Many people tend to prefer herbal remedies, and there are many herbs and plants commonly used to treat some medical problems, most notably the Astragalus herb, so what is this herb? What are its benefits and harms? How it is used, recommended doses of this herb, and many other information.

What is the herb Astragalus?

Astragalus, Huang Qi, or Milkvetch is an herb that has been used as a Chinese remedy for centuries, to treat a variety of ailments, and as an antidote to some other health conditions.

There are very many types and species of this plant, but only two types are used, and in particular the roots of the plant are used and converted into different forms of supplements such as liquid, capsules and powder. The roots contain active plant elements and factors, which are believed to have numerous health benefits.

Benefits of astragalus herb

It should be noted, before talking about the potential benefits of this herb, that the research supporting these benefits is few and limited, so it is advised to consult a doctor first before using it to avoid any side effects.

Potential health benefits of astragalus include:

1- Strengthening the immune system

Some evidence suggests that Astragalus may increase the body’s production of white blood cells, which are responsible for preventing diseases such as colds, flu and liver infection. Some animal studies have indicated that Astragalus roots may help kill bacteria in infected animals, but human trials are limited. .

2- Improving heart function

It is believed that the herb Astragalus may help improve the function of the heart, by dilating the blood vessels and increasing blood flow from the heart. The studies are critical and more study and evidence is needed.

3- Reducing the side effects of chemotherapy

Some studies indicate that the use of astragalus can reduce some of the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and a pilot study indicates that the use of 500 mg of astragalus intravenously, several times a week, can reduce the feeling of extreme fatigue during Chemotherapy, but again, these benefits are still possible, and more trials are needed.

4- Improve blood sugar level

Astragalus roots contain an active ingredient that can reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, as some animal studies have indicated that this herb can improve sugar metabolism and reduce its rise in blood, but it is still necessary for more human trials.

5- The benefits of the herb Astragalus for the kidneys

This herb can help improve and support kidney health by improving blood flow and improving laboratory markers of kidney function, such as a measure of protein in the urine. This herb can also help improve a condition known as proteinuria, which indicates damage or damage to the kidneys. It can also help prevent infection in people with reduced kidney function.

Other health benefits

Other potential health benefits of astragalus include:

• Improve symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.
• It has anti-cancer properties.
• Helps improve seasonal allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

How to use the herb astragalus

Astragalus roots can be available in several forms, such as:

• liquid extract.
• Capsules and pills.
• rights
• Topically.

The doses that can be used depend on the condition being treated, age and weight, and using high doses of this herb can suppress the immune system. This herb can be taken as a supplement, or the roots can be ground into a powder that can be boiled and drunk as tea. There is no specific definition of the recommended dose, but it is usually recommended to eat from 9 to 40 grams per day, but after consulting a doctor.

Harmful effects of the herb

Consuming this herb is safe in many cases, but there are some side effects that can occur, which were noted during some studies, such as:

• Runny nose.
• Nausea.
• diarrhea.
• Increased heart rate, when used as an injection.

The following people should avoid using astragalus:

• Pregnant and lactating women.
• People with autoimmune diseases.
• People who take immunosuppressive medications.
• People with diabetes or high blood pressure.