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Astragalus

Astragalus is a native plant to areas of Northern China and Mongolia and has over 2,000 varieties. Traditional Chinese medicine has used this herb because it possesses the ability to enhance the immune system and stimulate forces of chi (life forces), which might include energy and peace.

 

Claimed Health Benefits

 

Food Sources

None

 


Dosage

500 mg per day is recommended

 

Evidence for Health Beliefs

One study done on cancer patients showed signs of astragalus boosting the quantity of immune cells in the body. This study lends evidence to the possibility that astragalus might work with chemotherapy to stimulate the immune system.
Animal studies have shown that astragalus helps protect against the influenza virus. This could be due to the herb’s ability to boost white blood cell activity.

 

Caution

Taking doses above the amount recommended could result in stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

 

References

1. SupplementWatch, Inc. (2002) Supplement Decisions Made Easy. http://www.supplementwatch.com/supatoz/supplement.asp?supplementId=27 Accessed May 7, 2003.