Astragalus (Huang Qi), also known as Huang Qi or Huang Zhi, is the root of the leguminous plant Astragalus membranaceus, a commonly used traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Astragalus is believed to have the effects of tonifying Qi, stabilizing the exterior, promoting diuresis, and generating muscle tissue from toxins, and is widely used in the treatment of various diseases.
The Efficacy and Uses of Astragalus
1. Astragalus plays an important role in enhancing immunity. It is rich in flavonoids, which can stimulate the body to produce more white blood cells, increase the activity of immune cells, thereby enhancing the body’s resistance and preventing the occurrence of diseases. At the same time, Astragalus can promote the transformation of lymphocytes, enhance cellular immune function, and increase the number of T lymphocytes, thereby enhancing the body’s immune regulation ability.
2. Astragalus has good cardiovascular protective effects. Studies have found that Astragalus not only dilates coronary arteries, improving blood supply to the myocardium and preventing coronary heart disease, but also helps lower and stabilize blood pressure, showing significant effects in preventing hypertension and its complications. Additionally, Astragalus has anti-atherosclerotic effects, preventing and delaying the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
3. Astragalus is also very effective in regulating blood sugar. Research shows that it can lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, providing good auxiliary treatment for diabetic patients.
4. Astragalus has various pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-fatigue, anti-inflammatory, and tumor-suppressing effects. However, it is important to note that despite its diverse benefits, Astragalus should not be misused, as it may cause adverse reactions in some individuals, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea.
In summary, Astragalus is a very useful medicinal herb with numerous health benefits. In daily life, we can consume an appropriate amount of Astragalus as needed to enhance our immunity and prevent diseases.
Contraindications for Astragalus
Astragalus is a medicinal herb with effects such as tonifying Qi, promoting diuresis, and detoxifying. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Below are the contraindicated groups.
1. Patients with Wind-Cold Syndrome: TCM considers Wind-Cold Syndrome to be an external invasion of wind and cold. Astragalus is warm in nature and sweet in taste, with the effect of warming and tonifying Qi. For these patients, using Astragalus may prolong the presence of pathogenic factors in the body and worsen the condition.
2. Patients with Hypertension: Astragalus can raise blood pressure, and hypertensive patients should avoid it as it may exacerbate their condition, especially those with noticeable symptoms like dizziness and head fullness.
3. Patients with Heat Syndromes: For patients with heat syndromes, the pathogenic heat is already present in the body, and taking Astragalus may worsen the symptoms by failing to resolve the heat.
4. Patients with Heart Disease: Improper use of Astragalus in heart disease patients may lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, affecting their condition.
5. Individuals with Excess Yang or Substantial Conditions: Those with excessive Yang energy or substantial pathogenic factors in the body, such as fever, sores, or swelling, may find their condition worsened by taking Astragalus.
6. Diabetic Patients: Astragalus contains a significant amount of sugar, and indiscriminate consumption may lead to increased blood sugar levels, affecting their condition.
7. Individuals with Allergies: Those allergic to Astragalus should avoid it, as it may cause allergic reactions such as rashes or itching.
8. Pregnant Women: Due to their special constitution, pregnant women may experience adverse reactions such as bloating or abdominal pain from taking Astragalus, so they should use it cautiously.
9. Individuals with Diarrhea: Astragalus has a Qi-tonifying effect, and those with diarrhea may find their symptoms exacerbated by its use.
Therefore, before taking Astragalus, it is essential to fully understand one’s physical condition and the contraindications. Individuals with any of the above conditions should avoid using Astragalus and consult a professional doctor if necessary.
Consumption Methods for Astragalus
Astragalus is a common medicinal herb known for its effects of tonifying Qi, promoting diuresis, and generating body fluids. So how should Astragalus be consumed?
1. We can make Astragalus tea. Clean and slice the Astragalus, dry it, and brew it as tea. Use 10-15 grams per serving, steeping it in boiling water like regular tea. You can also add red dates or goji berries for better flavor.
2. Astragalus can also be used to make soup. Simmer Astragalus with pork bones or lean meat, adding traditional seasonings like red dates and dried tangerine peel to enhance the flavor. Astragalus soup not only strengthens the body but also beautifies the skin.
3. Astragalus can be used in meat dishes. Slow-cook Astragalus with pork belly, salt, and cooking wine, then add soy sauce and sugar to taste. This dish is bright in color, sweet and salty, and very delicious.
4. Astragalus should not be consumed in large amounts for extended periods. Although it has good pharmacological effects, excessive use may lead to digestive reactions such as bloating or diarrhea. When consuming Astragalus, individuals with cold or damp-heat constitutions should avoid it.
In summary, Astragalus is a very good medicinal herb with high nutritional and medicinal value. However, nothing should be consumed in excess; moderate consumption of Astragalus can help maintain health and enhance the body’s resistance.