Astragalus Root – China’s Premier Qi Tonic
Astragalus root ranks as one of the most potent health tonics in the world. Astragalus
membranaceus is used in traditional tonic herbalism to strengthen the
primary energy of the body and to strengthen all metabolic, respiratory and
eliminative functions. As an energizer, astragalus is famed for its strengthening
effects on the outside of the body, in particular to the musculature and skin.
Astragalus has long been considered a major tonic for athletes and those who work
hard physically. It helps relieve fatigue and is used by athletes around the world for
strength.
Most importantly, however, Astragalus is rated as one of the world’s premier
immune tonifying (regulating) substances, and is considered in the Orient as a
quintessential protective super tonic herb. Astragalus, like many of the major tonic
herbs, has a very complex constituent profile. Primarily, the active constituents of
astragalus consist of triterpene glycosides, polysaccharides and flavonoids. Astragalus
also contains numerous amino acids, trace elements and various other
components.
Hundreds of studies seem to support the potent immune modulating activities of astragalus root. It is routinely used in Asia to promote a
strong immune system. Astragalus also has significant anti-inflammatory action. Astragalus has also been show to improve male fertility by
improving sperm motility.
The primary active constituents of astragalus, the triterpene glycosides, are saponins similar to the saponins in ginseng, though all of the
astragalus saponins (triterpene glycosides) have their own chemical identities. One particular astragaloside found naturally in astragalus is
known as Astragaloside IV. This saponin has been determined to be the most active health-positive constituent in astragalus. It is believed that
Astragaloside IV may be able to help protect telomeres and to prevent their deterioration over time due to stress and toxicity. Telomeres are
chemical bindings at the end of our chromosomes that hold our DNA in place. Aging has been associated with the degeneration and loss of
telomeres. Astragaloside IV has also been found to be neuroprotective to brain cells.
Astragalus has long been considered a major tonic for athletes and those who work hard physically. It helps relieve fatigue and is used by
athletes around the world for strength.
The polysaccharides found in Astragalus are also extremely potent immune enhancers. These polysaccharides are similar to those found in
Maitake, Reishi mushroom and other immune enhancing herbs.
Dragon Herbs FITT™ Astragalus Granules make a tea that has true astragalus flavor and true astragalus actions.