extract (1:1) in 25% ethanol: 2 - 4 mL three times a day
- Powdered root: 500 - 1,000 mg three or four times per day
- Powdered extract (solid): 100 to 150 mg of a product standardized to 0.5% 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy isoflavone. Note : this chemical is used only as a manufacturing marker, not as a guarantee of potency or effectiveness.
- Ointment: 10% astragalus applied to surface of wound. Do not apply to open wound without your doctor's supervision.
- Tincture (1:5) in 30% ethanol: 3 - 5 mL three times a day
- Precautions
At recommended doses, astragalus has no serious side effects and can generally be used safely. It does interact with other herbs and medications (see " Possible Interactions ")
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor before taking any medication, including herbs.
- Possible Interactions
If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use astragalus without first talking to your health care provider:
Antiviral medications -- Astragalus may increase the effects of some antiviral medications such as acyclovir and interferon.
Drugs that suppress the immune system -- Astragalus may counteract the immune-suppressing effects of cyclophosphamide, a medication used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients, as well as corticosteroids.
Diabetes medications -- Astragalus may lower blood sugar, making the effects of diabetes drugs stronger.
High blood pressure medication -- Astragalus may lower blood pressure, making the effects of these drugs stronger.
Diuretics (water pills) -- Astragalus is a diuretic and may make the effects of other diuretics stronger.
Anti-coagulants(blood thinners) -- Astragalus may make the effects of these drugs stronger, increasing the risk of bleeding and stroke.
How to grow Astragalus
Astragalus can be grown from seed.
Plant the Seeds: Seeds must first be planted indoors. So, get hold of small two-inch deep peat pots and put in each of these pots, a mixture of potting soil and sand in 2:1 ratio. Place a seed about one inch deep in a small pot. Don't go on a watering spree. Water in such a way that the soil stays moist. It would be best to keep the pot at a place that receives sunlight. Once the seed germinates, and the seedlings are about a couple of inches in height, transfer them into a bigger pot. Handle the plant well, so as to avert any damage to its tender roots. Make sure that you place the plant at a spot that receives ample sunshine. Plant them outdoors in the garden in early spring, only after the danger of frost is gone.
Astragalus is a herbaceous perennial that reaches a height of up to 4 feet, and will produce delicate yellow flowers from midsummer through late fall.
Astragalus prefers partial shade to full sun, and a sandy, well-drained soil. Water moderately.
Astragalus seeds require a 21-day cold period of stratification to promote germination, followed by mild scarification with fine-grade sandpaper. You can begin your stratification in mid to late winter, then start your seeds indoors. This should allow adequate time for your young seedlings to become large and stable enough to transplant outdoors following the first frost in early spring. Before sowing seeds, soak in water for an hour to soften and tamp lightly in to the soil, or cover with a thin layer (1/8-1/4" deep). When transplanting, space plants approximately 15" apart.
News About Astragalus
The Many Benefits of the Immune-Boosting Root Astragalus
- By Christina Sarich
In a world full of toxins from oil spills, the spoils of war, chemtrails, GMO, and numerous other environmental toxins, it behooves us to boost our immunity in as many ways as possible. Reducing stress levels and getting enough sleep are a great way to start, but there are some great natural herbs that can boost our natural immune response, and one of them is the Chinese herb astragalus.
Known as Huang Qi in Chinese medicine, astragalus root has long been used by Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners as a general tonic, to strengthen and energize the body, to help resolve colds and upper respiratory infections, and to strengthen and regulate the immune system. It is among the most widely used herbs in Chinese Medicine and has recently garnered the interest of western science for its potential to boost immunity and lessen side effects of chemotherapy.
It stimulates the immune system but also supports numerous internal organs, including the spleen, liver, lungs, respiratory system, circulatory system and urinary system. You could call astragalus an overall body tonic.
According to a University of Maryland study, astragalus is very effective in treating the number one cause of the death in the US, too – heart disease. Additionally, the root may be a sound solution for issues like cancer and diabete. It has antiviral properties, as well as energy boosting qualities. It is also an adaptogen – which means it adapts to support your body in whatever way it needs.
