7 Best Benefits Of Astragalus Membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus, also known as Huang Qi, is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has been used for centuries to promote overall health and well-being.
The bioactive compounds present in this plant, including flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, are responsible for its numerous benefits.
Astragalus membranaceus has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, suppress inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, and reduce oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals.
By incorporating Astragalus membranaceus into one's diet or supplement routine, individuals can potentially experience enhanced immune function, reduced inflammation, and improved overall health.
Featured Study
According to Chinese journal of biotechnology, Astragalus membranaceus, the aqueous extract of its hairy roots produced by large-scale culture has the capacity to increase the immunity function of rats with low immunity, similar to the dry roots of A. membranaceus.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Astragalus membranaceus.
Table of Contents
1. Boosts immune system
Astragalus membranaceus boosts immune system by enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms against pathogens and infections, thereby reducing the risk of illnesses and diseases.
This benefit is crucial as a strong immune system helps to prevent and recover from various health conditions such as the common cold, flu, and other infectious diseases, and also plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being.
The plant's ability to boost the immune system can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including isoflavones, saponins, and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to stimulate the immune system and protect against oxidative stress.
To harness the immune-boosting properties of Astragalus membranaceus, it is best used in herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or teas, which can be consumed daily to support immune function and overall health, and can also be combined with other herbs or supplements to enhance its effects.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Tea extract
- Extract powder
- Immune boost tablets
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Boosts immune system.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Common cold, influenza, malaria |
| Astragaloside i | Tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchitis |
| Flavonoids | Fever, diarrhea, gastroenteritis |
2. Suppresses inflammation
Astragalus membranaceus suppresses inflammation, which refers to the reduction of redness, swelling, and pain that occurs in the body as a result of injury or disease.
This benefit is important because chronic inflammation is associated with various health conditions, such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, and can lead to tissue damage and organ dysfunction.
The plant's anti-inflammatory properties can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Astragalus membranaceus, it can be consumed as a herbal tea, capsule, or tincture, typically in doses of 10-20 grams per day, although it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment for any medical condition.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tincture
- Tea
- Infusion
- Decoction
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Suppresses inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Arthritis, rheumatism, gout |
| Saponin | Inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, eczema |
| Polysaccharide | Asthma, allergies, anaphylaxis |
3. Reduces oxidative stress
Astragalus membranaceus reduces oxidative stress, which refers to the imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them, leading to cell damage and contributing to various diseases.
This benefit is important because oxidative stress can cause inflammation, DNA damage, and even cell death, which can contribute to chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases, and may also accelerate the aging process.
The astragalus membranaceus plant has been found to possess bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, which are responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, allowing it to counteract oxidative stress.
To harness the benefits of astragalus membranaceus in reducing oxidative stress, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or tinctures, and to combine it with other antioxidant-rich herbs to maximize its effects.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Capsules
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces oxidative stress.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside i | Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, neuropathy |
| Astragaloside ii | Alzheimer's disease, parkinson's disease, stroke |
| Astragaloside iv | Cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension |
| Astragaloside vi | Aging skin, cancer, osteoporosis |
| Saponin | Cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease |
4. Fights off viruses
Astragalus membranaceus fights off viruses by possessing antiviral properties, which enable it to inhibit the replication and spread of viral pathogens.
This benefit is crucial as viruses can cause a wide range of diseases, from the common cold to severe conditions like HIV and Ebola, and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
The plant's antiviral properties are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, which have been shown to interfere with viral replication and induce immune responses.
To harness the antiviral benefits of Astragalus membranaceus, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, and tinctures, which can be consumed as a supplement to support immune function and prevent viral infections.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tincture
- Infusion tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Fights off viruses.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Herpes simplex, influenza, hiv |
| Astragaloside i | Adenovirus, rotavirus, enterovirus |
| Friedelin | Common cold, respiratory tract infections, sinusitis |
5. Improves cardiovascular health
Astragalus membranaceus improves cardiovascular health by enhancing the body's ability to regulate blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This benefit is crucial because cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and improved cardiovascular health can reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular-related conditions.
The astragalus membranaceus plant has this benefit due to its rich content of bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the cardiovascular system.
To reap the cardiovascular benefits of astragalus membranaceus, it is best to consume it in the form of herbal preparations such as capsules, tablets, or tea, typically in doses of 6-12 grams per day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Extract capsules
- Tea
- Powder
- Infusion
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves cardiovascular health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, angina pectoris |
| Astragaloside i | Cardiac fibrosis, heart failure, myocardial infarction |
| Isolated astragaloside vi | Cardiotoxicity, vasospasm, cardiac hypertrophy |
| Isolated astragaloside viii | Cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac fibrosis, cardiac hypertrophy |
6. Has anti-inflammatory effects
Astragalus membranaceus has anti-inflammatory effects, which refer to the plant's ability to reduce or prevent inflammation in the body, a condition characterized by redness, swelling, and pain in affected areas.
This benefit is crucial, as excessive inflammation can lead to chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which can significantly impact quality of life and increase healthcare costs.
For instance, inflammation is a major contributor to the development of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where inflammation causes joint pain and stiffness, and atherosclerosis, where inflammation contributes to the buildup of plaque in arteries.
The anti-inflammatory effects of Astragalus membranaceus are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, which have been shown to modulate immune responses and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines.
These constituents work synergistically to provide the plant's anti-inflammatory effects, making it a promising natural remedy for various inflammatory conditions.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Astragalus membranaceus, it is best used in herbal preparations such as decoctions, infusions, or capsules, which can be taken orally to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tincture
- Infusion tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Has anti-inflammatory effects.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Arthritis, gout, rheumatism |
| Isomongroside | Inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis |
| Astragaloside i | Asthma, bronchitis, psoriasis |
7. Lowers blood pressure
Astragalus membranaceus lowers blood pressure by reducing the force of blood against the walls of the arteries, which can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, strokes, and kidney damage.
This benefit is crucial as high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, including increased risk of heart attack, kidney failure, and vision loss, making it essential to manage and control blood pressure levels.
The plant's ability to lower blood pressure is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including isoflavones, saponins, and flavonoids, which have been shown to have vasodilatory and antioxidant effects.
To utilize Astragalus membranaceus for its blood pressure-lowering benefits, it is recommended to consume it in the form of herbal teas, capsules, or tinctures, or as a component of traditional Chinese medicinal formulas, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tea
- Tincture
- Infused oil
- Decoction
The following table displays the major constituents of Astragalus membranaceus and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Astragaloside iv | Hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis |
| Isoliquiritigenin | Hypertensive crisis, atherosclerosis, cardiac failure |
| Formononetin | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction |