Astragalus (Huang Chi)

Description: Also called Huang Chi, Astragalus is a mild restorative and preventive plant. As a member of the pea family, this herb comprises of a unique compound called 4'hydroxy-3'methoxyisoflavone-7-sug, which impacts the digestive process. Other constituents of Astragalus are similar to animal steroid hormones. These compounds include astragalosides and astramembrannins. Many polysaccharides (complex sugars) are also present, supporting the immune system.

Parts Used: Roots

Common Use: Recent studies support that Astragalus is effective in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, depletion of the immune system of cancer patients, influenza, hypertension, and ischemia.

Origin: China and Korea

Active Substances: Isoflavones, triterpenoid saponins (astragalosides I to VIII, astramembrannins, soya-sapogenols), polysaccharides, choline, betaine, and kumatakenin

Standard: 0.4% minimum 4'hydroxy-3'methoxyisoflavone-7-sug

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:4g daily of root or 1g of extract. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:There are no known toxicities. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:

Analysis:Color light brown powder, Standardization 4'-Hydroxy-3'- methoxyisoflavone 7-sug 0.53%. pH 6.03, Total Ash 4.93%, Loss on dying 7.62%, Bulk density 0.65/0.72, Pesticides <0.05, E. coli <10/g, Coliform <10/g, Staph aureus <10/g, Yeast and molds <10/g.