Long Tern Immmune Support*

This traditional Chinese herb has been supporting many of the body’s natural defense systems for over 3,000 years. Astragalus offers deep immune support, yet it’s gentle enough to take for long periods of time.

Astragalus has been used for the following:

• Adaptogen. Protects the body from stress and disease.

• Anemia. One early study suggested astragalus may improve blood counts in people with aplastic anemia. The study was poorly designed, so more research is needed.

• Colds and influenza. In TCM, astragalus is used as part of an herbal combination to prevent or treat colds, although TCM theory holds that, in some cases, it may make colds worse. Evidence in animal and laboratory tests suggests it may act against viruses like the ones that cause colds.

• Diabetes. Astragalus appears to lower blood sugar. More studies are needed to determine whether it can help treat diabetes.

• Fatigue or lack of appetite from chemotherapy. Some studies suggest astragalus may help reduce side effects from chemotherapy. The studies have not been well designed, however. More research is needed.

• Heart disease. Several studies suggest that astragalus may act as an antioxidant. Also aids in the assistance of lowering cholesterol.

• Hepatitis. A few studies have used a combination of herbs containing astragalus to treat hepatitis. Results have been mixed.

• Kidney disease. Preliminary research suggests astragalus may help protect the kidneys and may help treat kidney disease. More studies are needed.

• Seasonal allergies. One study found that astragalus may help reduce symptoms in people who have allergic rhinitis or hayfever.

• Cancer. Preliminary studies suggest astragalus may have anti-tumor effects, specifically against melanoma and leukemia.