Astragalus
Astragalus is a Chinese herb that helps to stimulate the immune system. Besides stimulating the immune system, astragalus, also helps the body to replenish spleen deficiency and is helpful for prolapse syndromes. Some prolapse syndromes include a prolapsed uterus, stomach, and anus.
Astragalus comes from the root of the astragalus membranaceus plant, which is part of the pea family. The astragalus species that is grown in the United States is known by the name of milk vetch root and huang-qi. This unique herb is used to strengthen and tone the body’s overall vitality and improves digestion. It is commonly used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Astragalus has been used in China for almost 4,000 years as an immunity booster for cancer patients who have undergone treatment.
Studies have shown that Astragalus contains polysaccharides, monosaccharides, flavonoid, alkaloid, including choline and betaine, folic acid, various amino acids, mucoitin, gum, cellulose, picrorhiza, and fourteen mineral trace elements, including selenium, zinc, iron, etc, which are inperative for man and animals.
It is believed and used in Chinese traditional medicine for its following pharmacological functions: It strengthens immunity to disease. It has certain inhibiting effects on molecular pathological changes caused by viruses, increases growth of plasma cells, stimulates synthesis of antibodies, and builds up body defense. It deters aging process and facilitates longevity. It delays the natural aging process of diploid blastocyte, prolonging by one third the life span of the cells. It enhances body energy.
It promotes metabolism of serum and liver proteins, stimulates growth of antibodies, increases white blood cells, and thus increases resistance to viruses. It also induces production of interferon. It is diuretic, detoxicating and reduces proteinuria and cures kidney disease.