-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
herb
Astragalus membranaceus(Astragalus)
botanicals


definition

botanical name(s): Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus mongholicus
synonyms: Huang Qi, Milk Vetch Root
part(s) used: root
qualities: sweet, slightly warm
affinities: immune system, lungs
actions: adaptogen ; Qi tonic; diuretic; cardiotonic; vasodilatory; antibacterial
dosage:
» root: 9 - 30 grams
therapy: deep immune support; nephritis; respiratory infections; fatigue
toxicity: 1
» virtually no toxicity to this herb, even in large doses

contraindication: according to Chinese medical theory, since Astragalus raises the Yang, tonifies the Qi, and stabilizes the Exterior, it should not be used in case of Shi (Excess) Exterior, Qi Stagnation, Damp Obstruction, Food Stagnation, or Yin Xu (Deficiency) with Heat

constituents:
» large group of glycosides Astragalosides I VII, isoastragaloside I II, soyasaponin-I, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, beta sitosterol, betaine, choline
» pigment and sugars


footnotes

Bensky, D. and Gamble, A. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Seattle, WA: Eastland Press, 1986,p 319.

Hsu, HY, Chen, YP, et al. Oriental Materia Medica: a Concise Guide. Long Beach, CA: Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1986, p 522.

Phamacopoeia of the People Republic of China. English Edition. Hong Kong: China Phamaceutical Books, 1988; p 109.