Astragalus membranaceus. Astragalus - the legendary golden herbalist

Astragalus (herb of life) - pharmaceutical drugs(syrup, extract, etc.), reviews from doctors. Recommendations for the use of astragalus herb, leaves and roots

Thank you

Astragalus has wound-healing, hypotensive, hemostatic, diuretic, vasodilating, cardiotonic and diaphoretic effects, and is therefore used in complex therapy of various diseases.

The Astragalus plant has become very popular in last years as a unique flower that can cure severe chronic diseases and give vitality to any person. Astragalus is credited with the ability to prolong human life, while maintaining and maintaining sufficient physical and mental activity. Such ideas about Astragalus are associated with the fact that it is called the “herb of life of the Kremlin leaders,” used by the general secretaries of the CPSU Central Committee to prolong life and maintain normal tone and vigor.

According to legends and rumors, the Kremlin leaders began to use Astragalus, since it was found that this particular plant is the mysterious Scythian “herb of immortality”, also surrounded by an aura of mystery and power. And supposedly thanks to Astragalus, the leaders of a huge country lived to old age, being in fairly good shape. The authors proving this point of view cite as an argument the fact that any mention of Astragalus was classified until 1969.

Unfortunately, it is not known for certain whether Astragalus is the herb that gave long life to the Kremlin leaders, but it is absolutely established that this plant has medicinal properties, and therefore can be used in the complex therapy of a number of diseases.

What plants are meant by the name Astragalus?

It is well known that, according to the rules, the botanical name of any plant consists of two words, the first of which is the name of the genus, and the second is a clarification, which is, in fact, the name of the species. For example, the full name of the plant is written as Astragalus wooliflorum, where the word "astragalus" is the name of the genus, and "woolly-flowered" is a qualifier indicating a specific species. The plant Astragalus membranaceus also belongs to the genus "Astragalus", but is a different species from the woolly-flowered plant.

In everyday life various plants They are almost always called in one word, which reflects the name of the genus. But since in everyday conversation it is always clear what another person means when he calls this or that plant in one word, there is no need to clarify what kind of plant we are talking about. However, the situation with astragalus is somewhat different.

Thus, under the common name “Astragalus” several species of plants belonging to the same genus are combined. The fact is that Astragalus is the name of a genus that includes more than 1,500 species of medicinal shrubs, herbs and subshrubs. Most often, the common name "Astragalus" refers to either Astragalus wooliflora or Astragalus membranaceus. It is these two species of plants of the genus Astragalus that have the most powerful medicinal properties and are used in alternative medicine.

Astragalus membranaceus, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine and grows in Transbaikalia, the Far East, China and Mongolia, has the most powerful healing properties. Astragalus wooliflora, which grows on the European continent in temperate latitudes and, in fact, is a European analogue of Astragalus membranaceus, has similar properties to it.

In the further text of the article, we will consider the properties and methods of therapeutic use of Astragalus wooliflora and Astragalus membranaceus, uniting them under one short name “Astragalus”, since, in fact, they are analogues. We will use the full name of the plant species only if it is necessary to indicate any features.

general characteristics

Astragalus is a genus of herbaceous, shrubby and subshrub plants belonging to the legume family. The genus Astragalus includes about 1,600 different plant species, some of which are used as medicinal herbs. Currently in Russia and the countries of the former USSR as medicinal herbs The following two types of Astragalus are used:

• Astragalus wooliflorum , which is also called Astragalus dasyánthus Pall;
• Astragalus membranaceus , which is also called Membranous Astragalus or Astragalus membranaceus.

Both of these types of Astragalus have very similar properties, so they are conventionally considered analogues of each other. However, Astragalus membranaceus has a more powerful healing effect compared to woolly flower.

Since Astragalus wooliflora and Astragalus membranaceus are used in the treatment of the same conditions or diseases, they are often not separated, but are combined under one common name "Astragalus". In further text we will also combine both types of plants under one name, and we will indicate the full name of the species only if it is necessary to focus attention on any of its features.

Astragalus wooliflorum

Astragalus wooliflora is perennial grass with compound pinnate leaves and light yellow flowers. On the surface of all parts of the plant there are protruding thin whitish or yellowish soft hairs, creating a pubescent effect. The fruits are slightly pubescent beans 10–12 mm long.

Astragalus wooliflora grows in the southern and middle lane the European part of the former USSR (Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, the European part of Russia) in steppes, forest-steppes and mixed forests.

For medical use, the herb Astragalus wooliflora is collected. The collection is carried out during the flowering period (May-June), cutting the stem at a height of 5 - 7 cm from the soil surface, after which it is dried in the shade at an air temperature of 50 - 55 o C. The grass should be cut before the fruits form. Dried herbs can be stored in cloth bags for a year.

Finished dried plants are used to prepare infusions used in the treatment of hypertension in the initial stages, circulatory failure of degrees I or II, as well as acute glomerulonephritis.

Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus membranaceus is a perennial herb with compound, unpaired, pinnate leaves. The flowers of the plant are yellow-white and collected in loose clusters originating from the axils between the leaf stalk and the stem. The fruit of Astragalus membranaceus is a dense bean, covered with a peel and hanging on a thin stalk.

Astragalus membranaceus grows on the territory of the Korean Peninsula, Eastern Siberia, the Far East and China (Manchuria) in forests (coniferous and deciduous), in the steppes, on sandy river banks, as well as on mountain slopes covered with rubble.

For medicinal use, the roots, herbs, leaves and fruits of Astragalus membranaceus are collected. The grass and leaves are collected during the flowering period (May-June), cutting off the stem at a height of 5–7 cm from the soil surface. The roots are dug up in the fall (September), and the fruits are collected unripe (August), when they have already grown, but their peel has not yet opened. After collection, the grass, leaves, roots and fruits of the plant are dried in a dry, shaded place at a temperature of 50 - 55 o C. The finished dried parts of the plant (grass, leaves, fruits and roots) are stored in linen bags for a year.

The roots of Astragalus membranaceus are used in traditional Chinese, Tibetan and Korean medicine as a diuretic, choleretic, tonic and restorative. In addition, the roots of the plant are used for eclampsia, diseases of the spleen, digestive tract and cardiovascular system, as well as metabolic disorders.

In China, Astragalus membranaceus is included in the pharmacopoeia and is considered equal in its medicinal properties to ginseng. In Europe and the USA, the root of Astragalus membranaceus is used as an immunostimulating and diuretic.

The herb Astragalus membranaceus is an obstetric aid because it accelerates the separation and delivery of the placenta. In addition, Astragalus herb can be effective in the complex treatment of infertility and dropsy.

Photo

This photo shows Astragalus wooliflora.

This photo shows Astragalus membranaceus.

What parts of the plant are used for medicinal use?

