I was watching a doctor on Larry King the other night.   He was talking about the over use of TamiFlu and the possibility of  H1N1 and other flu’s becoming resistant to that over use.  He suggested an ancient Chinese root instead.   He also stated that this root, which has been known to the Chinese for a few thousand years is great for many afflictions and the immune system!  Intrigued, I started researching it.  It does appear to be truly a good thing! (note: this post taken from my Wellness Blog - I just thought it was worth repeating)

photo taken from sciencedaily.com

Also known by: milk vetch, huang qi, huang ch’, radix astragali, goat’s horn, green dragon, locoweed

Scientific/medical name: Astragalus membranaceus

For more than 2,000 years, Chinese herbalists recommend astragalus root to build energy and the immune system. The most commonly used herb in China today, it is said that astragalus helps to resist diverse diseases including cancer, heart disease, liver and kidney problems, and infections.  Studies by the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute as well as 5 other cancer institutes…indicate that astragalus actually helps build the immune system during chemotherapy.   (It is not a CURE for cancer!   It has NOT been found to attack cancer cells!)

What is is commonly used for?

Strengthens the immune system
Improves digestion
Gives you energy and endurance
It’s an antibacterial
Improves white blood count
Prevention of heart disease
Treatment of fibromyalgia
Treatment of diabetes
Stimulates the spleen, liver urinary and circulatory systems
Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure
Treatment of arthritis

Is there evidence that it works?

YES!  And…it’s scientific evidence! Astragalus enhances the immune system and fights diseases, including cancer and heart disease, and colds and flu!   Researchers at The  Anderson Cancer Center (U of TX) found that astragalus extract enhanced the cell-destroying ability of the conventional immunotherapy treatment interleukin-2 by improving the immune system’s response. They also tested it in test tubes, and found that it partly restored the immune function of cells.  It also stimulates the production of interferons, (produced by the body as part of the normal defense mechanism) against colds, sinusitis, flu, upper respiratory and viral infections.

In 2006 there was a review of the most reliable studies of the root pertaining to lung cancers.   Evidence was found that astragalus enhances the effects of some chemotherapy drugs and boosted the immune system in cancer patients.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

(from the American Cancer Society):
Astragalus is generally considered safe. Reported side effects include abdominal bloating, loose stools, low blood pressure, and dehydration. People with autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus) or people taking immune suppressing medicines (such as corticosteroids or cyclosporin) should talk to their doctors before taking this herb. There is some concern that astragalus might interfere with blood clotting, so some doctors recommend it should not be taken before surgery or in people taking aspirin-like drugs or blood-thinning medicines. It may also affect blood pressure in some, so those taking blood pressure medicines may need to be monitored by their physicians. There have also been reports of lowered blood sugar, which could be dangerous for those with diabetes or hypoglycemia.

Don’t use if you have an immune system disease like MS, Lupus or Rheumatoid Arthritis or anything considered an autoimmune disease.

Don’t use if you are pregnant or nursing.
Always check with your doctor before using herbs/supplements and with your pharmacist if you are taking any medications.

How can you take it?

You can boil four ounces of the whole root in a quart of water for 10 minutes, let steep, strain and drink as tea.  (2-4 cups a day) *don’t take the tea if you have a fever.

Swallow it in pill form available at your local health food store.