Astragalus has all of these other amazing ways to support our health as well – here are some astragalus benefits:
- • Reduces cardiovascular disease
- • Supports healing from chronic viral hepatitis
- • Antibacterial qualities makes it great for healing the common cold or flu
- • Can be used as a topical remedy for healing open sores or wounds
- • May help an athlete to utilize oxygen better, thereby helping recovery after workouts and supporting energy levels during them
- • Helpful in the treatment of diabetes
- • Lessens asthmatic symptoms
- • Free radical protection
- • Slows aging process
- • Helpful in treating kidney disease
- • Treats Anemia
- • Lessens seasonal allergies
Adults can take just 200-500 mg of Astragalus three times a day to receive the most benefits. It has no known side effects.
Astragalus is an Ancient Plant Root that Boosts Immunity
- (The Alternative Daily)
Astragalus, also known as ogi, milk-vetch root and Huang Qi, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Only in recent years has Western medicine been catching on to the many health-promoting characteristics of this root, including its significant ability to support the immune system.
Scientifically known as Astragalus membranaceus, the astragalus plant is a member of the pea family. In China, the root is used as a warming tonic, and is thought to build up protective qi, therefore warding away infections.
Traditional Chinese medicine employs astragalus, alone or in combination with other herbs, for improving energy, stimulating the immune system, treating liver, heart and kidney conditions, battling cancers and viral infections, and promoting longevity.
This root also contains the minerals copper, iron, manganese, potassium and zinc, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties, and is also considered an adaptogen (helps the body to balance itself) and a diuretic. Other traditional uses for astragalus include the treatments of hypertension, fatigue, asthma and anemia.
A clinical review of three Chinese herbs, one of which was astragalus, was published in 1998 in the journal Alternative Medicine Review. Regarding astragalus, the author of this review, Stephen Sinclair, ND, LAc, writes, “currently, much of the pharmacological research is focused on its immune-stimulating polysaccharides and other active ingredients from the plant, useful in treating immune deficiency conditions.”
Sinclair goes on to mention an in vitro study in which the effects of astragalus were tested against renal carcinoma cells. Results of the experiment showed that the astragalus strengthened a certain class of immune cells (lymphokine-activated killer cells, also known as LAK) ten-fold against the invading cancer cells.
Dr. Oz reports on other recent research that has found that compounds in astragalus can activate an enzyme known as telomerase (hTERT), which works to lengthen telomeres. Telomeres are parts of DNA which work to protect and in essence expand the DNA’s longevity. Telomeres generally shorten as we age, and astragalus compounds were found to lengthen them in lab studies.
While more research needs to be done on astragalus, the ancients have been harnessing its power for generations. It has great promise in immune-system stimulation, and may help the body to fight off colds, flus and other infections. Some research is finding it may even have promise against retroviral conditions such as HIV and AIDS. Some herbalists also recommend it for seasonal allergies.
Astragalus root is sweet-tasting, and can be found in dried root slices, powders and teas, as well as in tinctures and capsules. Always make sure that you choose organic, minimally-processed astragalus from a source that you trust, to avoid chemical processing agents. In traditional Chinese medicine, the roots are sometimes roasted in Chinese Herbal honey, and can also be added to recipes.
Note: Astragalus may interact with certain medications, so make sure you talk to a naturopathic practitioner before starting to use it. It may also have negative effects for those with bleeding disorders, and should not be used while pregnant or breastfeeding. A natural health professional can help you determine whether this potent root is right for you, as well as the amount to use for your individual needs.
Astragalus Extract May Strengthen Immune Response to HIV
- (POZ)
An extract from a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine may help protect the genes of immune system cells and, as a result, enhance their ability to fight HIV, according to a new study announced by the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and published in The Journal of Immunology.
When cells reproduce, their DNA gets capped at the ends by long repeated strands of genes called telomeres. Telomeres protect the genes, much like the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces. Unfortunately, telomeres get shorter every time a cell reproduces, which ultimately causes the cells to become “exhausted” and to stop functioning properly. This occurs naturally as a person ages, but more rapidly in the HIV-fighting CD4 and CD8 cells of people with HIV.
