Astragalus Root

Astragalus has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine in combination with other herbs.
Its root is used for health care purposes.
Commonly combined with other herbs, astragalus has been promoted as a dietary supplement for many conditions, including upper respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic kidney disease, among others. It’s also promoted to strengthen and regulate the immune system. Topical use (application to the skin) of astragalus is promoted for improving blood flow and speeding wound healing.
Astragalus may be safe when used orally and appropriately. (Doses up to 60 grams daily for up to 4 months have been used without reported adverse effects.) Some possible side effects with oral use include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort, but these are uncommon.
Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system.
Some astragalus species, usually not found in dietary supplements, can be toxic to livestock. Several species that grow in the United States contain the neurotoxin swainsonine and have caused “locoweed” poisoning in animals. Other species contain potentially toxic levels of selenium. Too much selenium can lead to diarrhea, irritability, nausea, skin rashes, and nervous system problems.
Little is known about whether it’s safe to use astragalus during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Some research in animals suggests that astragalus can be toxic to the mother and fetus.
Insomnia, sleeplessness, and interrupted sleep patterns can be cured by regular consumption of astragalus root. By improving overall health, metabolism, and hormonal balance this root can help in delivering a peaceful sleep.
How long do you need to take astragalus to start experiencing its benefits? Since most of the beneficial compounds in astragalus are fat-soluble and have a cumulative effect, you may need to take this substance for more than a week to experience its unique benefits.
(Doses up to 60 grams daily for up to 4 months have been used without reported adverse effects.) Some possible side effects with oral use include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort, but these are uncommon. Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system.
Astragalus has not been reported to cause clinically apparent liver injury. Because of its possible effects on CYP activity, its potential for herb-drug interactions should be considered before it is used.