Astragalus Root For A Healthier Immune System

Astragalus Root For A Healthier Immune System

Astragalus root is not a commonly mentioned herb when we speak of pursuing immune health, however, it has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Astragalus also referred to as milk vetch or Huang qi is a hairy-stemmed type of bean or legume that comes from the Astragalus membranaceus plant which is native to China. The plant is known to grow year-round and has more than 2,000 species (Group, 2018).

Astragalus is noted for some of its direct impacts on the immune system, but most of the immunity benefits it offers are indirect. By working on or strengthening other parts and systems of the body, the immune system is subsequently improved and able to function optimally.

Stress Reduction

Astragalus root is an adaptogen, which can help the body better adapt to different types of stress or physical changes. Studies have shown that consistent use of astragalus root aided in the reduction of the effects of stress by encouraging balanced levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

This is an advantage for the immune system because cortisol is shown to drastically decrease the effectiveness of the immune system by weakening it. Thus, better stress management means a stronger immune system that is better able to ward off pathogens and illnesses (Group, 2018).

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Kidney Function

There is research to suggest that astragalus root extract may help increase hemoglobin in red blood cells and decrease protein in the urine. Studies seem to show that the herb provides nutrients that support normal kidney function, which is essential because the kidneys are vital for carrying waste products out of the body.

The kidneys and the immune system are linked in the sense that kidneys contribute to immune homeostasis. If the kidneys are not properly carrying waste products out of the body via urine then the immune system can become unstable and thrown off, thereby becoming less effective (Tecklenborg, Clayton, Siebert, & Coley, 2018).

Decreased Risk of Infection

Over the years there have been various studies that seem to suggest that adding astragalus root as a supplement or into the diet is linked to a decreased risk of certain types of infections. A 2012 research review found that taking astragalus granules was potentially associated with a lower risk of infection in children with nephrotic syndrome.
A 2013 research review offered some evidence that astragalus aided heart function in patients with myocarditis, an infection of the heart (National Center of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, 2016).

Cell Health & Function

Astragalus root extracts have been shown to activate telomerase activity in human T cells which results in both healthier cell function and cell longevity. This is significant with regards to the immune system because T cells are a part of the immune system.

T cells are what adhere to and destroy cells that are infected by viruses and other pathogens. When T cells are healthier, they are better able to adhere to and destroy pathogens, making the immune system more powerful (Pratt, 2019).

Based on the health benefits discussed above and other notable health benefits such as anti-aging properties, astragalus proves to be a good herbal additive for immune health.

The ways it enhances kidney function, reduces stress, improves cell health and function, and decreases the risk of infection support the immune system so it can function optimally. Thus, finding ways to add astragalus to one’s regimen would be truly beneficial for a healthier immune system and overall wellness.
References:

Group, E. (2018, January 26). Astragalus root: Health, immune system, & anti-aging benefits. Dr. Group’s Healthy Living Articles. https://globalhealing.com/natural-health/astragalus-root-health-immune-system-anti-aging-benefits/

National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health. (2016). Astragalus. NCCIH. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus

Pratt, E. (2019). Sleep and immune system. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/how-sleep-bolsters-your-immune-system

Tecklenborg, Clayton, Siebert, & Coley. (2018). The Role of the Immune System in Kidney Disease. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29453850

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