The Best Immune Booster & Chinese Herb

If you are one of the unlucky people who experience a low immune system because you are constantly getting sick, the Chinese herb astralagus may be what your immune system is looking for. Astralagus has been used in China for over 4,000 years. Even though the ancient Chinese knew nothing about bacteria or viruses, this herb was used the strengthen the body, providing a shield of sorts against disease. Today, astralagus can be used to treat and build up the immune system effectively.

Benefits

• Astragalus is rich in polysaccharides, and increases the activity of many different kinds of immune system cells, including macrophages, and T-lymphocytes. It works by stimulating almost every part of immune system activity. Astralagus works directly in the bone marrow, where immune cells are created. It also works in lymph tissue, stimulating their growth into active immune cells, releasing these stronger cells into the body.

  This immune system building capability may take several months to work, however. Astralagus must be take on a long term basis if you know you have a weakened or compromised immune system. Long term use of this herb is considered 30 days or more. During this time, astralagus has the capability of increasing the activity of spleen cells, which helps to build up the immune system.

Research

• According to the University of Texas Medical Center in Houston, astralagus has strong immunostimulant effects, and may help in treating cancer patients. In the study, scientists compared damaged immune cells of cancer patients with the blood from normal human patients. The cancer patients who were given astragalus extract had completely restored function to their immune cells, often increasing the activity in the cells.

  In addition, astragalus is able to stimulate the production of interferon, and boost its power to fight disease. The joint effect of interferon and astragalus root, not only shortened the length of colds but reduced the incidence of catching colds in the first place.

How to Take

• The roots of the astragalus plant can be used in teas, tinctures, and supplement form. You can purchase the dried root at any well stocked Chinese herb store or a well supplied natural health food store. To make a tea, combine 2 tablespoons of the dried herb in one pint of cold water, bring to a boil, then let steep and cool for ten minutes. A recommended dosage is between one to two cups per day to boost your immune system. You may add a teaspoon of honey to the tea to make it more palatable. A tincture of astragalus is also available. Follow dosing instructions on the bottle carefully. You will want to dilute the tincture for a more pleasant test.

Warnings

• Astragalus is considered a safe herb. However, some side effects can include bloating, low blood pressure, and dehydration. Avoid taking if you have an autoimmune disease such as lupus. Astragalus may also interfere with blood clotting. Speak with your physician before taking to discuss the benefits and risks associated with taking astragalus.