Information on Astragalus Root

The astragalus plant originated in Asia in the countries now known as China, Mongolia and Korea. Modern day herbalists use the roots of the astragalus plant for the treatment of a number of medical conditions.

Other Names

• Other names for astragalus root include astragali, beg kei, bei qi, buck qi, huang qi, hwanggi, membranous milk vetch, Mongolian milk, ogi, Phaca membranacea and Radix astragali.

Function

• Astragalus root contains antioxidants that boost immune system functioning. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, herbalists credit astragalus with fighting bacteria and reducing inflammation.

Uses

• Herbalists use astragalus in the treatment of the common cold, angina, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, hepatitis, HIV, fibromyalgia and cancer, according to RxList.

Clinical Evidence

• A 2009 study conducted at Shanghai Hospital in China and published in the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research found that patients who used astragalus root and other Chinese herbs like ginseng experienced a greater reduction of liver cancer cells than those who did not. The study did note, however, that more evidence was needed to prove the effectiveness of astragalus root as a treatment for cancer.

Considerations

• Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, avoid taking astragalus root if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of organ transplants, multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or any other type of auto-immune disease, it may not be safe for you to use astragalus root.