When it’s far too late for preventions and the virus is already trying to batter down your immune system; then its time to reach for astragalus

This herb which hails from China is your best friend when you are up against colds, flu’s or indeed anything which falls into the category of ‘virus’.

It tastes like a real ‘tough guy’ medicine but when you get it down in a little water or juice you know the ‘champ’ has entered the ring - and it is on your side. It combines brilliantly with Ester C from Solgar for heavy duty “bad doses”.

50ml bottle €11.99

Buy 1 get 1 Free offer now on in our shop!!!

What is Astragalus?

Other names: Astragalus membranaceous, Huang Qi, Bei Qi, Hwanggi, Milk Vetch

Astragalus is a plant native to Asia. The Chinese name of the herb, huang qi, means "yellow leader", because the root is yellow and it is considered to be one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. The part of the plant used medicinally is the root.

In traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is usually made into a decoction - the roots are boiled in water then removed. It's often combined with other herbs, such as ginseng. Astragalus can also be found in supplement form at some health food stores.

Why Do People Use Astragalus

Astragalus is used in traditional Chinese medicine for night sweats, diarrhea and for energy tonics that are taken daily at certain times of the year.

Heart Disease
Astragalus is also used for various heart conditions. It may have a diuretic effect which would lower blood pressure and it may cause blood vessels to relax. It hasn't been explored in human studies, so it shouldn't be used as a replacement for conventional care.

Side Effects and Safety Concerns

People with autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus shouldn't use astragalus unless recommended by a qualified healthcare practitioner. People who have had transplant surgery should not use astragalus.

The safety of astragalus in pregnant or nursing women or children isn't known.

Possible Interactions

Astragalus may interfere with the effectiveness of corticosteroid medications, such as:

Nasacort (triamcinolone)

Beconase, Vancenase (beclomethasone)

Decadron (dexamethasone)

Deltasone (prednisone)

hydrocortisone

Medrol (methylprednisolone)

prednisolone

Astragalus may decrease the effectiveness of drugs that suppress the immune system, such as Imuran (azathioprine), CellCept, cyclosporine, Prograf, Rapamune and Zenapak.

Theoretically, astragalus can increase the effectiveness of antiviral medications such as acyclovir and amantadine