Astragalus is a medicinal plant that is widely used to strengthen the immune system, due to the presence of saponins, which are active substances that strengthen the body, and reduce the risk of several diseases, such as colds, cardiovascular problems and even cancer.
In addition, this plant can still be used to improve the feeling of lack of energy, reduce fatigue and to combat stress and high cholesterol.
The part of the astragalus used to achieve these effects is its root, which can be sold dry for the preparation of teas or in the form of tincture, capsules or creams, for example.
Price and where to buy
Astragalus can be bought in natural food stores and in some supermarkets, and its price varies according to the form of presentation. However, the 300 mg capsules, which are the most used, have an average value of 60 reais, for a box with 60 units.
Main benefits
The use of astragalus may have several proven health benefits, such as:
- Strengthen the immune system : it contains substances that can control cells of the immune system to function more effectively;
- Decrease inflammations such as arthritis and heart disease: due to the composition in saponins and polysaccharides, this plant reduces inflammation and even helps in healing of various types of lesions;
- Prevent against cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure or heart attack: because it is very rich in antioxidants, the astragalus avoids the accumulation of fatty plaques in the arteries;
- Reduce the risk of cancer : Due to its antioxidant action and the presence of saponins and flavonoids, it dimoinui the risk of cancer and may even help to decrease the size of some types of tumor;
- Controlling blood sugar : decreases insulin resistance, allowing sugar to be used by the body without accumulating in the blood;
- Decrease high cholesterol : with its antioxidant action prevents the accumulation of cholesterol in the body;
- Treating colds and flu : when combined with ginseng or echinacea, it has potent antiviral action that is able to eliminate the viruses responsible for these diseases;
- Relieve Side Effects of Chemotherapy : It has been used to relieve effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
In addition, this plant is still used in Chinese medicine to treat other problems such as herpes, HIV, eczema and even to eliminate the accumulation of fluids. However, these effects are not scientifically proven.
How to use
To obtain the benefits of astragalus, the recommended dose is 500 mg, divided into two 250 mg daily doses, and therefore the most reliable way is to use the capsules. However, it should be adapted to each person and problem to be treated and therefore it is important to consult a doctor or a specialist in traditional Chinese medicine, for example.
Possible side effects
Side effects of this medicinal plant are very rare, especially when used within the recommended dosages, however, in some cases, stomach pain, diarrhea or bleeding may be easier.
Who should not use
Stretch should be avoided by pregnant or nursing women. In addition, it should only be used with medical indication in people with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.
The use of this plant may also alter the effect of some medicines such as Cyclophosphamide, Lithium and immunosuppressive medicines such as Ciclosporin or Daclizumab.