The following parts of Astragalus are used in medical practice:

• Herb (stem with leaves and flowers) Astragalus wooliflora and membranaceous;
• Leaves of Astragalus wooliflorum and membranaceous;
• Astragalus membranaceus root (Astragalus wooliflora root is also occasionally used);
• Fruits of Astragalus membranaceus.

In practice, the most commonly used herbs are Astragalus wooliflora and Astragalus membranaceus root. Tinctures and decoctions are made from the roots and herbs for medical use.

However, traditional healers or doctors who practice traditional Chinese, Korean or Tibetan healing methods also make root powder or extract and syrup from roots and herbs. Such powders, syrups and extracts are not standardized or certified, so you can use them entirely at your own risk.

Plant composition

The herb of Astragalus wooliflora and the root of Astragalus membranaceus contain various biologically active substances belonging to the same groups of chemical compounds, and therefore, despite the difference, they determine similar therapeutic properties of two types of plants of the same genus. The biologically active substances that make up the roots and grass are shown in the table.

Biologically active substances of the herb Astragalus wooliflora	Biologically active substances of Astragalus membranaceus root
Triterpene glycosides and saponins	Triterpene saponins
Flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, narcissin, isorhamnetin, astragaloside)	Flavonoids (formocoketin, quatakein, calycosin, ononine)
Tannins	Astragalosides I, II, III
Coumarins	Sterols
Okiscoumarins	Alkaloids
Essential oil	Phytosteroids (daucosterol, astramembranins I, II, beta-sitosterol)
Bassorin and Arabin	Essential and fatty oils

In addition, the herb and roots of both Astragalus species contain the following vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin E;
• Vitamin C;
• Selenium;
• Iron;
• Aluminum;
• Zinc;
• Copper;
• Cobalt;
• Silicon;
• Magnesium;
• Manganese;
• Molybdenum;
• Chromium;
• Vanadium;
• Phosphorus;
• Sodium.

Astragalus accumulates significant concentrations of selenium, and is therefore an excellent source of this trace element.

Medicinal properties of Astragalus

Astragalus root and herb have the following therapeutic effects:

• Immunostimulating;
• Cardiotonic;
• Hepatoprotective;
• Antidiabetic;
• Antitumor;
• Antiviral;
• Hypotonic;
• Calming;
• Diuretic;
• Antibacterial;
• Vasodilator;
• Hemostatic;
• Antioxidant;
• Anti-aging.

Anti-aging effect Astragalus is to slow down the aging process and increase vitality. This effect has been confirmed by modern research, so it is quite advisable to use Astragalus as a means of slowing down aging and keeping the human body in good shape.

Calming effect The plant is combined with an antidepressant effect, thanks to which infusions and decoctions of Astragalus normalize the general mental state of a person and perfectly tone, relieving the blues, depression, anxiety and anxiety.

Cardiotonic effect Astragalus is similar to the effects exerted by cardiac glycosides, that is, infusions and decoctions of the plant dilate the vessels of the heart and kidneys, increase urination and, thereby, improve nutrition and oxygen supply, as well as myocardial contractility. Such effects have a positive effect on the condition and functional activity of the heart, as a result of which heart pain is relieved.

Vasodilator effect Astragalus causes a decrease in blood pressure and improvement of microcirculation in all organs and tissues, including cerebral circulation. This effect, in addition to normalizing blood pressure, leads to an improvement in the supply of tissues with oxygen and nutrients, as a result of which headaches and dizziness disappear in a person. The effect of improving tissue nutrition and the trace element selenium, which is part of Astragalus, is, among other things, used in the treatment of muscular dystrophies and Alzheimer's disease.

Antitumor effect The plant is due to the presence of isoflavone, which inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

In addition, Astragalus removes excess nitrogenous compounds (urea, creatinine, etc.) from the blood, acting similarly to the well-known drug Lespenefril.

Antibacterial effect Astragalus is that the plant has a detrimental effect on a number of pathogenic microbes, such as Shigella, beta-hemolytic streptococci, diphtheritic corynebacteria, diplococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Toxoplasma, Trichomonas, amoebas. In addition, Astragalus has a direct antiviral effect, suppressing the development of Coxsackie viruses and adenoviruses.

By normalizing the coagulation and anticoagulation systems, Astragalus optimizes blood clotting, that is, depending on the need, it strengthens or weakens it. Thus, Astragalus stops internal bleeding and at the same time prevents thrombosis and thromboembolism.

In addition, Astragalus is a very effective remedy for treating colds. The plant also increases stamina and is an excellent remedy that allows a person to tolerate high mental and physical stress, being in great shape and not getting exhausted.

Scope of application

The herb Astragalus wooliflora and the root of Astragalus membranaceus are used for a number of the same diseases, but in addition, each plant is also additionally used for some different pathologies.

Astragalus herb

Astragalus herb is used for the following diseases and conditions:

• Diabetes;
• Bronchial asthma;
• Acute respiratory diseases (acute respiratory infections, ARVI, colds, flu, etc.);
• Burns;
• Articular rheumatism;
• Muscular dystrophy;
• Uterine prolapse;
• Initial stages of hypertension;
• Chronic cardiovascular failure;
• Angina;
• Cardiac ischemia;
• Acute and chronic nephritis;
• Edema or dropsy of the brain;
• Liver diseases;
• Stomach ulcer;
• Neuroses;
• To accelerate the healing of wounds on the skin and epithelium (for example, with gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontitis, cuts, etc.);
• Malignant tumors, including leukemia.

Astragalus root

Astragalus membranaceus root is used for the following diseases and conditions:

• Heart attacks;
• Thrombophlebitis;
• Bleeding and tendency to bleed;
• Hypertonic disease;
• Cardiovascular diseases (coronary artery disease, heart defects, arrhythmia, etc.);
• Viral myocarditis;
• Diabetes;
• Liver diseases;
• Asthenia (loss of strength);
• Night sweats;
• Chronical bronchitis ;
• Colds;
• Edema;
• Bleeding;
• Arthritis;
• Metabolic disease;
• Digestive disorders;
• Impaired sensitivity of the limbs;
• Nephritis and diabetic nephropathy;
• Stomach diseases;
• Malignant neoplasms;
• Leprosy;
• Infected wounds;
• Pigment spots, dryness and flaking of the skin;
• Diseases of the digestive tract.

Finished pharmaceutical forms and preparations containing Astragalus

On the domestic pharmaceutical market there is a drug called Flaronin, which contains active substance crushed powder of the Astragalus herb and used for kidney diseases. This drug is standardized, registered, tested and officially approved for use by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation.

In addition, in the category of dietary supplements (dietary supplements) on the pharmaceutical market there is Astragalus syrup developed by Academician Voshchenko, a hydroalcoholic extract produced by VILAR and TA-65 capsules containing Astragalus membranaceus extract.

