The Side Effects of Astragalus

In his treatise, the ancient father of Chinese agriculture, Shen Nung Pen Tsao Ching, praised astragalus as a superior herb. The Chinese name given to the herb, "huang qi," means, "yellow leader," because of the yellow color of the plant's root and the reputation it holds as one of the most potent and beneficial herbs. Traditionally, astragalus was used by the Chinese for night sweats, diarrhea and malaise. Over the years other favorable properties associated with the herb have been acknowledged, and astragalus is now used to treat or prevent a multitude of health-related conditions.

History

Through the ages, the inhabitants of northeastern China, Korea and Mongolia have used the roots of the astragalus membranaceus to relieve fatigue and to strengthen the body's immune system. In its native environment, astragalus was often combined with other herbs such as ginseng, echinacea and codonopsis to make teas, powders and foods. It was not unusual for people to make tonics from the herbs by adding several roots to a pint or two of water and simmering the mixture for 25 to 40 minutes.

Identification

Astragalus membranaceus, also known as milk vetch and huang-qi (yellow leader), is a bright yellow legume that grows in high latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. The plant is slender and sturdy and has the potential to reach nearly three feet in height. The plant is usually harvested in the fall, after which time the roots are cut and then dried. Astragalus is non-toxic and tastes both bitter and slightly sweet. Because it is a vasodilator, there may be a sense of warming throughout the body when consuming drinks or foods that contain Astragalus.

Significance

For thousands of years, Chinese herbalists have used the root of the astragalus plant to generally defend the body against disease and fatigue. In addition to the protective influence astragalus has on the vital organs and immune system, it is believed that the herb's benefits extend to the sinuses, digestive and circulatory systems, as well as to the adrenals and skin. In addition, astragalus may protect the liver and other organs from the effects of toxic drugs used during chemotherapy treatments.

Side Effects

Astragalus is unlikely to cause negative side effects when taken in low to moderate dosages of up to 2 grams a day if taking capsules and up to 30 grams daily if dry roots are used. Side effects, if any, may include feelings of warmth, abdominal fullness, blood pressure changes, loose bowel movements and dehydration. If astragalus is taken with other herbal products, prescription medicines or even over-the-counter preparations, the chance of experiencing side effects may increase. Under those circumstances, the side effects might involve diarrhea, heart palpitations and frequent urination.

Warning

Pregnant women should consult their doctors before taking astragalus or giving it to children. It is also advisable to contact a physician if any of the following symptoms arise while taking astragalus: chest pain, breathing difficulties, throat constriction or tightness, itching, a rash or hives and any unusual bleeding, including nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums. Some of these symptoms may be signs of allergy to the herbal product.

Resources

• Astragalus
• Herbal Preparations and Traditional Therapies