ASTRAGALI, Radix 黄芪 (Chinese: Huang Qi)

Size: 10 gm

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Astragali or Astragalus (Chinese: Huang qi; English: milk-vetch root) was called "the senior of all herbs" in the Essentials of the Materia Medica (1694AD). Tonifies the Spleen, Stomach, qi and blood and benefits the immune system. Research has shown it to lower blood pressure and increase endurance. This herb is considered one of the world's greatest immune tonics and in fact is the principal substance listed in the materia medica for stabilizing and strengthening the protective Qi (immune system). Combines well with Ginseng, Glycyrrhizae, Angelica Sinensis, Cinnamomi, or Paeoniae.

Notes: When Astragalus and Ginseng are combined, they complement each other. Astragalus contributes a quick, ascending quality, which stregthens the exterior and Ginseng prolongs the action, supporting the deeper areas of the body, and also nourishing and protecting the yin. This combination provides the foundation for many formulas, including Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan and Shi Quan Da Bu Wan. You can also combine Astragalus with Codonopsis for the same effects as Codonopsis is commonly used as a Ginseng substitute.

In one study on the prevention of common colds and influenza 540 patients were divided into two groups and received preventative treatment with astragalus. One group received five grams in pills three times a day and the other group received 15 grams of astragalus in tea form every other day. All patients had two courses of 10 days treatment with five days of rest in between courses. The study reported that patients in both groups had similar results. Both had 2.7  times lower risk of infection and a shortened duration of infection. (Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, p. 851)

 

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Packets can be taken singly or combined with other herbs to make a formula. Use one packet to four cups water. Drink 1-3 cups per day. Please consult Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, 3rd Ed. (see link below) for more information on the uses of individual herbs. We have many other books that give recipes for formulas that you can make with the Sanjiu herbs