The power of Astragalas Root

Astragalus (Huang Qi) has been used as a tonic herbal supplement in Chinese Medicine for centuries.  It is a species of herb that belongs to the legume family that is sweet in taste and a slightly warm in nature. Traditionally in Chinese medicine, the root of the Astragalus plant is used and combined with other herbs to treat issues such as the common cold, blood disorders, fatigue, diabetes, and to boost the immune system. 

As a tonic herb Astragalus root (Huang Qi) falls under a category of herbs that has the ability to strengthen the body’s physiological functions and organs.  In regards to digestive issues Astragalus root (Huang Qi) is excellent at addressing loss of appetite, fatigue and diarrhea.  It is also viewed as having a lifting and supporting function of organs and is used in the of treatment of organ prolapse (collapse) namely of the uterus, stomach and anus.  Astragalus root (Huang Qi) can also regulate blood sugar levels and has positive results in the treatment of diabetes. 

In the practice of Chinese Medicine we very rarely prescribe a single herbal supplement because centuries of experience has shown that when herbs are combined into a group (a formula), the properties of herbs can be enhanced, nullified or controlled in certain ways to obtain desired clinical results.  This too is the case for Astragalus root (Huang Qi) and it is often combined with the following herbs to address specific health issues.

 

Astragalus Root (Huang Qi) & Crushed Oyster Shell (Mu Li)

This combination has been proven to be effective in the treatment of sweating disorders, such as night sweats and spontaneous sweats.

 

Astragalus Root (Huang Qi) & Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi)

This combination is often used in the treatment of numb and painful muscles.

Modern research into Astragalus has uncovered a molecule known as cycloastragenol (TAT2), which has been believed to have an anti-aging effect on the body.  The TAT2 molecule found in Astragalus activates an enzyme called telomerase that is turned off in most adult cells.  When activated, the telomerase enzyme works to protect, maintain and lengthen telomeres, which increases the life expectancy of one’s DNA. As we age our telomeres shorten which physiologically stamps an expiry date on our cells. However, activated telomerase enzymes work to delay the expiration of our cells by maintaining our telomeres and increasing their length. 

Astragalus root (Huang Qi) is a very safe herb to take, however it is not the right herbal supplement and herbal medicine for everyone.  Please consult with a Chinese Medicine Practitioner before taking Astragalus root (Huang Qi). 

 

To book an appointment or to get more information on Astragalus root (Huang Qi) or any Chinese herbal medicines please contact my office at (250) 860 2212, or visit my website www.kelownaacupunctureclinic.com

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.