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10 Proven Benefits of Astragalus Root (#4 Is Vital)

The AHA! Team — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 09:37:08 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN via Dr. Axe – Do you know about astragalus? If not, you should, because astragalus root is one of the most powerful immune-building plants on the planet. This adaptogen herb helps beat stress while fighting disease at the same time. How effective can it be? Turns out, plenty. In addition to pumping up your immune system, studies show it’s vital for cardiovascular health and can even help fight off tumors and alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy. Believe it or not, that’s not all, either. There are more astragalus benefits that are simply unbelievable, which is why it’s one of the essential herbs — like ashwagandha — to add to your wellness regimen. What Is Astragalus? Astragalus is a plant within the Leguminosae (beans or legumes) family, with a very long history as an immune system booster and disease fighter. Its roots are in Traditional Chinese Medicine, in which it’s been used as an adaptogen for thousands of years — meaning it helps the body fight off stress and disease. Today, astragalus medicinal healing and treatment uses span many different illnesses and diseases. The perennial flowering plant, also called milkvetch root and Huang qi, grows from 16 to 36 inches tall and is native to the north and eastern regions of China. It’s also been traced back to Mongolia and Korea. Astragalus roots are harvested from 4-year-old plants and are the only part of the plant that’s used medicinally. Only two of the over 2,000 species of astragalus, astragalus membranaceus and astragalus mongholicus, are used medicinally. Astragalus contains three components that allow the plant to have such a positive impact on human health: saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are all active compounds contained in certain plants, including some fruits and vegetables. Saponins are known for their ability to help lower cholesterol, improve the immune system and prevent cancer. Flavonoids, also found in astragalus, provide health benefits through cell signaling. They show antioxidative qualities, control and scavenge of free radicals, and can help prevent heart disease, cancer and immunodeficiency viruses. Polysaccharides are known to have antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities, among other health benefits. Benefits In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the herb was hailed as a protector against stresses, both mental and physical. Astragalus provides health benefits to a number of body systems and ailments. Although more studies in humans are needed to solidify its effectiveness, success in rats, mice and other animals have prompted progressive research on the herb. Because of the tremendous success of so many research studies and trials, new information about astragalus is coming to light all the time. In general, its greatest strength is preventing and protecting cells against cell death and other harmful elements, such as free radicals and oxidation. According to continuing research, astragalus health benefits include: 1. Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory From arthritis to heart disease, inflammation is often the culprit of the damage. Many studies show that thanks to its saponins and polysaccharides, astragalus can reduce inflammatory response in connection to a number of illnesses and conditions, from helping to heal wounds and lesions to reducing inflammation in diabetic kidney disease. 2. Boosts the Immune System In terms of reputation, boosting the immune system is astragalus’ claim to fame. It’s been used in this capacity for thousands of years. A study out of Beijing displayed its ability to control T-helper cells 1 and 2, essentially regulating the body’s immune responses. It’s also been shown to enhance immune response in mice, and in a randomized controlled trial, members of the Polish rowing team had their immunological balance restored “through a stabilization of NK and Treg cells with a positive trend in Tδγ towards Th1 response during restitution by cytokine IL2 modulation” when taking astragalus root. 3. Helps Slow or Prevent the Growth of Tumors Many recent screenings have shown the success of astragalus saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides in decreasing or eliminating tumors. In instances of chemoresistance treating liver cancer, astragalus has shown potential in reversing multidrug resistance and as an addition to conventional chemotherapy, according to a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. The root’s anti-tumor effects have been studied extensively, showcasing promise to slow or prevent tumor growth. 4. Protects the Cardiovascular System The flavonoids present in astragalus are antioxidants that help prevent plaque buildup in arteries and narrowing of vessel walls by protecting the inner wall of the vessel. A 2014 study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine suggests injection of astragalus, combined with conventional treatment for viral myocarditis (inflammation of the middle layer of the heart wall), makes treatment more successful in heart conditions. Other animal studies have shown its ability to reduce blood pressure, and can help control triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides put individuals at risk for many forms of heart disease, such as stroke, heart attack and hardening of artery walls. During a heart attack, heart muscle damage occurs when there is a lack of blood supply and oxygen. At that time, calcium overload creates secondary damage. Astragalus may prevent additional heart muscle damage by regulating calcium homeostasis in the heart. 5. Regulates and Helps Prevent Diabetes and Illnesses Related to Diabetes Astragalus has been studied progressively as an antidiabetic. Several animal studies show its ability to relieve insulin resistance and help manage diabetes naturally. The herb’s saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides all are effective in treating and regulating type 1 and 2 diabetes. They’re able to increase insulin sensitivity, protect pancreatic beta cells (the cells in the pancreas that produce and release insulin) and also act as anti-inflammatories in areas related to diabetes symptoms. Kidney disease in diabetics is also a common problem, and astragalus has been used to treat kidney illness for many years. More recent studies in humans and animals have shown astragalus can slow the progress of kidney problems in diabetics and protect the renal system. 