Astragalus

Astragalus is the general term for one of about 2000 different species of small plants that are native to many Eastern parts of the world. Astragalus plants are very small, hairy leaved, bushy plants that have been used in Chinese herbal medicine for centuries and are believed to help with several areas of body functioning including sexual performance, digestion, muscle and pain relief and building overall immunity. Astragalus schisandra ligustrum is the variety that is often used to assist with the management of auto-immune diseases, and astragalus membranaceus, also spelled as astragalus membranaceous, is used in many natural treatments for colds, asthma and allergies. There are many astragalus menbranaceus plant pictures available on herbal plant websites that will make identification easy for those looking for this low spreading perennial.

The astragalus root is the most important medicinal part of the plant. The plant roots are usually harvested when the plant is over four years old, and astragalus herbs are produced by drying the root and then used in several forms including a liquid tincture, ointments, or capsules. In clinical settings for chemotherapy recovery treatments or auto-immune disease management the astragalus extract is used in an injectable form.

The reported astragalus benefits include curing colds and flu symptoms, reducing the sickness and fatigue associated with chemotherapy, reducing the risk of heart disease and kidney disease, reducing fever and helping to alieviate digestive problems including bloat, diarrhea and excessive gas. It can also be used in a ointment form that uses the astragalus for muscle pain relief. There are also herbal performance enhancement products that contain astragalus and the penis is reported to become larger and allow for increased sexual performance. There is also an increase in the energy level and stamina in all aspects of the individual's life if the herbal treatment is taken on a regular basis. Astragalus effects are stronger for some people than others, and research continues as to the benefits of this amazing and versatile herb.

As with all herbal products care needs to be taken when using products that contain astragalus. There are few astragalus side effects but they can include interactions with diabetes medications, blood thinners and antiviral medications. It is important to talk to your doctor about any use of astragalus, negative side effects and issues of concern before starting the product.