One of the lead researchers in telomeres and HIV, Rita Effros, PhD, and her colleague Steven Russell Fauce, PhD, of the department of pathology at UCLA, had experimented with gene therapy as a way to keep telomeres from shortening. But ultimately the researchers turned to what could potentially be a much less expensive method: an extract from the medicinal plant astragalus.
According to Effros and Fauce, the extract, TAT2, keeps an enzyme called telomerase turned on. CD4s and CD8s can naturally produce telomerase, which helps keep telomeres from shortening, but only for so long. After a cell has divided too many times, the telomerase gene turns off.
In test tube experiments, Effros and Fauce exposed CD4 and CD8 cells collected from HIV-positive patients to TAT2. Not only did the substance slow the shortening of the cells' telomeres, but it also increased the cells' production of proteins known to inhibit HIV replication.
While studies of TAT2 have not yet been conducted in people, the authors believe the strategy “could be useful in treating HIV disease, as well as immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to other viral infections associated with chronic diseases or aging.”
Astragalus root plant chemical used to fight HIV
- (News Medical)
Like other kinds of cells, immune cells lose the ability to divide as they age because a part of their chromosomes known as a telomere becomes progressively shorter with cell division.
As a result, the cell changes in many ways, and its disease fighting ability is compromised.
But a new UCLA AIDS Institute study has found that a chemical from the Astragalus root, frequently used in Chinese herbal therapy, can prevent or slow this progressive telomere shortening, which could make it a key weapon in the fight against HIV.
"This has the potential to be either added to or possibly even replace the HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy), which is not tolerated well by some patients and is also costly," said study co-author Rita Effros, a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and member of the UCLA AIDS Institute.
The study, to be published in the Nov. 15 print edition of the Journal of Immunology , is available online at http://www.jimmunol.org/cgi/content/full/181/10/7400.
A telomere is a region at the end of every cell chromosome that contains repeated DNA sequences but no genes; telomeres act to protect the ends of the chromosomes and prevent them from fusing together - rather like the plastic tips that keep shoelaces from unraveling. Each time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter, eventually causing the cell to reach a stage called replicative senescence, when it can no longer divide. This seems to indicate that the cell has reached an end stage, but, in fact, the cell has changed into one with new genetic and functional characteristics.
A great deal of cell division must take place within the immune system for the system to function properly. For example, the so-called "killer" CD8 T-cells that help fight infection have unique receptors for particular antigens. When a virus enters the body, the killer T-cells whose receptors recognize that virus create, through division, versions of themselves that fight the invader.
Generally, the telomeres in cells are sufficiently long that they can divide many times without a problem. Moreover, when fighting infections, T-cells can turn on an enzyme called telomerase, which can prevent the telomeres from shortening.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Magic: Astragalus
- By Sol Orwell
Astragalus Membranaceus (henceforth, AM) is a weird plant, to speak of it both scientifically and historically. A multipurpose superstar – if the anecdotes can be backed up.
Historically, AM is a component of traditional Chinese and Kampo (Japanese) medicine. What makes it weird is that it is not just one ‘elixir’, but appears to be a component of a very large variety of different mixtures of herbs for many purposes. It is uncommon to find herbs with such widespread usage; usually they are just used for a few purposes and then just shelved for those specific times.
Scientifically, the composition of the herb is weird. It has a steroidal saponin content that is unique to Astragalus (Astragalosides 1 through 7, in which number 4 is sometimes seen as the main component) and the flavonoids, which are present in almost every plant, are also fairly unique to Astragalus. AM has a few flavonoids (formononectin, calycosin) that are not commonly seen in other places.
Basically, AM is not like a normal herb. It is quite different. Is this difference good or bad? That is where the human evidence and animal models come in.
As for the actual intervention research, AM is currently in the phases of validating its panacea state. There has historically been many studies using injections of AM and seeing almost idealistic and perfect effects from it, being able to reduce blood sugar and protect the heart while repairing the kidneys and fighting inflammation and oxidation. AM is still being investigated for whether or not it serves a role in hospital settings to pump into an IV tube for people post-surgery to protect the kidneys.