6. Contains Antioxidative and Anti-Aging Capabilities Oxidation due to free radical damage is the main component in disease and aging, and many elements found in astragalus fight free radical damage and prevent of oxidative stress. The herb’s polysaccharides have positive effects on the immune system and improvement of the function of the brain, both of which could lengthen life span. 7. Aids in Wound Healing and Helps Minimize Scarring Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, astragalus has a long history of treating wounds. Radix astragali, another name for the dried root of astragalus, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for the repair and regeneration of injured organs and tissues. In a 2012 study by the Institute of Pharmaceutics at Zhejiang University, wounds treated with astragaloside IV (the active ingredient in dried astragalus root) showed recovery rates increase two- to threefold over 48–96 hours. It was concluded that astragalus is a promising natural product for anti-scarring and healing in wounds. 8. Helps Alleviate Symptoms of Chemotherapy Astragalus has been shown to help patients receiving chemotherapy to recover more quickly and extend their life spans. In cases of severe chemotherapy symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and bone marrow suppression, astragalus has been given intravenously and in combination with other Chinese herbal mixtures. Early research suggests it has the ability to reduce these symptoms and increase the efficacy of the chemotherapy treatments. 9. Can Treat Colds and Flu Because of astragalus’ antiviral capabilities, it has long been used to treat common colds and the flu. It’s commonly combined with other herbs, like ginseng, angelica and licorice root. As with many other natural cold remedies, it seems to work better when used when healthy individuals use the supplement regularly in order to prevent the illness before it happens. A regimen of astragalus before the colder months of winter may help prevent or decrease the number of colds and upper respiratory illnesses individuals will have throughout the season. 10. Provides Supplemental Therapy for Chronic Asthma Astragalus has been used to treat chronic asthma and determined to be a successful supplemental therapy and asthma natural remedy. After being treated, hypersensitivity in airways decreased substantially and mucus production and inflammation were reduced in studies. By preventing or reducing asthma attacks, individuals could be relieved of chronic asthma issues. There is also evidence to suggest astragalus can potentially: prevent collagen degradation help heal lung tissue affected by bronchopulmonary dysplasia in newborns inhibit herpes simplex virus 1 prevent the replication of viruses like Coxsackie B-3, a virus that triggers illnesses ranging from mild stomach issues to major heart complications treat inflammation in allergic dermatitis (an allergic reaction of the skin) help treat hepatitis by inhibiting hepatitis B virus cells in the liver treat HIV by protecting T-helper cells fight the virus for much longer be used as a mild diuretic Uses and Recipes There are a number of ways to use astragalus root medicinally. Astragalus is currently used as an addition to conventional treatments and should not be used as a replacement for medications unless suggested by a doctor. Astragalus is available at most Chinese markets or health food stores in these forms: Tincture (liquid alcohol extract) Capsules and tablets Injectable forms for use in hospital or clinical settings in Asian countries Topically for the skin Dried and used in tea There is not a standardized dosage for astragalus, but you can work with a doctor or specialist to determine how much you should take and how often. There are differences in doses depending on age, health and medical history. Wondering how to incorporate this antiviral herb into your diet? Here are a couple recipes to try: Herbal Immune System Soup with Astragalus Astragalus Butter (Peanut Butter Substitute) Risk and Side Effects Astragalus is generally safe to use with no serious side effects. There are possible interactions with other herbal supplements, so start with smaller doses to prevent side effects. Women who are pregnant and who are nursing should not use astragalus, as some animal research indicates it may not be safe for pregnant moms. People with autoimmune diseases should speak with their doctors before starting astragalus because of its ability to stimulate the immune system. Individuals with diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and other immune system conditions could be especially sensitive to astragalus. Some specialists suggest only using a specific adaptogen for a few months and then moving on to another. The following drug interactions can occur with astragalus: Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar): This drug is used to suppress the immune system. Using astragalus can decrease the effectiveness of this drug. Lithium: Astragalus can affect how the body reduces lithium levels because of its diuretic qualities. Taking astragalus with lithium can lead to unsafe levels of lithium in the body. Speak with a medical professional before combining astragalus with lithium, as a dosage change might be required. Immunosuppressants: Drugs that suppress the immune system are commonly used to help prevent rejection in transplant patients and accept the new organ or tissue. Because of astragalus’ immune system boosting capabilities, it decreases the effectiveness of these drugs. Some of these drugs include azathioprine (Imuran), basiliximab (Simulect), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), daclizumab (Zenapax), muromonab-CD3 (OKT3, Orthoclone OKT3), mycophenolate (CellCept), tacrolimus (FK506, Prograf), sirolimus (Rapamune), prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), corticosteroids (glucocorticoids) and others. Final Thoughts Astragalus root is an adaptogen used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for a large number of conditions. The most extensively researched benefits of astragalus are: Acts as an anti-inflammatory Boosts the immune system Helps slow or prevent the growth of tumors Protects the cardiovascular system Regulates and prevents diabetes and illnesses related to diabetes Contains antioxidative and anti-aging capabilities Aids in wound healing and minimizes scarring Helps alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy Treats colds and flu Provides supplemental therapy for chronic asthma There are several ways to use it, from teas to supplements to topical creams. You can also incorporate it into various recipes. When using astragalus, be sure to consult with your physician, and be aware of possible interactions and side effects. To read the original article click here.