Flaronin tablets should be used only as indicated as a medicine. And Astragalus extract and syrup are recommended for use either for prevention or for the treatment of mild pathological conditions (for example, colds, fatigue, high mental or physical stress), or as part of complex therapy for severe diseases. It should be remembered that in case of severe illnesses, Astragalus extract and syrup should be used only as an addition to the main therapy prescribed by a doctor.

Astragalus tincture - preparation rules

To prepare infusions, decoctions or tinctures, it is necessary to grind the available raw materials (roots, herbs or leaves) into the smallest possible parts. It should also be remembered that the approximate weight of chopped herbs and roots in various spoons is as follows:

• Teaspoon – 5 g;
• Dessert spoon – 10 g;
• Tablespoon – 15;
• Heaped tablespoon – 20 g.

To prepare decoctions and infusions, you must use glass, ceramic, porcelain and enamel dishes. To strain ready-made infusions, decoctions and tinctures, you can use gauze folded in several layers, clean cotton or linen cloth.

For use for prophylactic purposes or for minor health disorders, such as severe fatigue, high mental or physical stress, seasonal hypovitaminosis, occasional digestive disorders, stress, depression or acute respiratory diseases, it is recommended to take a weak infusion of Astragalus leaves of any kind. The infusion is prepared as follows: 5 - 7 fresh or dried leaves or 1/4 teaspoon of crushed dry herbs are poured with a glass of boiling water and infused overnight. The infusion is taken before meals, 1/2 - 1 glass, 1 - 2 times a day.

For the purpose of reassurance You can drink a weak infusion of leaves, which is conventionally called astragalus tea. This infusion is prepared as follows: 5 - 7 fresh or dried leaves or 1/4 teaspoon of crushed dry herbs are poured with a glass of boiling water, left for 10 minutes and drunk like tea.

For use in severe illnesses prepare a standard infusion of Astragalus herbs or roots (unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor). To do this, take 20 g of dry crushed grass or one teaspoon of root powder, pour 200 ml of boiling water over it and leave for 2 hours. The finished infusion is filtered and taken one tablespoon 3-6 times a day, or administered in the form of microenemas with a volume of 20-30 ml 1-2 times a day.

For long term use You can prepare an alcohol tincture of Astragalus roots or herbs. To make a tincture, 50 g of crushed herb or Astragalus roots are poured with 600 ml of vodka or 70% alcohol. The composition is placed in a closed container and infused for 7 to 10 days, shaking occasionally. The finished infusion is filtered and taken 20-30 drops 3 times a day before meals for two or more months.

The use of Astragalus for various diseases

Let's look at the regimens for using Astragalus recommended by doctors for various diseases. It should be remembered that these courses of Astragalus can be repeated, maintaining intervals of at least 1 month between them.

Hypertonic disease

Take a standard infusion (20 g of dry herb or a tablespoon of root powder, brew 200 ml of boiling water and leave for 2 hours) one tablespoon 5 times a day before meals. The course of treatment continues for 15–20 days. Such courses are repeated periodically, maintaining intervals between them with a minimum duration of 1 month.

When taking Astragalus infusion, people experience a decrease in

astragalus_membranaceous

Astragalus membranaceus is one of the fifty essential herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used for a variety of purposes and can supposedly increase lifespan. It has anti-inflammatory properties, being especially beneficial for the kidneys.

general information

Astragalus membranaceus is an important herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used in a wide variety of herbal mixtures and “natural” preparations, including Dang-gui buxue tane, consisting of Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis. Astragalus membranaceus has been shown in research to have cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory effects, and also increases life expectancy. Although consumption of Astragalus membranaceus may reduce the metabolic and physical complications associated with aging, there are no specific studies to date that clearly show that Astragalus is associated with increased longevity. The flavonoid content of Astragalus membranaceus may also have cardioprotective effects. Its polysaccharide content also protects the heart through its ability to lower cholesterol. The main mechanism of action of Astragalus membranaceus is related to its active ingredients. The main component is astragaloside IV, which is presented in the form of an extract; It is available in isolated form under the patented name TA-65 and is marketed as a lifespan prolonging agent. Unfortunately, astragaloside IV has low bioavailability, which indicates poor circulation in the body after consumption. This also suggests that it may only be present in the body in low concentrations. Low concentrations of astragaloside IV may have cardioprotective effects. Consumption of Astragalus membranaceus may provide a number of health benefits, but may not increase longevity. Like resveratrol, Astragalus membranaceus is a compound that improves well-being rather than adds years to your life. Also known as: astragalus, huangqi, (component) Danggui buxue tang (DBT), astragalus membrane root, ogi, Huang Qi, TA-65, TAT2 Not to be confused with: (red pigment), (Indian aphrodisiac)

It is worth noting:

A traditional Chinese preparation containing the herbal extract of Astragalus membranaceus diluted with wine (Astragalus: Angelica 5 to 1 ethanol extract) has been scientifically proven to be the most effective form of Astragaloside IV from Astragalus.

Astragaloside IV has poor oral bioavailability, so the effects of this steroidal saponin (which is the active ingredient) may occur at very low concentrations in vitro, or due to other compounds.

Astragalus herb may inhibit CYP3A4, which metabolizes a large number of pharmaceutical drugs, which may cause side effects.

Represents:

Traditional Chinese medicine

Immunomodulator

Pairs well with:

Angelica sinensis (increases the bioavailability of astragalus flavonoids, enhances a wide range of parameters in vitro due to unknown mechanisms).

Tetrandrine (regarding blood glucose control in diabetics).

A variety of herbs at in vitro levels regarding antioxidant potential (however, the synergism is not the best).

Can be used for

Slow down aging

Astragalus membranaceus: instructions for use

Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis are highly synergistic, meaning that when consumed together they exhibit their effects more clearly. The combination of these drugs is traditionally called Dang-gui buxue tang. The standard dosage of Dang-gui buxue tang is 30 g of Astragalus membranaceus root and 6 g of Angelica chinensis. They are combined in a ratio of 5 to 1, which is ideal for the manifestation of the properties of the bioactive ingredients of these plants. Astragalus membranaceus can also be consumed as a root extract. The standard dosage for the root extract is 30 g. The main bioactive compound of Astragalus membranaceus is Astragaloside IV, which can be taken on its own. The standard dosage of astragaloside IV is 5-10 mg.

Safety and toxicity

Astragalus membranaceus isolated

When Astragalus membranaceus was administered at doses up to 100 g per kg body weight by gavage to rats, no serious side effects were observed, according to the 1993 Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. When injected into mice, the LD50 of astragalus was 40 g per kg body weight.

Herbal combinations

A combination with rhubarb, red sage, ginger and turmeric (containing curcumin) did not produce any toxicity in female rats of reproductive age at dosages of 430 mg/kg body weight, where the proportion of astragalus was 13.3%, while the dosage was 860 mg/kg body weight is associated with weight loss. A similar mixture is patented, and its purpose is to reduce the proportion of fat in body weight due to rhubarb, although the effectiveness is not yet reliable.

