Introduction:Astragalus (Huang Qi) is a natural product commonly consumed by the public, with folk wisdom suggesting that drinking Astragalus soup can prevent diseases and promote health. This indicates that Astragalus can play a role in disease prevention and health maintenance.
Many health enthusiasts, are fond of using Astragalus as an ingredient in soups and porridge. Astragalus is an excellent herbal medicine suitable for daily health maintenance. It is often consumed as a tea, and after a period of time, one can reap numerous benefits.
Nutritional Value of Astragalus
Astragalus primarily contains astragalosides, polysaccharides, flavonoids, as well as amino acids, proteins, riboflavin, folic acid, vitamin D, β-sitosterol, carotenoids, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and various trace elements.
Amino acids include asparagine, 8-amino butyric acid, etc. Polysaccharides include Astragalus polysaccharide I, Astragalus polysaccharide n, and Astragalus polysaccharide m. Other components include palmitic acid, betaine, isoflavones, amylase, and trace elements such as copper, iron, manganese, and zinc.
1.Astragalus polysaccharides can promoteRNA and protein synthesis, leading to vigorous cell growth, extended lifespan, and resistance to fatigue and influenza viruses.
2.Astragalus polysaccharides and saponins have protective and promoting effects on hematopoietic function.
3.The total flavonoids and saponins in Astragalus can protect ischemic and hypoxic myocardium.
4.Astragalus can significantly increase the total number of white blood cells in the blood, enhancing the phagocytic and bactericidal capabilities of neutrophils and macrophages.
5.Astragalus enhances immune function, protects the liver, promotes diuresis, has anti-aging effects, combats stress, lowers blood pressure, and exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial properties.
Astragalus is a treasure; regularly drinking Astragalus water may help resolve 6 common issues.
1.Tonifying Qi and Nourishing Blood
Astragalus is known as a master of Qi tonification. Only by ensuring sufficient Qi and blood in the body can normal bodily functions be maintained; insufficient Qi and blood can lead to illness. Regularly drinking Astragalus tea can replenish Qi and blood, accelerate blood circulation, and enhance beauty.
2.Protecting Cardiovascular Health
Some substances contained in Astragalus can effectively eliminate free radicals from the body and help inhibit lipid overload, which can cause damage to the body.
It can effectively eliminate oxidative free radicals, reducing their impact on our cardiovascular system and improving microcirculation.
3.Delaying Aging
Free radicals are harmful metabolic byproducts continuously produced during the body’s metabolism, and the peroxides of oxygen free radicals play a significant role in cellular and bodily aging.
Astragalus contains a substance called Astragalus polysaccharide, which can enhance immune function and increase the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. It clears free radicals and lipid peroxides, delaying cellular and bodily aging.
4.Treating Gastritis
Individuals suffering from gastritis can effectively alleviate symptoms by regularly drinking Astragalus water. Studies indicate that drinking Astragalus water can also significantly reduce protein levels in urine. It enhances myocardial contractility, effectively preventing circulatory failure.
5.Improving Physical Fatigue
Those who often feel fatigued or short of breath can benefit from drinking Astragalus water. It can effectively help restore health and boost energy levels.
When brewing, you can add some sugar according to your preference to improve the taste of Astragalus water. Adding a few goji berries to the Astragalus tea can also help improve vitality after a period of consistent consumption.
6.Preventing Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases
Astragalus contains γ-aminobutyric acid and Astragalus saponin A, which have antihypertensive effects. Additionally, its rich flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins exhibit excellent antioxidant properties. Individuals with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases may consider drinking Astragalus to prevent illness.
Precautions for Drinking Astragalus Water
1.Do not exceed 15 grams
The recommended dosage of Astragalus should not exceed 15 grams per serving, preferably divided into 2-3 doses to avoid overdose.
Overconsumption may lead to dizziness, poor sleep quality, flushed cheeks, irritability, and other symptoms.
2.People with Colds Should Avoid It
Individuals with colds should not consume Astragalus. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that Astragalus strengthens the exterior, helping the body resist external pathogens. However, those with colds already have internal pathogens, and using Astragalus may trap these pathogens inside, hindering recovery.
3.Women Should Avoid It During Menstruation
Women should not consume Astragalus during menstruation, as it may lead to menstrual irregularities or prolonged bleeding.
4.Pregnant Women Should Avoid It
Pregnant women must avoid Astragalus, as it may lead to miscarriage. Astragalus contains certain teratogenic factors that could cause fetal deformities.
5.People with Yin Deficiency or Damp-Heat Should Avoid It
These individuals are advised against consuming Astragalus, as they may frequently experience symptoms such as heat in the palms and soles, bitter mouth, dry mouth, and insomnia with vivid dreams. Consuming Astragalus may exacerbate these symptoms.
Further Reading: Best Combinations for Astragalus
1.Astragalus + Salvia miltiorrhiza
In today’s world, where people face significant work and life pressures, many experience chest tightness and shortness of breath. Drinking Astragalus and Salvia miltiorrhiza soup can alleviate these symptoms.
It can also inhibit excessive proliferation of fibroblasts and help clear waste from blood vessel walls, maintaining smooth blood flow and preventing thrombosis, making it suitable for overweight individuals and the elderly.
2.Astragalus + Goji Berries
Astragalus can tonify Qi and blood and nourish kidney Yang, enhancing spleen function and detoxifying the body. Goji berries nourish the liver and kidneys, improving renal excretory function, making it suitable for those experiencing rapid aging or declining liver and kidney function.
Regular consumption not only enhances anti-aging capabilities but also beautifies the skin and prevents colds. However, individuals with hypertension or acute inflammation should avoid it.
3.Astragalus + Ophiopogon japonicus
Ophiopogon japonicus protects the eyes and lungs, eliminates internal heat and toxins, and alleviates cough. It also protects the heart and kidneys, maintaining urinary tract health and preventing pathogen invasion.
This combination can relieve dry cough caused by lung heat, dry throat, and hemoptysis due to tuberculosis. Together, Astragalus and Ophiopogon japonicus can tonify Qi and blood, nourish the lungs, and alleviate night sweats caused by Yin deficiency.
4. Astragalus + Red Dates
Combining Astragalus with red dates not only enhances the blood-nourishing and Qi-tonifying effects of Astragalus but also helps women nourish Yin and Yang, especially those who frequently experience anemia.
Red dates are rich in vitamins, and regular consumption can improve complexion. Drinking this combination can also beautify the skin and promote longevity.
5.Astragalus + Poria cocos
As the saying goes, “One ounce of Poria is worth a pound.” Poria has significant medicinal value, with effects of dampness removal and spleen strengthening. In summer, when people often experience damp-heat, using Astragalus and Poria together can help eliminate dampness, expel cold, strengthen the spleen, and enhance immunity.