Astralagus, a versatile Chinese tonic

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Astralagus, a versatile Chinese tonic

 

 

 

 

BY DEBBE GEIGER

 

March 2, 2004

 

THE PRODUCT AND WHAT IT'S MARKETED FOR: Astragalus, also known as milk-vetch or

locoweed, is a plant that's been used frequently in traditional Chinese medicine

for more than 2,000 years. Astragalus is considered a tonic for general

weakness, chronic illnesses and to increase overall vitality.

 

Herbal product Web sites tout its ability to boost energy levels by replenishing

a person's " qi, " or energy. Chinese herbalists say it can treat many conditions,

but its biggest claim to fame is for immune-system-stimulating properties. As

such, it's a common remedy for people whose immune systems are compromised,

whether they have the common cold, AIDS or cancer.

 

Available as a dried root, liquid extract, tablets or powdered root, astragalus

is sometimes called yellow leader because of the color of its root. According to

Michelle Iona of Port Jefferson, a licensed acupuncturist who uses Chinese herbs

in her practice , " It is often used as part of a formula, which means it is

combined with other herbs. " The average dose varies between 9 and 30 grams. " If

used as the chief herb in a formula, the dose would be higher than if it was an

assistant herb, " she said.

 

Reports mention the use of astragalus as a treatment for many ailments,

including postpartum fever, severe blood loss, prolapse of the uterus, stomach

and rectum, palpitations and shortness of breath, fatigue and chronic diarrhea.

It has been used topically on wounds to speed healing, according to Iona.

Current studies are looking at its use in cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Research reviews indicate astragalus may improve the body's ability to fight

bacteria, viruses and inflammation.

 

WHAT IS KNOWN: Astragalus grows naturally in China, Korea and Japan as well as

in Washington's Olympic Mountains, according to Corinne Furnari, a clinical

nutritionist and physician assistant at the Olive Leaf Wholeness Center in

Manhattan.

 

Furnari says astragalus " is an extensively researched herb. " Most of the studies

performed in humans and animals and mentioned in medical reviews were performed

in China. Many look at the role of the plant's active compounds, including

flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides.

 

A large portion of the research focuses on the herb as a boost to the immune

system. Last year, Alternative Medicine Review reported that milk-vetch root

" stimulates the immune system by increasing the number of stem cells in bone

marrow and lymph tissue, triggering immune cells to a heightened state. "

 

Dr. Jay Udani, medical director of the Integrative Medicine Program at

Northridge Hospital in Los Angeles, uses astragalus as an adjunct to

chemotherapy in cancer patients. " If someone is on chemotherapy and has a drop

in their white blood cell count to the point where it could threaten their

ability to remain on chemotherapy, that's when I'll use astragalus. It's been

shown that it might potentiate the effects of interferon, a signaling agent

which causes white blood cells to either multiply or move to certain areas. "

 

As a general immune system booster, astragalus is often cited as a way to

protect against colds and flus. Furnari says she often prescribes it to her

patients and says, " People seem to feel better on it. It's very effective for

acute viruses. " A Chinese study of 1,000 patients showed that astragalus has a

prophylactic effect against colds and upper respiratory infections.

 

The saponins in astragalus have been said to improve heart function and may

decrease blood clotting. Alternative Medicine Review cited a study in which 15

of 19 patients with congestive heart failure reported alleviation of chest pain

and shortness of breath. Furnari says studies also indicate astragalus may

protect heart tissue and help the heart pump stronger.

 

Iona says astragalus can act as a diuretic. " It promotes urination, so it

reduces edema, " she says. Another Chinese study reported in Alternative Medicine

Review demonstrated that milk- vetch root has " a moderate diuretic action. " It

cited a study in which patients with kidney dysfunction were given a combination

including milk-vetch root and a high-protein diet. They experienced improvement

in serum protein concentrations.

 

THE BOTTOM LINE: Although Udani has heard of astragalus' use for other

conditions, " I have not seen the data, " he says. " I limit my use of astragalus

for people who have cancer and low white blood cell counts. "

 

There are no known side effects of astragalus, although Udani says people should

use it as an immune booster with caution. The " use of astragalus and other

immuno-stimulatory herbs may in fact suppress the immune system when used in

high doses or for too long a period of time, " he said.

 

Although there are no known drug interactions, experts advise against taking

astragalus if you are on blood-thinning medications like Coumadin. " It acts as a

mild anti-coagulant, " says Furnari.

 

ALTERNATIVES: While Iona prescribes astragalus to her patients, she cautions

people against using it without the supervision of a licensed practitioner.

" Herbs, when taken properly, are a wonderful thing. However, most consumers are

not aware of the herb's properties and whether it is good for their particular

condition. It is important to be aware of the cautions and contraindications

associated with any herb before taking it. An herb that works well for one may

be harmful to another. "

 

Debbe Geiger is a freelance writer.

 

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