Sources and composition

Sources

Astragalus membranaceus (from the family Fabaceae), more commonly known as astragalus, is a medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. According to Zhang et al., it is "the dry root of Astragalus membranaceus or Astragalus membranaceus Mongholicus of the family Fabaceae, native mainly to northern China, Mongolia and Siberia." Also known by the names Huang-Qi (Chinese), astragalus membrane root (English origin, ogi (Japanese origin) and Hwanggi (Korean origin); the roots of the plant are sometimes called Astragalus Radix in Latin; all are synonymous terms. The plant is generally , has a somewhat sweet taste when consumed as a drink made from the root powder. Using traditional terminology (from traditional Chinese medicine), Astragalus membranaceus has traditionally been used for spleen qi disorders; diarrhea, fatigue, lack of appetite. It is also involved in "yang qi" "(gastric, uterine and anal prolapses) and "lung qi" (frequent colds, spontaneous sweating, loss of breath). It is a central component of some Chinese herbal decoctions.

Compound

The plant contains 126 different components, primarily flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides as the main bioactive components; It also contains sucrose, amino acids and phenolic acids. As an herb, Astragalus membranaceus contains:

Steroidal saponins, astragalosides I to VII, based on spinal cycloastragenol. Astragaloside IV is contained in an amount of about 1083.14 μg per g dry weight of the root; or 1% by weight without standardization, although more is noted high content from 0.8-1.7% and 1.58%; root extracts have a higher proportion of these substances than the whole plant extract.

Astragalus polysaccharides, two of which are known as APS-I and APS-II. APS-I is a carbohydrate chain of arabinose and glucose in a ratio of 1 to 3.45, and APS-II is a chain of rhamnose, arabinose and glucose in a ratio of 1 to 6.25 to 17.86, respectively.

Astragalin, which is Kaempferol-3-O-b-glucoside. This molecule may only be the bioactive polysaccharide, or at least one of the main components of Astragalus membranaceus, in an approximate amount of 72.46 μg per g (0.073 mg per g) of the dry root extract, equally distributed throughout the root itself.

Formononectin and related glycosides. The glycoside formononectin-7-O-b-D-glycoside is also known as Ononine, and 6-acetylononine is also found in astragalus.

Dimethylhomoptercarpine and glucoside.

Calocosin and related glucosides at a concentration of 33.1 mg per kg of dry root extract.

(3R)-7,2"-dihydroxy-3",4"-dimethoxyisoflavan-7-O-beta-D-glucoside; flavonoid.

Methylinissolin glycosides at a concentration of 106 mg per 1 kg of dry root, predominantly methylinissolin-3-O-b-glucoside.

Lycoagroside D, similar in structure to methylinissolin.

Isomucronultolate

Other compounds, such as flavonoids such as kaempferol, quercetin, isohamnetin and rhamnocitrin

Vesticarpan

Pendulon, benzoquinone

Cyclocefazolide II

Astrapterocarpan

Gluconic acid

Antiproliferative lectin at a concentration of 7.8 mg per 5 g of root extract, the glycoprotein structure is relatively resistant to heat, but not to acids

Lignanoids biphenidates, (+)-lariciresinol and (-)-syringaresinol

The main ingredient of Astragalus membranaceus is one of the astragalosides, namely Astragaloside IV. It is a steroidal saponin, but to be more specific, it is a cycloartane species of triterpenoid glycoside. Its content in astragalus plants is found at a standard level. Other active ingredients that are considered to be HDTIC isomers are polysaccharides and flavonoids (half of the above list; everything that includes the combination “glycoside” in the name). The sum of all flavonoid compounds may approximately amount to 0.215+/-0.022 mg rutin equivalents per ml (measured by their antioxidant capacity); relatively low antioxidant capacity for an herb.

Properties

Astragalosides appear to be somewhat unstable in methanol solution; one study using a 20% methanol solution found that over 35 days at 5 degrees Celsius, Astragaloside I deviated by 30% from baseline, Astragaloside II and II by 50-75% from baseline, while Astragaloside IV – approximately 100% after 35 days.

TA-65

TA-65 is the trade name for Astragalus membranaceus extract, taken orally at a dosage of 10-50 mg daily; the drug was developed and patented by TA Sciences and Geron, which wrote a scientific article about it. TA-65 can increase telomerase activity in isolated human keranocytes by 2-3 times. The highest activation of keranocytes was 0.1 μM, being able to induce activity at concentrations of 1 nM in MRC5 cells. After oral administration to female mice, it was found that TA-65 at a dosage of 25 mg/body weight could preserve telomere length (note: the study was conducted by creating TA-65). In addition, standard health problems associated with aging (osteoporosis, insulin resistance, liver fat formation) were somewhat alleviated. These effects were reproduced in vitro with the related TAT2 molecule patented by Geron Corporation, albeit at a higher concentration. TAT2 appears to be able to act as a spinal cycloastrogenol. There is also activation of telomerase, which may be mediated through increased exposure to TERT, which was found to be 10 times normal in the liver of treated rats; this mechanism is based on growth hormone and Akt. TA-65 does not directly target Akt. The use of 25 mg of TA-65 per kg of body weight did not significantly increase life expectancy in female mice, and the drug also did not increase the risk of developing cancer. Unpublished data from TA studies suggest that circulating levels of TA-65 reach 1-20 nM 4-8 hours after oral administration of 5-100 mg TA-65. The substance appears to be effective in increasing telomerase, reversing the aging phenotype, however research to date is quite controversial (study sponsors are interested parties); There was also no empirical increase in life expectancy. No information is provided regarding the oral bioavailability of TA-65, while astragaloside IV generally has poor bioavailability (2.2%).

