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Astragalus
Astragalus membranaceus
Leguminosae
Citations
Names : Milk-vetch root, huang qi
Part Used : Root.
Constituents : o Glycosides, Polysaccharides, choline, betaine,
rumatakenin, b-sitosterol
Actions : Immunomodulator
Indications : Used since ancient times in Traditional Chinese Medicine,
it has become an important remedy in the west since its effects upon the
immune system came to light. As the power of immunological research is
focussed on medicinal herbs a whole new array of effects are being
discovered. The polysaccharides in Astragalus have been shown to
intensify phagocytosis of reticulo-endothelial systems, stimulate
pituitary-adrenal cortical activity and restore depleted red blood cell
formation in bone marrow. Astragalus is also one of the herbs known to
stimulate the bodies natural production of interferon. The therapeutic
potential offered is very exciting. For more details please refer to
pages 3-285 to 3-292. The conclusion being drawn by most western
herbalists is that Astragalus is an ideal remedy for any one who might
be immuno-compromized in any way. This can range from someone who easily
catches colds to someone with cancer.
Preparations & Dosage : Decoction: put l teaspoonful of the root
into a cup of water, bring to boil and simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This
should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.
The herbalist by David Hoffman, (c)1993 David Hoffman, Hopkins
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