Astragalus: The Modern Value of an Ancient Herb - plant-based comfort foods for newcomers

Astragalus: The Modern Value of an Ancient HerbAstragalus, an ancient Chinese herb with a history spanning 2,000 years, is hailed as the "Holy Herb of Qi-tonifying" and enjoys a prestigious reputation in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Its value has been consistently recognized by TCM practitioners, from its inclusion as a superior herb in the ancient text "Shen Nong's Herbal Classic" to its use for various ailments by renowned ancient physician Zhang Zhongjing, and its emphasis by Li Dongyuan on its importance in strengthening the body

Astragalus: The Modern Value of an Ancient Herb

Astragalus, an ancient Chinese herb with a history spanning 2,000 years, is hailed as the "Holy Herb of Qi-tonifying" and enjoys a prestigious reputation in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Its value has been consistently recognized by TCM practitioners, from its inclusion as a superior herb in the ancient text "Shen Nong's Herbal Classic" to its use for various ailments by renowned ancient physician Zhang Zhongjing, and its emphasis by Li Dongyuan on its importance in strengthening the body. However, in contemporary society, Astragalus's value transcends traditional medicine, gradually gaining recognition from modern individuals and showcasing its unique benefits in health and wellness. So why do TCM practitioners place such high regard on Astragalus? What are the specific benefits of brewing Astragalus for consumption?

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I. Astragalus: Favored by Ancient Physicians and Modern Wellness

Astragalus, this miraculous herb, has not only been venerated by ancient medical practitioners but also earned the recognition of the modern medical community and esteemed TCM masters.

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1. Favored by Ancient Physicians

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• "Shen Nong's Herbal Classic" classified Astragalus as a superior herb, attributing it with the ability to treat a multitude of ailments.

• Zhang Zhongjing, a prominent medical expert during the late Han Dynasty, frequently referenced Astragalus in his treatise "Treatise on Cold Damage and Miscellaneous Diseases," emphasizing its role in fortifying the body, promoting circulation, and providing protective benefits.

• Li Dongyuan, a renowned medical practitioner during the Jin and Yuan dynasties, asserted in his "Theory of the Spleen and Stomach" that "Strong stomach qi equates to strong individuals," highlighting the crucial role of Astragalus in nourishing the stomach qi.

2. Endorsed by TCM Masters

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TCM Master Li Jiren, a towering figure in the field of Chinese medicine, incorporates Astragalus as an essential ingredient in his daily herbal tea blend to manage his "three highs" (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar).

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3. Findings from Modern Research

Contemporary medical research has corroborated the various benefits attributed to Astragalus, including:

• Boosting Immunity: The polysaccharides present in Astragalus enhance the body's immune function, invigorate immune cells, and strengthen the body's resistance to diseases.

• Improving Cardiovascular Health: Astragalus's natural constituents safeguard heart cells, minimize damage, enhance cardiovascular function, and contribute to blood pressure regulation.

• Lowering Blood Sugar: Brewing Astragalus can aid in reducing blood sugar levels, making it a beneficial adjunct for individuals with diabetes.

II. 5 Amazing Benefits of Brewing Astragalus

Brewing Astragalus is a simple and convenient practice that yields numerous benefits. Let's unveil the five remarkable benefits of this wondrous herb:

1. Nourishing Vital Energy:

Astragalus is revered as the "Holy Herb of Qi-tonifying," effectively replenishing the body's vital energy, particularly suitable for individuals with a Qi deficiency. Such individuals often exhibit symptoms like fatigue, susceptibility to colds, pale complexion, and shortness of breath. Consuming Astragalus tea can effectively alleviate these symptoms and bolster the body's resilience.

2. Protecting Cardiovascular Health:

Astragalus contains an array of natural components, including Astragalus polysaccharides and flavonoids. These constituents protect heart cells from damage, enhance heart contractility, improve blood circulation, and prevent blood clot formation. For individuals with cardiovascular conditions, moderate consumption of Astragalus tea can serve as a supportive treatment, contributing to the prevention of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Lowering Blood Sugar:

Brewing Astragalus can aid in lowering blood sugar levels, making it a valuable adjunct for individuals with diabetes. It enhances the body's sensitivity to insulin, facilitating more effective blood sugar management and preventing diabetes complications.

4. Strengthening Immunity:

Astragalus contains polysaccharides that invigorate immune cells, enhancing the body's immune function. For individuals who frequently experience fatigue, susceptibility to colds, and Qi deficiency, Astragalus tea acts as a natural immune modulator, bolstering the body's resistance and reducing the incidence of illnesses.

5. Reducing Swelling:

Astragalus possesses diuretic and anti-swelling properties, effectively eliminating excess fluid from the body and alleviating swelling. Many individuals have noticed a reduction in weight after consuming Astragalus tea, which can be attributed to its diuretic and anti-swelling effects.