Pharmacology

Absorption

Astragalus IV appears to have an oral bioavailability of 2.2% in rats when measured in serum by high performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection after solid phase extraction, and in one human study to measure levels astragalosides in the blood serum, these substances were not detected at all. In Caco-2 cells, intestinal uptake of astragaloside IV was exceeded at a concentration of 50 μg per ml, being unaffected by co-incubation of P-gp inhibitors. Apical basolateral transport was linear between 15 and 120 minutes with Papp values ​​of 10, 20 and 30 μg at 7.82, 6.19 and 5.9510-8, respectively. Unpublished data from TA Sciences (manufacturer of TA-65, which patented Astragaloside IV) indicate that circulating levels of Astragaloside IV reach 1-20 nM 4-8 hours after oral administration of 5-100 mg TA-65. Assuming linear kinetic absorption (5 mg changes serum level by 1 nM) using a molecular weight of 784.94, which corresponds to 0.00078 g (0.078 mg) of circulating astragaloside IV after 5 mg oral administration; thus providing a bioavailability of 1.5%, which is similar to the above-mentioned rat studies. The actual intestinal absorption of astragaloside IV appears to be passive via the paracellular route, as evidenced by interaction with calcium ions in the intestinal lumen. The high molecular weight along with paracellular transport may be responsible for its low bioavailability, which may be enhanced by components that reduce paracellular competition such as chitan and deoxycholate, or perhaps astragalus compounds in general, since the complete plant has better digestibility than unmodified and isolated astragaloside IV. Since TA Sciences report approximately the same bioavailability, it is assumed that in the case of combination drugs, bioavailability may vary slightly. Astragaloside IV appears to have poor bioavailability at 1.5-2.2%. The in vitro effects of astragoloside IV must be at levels of 1–5 nM to be of practical significance when administered orally. Regarding the flavonoid content of Astragalus membranaceus; the compounds that have been detected in human urine after consumption are calycosin and formononectin, as well as their metabolites (calycosin glucuronide and sulfate). Dimethoxypterocarpan-3-O-b-D-glucuronide was also detected in urine, indicating that the parent molecule dimethoxypterocarpan was absorbed; Dihydroxy-2',4'-dimethoxyisoflavane glucuronides are also detected. This information comes from a study of one person whose diet was controlled, but the sample size leaves much to be desired. This study also found that no serum levels of saponins were detected in the study subjects, which may be due to low levels of oral intake or low bioavailability. Other non-flavonoid constituents in astragalus (GABA, ferulic acid, HDTIC isomers, and others) were also not detected due to their bioavailability or dosage. Concomitant use with angelica chinensis may increase the bioavailability of the flavonoids calycosin and formononectin. Flavonoids, as well as flavonoid glycosides (possibly due to their polysaccharide content), appear to be absorbed; there is no evidence of absolute bioavailability of this absorption.

Blood serum

On this moment Since then, only preliminary studies on the pharmacology of Astragalus (the primary ingredient, namely Astragalus IV) have been conducted in dogs and rats; LC/MS/MS confirmation using Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer analysis method. Several other studies have been conducted based on the isolated ingredient astragaloside IV. When administered orally to rats at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight (Astragalus IV isolated), the Cmax was 0.38 μg per ml, Tmax was 0.43 hours, half-life was 4.65 hours, and AUC was 1.06 mcg per ml per hour. Blood parameters appear fairly normal with a moderate half-life; The only real limitation of Astragaloside IV is its bioavailability.

Distribution

Examining the volume of distribution relative to total body fluid in rats (0.61 kg), the rate was 0.201 per kg, and in dogs it was 0.14+/-0.071 per kg, indicating limited, but still available, availability of Astragalus IV for peripheral tissues. By measuring the levels of astragaloside IV in organs after injection, it turned out that a limited amount of it can reach all organs (skin, stomach, heart, skeletal muscle, duodenum, spleen, ovaries); moderately elevated levels are observed in the lungs and kidneys, and very high levels can be detected in the liver; minimal amount Astragaloside IV enters the brain, which indicates problems in blood circulation in the brain. Levels in these organs are high at 60 minutes after intravenous injection, then rapidly deplete to near baseline levels at 240 minutes after injection. The substance appears to reach all organs, with the best response occurring in those organs where the herb is typically used (lungs and spleen), with predictably high levels in the liver and relatively low levels in the brain.

Metabolism

Following IV injection, approximately 50% of Astragalus IV is metabolized. The flavonoid components calycosin and formononectin appear to be subject to glucuronidation, and calycosin to sulfation, as evidenced by urinary glucoronides that do not exist in the parent plant. Astragalus appears to have the ability to inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4 and may also increase the AUC of some drugs when taken together.

Removal

Preliminary pharmacokinetic studies indicate that injections of 0.75 m/kg body weight in rats (0.5 m/kg body weight in dogs) result in astragalus having an excretion rate of 3 ml/kg/min in rats and 4+ /-1 ml per kg per minute in dogs, which is 5.43 and 12.9% of hepatic blood flow (respectively), suggesting low systemic clearance. The half-life elimination in rats (at 0.75 mg/kg) was 98.1 minutes and 60.02+/-8.39 in dogs, and these results are consistent with those found after oral administration of astragalus in rats. Elimination rates increase with dosages; bolus injections of 0.75, 1.5, and 3 mg/kg Astargalus IV resulted in clearance of half-lives of 98.1, 67.2, and 71.8 minutes, respectively. Interestingly, this trend was reversed in females, being 34.0, 66.9 and 131.6 minutes. It does not have the ability to accumulate in the body; it is excreted both in the urine and through processing in the liver through the intestines. The flavonoid components calycosin and formononectin are excreted in urine, although fecal excretion levels were not measured in this study.

Lifespan

Mitochondria

A protective effect on mitochondria was noted in a study of cristae in diabetic mice, where astragalus at a dosage of 700 mg per kg of body weight daily contributed to the preservation of mitochondrial structure. Mitochondrial membranes can be damaged due to lipid oxidation, which increases with age; Astragalus polysaccharides have a dose-dependent inhibition of lipid oxidation, starting at a concentration of 2 ml per liter; have the ability to inhibit up to 90% of lipid oxidation in liver mitochondria and up to 78% in neurons at a concentration of 32 mg per liter. Astragalus may also prevent calcium and oxidant-induced mitochondrial membrane permeability. Mitochondria may also be a factor in some of the cardioprotective effects of Astragalus, being more effective in combination with Angelica sinensis; in Chinese medicine their combination is called Dang-Gui Buxue Tang.

Telomeres

HDTIC isomers from astragalus have been shown to reduce the rate of telomere shortening in vitro; control cells had a shortening level from 71.1+/-4.9, 0.1 µm to 31.5+/-2.4 and 1 µm in HDTIC-1 and 41.1+/-3.5 in HDTIC- 2 (note: rates are based on telomere length (bd)/cell population doubling (PD)), protecting DNA from oxidative damage by hydrogen peroxide in a dose-dependent manner; 10-fold dosages (1 µM HDTIC-1, 10 µM HDTIC-2) resulted in enhanced DNA repair (deceleration of phenotypic aging) after hydrogen peroxide attack. The cell type studied was human diploid fibroblast cells in the lungs. The same dosage and the same underlying cells were twice shown to slow down aging due to HDTIC isomers, with HDTIC-1 being more potent. When studying the mechanisms of action of HDTIC isomers, it turns out that they (in such a 2BS cell line) are able to prevent the upregulation of p16 mRNA expression associated with aging. p16 is a CDKI from the INK4 family, correlates with aging, and its high expression may contribute to the aging phenotype. Astragaloside IV has been implicated in increasing telomerase activity and telomere length following oral administration of 5-10 mg, so there may be more than one bioactive in Astragalus membranaceus that affects telomere length. More information on this topic can be found in the section on TA-65. Astragalus may be a better solution than Astragaloside IV due to the bioactivity of HDTIC isomers regarding telomere preservation; however, there are no pharmacokinetic or in vivo data regarding oral HDTIC isomers.

