Astragalus has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine practices, often in combination with other herbs. In addition, astragalus is used by holistic healthcare practitioners to support treatments in serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and to support the immune system during times of illness and disease. For the rest of us, astragalus can be a powerful tool to add to our herbal toolkit, particularly at this time of year when cold and flu season is ramping up.
Astragalus in healthcare
Astragalus is often used to strengthen and regulate the immune system in the treatment of upper respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma. When combined with other herbs and supplements, it can be helpful in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic kidney disease and to relieve the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. In this way it is sometimes also given as an injection or by IV in a hospital setting. Topically it is used for improving blood flow and speeding wound healing.
Research Supporting the Use of Astragalus
Research supports the use of astragalus in patients concerned with increasing white blood cell counts – such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In this case it is also effective in both increasing blood counts and improving sleeping habits, which can be very helpful for patients in recovery mode.
Additional research conducted in China suggests that as an antioxidant astragalus may be helpful to patients with severe forms of heart disease. It’s thought to help in these cases by relieving symptoms, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving overall heart function.
The Herbal Toolkit
As a known anti-viral, anti-bacterial, general tonic and antioxidant, astragalus is a go-to supportive treatment for anyone exposed on a daily basis to the seasonal flu or occasional colds, and it is helpful for people who may be susceptible to viruses in general.
Astragalus has few side effects when used wisely. However, it is known to interact both positively and negatively with other herbs and prescription medications. Specifically, astragalus is not recommended for people taking drugs that suppress the immune system: due to its role in stimulating the immune system. It is also not recommended for patients taking lithium as it can interact with the drug in harmful ways.
Keep in Mind
Self-care enthusiasts can be confident when using astragalus to improve the immune system during cold and flu season, and to support symptoms of chronic fatigue and seasonal allergies. Although the use of astragalus can be very helpful and is considered generally harmless in most cases, it is always advisable to talk with your healthcare provider when adding any complementary supplement to your routine.