An herb entry from the Ancient Herbs and Modern Herbs book by James K. Sayre, Copyright, 2001. All rights reserved.

Astragalus - Astragalus membranaceus - family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae) (Mimosaceae) (Pea Family) (Pulse Family) (Mimosa Family).

This perennial plant grows to about sixteen inches high. It has compound leaves with many pairs of leaflets. It has yellow pea-like flowers, which are followed by hanging pods, which contain the seeds. Its roots are one of the more better known of the Traditional Chinese Medicinal herbs, which is called Huang Qi. Traditional use of roots as a Chinese remedy for kidney problems, diabetes, poor circulation and allergies. Modern Japanese (Kampo) use of roots in the medical treatment of some cancers. Leaves are currently used internally in North America as a remedy for allergies, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, cancer support, chronic fatigue syndrome, colds, cold sores, diabetes-related problems, flu, genital herpes, hay fever, immune system support, urinary tract infections, male infertility and the possible prevention of cancer. It is also used as a tonic for endurance and for treating the common cold. Note: do not ingest if you suffer from fever or skin infections. Native to China and eastern Asia.

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Web page last updated on 20 May 2003.