Neurology

Pharmacokinetics

When studying injections of Astragaloside IV and its distribution throughout the body, it appears that Astragaloside IV may have problems interacting with the blood, as evidenced by small amounts of accumulation in nerve tissue compared to other organs.

Neuroprotection

Astragalus extract (63% astragalosides), taken orally at a dosage of 10-40 mg/kg body weight, was able to attenuate Alzheimer's disease with dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid with cortisol-like effects in a dose-dependent manner. This extract may also protect the neuronal structure of the hippocampus and reduce the side effects in caspase-3 and caspase-9, suggesting that astragalus may protect against neurodegeneration under stress. These stress-protective effects have been noted previously at higher dosages of conventional astragalus extract, suggesting the herb's adaptogenic properties. It is noted that the anti-inflammatory properties of astragalus at a dosage of 40-80 mg per kg body weight in rats can suppress the increase in TNF-alpha and IL-1beta associated with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. This may lead to reduced neuronal death and nerve damage. It is not known which components have such effects, but despite the limited absorption of astragaloside IV, it can act as an active component. On its own, it may reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury and overall neuroprotection. Studying the anti-stress effects of astragalus, it turned out that per gram of one gram of extract with a large amount of astragalosides [you can get a more powerful effect than using standard astragalus (1-2%). The contribution of flavonoid and polysaccharide fragments is unknown. It turns out that the plant has neuroprotective and adaptogenic properties. Surely, their presence is caused by astragaloside IV, but it has not yet been revealed how other bioactive substances influence these effects.

Cardiovascular diseases

Heart tissue

Astragaloside IV appears to partially protect the heart during myocardial ischemia and improve blood flow in the coronary vessels; these processes are carried out indirectly through the enzymes of nitric oxide synthase. Sodium-potassium channels are also involved in the protective properties of astragaloside IV regarding ischemia-reperfusion injury. Cardiac mitochondria are also protected from toxic insult (from danurubicin) at 250 mg per liter of extract; best results are achieved at 500 mg per liter. An increase in the amount of danurubicin is a necessary condition for the induction of cell death. This is thought to be secondary to decreased oxidative load and fragmentation of mitochondrial nuclei.

Endothelium

Astragaloside IV has a relaxing effect on the aorta, dilating the arteries. This appears to occur through the NO-cGMP pathway in the endothelium in a dose-dependent manner. In addition to direct relaxation, astragalus can attenuate contractile stimuli to the endothelium, such as phenylephrine and angiotensin-II, which gives astragaloside IV two mechanisms of action. In addition, Astragaloside IV preserves the relaxing stimulus (acetylcholine) during excessive exposure to homocysteine ​​(an inhibitor of acetylcholine actions) due to its antioxidant action, which has a more generalized effect. There was also an improvement in endothelial function in rats with metabolic syndrome with injections of 0.5-2 mg of astragaloside IV per kg of body weight, but this effect was not observed with oral administration. Astragaloside IV appears to have a potent endothelial protective effect, but the practical significance of this finding when administered orally is unclear.

Blood pressure

In at least one human study, oral administration reported a reduction in blood pressure with Astragalus (1050 mg per day), with Coptis Chinensis (630 mg per day) and Lonicera Japonic (2520 mg per day) combined. . A rat study using the Shichimotsukokato (SKT) formula of Astragalus membranaceus and 6 other herbs appeared to lower blood pressure in nephrectomy rats by preventing the decline of a key antihypertensive enzyme, in another study using 100-200 mg/kg. The body of a plant related to Astragalus (complanata) revealed that flavonoids (the same as those found in Astragalus membranaceus) had the ability to reduce blood pressure by 17% after oral consumption. Although flavonoids are thought to play a role in lowering blood pressure, injections of Astragaloside IV have also been shown to lower blood pressure in hypertensive rats when administered at 0.5-2 mg/kg body weight.

Blood synthesis

At least one in vitro study using an aqueous extract of astragalus root in HRK293T cells showed dose-dependent increases in erythropoietin (EPO) and mRNA expression; there is an increase of 60% compared to baseline measurements at a concentration of 1 mg per ml. This is noted, rather, due to flavonoids than due to astragalosides or polysaccharides; It is also worth noting that calycosin-7-O-beta-d-glucoside showed the strongest properties regarding a more than twofold increase in EPO mRNA (by 120%) with an EC50 value of 1.47 μM; these effects are secondary to the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) due to less degradation of HIF-1.

Atherosclerosis

This section of the article interacts with the sections “Lipid metabolism” (due to information about lipoproteins) and “Immunity and inflammation” (due to the description of cohesion factors and anti-inflammatory factors); It is recommended that you read these three sections simultaneously. Astragalus (as a polysaccharide) appears to be able to protect the receptor (ABCA1) responsible for the reverse transport of cholesterol from proinflammatory elements. By inhibiting the effects of NF-kB in macrophages that become foam cells, it may reduce the formation of plaque in arteries from foam cells (one of the components of arterial plaque). In an experiment designed to determine if astragalus could prevent the formation of foam cells from macrophages, it was found to be ineffective in vitro.

In vivo studies on humans

One study of 90 patients with chronic heart failure showed improvement in heart rate when consuming astragalus (as astragalus granules), with 4.5 g and 7.5 g showing similar effectiveness, although better than 2.25 g per day. day. The dose-dependent response affected quality of life. Astragalus has undergone extensive research in China and is available as an injection to treat heart failure. There are numerous texts (in Chinese) that describe the involvement of the plant through IV injections (the articles are examples, most of them are available in the Medline database). As noted in the 2011 PLoS review (completed prior to meta-analysis), astragalus for injection is described in a large number of sources (62 head-to-head studies), but most of them are of low methodological quality. This review calls for more sensitive management of chronic heart failure.

Triglycerides

Astragalus polysaccharides have been reported to reduce triglyceride levels by 30% following oral administration of 0.25 g/kg body weight in hypercholesterolemic hamsters.

Lipoproteins

After oral administration of astragalus polysaccharides at a dosage of 0.25 g per kg body weight to hypercholesterolemic rats, the levels of "bad" and "good" cholesterol decreased by 45.8%. This mechanism of lipoprotein reduction appears to occur through bile salts and increased cholesterol efflux from the liver to the intestine; this process can indiscriminately reduce the levels of all circulating lipoproteins. Other mechanisms that have been identified are an increase in the activity of the bad cholesterol receptor, inhibition of cholesterol absorption, and induction of cyp7alpha-1 gene expression. These results were obtained with the consumption of grain salt, and there were also some differences regarding the outflow of "good" cholesterol in humans and hamsters.

