HEALTH REPORT
A is for astragalus
R un down? Astragalus is traditionally used to improve immunity and support vitality in Chinese medicine. Erika Bass explains. Astragalus (pronounced ass-tra-gah-lus) is a herb that is traditionally used in both Chinese and Western herbal medicine. There are thousands of plants in the Astragalus genus, but the one that is most commonly used medicinally is Astragalus membranaceus , which is also known as Huang Qi and milk vetch. East and West Astragalus is native to northern China and Mongolia, so it is not surprising that its medicinal use originated in traditional Chinesemedicine (TCM). The first mention of astragalus in TCM texts dates back 1800 years. Today, it is still considered one of the most important herbs in Chinese medicine. Based on its use in TCM, astragalus made its way into Western herbal medicine dispensaries in the 19th century. Today, it is a popular ingredient on the shelves of Go Vita stores around Australia, especially
during the cooler months of the year. Specific benefits include: Traditional immunity booster: In both TCM and Western herbal medicine, astragalus root is traditionally taken to improve immune defences. For example, in TCM astragalus is traditionally taken to reduce the frequency of common colds, while in Western herbal medicine it is traditionally used to support and improve In both TCM and Western herbal medicine, astragalus root is
which are centred on its effects on the life force energy known as Qi (pronounced ‘chee’). From the perspective of TCM, Qi influences all aspects of wellbeing, encompassing the body, mind and spirit. In TCM, astragalus is traditionally taken to strengthen Qi, and as a restorative tonic that replenishes Qi when its levels need topping up; it is traditionally considered especially beneficial for nourishing the Qi of the lungs. Qi and stress: In TCM, stress levels and Qi are considered closely intertwined. A stressful lifestyle - for example, one that features long hours of hard work - can deplete yourQi, which inChinesemedicine terms fuels all your physical functions. In a vicious cycle, if your Qi is out of balance, your ability to respond appropriately to the world around you may be as well. If that occurs, astragalus is traditionally taken in TCM to increase vitality; this aspect of its actions is considered an extension of its traditionally prized usage as a Qi tonic. It is also traditionally used in TCM to help the body cope with and adapt to stress. How to take it In TCM, astragalus is often taken alongside other herbs, such as reishi mushroom
traditionally taken to improve immune defences.
the functioning of the immune system when it’s working to fight off illness and also to promote healthy immune system responses. Qi, or ‘life energy’: In addition to its immunity-enhancing actions, astragalus is traditionally regarded as having a several other health benefits in TCM, many of
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ISSUE 61 • 2021
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