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Astragalus (Huang Qi) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal herb that is commonly used in daily life. It can be prepared as a decoction or infused in water, serving to tonify the body and alleviate physical weakness. While most people are familiar with the medicinal properties of the root of the Astragalus plant, today we will introduce the seeds of Astragalus, known as Astragalus seeds (Huang Qi Zi), and discuss their benefits and side effects.
Benefits of Astragalus Seeds
1. Enhancing Heart Function
Astragalus seeds have a significant cardiotonic effect, effectively improving heart function. The various active components in Astragalus seeds promote heart contractions and increase the output of blood from the heart, providing notable relief for heart failure and diminished cardiac function. Additionally, they can prevent viral myocarditis, playing a positive role in maintaining heart health.
2. Boosting Immunity
Regular consumption of Astragalus seeds can enhance the body’s immune system. This herb is rich in trace elements that improve hematopoietic function and promote the regeneration of white blood cells. It strengthens the body’s immune system, providing excellent preventive effects against common cancers and slowing down the aging process.
3. Stabilizing Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
Consuming Astragalus seeds in moderation can protect the cardiovascular system by promoting vasodilation, helping to maintain stable blood pressure. It has a dual regulatory effect on blood pressure, raising low blood pressure and lowering high blood pressure. Furthermore, it possesses hypoglycemic properties, preventing elevated blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of diabetes.
Side Effects of Astragalus Seeds
Astragalus seeds are non-toxic and generally do not have significant side effects. However, individuals with infections accompanied by inflammatory symptoms should avoid using them, as adverse reactions may occur. Additionally, Astragalus seeds are warming and tonifying; those with a heat constitution, digestive issues, abdominal distension, or constipation may experience adverse effects after consumption.
The above information provides a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and side effects of Astragalus seeds, allowing individuals to appreciate the specific advantages of using this herb while being assured of its safety for consumption.
Astragalus
This product is the dried root of the leguminous plant Astragalus membranaceus. It is primarily produced in Shanxi, Gansu, Heilongjiang, and Inner Mongolia. The roots are harvested in spring and autumn, with the fibrous roots and root tips removed and then dried. The best quality is characterized by thick, long strips, a yellow-white cross-section, sufficient powdery texture, and a sweet taste. It can be sliced and used raw or honey-fried.
Identification: The product appears as thick, round or oval slices, with a yellow-white to light brown outer skin, showing longitudinal wrinkles or grooves. The cut surface is yellow-white in the skin part and light yellow in the wood part, with radial patterns and fissures. Occasionally, the center may appear decayed, black-brown, or hollow. It has a faint aroma, a slightly sweet taste, and a bean-like flavor when chewed.
Properties: Sweet, slightly warm. It enters the Spleen and Lung meridians.
Main Functions: Tonifies Qi and raises Yang, stabilizes the exterior and stops sweating, promotes urination and reduces swelling, generates fluids and nourishes blood, alleviates stagnation and relieves pain, expels toxins and promotes healing. It is indicated for Qi deficiency, fatigue, poor appetite, diarrhea, prolapse of the rectum, blood in stool, spontaneous sweating due to deficiency, water retention due to Qi deficiency, internal heat and thirst, blood deficiency and sallow complexion, hemiplegia, and abscesses that are difficult to heal.
Dosage: Decoction, 9-30 grams. Honey-fried Astragalus is used to tonify Qi and strengthen the middle, suitable for symptoms of Qi deficiency and fatigue, poor appetite, etc.
Modern Pharmacology: Astragalus polysaccharides can promote RNA and protein synthesis, enhance cell growth and longevity, and exhibit anti-fatigue, cold resistance, and anti-influenza virus effects. The decoction, polysaccharides, and saponins of Astragalus have protective and promoting effects on hematopoietic function. Total saponins of Astragalus exhibit positive inotropic effects, while total flavonoids and saponins protect ischemic and hypoxic myocardium. The decoction has protective effects on the kidneys, reduces urinary protein, and has diuretic effects, with a dual regulatory effect on blood pressure. Additionally, Astragalus has anti-aging, anti-radiation, anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, blood sugar-lowering, immune-enhancing, anti-tumor, and liver-protective effects.
Selected Formulas
1. For treating hypertension in the elderly with lower limb edema: 30 grams of Astragalus, 12 grams of Bai Zhu (Atractylodes), 12 grams of Fang Ji (Stephania), 3 grams of Gan Cao (Licorice), 3 slices of fresh ginger, 10 red dates, and 30 grams of Ge Gen (Pueraria). Decoct and take twice daily.
2. For treating psoriasis: 30 grams of Astragalus, 30 grams each of Dang Gui (Angelica) and Sheng Di Huang (Rehmannia), decoct twice and take in the morning and evening.
3. For treating chronic rhinitis: 15 grams of Astragalus, 12 grams of Bai Zhu, and 10 grams of Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia). Decoct and take.
Dietary Therapy
Astragalus Tea: Tonifies Qi and supports the body. Suitable for those with pale complexion, fatigue, shortness of breath, and sweating. Use 3-6 grams of Astragalus and 3-4 red dates, steep in boiling water for 5 minutes, and drink.
Astragalus and Goji Berry Soup: Tonifies Qi and raises the body, benefits the kidneys and stabilizes. Suitable for those with insufficient Qi and organ prolapse. Use 30 grams of Astragalus, 10 grams of Goji berries, and 100 grams of lean pork slices, with appropriate seasonings. Cook Astragalus and Goji berries in sufficient water for 30 minutes, strain, add the pork slices, and cook until tender, then season and enjoy the soup and meat.
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Disclaimer: This article is reproduced from the internet and published materials. If there is any infringement, please contact us for removal. The various prescriptions and formulas mentioned are for informational sharing only and do not constitute medical advice, recommendations, or guidance. Please use them under the guidance of a physician.