Astragalus is an indigenous flowering plant that is endemic to China and Korea. As part of traditional Chinese treatment (TCM), its root plant, astragalus, is utilized as a tonic and an adaptogen. The roots are cut into slices and dried, then crushed into a powder, infusions as tea, or added to stock in stews. It is now known that it improves the immune system and helps to promote health and homeostasis for the body. Here are eight benefits that stand out as per scientific research:
1. Lowers Stress Levels
In Chinese medicine, Astragalus is considered the “earth” component. It's regarded as an adaptogen because it helps maintain homeostasis when responding to stressors and assists the body in adapting to stress.
To study the impact of Astragalus's effect on stress hormones, researchers studied dairy-producing cows under stress from heat. The impact of heat on milk production is usually reduced. Production in cows. However, astragalus was proven to reduce this effect by lowering cortisol -the primary hormone that causes an adrenaline response within the body.
In a study of mice, astragalus has been shown to combat behavioral and mental impairments due to stress. Astragalus-treated mice performed better at mazes, which researchers translate into better learning, spatial memory, and anxiety levels.
2. Helps Normalize Blood Sugar Levels
In a review of 13 studies of the effect of astragalus in people suffering from type 2 diabetes, it was found that astragalus reduces blood sugar levels when taken daily at approximately fifty mg. Astragalus is a popular anti-diabetic plant that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Modern studies have revealed many plant components like flavonoids and polysaccharides that make up astragalus and have been implicated in its impact on blood sugar. These compounds improve the sensitivity of insulin, assisting to regulate and regulate the levels of blood sugar.
3. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Atherosclerosis refers to the hardening of the arteries and also the accumulation of plaque, which can put the risk of suffering heart attacks. In a study published in Oxidative Medicine, there were also Cellular Longevity antioxidants present in astragalus that were able to stop the effects of atherosclerosis on rabbits. The study found that rabbits who received astragalus showed lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, indicating an increased risk of heart disease in only 12 weeks.
The effects of astragalus on heart patients are not available. However, animal studies suggest that it may have heart-protective properties that may aid in preventing cardiovascular diseases.
4. Fights Cancer
In human clinical trials, Astragalus was found to boost the anti-tumor effects of chemotherapy. Astragalus can reduce tumors and stop tumors from spreading into other body regions. Studies in the lab show that astragalus can fight cancer against lung cancers in humans, as well as breast cancer as well as colon cancer. One way astragalus can help is by increasing your immune system's protection against cancer cell growth. Astragalus' antioxidants may assist in preventing cancer by shielding organs and cells against damage caused by oxidation.
5. May Counter Chemotherapy Side Effects
In addition to protecting the body from cancer, astragalus can assist in reducing the negative side effects of chemotherapy medication. According to a study of multiple studies conducted on patients undergoing chemotherapy, astragalus's root can reduce nausea and vomiting compared to placebo.
6. Boosts Your Immune System
A natural adaptogen (also known as astragalus) may help boost a weak or weakened immune system. Stress, especially chronic stress, as well as the consumption of massive quantities of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol, could hinder immune function, making you more susceptible to flu, colds, and other illnesses. Astragalus root is believed to stimulate various immunity cells and their roles by causing lymphocytes to move throughout the body and fight off dangers more efficiently. While further research is needed, it is possible that taking supplements with astragalus can help prevent common colds by boosting immunity.
7. Supports Kidney Health
One of the main applications of astragalus in Chinese treatment is its ability to support kidney health. Astragalus root has been proven to help reduce proteinuria when there is too much protein in urine. The chronic kidney condition is defined as kidney damage that impairs kidney function. To remove waste. In a study involving people suffering from persistent kidney diseases, the supplementation of astragalus root was shown to enhance kidney function.
8. Protects Brain Health
Amyloid beta is a toxic substance that causes Alzheimer's and dementia as it accumulates within the brain. In a study of rats that were injected with amyloid beta, the group of rats also given astragalus roots was found to suffer less damage to the brain and signs of anxiety when as compared to the group that was not. While more human studies are required, astragalus may aid in treating neurological degeneration.
Astragalus Root Safety
Astragalus root-related side effects are uncommon. Possible side effects include rash, itching, and gastrointestinal discomfort. There is not enough information on the potential impact of astragalus on pregnant or nursing mothers, and they must be cautious about it. Patients suffering from an autoimmune disorder should be careful when using astragalus because it could trigger activation of the immune system.
Astragalus Benefits and Uses
There are a variety of reasons astragalus root has long been a cherished ingredient in TCM. It helps protect against ailments like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer's. It is an adaptogen that could aid in overcoming stress and improving immunity. Astragalus root can be obtained as tea, tincture, or capsules.
Be aware that it's crucial to talk with a healthcare professional prior to taking any supplement, particularly if you have an illness or condition that requires medical attention or are taking any medication.
