The root of Astragalus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years as a tonic or 'adaptogen'. It has also been shown to:

• Increase endurance, stamina and resistance to infection
• Enhance immune function - via stimulation of monocytes and macrophages, T-cell activity, and interferon production. It also raises white blood cell counts in cases of chronic leukopaenia.
• Exhibit antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity
• Lower blood pressure, enhance heart function, protect heart muscle from oxidant damage
• Restore immune activity in cases of compromised immune status associated with cancer chemotherapy or radiation treatment, speeding recovery and extending life expectancy.
• Increase sperm motility and male fertility
• Increase diuresis
• Protect the liver from damage

• Infections - colds and flu, recurrent or persistent infections, recurrent respiratory infections, chronic hepatitis, viral infections, glandular fever
• Healing - wound healing, chronic fatigue syndrome, post-viral syndrome, stomach ulcers
• Fatigue and poor stamina - shortness of breath, night sweats, anaemia, multiple allergies
• Stress support - athletic performance, stress related fatigue and immuno-suppression
• Heart disease, angina, high blood pressure
• Cancer - fatigue or lack of appetite in chemotherapy patients, to reduce the side-effects and improve outcome from radio and chemotherapy

The commonly utilised dosage range for Astragalus is equivalent to 3 to 6 g of dried root per day, as a decoction, tablet, capsule or fluid extract.

Astragalus is generally regarded as safe and well tolerated.
Generally contraindicated for use during a fever and for infants. Do not administer to a child with a fever.