Do these benefits correlate with oral ingestion of tablets or herbs? We are not sure due to a lack of oral ingestion studies. This is an important distinction, as the main compound noted above (Astragalus IV) has a bioavailability of about 1-2%, meaning that is the amount of compound that goes into your mouth that actually gets absorbed. By taking 10mg Astragalus IV, 0.1-0.2mg will circulate in your blood and the rest will leave in the toilet. This is an unavoidable consequence of oral ingestion, but it means we cannot just take injection studies and assume them true for us.
I’ve personally used some Astragalus in the past few days, as a test of sorts. I am dosing it at 10-15g daily in an attempt to override this poor absorption (if you look at many pills, they are sold at 500mg) and I have read a case study where a kidney inflammatory disorder was outright healed at 15g daily; although not a practical dose (guzzling 20-30 pills a day is no fun), it appears safe.
Taste-wise, AM root extract is slightly sweetened sawdust. Not adverse, but quite “meh” on its own. It goes down easy, and a bit easier in a protein shake or something.
I cannot back up this paragraph with science, but I feel that Astragalus is able to potentiate the effects of stimulants. The amount of times I spontenaously burst into euphoric dances or otherwise just had silly happy moments has outright doubled, but I believe this is due to some other compounds I am ingesting (L-tyrosine, caffeine) and Astragalus is merely increasing the frequency. If taking AM by itself, I am not sure I would have these effects.
The anti-inflammatory effects are real, and my workouts cannot really make me sore anymore. That is a nice side effect. I cannot speak on any health parameter as I cannot measure that.
Some bullet points on the pros and cons of AM supplementation:
Pros:
- Aside from a possible adverse interactions with pharmaceuticals (the same thing that St.John’s Wort does), there does not appear to be any other known harm with AM supplementation
- If it gets into your blood, it appears to exert panacea-like effects on the parameters for which it is highly studied (cardiovascular and blood health, blood glucose control, inflammation, kidney protection, etc). It is not the most potent in any of these regards, but works beneficially on them all
- Rare for a herb, but it doesn’t taste bad (it is a general rule of thumb that herbal supplements, in powder form, taste horrible)
Cons:
- Lack of human studies which we can apply to our daily lives and oral ingestion. We can only extrapolate from animal studies and injection studies which, although they provide info, must be taken with a grain of salt
- The effective dose appears to be far greater than what is commonly sold as supplements, measured in grams (1-5g at a low dose, up to 15g for high doses)
- There are some avenues that have not been explored, such as AM and its effects on testosterone and muscle mass or body fat. Unknown as to whether there are good, bad, or no effects on these parameters.
When more studies come up, they will be added to Examine’s page on astragalus membranaceus as to keep the page reliable. Until then, AM can either be an adventure or good table talk.
AIDS Breakthrough: Astragalus Root Could Replace HIV Drugs
- By Sherry Baker (Health Sciences Editor)
(NaturalNews) Could an herbal therapy that's been used for centuries in Chinese medicine to strengthen the immune system hold the key to an effective treatment for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, better known as AIDS? A new study by scientists at the UCLA AIDS Institute says that's possible.
The research, set to be published in the Journal of Immunology November 15th (available on-line now at http://www.jimmunol.org/cgi/content/full/181...), concludes astragalus root contains a substance that could make it a powerful weapon in the fight against the HIV virus that causes AIDS. "This has the potential to be either added to or possibly even replace the HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy), which is not tolerated well by some patients and is also costly," co-author Rita Effros, a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and member of the UCLA AIDS Institute, said in a press statement.
So what specifically appears to make astragalus effective in treating HIV infection? The key finding in the UCLA study shows a substance in the herbal therapy prevents or slows down the progressive shortening of a part of immune system cells called telomeres.
A telomere is a region found at the end of each cell chromosome. It does not contain genes but does contain repeated DNA sequences. As immune cells age, telomeres gets shorter and shorter when the cells divide. Eventually, the cells change, can no longer divide and their ability to fight infections is compromised. This phenomenon is dubbed replicative senescence.
For a strong immune system to function correction, a great deal of cell division has to take place. For example, when a virus invades the body, killer T-cells (known as CD8 T-lymphocytes) have receptors that recognize the invader and begin to create versions of themselves to fight the virus --- through division, they create more and more of an immune system "army" to knock out the virus. In most healthy people, the telomeres in cells are long enough to allow cells to divide many times without a glitch. What's more, T-cells can switch on an enzyme called telomerase to prevent the telomeres from shortening and to boost the ability of the cells to divide.
