Shining Waters Blog

Astragalus (Huang Qi) One of the Superstars of Chinese Herbal Medicine

We've all seen it amidst the endless variety of exotic looking products at the Chinese herbal stores, it looks like a tongue depressor and is sold by the bagful, astragalus (huang qi) is one of the most widely used Chinese medicinal herbs,and has been for thousands of years.
It is one of my personal favorites and is included in many traditional herbal formulas still used today.
The global concern over H1N1 has made most of us hyper aware of our need to ensure our immunity is as strong as possible and many people are turning to holistic medicine for natural immune enhancers to give them an extra boost without the side effects associated with some western medical treatments.
With its long history and recognition as a complete medical system, Chinese traditional medicine (TCM) continues to help people reach and maintain their health goals.
When it comes to boosting the immune systems, few herbs receive as much attention as astragalus. In in western herbalism it is know as an adaptogen (a substance that increases the body's resistance to stress, trauma, anxiety and fatigue), immune enhancer, anti-inflammatory as well as reducing blood sugar and benefiting the endocrine system.
In Chinese medicine, astragalus is used to tonify lung qi and wei qi among other functions.
The lung in TCM is also connected to the respiratory tract, the the skin and is therefor a key organ in protecting us from exterior pathogens. Wei qi is the qi that circulates at the surface of the body and is considered our first line of defense against exterior pathogens.
Considering these to properties, it is no wonder that astragalus has been used extensively in formulas to strengthen the systems of individuals who frequently catch colds and flu.
Astragalus is a qi tonic and therefor should be taken when one is healthy, as a prophylactic, and is rarely used if a patient is already manifesting symptoms of colds or flu. As with all Chinese herbs it is best taken in a formula prescribed by a qualified practitioner that is custom made for each patient.
Other notable functions of astragalus include: tonifies the spleen, raises qi (for conditions such as prolapse),stabilizes the exterior (to stop excessive sweating due to deficiency), promotes urination to reduce edema and promotes the discharge of pus and generates flesh (for sores and ulcerations the won't drain).