III. Precautions for Brewing Astragalus: Excess Can Be Detrimental

While Astragalus offers numerous benefits, it's not suitable for everyone, and excessive consumption can lead to adverse consequences.

1. Potential for Heatiness:

Astragalus is warm in nature. Excessive consumption can lead to an excess of internal heat, resulting in symptoms like thirst, canker sores, dry mouth, and constipation.

2. Digestive Discomfort:

Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting, after consuming Astragalus tea. This is because Astragalus tea can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, particularly for those with weak spleen and stomach. Moderate consumption is advised for these individuals.

3. Kidney Strain:

Long-term and excessive consumption can strain the liver and kidneys. For individuals with impaired liver or kidney function, it could worsen the condition and lead to abnormal liver and kidney function.

4. Allergic Reactions:

Individuals with specific sensitivities might experience allergic reactions to Astragalus constituents, manifesting as skin itching, rash, and respiratory distress. If such symptoms arise, immediately cease consumption and seek medical attention.

5. Impaired Cerebral Blood Supply:

In rare cases, prolonged and excessive consumption of Astragalus tea can affect cerebral blood supply, leading to dizziness, blurred vision, and memory impairment. Individuals with pre-existing cerebrovascular diseases should exercise caution and consume Astragalus in moderation.

IV. Individuals Who Should Avoid Brewing Astragalus

Beyond the potential side effects, it's essential to consider individual suitability. The following individuals should avoid frequent consumption of Astragalus tea:

• Pregnant women: Astragalus is warm in nature, and excessive consumption during pregnancy can potentially cause fetal restlessness, premature birth, and other complications.

• Women during menstruation: Women during menstruation should also avoid Astragalus tea as it possesses blood-activating properties that could lead to increased menstrual flow.

• Individuals with excessive liver fire: Individuals with excessive liver fire will experience intensified symptoms after consuming Astragalus, such as dry mouth, sore eyes, and irritability.

• Individuals with kidney disease: Consumption of Astragalus tea could potentially strain kidney function in individuals with kidney disease, hampering recovery.

• Individuals with high blood pressure: Astragalus has blood pressure-elevating effects. Individuals with hypertension should exercise caution, as excessive consumption could exacerbate their condition.

V. The Right Way to Brew Astragalus

To harness the benefits of Astragalus effectively, experts provide three helpful tips:

1. Selection: Prioritize High-Quality Astragalus

Quality Astragalus emits a distinct aroma reminiscent of soybeans, with a brown exterior and a yellow interior. When chewed, it exhibits a subtle sweetness.

2. Preparation: Combine With 5 Types of Herbs for Enhanced Effects

Combining Astragalus with other herbs not only amplifies its restorative properties but also unlocks additional therapeutic benefits:

• Astragalus + Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen): This combination is beneficial for chest tightness and palpitations, promoting blood circulation and combating blood clots. It's suitable for supportive treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

• Astragalus + Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita): The gentle restorative nature of Chinese yam synergizes with Astragalus in lowering blood sugar, replenishing Qi, and stopping bleeding. It also promotes wound healing.

• Astragalus + Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica): Honeysuckle clears heat and detoxifies, and its combination with Astragalus is effective in treating chronic kidney diseases and skin itching.

• Astragalus + Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida): Hawthorn aids digestion, and its combination with Astragalus nourishes the spleen and stomach while promoting blood circulation.

• Astragalus + American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): American ginseng replenishes Qi and nourishes Yin. The combination enhances restorative effects and alleviates Yin deficiency and excessive heat.

3. Consumption: Moderation Is Key

Generally, 5 to 10 grams of Astragalus per serving is considered optimal. Exceeding this amount can lead to heatiness.

VI. Conclusion

Astragalus, this ancient herb, continues to play a vital role in modern society. It not only offers Qi-tonifying and longevity benefits but also aids in improving cardiovascular health, lowering blood sugar, and boosting immunity. It's crucial to remember that Astragalus is not a cure-all. When consuming Astragalus tea, prioritize high-quality Astragalus, adjust consumption based on individual needs, and avoid excessive intake. This approach maximizes Astragalus's benefits and promotes overall well-being.

References:

• [1] "Today's Health Prescriptions | Winter Wellness with Astragalus Tea for Qi Deficiency." Yangcheng Evening News, Lingnan Famous Physicians, November 29, 2022

• [2] "Preserving Stomach Health | The Simplest Way to Nourish the Spleen and Stomach: Use This to Brew Tea." Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, December 27, 2019

• [3] "Laypeople Consume Ginseng, Professionals Consume Astragalus | Astragalus Tea Offers Multiple Benefits, but These 5 Types of People Should Avoid It