Origin
This plant is a perennial legume widespread in the temperate areas of the northern hemisphere and its flowers have a shape similar to that of our heels from which it takes the name of the bone present in them.
In China it is called huang qi, which means “enhancer of qi” orvital energy.
Bioactive principles
The main components of astragalus are polysaccharides (astragalanes I-IV), triterpene saponins (astragalosides I-VII) and flavonoids (isoflavones, isolates and pterocarpans). The polysaccharides and only partially the saponins are responsible for the pharmacological actions of astragalus.
Therapeutic properties
In China it is used as tonic and to increase the body’s defenses.
Most pharmacological studies have focused on the immunostimulating properties of the polysaccharide fraction.
Mechanism of action
It is believed that astragalus can stimulate the immune system through the increase of stem cells in the bone marrow and lymphatic tissues, stimulate macrophages, enhance the effect of interferon and certain cytokines such as IL-2 and activate T lymphocytes.
Tolerability
Astragalus is a safe drug.
In clinical studies, no undesirable effects or interactions were reported.