Bile

Astragalus polysaccharides (PSA) appear to be able to bind to bile acids, being five times more similar to cholic acid when compared to standard psyllium husk. Binding to bile acids in the intestine causes their reduction through fecal excretion (indirectly promoting cholesterol conversion to replace bile acids, depleting systemic cholesterol levels), being the mechanism underlying the cholesterol-lowering effect of psyllium husk. It is believed that astragalus polysaccharides may lower cholesterol levels through this mechanism. This hypothesis was confirmed in a study on hamsters fed 0.25 g per kg body weight of polysaccharides; There is a decrease in plasma cholesterol by 45.8%, and the level of “bad” cholesterol decreased by 47.4%, stimulating a reduction in triglycerides by 30%.

Interaction with glucose metabolism

Skeletal muscles

Astragalus appears to be effective in preventing palmitate-induced insulin resistance, as excess phosphorylation of IRS-1 by palmitate promoted inhibition of PTP1B (a negative regulator of insulin action) and NF-kB in muscle cells, improving glucose uptake by 25 % at a concentration of 0.2 mg per ml. This inhibition of PTP1B, which indirectly enhances insulin action, may be localized to skeletal muscle rather than the liver, being an important factor in improving peripheral insulin sensitivity. In vivo studies in diabetic rats have shown that the increase in peripheral glucose metabolism due to astragalus can improve the condition of type II diabetics through oral administration of 400-700 mg per kg body weight in diabetic rats. These effects are due to astragalus polysaccharides rather than to the steroidal saponin content. Examining the role of AMPK in glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, the decrease in AMPK phosphorylation noted with palmitate-induced insulin sensitivity was not reversed by astragalus supplementation. Over time, however, AMPK can be restored to its basal levels through the indirect effects of astragalus, promoting glucose homeostasis in skeletal muscle. In myotubes that are not insulin resistant, astragalus may prevent glucose toxicity by activating AMPK.

Adipocytes and glucose

The flavonoids from astragalus, formononectin and calycosin appear to interact with PPAR receptors. Formononectin is a PPARgamma and PPARalpha agonist with an activation ratio of 3 to 1 and 1 to 1 depending on the typology of the in vitro study; the EC50 value was 2.6-4.3 µmol per L for PPARgamma, exceeding the value of 1.0-3.7 µmol per L for PPARalpha. These effects induced adipocyte differentiation, which is an antidiabetic mechanism mediated by thiazolidinedione compounds (glitazone). Astragalus polysaccharides may also contribute to this mechanism in the same way as with Astragaloside IV. Finally, two other astragalosides (astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I) may help increase adiponectin secretion from adipocytes (without affecting adipogenic genes; by mediating this mechanism, glucose levels may improve in rat models based on diet or genetics. Increased adiponectin mRNA 1.2 times compared to control measurements and an increase in the secretion rate from 80% to 100% occur at a concentration of 5 μg per ml; in vivo this experiment occurs at a high dosage of 50 mg of astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I per kg body weight for 6 weeks. Astragalus appears to have the ability, through adipocytes, to improve glucose metabolism and possibly influence diabetic conditions through various mechanisms and components. There is not enough research regarding the effect on fat mass, but it is possible that there may be an effect of accumulation of fat mass due to increased differentiation of adipocytes.

Fat mass and obesity

Mechanisms of glucose metabolism

Astragalus flavonoids, formononectin and calycosin, appear to interact with PPAR receptors. Formononectin is a PPARgamma and PPARalpha agonist with activation rates between 3 to 1 and 1 to 1 depending on the in vitro assay; its EC50 value was 2.6–4.3 μmol/L for PPARgamma, which is greater than 1.0–3.6 μmol/L for PPARalpha. These effects induce adipocyte differentiation, which is an antidiabetic mechanism that can be mediated by the pharmaceutical drug thiazolidinedione (glitazone). The polysaccharide content of Astragalus may also exhibit this mechanism in the same way as Astragaloside IV. Finally, two other astragalosides (astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I) have been shown to increase adiponectin secretion from adipocytes (without affecting adipogenic genes) and, indirectly through this mechanism, have been shown to improve glucose parameters in rats that were exposed to both dietary and dietary metabolic syndrome. and due to the genetic factor. Adiponectin mRNA increased 1.2-fold over control level, increasing the secretion rate to moderate from 80% to 100% at a concentration of 5 μg per ml, and the in vivo experiment was carried out on the basis of a high dosage, namely 50 mg per kg body weight bodies of astragaloside II and isoastrogaloside I for 6 weeks. Astragalus appears to have the ability, through adipocytes, to improve glucose metabolism and diabetic conditions through various mechanisms and compounds. There hasn't been much research done on how it affects fat mass, but it is possible that the plant may have an obesity-promoting effect by increasing adipocyte differentiation.

Mass gain

One study based on Boi-ogi-to, an herbal blend of astragalus (27%) and 5 other herbs with which astragalus exhibits synergistic effects, showed improvements in glucose and insulin levels; There was also a significant reduction in weight gain associated with menopause in rats fed 1% Boi-ogi-to of the total diet. The mechanism of action of Boi-ogi-to is not known to date. With the exception of this study, no further testing has been conducted regarding the effects of astragalus on weight loss.

Effects on skeletal muscles

Glucose metabolism

Astragalus appears to be effective in preventing palmitate-induced insulin resistance secondary to excess IRS-1 phosphorylation, where palmitate inhibited PTP1B (a negative regulator of insulin action) and NF-kB in muscle cells, improving glucose uptake by 25% at concentration 0.2 mg per ml. This inhibition of PTP1B, which indirectly enhances insulin action, may be localized to skeletal muscle rather than liver tissue, being an important factor in improving peripheral insulin sensitivity. In vivo studies in diabetic rats have shown that the increase in peripheral glucose metabolism due to astragalus can neutralize the conditions of type II diabetes induced by diet with oral dosages of 400-700 mg per kg body weight in diabetic rats. These effects occur due to astragalus polysaccharides rather than due to steroidal saponins. Examining the role of AMPK in skeletal muscle in muscle glucose uptake, the decrease in AMPK phosphorylation noted in palmitate-induced insulin sensitivity was not restored with astragalus. Over time, however, AMPK activity may return to baseline levels due to the indirect effects of astragalus on glucose homeostasis in skeletal muscle. In myotubes that are not insulin resistant, astragalus may prevent glucose toxicity by activating AMPK.

Inflammation and immunology

Astragalus is known to have immunomodulatory interactions, demonstrating interactions with the immune system in vivo.