"The problem is that when we're dealing with a virus that can't be totally eliminated from the body, such as HIV, the T-cells fighting that virus can't keep their telomerase turned on forever. They turn off, and telomeres get shorter and they enter this stage of replicative senescence," Dr. Effros explained in a statement to the press.
Previous studies have shown that injecting the telomerase gene into T-cells can keep the telomeres from shortening so they fight HIV longer than they normally would be able to. However, this complicated and expensive gene therapy isn't a practical way to treat the millions of people infected with the HIV virus. Good news: the current study shows that treatment with a natural substance called TAT2 found in astragalus could be a far better approach.
The reason? Not only did the researchers find that the astragalus-derived TAT2 slowed the shortening of telomeres, but it also boosted the CD8 T-lymphocytes production of soluble factors called chemokines and cytokines. And these substances have been shown in other research to shown to block the replication of the HIV virus.
"The ability to enhance telomerase activity and antiviral functions of CD8 T-lymphocytes suggests that this strategy (using TAT2 from astragalus) could be useful in treating HIV disease, as well as immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to other viral infections associated with chronic diseases or aging," the researchers wrote in their research paper.
According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center web site (http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69128.cfm), astragalus has no reported adverse effects. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to support and enhance the immune system and for heart disease. Currently, the herb is widely used in China for chronic hepatitis, colds and upper respiratory infections and as an adjunctive therapy in cancer. The remarkable herbal therapy has also shown promise in animal experiments as a way to prevent dementia.
What Is Astragalus, And Will It Get Rid Of My Cold?
- By Rebecca Zamon (The Huffington Post Canada)
If there's one thing we've learned through combating season after season of run-down immune systems, it's that we are willing to try almost anything to make our bodies feel better. This year, we turning over to astragalus.
Astragalus is a Chinese herb that's been used for centuries to strengthen the body's internal systems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and it specifically can help with colds and upper respiratory infections.
In traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are often taken as a group in order to get their best effects, but western medicine has found that it can be just as effective on its own. According to Dr. Weil, the herb is non-toxic and can be used over the long term to increase resistance.
- How To Take It
Astragalus is available in a variety of forms at drugstores and natural food stores, coming in drops and tablets — be sure to follow the dosage recommended on the bottle. The root (which can be boiled in tea and soup) may also be available in Chinese grocery stores, and might be combined with other plants like ligusticum and ginseng. Drugs.com suggests taking it with a full glass of water, and drinking increased liquids while using the herb.
- When To Take It
Though many people believe they should take astragalus when they feel a cold coming on, much like echinacea, in Chinese medicine, it's actually seen as more important to take it when you're healthy in order to prevent illness, according to NYU Medical Center. Astragalus can be taken daily.
- What It Can Help
Besides colds and upper respiratory infections, astragalus has been associated with helping reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, and helping with diabetes. Others have associated the herb with having helped things like hyperthyroidism, insomnia and hepatitis, but more research is needed.
- What Does It Do?
Although there is no exact research on how astragalus works, it seems to stimulate the immune system, as well as bring in antioxidants that inhibit free radical production that is associated with cellular breakdown, according to Web MD.
- Who Can And Can't Use It?
Astragalus is safe for most adults, although as with most medications, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it unless otherwise counselled by their doctor. People who have immune disorders, such as Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis and lupus should check with their doctors, as astragalus can make the immune system more active. The same goes for those taking lithium — be sure to speak with a healthcare practitioner before trying anything new.
Pictures of Atragalus
Dried Astragalus Flowers
alopecurus
Astragalus
alpinus white flower
Astragalus
australis white flower
Astragalus
austriacus
Astragalus
balearicus - Bush
Astragalus
cicer
Astragalus
danicus
Astragalus
exscapus
Astragalus
frigidus
Astragalus
glycyphyllos
Astragalus
lonchocarpus
Astragalus
membranaceus
Astragalus
monspessulanus
Astragalus
nitidiflorus
Astragalus
sinicus