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Can Herb-Infused Chocolate Solve Prediabetes Without Meds?

AHA Publisher — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 07:00:44 +0000

Brian Blum via Israel21c – In 1987, I went backpacking across Japan during the famous cherry blossom season. Unfortunately, I suffered from terrible allergies and my nose was running like a faulty faucet. In desperation, I took a bullet train to the foothills of Mount Fuji to visit a Japanese healer who was studying traditional Chinese herbal medicine. The practitioner prescribed a bunch of foul-smelling herbs and roots, which I was instructed to brew into a tea every night. The herbs stunk to high heaven, and it wasn’t always easy to find an open kitchen in backpacker hostels. When I moved on to other parts of Southeast Asia, I couldn’t source the herbs and eventually I returned to that old standby, antihistamine pills. Ehud (Udi) Peretz, CEO of Netanya-based startup Solveat, had a similar problem. He was managing an herbal biotech company in China when he was diagnosed not with allergies but with prediabetes. Prof. Xia Long, a well-known local Chinese doctor, advised him to take herbal medicine. While this method did bring Peretz’s condition under control, he found the herbs strikingly bitter and too much work to prepare. What if those herbs could be integrated into a functional food that would be more convenient and less bitter tasting? The market for functional foods is worth $250 billion, Peretz tells ISRAEL21c, and it’s growing by 8% a year. The segment of the market for phytochemicals (substances produced by plants) is worth some $5 billion. Peretz returned to Israel and brought his vision to the Trendlines Group of food and med-tech accelerators in Israel’s northern Galilee. Trendlines and the Israel Innovation Authority subsequently invested $980,000 in the company. Prediabetes, High Blood Pressure, Immune Booster Solveat’s first product combines medicinal herbs into chocolate squares from boutique Israeli chocolatier Ornat. “The taste of the herbs is awful,” Peretz admits. “We use several methods to mask the bitterness and sourness. It’s not easy. Believe me, I have been dealing with this for four years!” Ornat’s CEO, Yair Darel, is a partner in Solveat. Pharmacist Zakhar (Zacki) Nudelman is head of business development. Tel Aviv-based traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Tal Naveh is active in the company, as is Long, who has built seven Chinese medicine clinics in Chengdu. Among the first volunteers who tried the herb-infused chocolates, including Peretz, blood sugar levels dropped by up to 24 percent. Given that 88 million Americans – some one-third of the adult US population – are prediabetic, this represents a potentially significant addition to the diabetes toolkit. Unlike sugar-free or low-glycemic foods that reduce carbs, Solveat claims to actively reduce blood sugar. Clinical studies are underway. Solveat is now working on integrating herbs into cookies, crackers and bread, and is doing research on other high-impact medical conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The company’s next product will be an immune booster made from functional ingredients, Peretz says. Flavor and Consistency Solveat will not make the finished products – for example, the chocolate from Ornat – but rather the herbal extract that manufacturers can add into their functional foods. It’s a business-to-business model, although Nudelman suggests that a “Solveat inside” label could happen. “It all depends on the partner,” he says. Peretz says that using chocolate is ironic for him. “This is what I was told not to eat! But if you make chocolate without using sugar and the right amount of cocoa, it’s healthy. We want to provide a diet for the consumer so that he or she can live a normal life and enjoy food. We all know that if the food is not delicious, you won’t consume it.” Solveat’s next criterion is consistency. “You can go online and buy herbs,” Nudelman tells ISRAEL21c, “but you get different herbs each time, depending on the time of year or when the herbs were harvested. You don’t have control. We make sure the product you get is reproducible, that it goes through an industrialization process, so that each time you consume the product, it’s the same with the correct chemical markers.” The herbs are sourced from China, but “the smart part of the processing is done in Israel,” says Peretz. Nudelman notes that, because Solveat makes functional foods rather than pharmaceuticals, it won’t require FDA or CE approval. “But if we don’t make it the right way, we’ll get a warning letter from the FDA. So, even though we can start without the FDA, if we don’t ensure quality, it’s not a viable business.” Solveat aims to launch its product commercially, in conjunction with Ornat Chocolates, by the end of 2022. Israel will serve as the pilot market. Solveat’s main competitor is the French company Valbiotis, which has a strategic partnership with Nestlé. Most of the big food conglomerates, including Pepsi, Unilever and Mars, are looking into how to get into the functional foods field, Peretz points out. Solveat, by contrast, is just getting started, with four people on staff full-time and offices still in the Trendlines incubator. It also is participating in the MassChallenge accelerator in Jerusalem. Peretz is, nevertheless, bullish on the company’s future. “We can’t claim we will be able to cure diabetes. This is not a drug. But we can claim to help maintain a healthy blood sugar level,” he says. For more information, click here To read the original article click here.

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