Macrophages

The polysaccharide content of astragalus has been studied as a macrophage stimulant, which appears to act through heparinase, an enzyme that enhances the macrophage response by increasing its activity. When astragalus polysaccharides are incubated with macrophages, the polysaccharide contents of astragalus can increase cytokine production from macrophages (TNF-alpha, GM-CSF, nitric oxide). This stimulation is observed in vivo due to increased macrophage infiltration and phagocytosis (engulfment) of cells during injections into mice. In contrast to the flavonoid content, formononectin can suppress nitric oxide production from LPS-stimulated macrophages. Studies examining how astragalus affects macrophages when combined with pro-inflammatory agents (liposaccharide being a common link) have shown that astragalus has the ability to prevent LPS-induced iNOS activation in macrophages and the pro-inflammatory effects of excess nitric oxide production due to iNOS; there is also a decrease in inflammatory factors such as TNF-alpha and IL-8. These effects on pro-inflammatory factors are not apparent at low dosages without LPS, but may be enhanced at high concentrations of astragalus. Although the steroidal saponins (astragalosides) of astragalus may affect the immune system, most beneficial effects are secondary to the polysaccharide content of astragalus. Astragalus polysaccharides appear to be able to induce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and stimulate the production of immune cells when there are no pro-inflammatory attacks; There is also an active prevention of pro-inflammatory effects from affecting macrophages, which can induce large bursts of inflammation. The biological plausibility of astragalus as an immunomodulator is noted.

Adhesion factor

By inhibiting NF-kB, the effects of reducing TNF-alpha-induced expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 are reduced; there is lower expression of these cell adhesion molecules, releasing less migration of leukocytes into tissues. This mechanism may also have anti-atherogenic effects against plaque formation in foam cells, which are mainly dead macrophages. Both astragalus polysaccharide and astragaloside IV have been implicated in the inhibition of NF-kB, leading to a decrease in VCAM-1 and ICAM-1; this is an anti-inflammatory effect.

Adaptive immunity

There is a mitogenic (increases cell proliferation) effect on T cells in vitro in mice and humans at the time of T cell depletion; however, there is no effect on B cells. Mitogenicity manifests itself in the case of splenocytes, where an increase in the content of IL-6 receptors is noted. There is also activation of B cells in mice due to the expression of membrane immunoglobulins and macrophages due to TLR4; T cells were not affected in this study, but their use with the antigen was noted. There has been an increase in TLR4 in other studies. Suppression of Tregs cells was detected by subsequent downregulation of Foxp3 and IL-10; this appears to be mediated by TLR4 in vivo. However, one study in mice reported upregulation of Treg activity. This substance may also be involved in the maturation of dendritic cells.

Interaction with hormones

Insulin-like growth factor

After consuming HT042 (a mixture of Astragalus membranaceus root, Phlomis umbrosa root and Eleuthercoccus Senticoccus stem in the proportion of 31.2 to 26.5 to 42.3) at 200 mg per kg body weight per day as 2 doses for 3 weeks, an increase in length was observed and bone thickness in adolescent rats, which may be associated with increased circulating levels of IGF-1. Astragalus is one of the few herbs traditionally used (in Korea) to enhance growth in youth. Astragalus in its isolated state showed an increase in IGF-1 levels in the serum of rats with cerebral degeneration. May increase circulating levels of IGF-1, but more research is needed on this topic.

Testosterone

Astragalus membranaceus at a dosage of between 100-1000 mg per kg body weight in rats can neutralize the negative effects on sperm due to cyclophosphamide by 9-49% (relative to motility in a dose-dependent manner); thus, the plant is believed to help protect male fertility. Astragalus is able to protect the expression and protein content of CREM during the cAMP response, which is usually reduced after injections of cyclophosphamide, which suppresses male fertility. Testosterone was not measured during this study, and no direct studies were conducted regarding the effects of astragalus on testosterone levels. When assessing the effects of astragalus on the androgen receptor, 20 mcg per mg does not significantly alter its effects. ==== Estrogen ==== In a screen of medicinal herbs for estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects, 95% ethanol extract of Astragalus showed no significant interaction with the estrogen receptor at concentrations below 1 mg per ml.

Interaction with authorities

Kidneys

In humans, astragalus has been implicated in reducing damage to the kidneys from the "shock wave" of lithotripsy, a clinical treatment for urinary stones. The published results took into account the use of a combination of 10 herbs. One way or another, astragalus alone is involved in the process of protecting the kidneys; injection of astragalus before surgery can reduce the negative effects on the kidneys, and may also help during nephritis due to lupus, diabetic nephropathy associated with IgA or general nephropathy. At a minimum, clinical use of astragalus has shown protective effects on the kidneys during disease states; These findings come from a meta-analysis that confirms previous animal data. At least one study suggests that oral administration of 15 grams in humans may promote recovery from kidney disease in situations where the patient has not responded to standard treatment. Despite the large amount of evidence for the effects of astragalus on the kidneys, many studies have been conducted using astragalus injections. Oral dosages also appear to be effective, but are quite high compared to prophylactic dosages of 500-1000 mg. The mechanism of protection is part of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, in which 1 g of astragalus polysaccharides per kg body weight (oral dosage in rats) showed a decrease in NF-kB activation in the kidneys, other studies using astragalus show a decrease in TGF-beta, a biomarker of inflammatory lesions in the kidneys. kidneys. Astragalus has been associated with an increase in diuresis (urination) at an oral dosage of 0.3 g per kg of human body weight. This mechanism occurs by enhancing the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the kidneys within 4 hours of consumption, although the bioactive substance responsible for this effect has not been identified and is not astragaloside IV. Although the effects of astragalus in protecting the kidneys during disease states are compelling, its effects on the kidneys in the context of preventive medicine at basic oral dosages are unclear. Astragalus as a supplement is thought to have a protective effect, but this has not been demonstrated. The above information is quite reasonable, since the active ingredient causing the effect has not been precisely identified, so suspicion falls simultaneously on polysaccharides, flavonoids and astragaloside IV; Due to the low oral bioavailability of Astragaloside IV, low dosages of Astragalus may not have protective effects on the kidneys; the effect can be achieved, rather, with intravenous injections.

Interactions with cancer metabolism

Adjuvant use

In mice, astragalus appears to be able to restore suppressed immune function in tumor-bearing animals, as well as suppressed mitogenic responses. It shows cytostatic ability against myeloid-like and macrophage tumors.

Aesthetic indicators

Leather quality

After oral administration of Astragalus to mice with atopic dermatitis at a dosage of 100 mg/kg body weight, suppression of skin reactions to 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene, a chemical used to induce dermatitis, was observed, being more effective than 3 mg/kg prednisone bodies when suppressing these outbreaks. Looking at these mechanisms, astragalus was unable to inhibit increases in IgE (elevated levels are a hallmark of atopic dermatitis) and IL-4 (helps convert IgM to IgE), but still helped suppress inflammation. The mechanisms may act through suppression of IFN-γ, for which astragalus and prednisone were equally effective. Due to its ability to inhibit MMPs, particularly MMP1, astragalus may protect skin from UV-induced photoaging. It is also capable of reducing MMP1 mRNA transcription and protein content in vitro due to ERK phosphorylation secondary to fibroblasts or NF-kB translocation. In addition, the putative components HDTIC-1 and 2 may protect human fibroblast quality and reverse the apparent effects of aging in vitro at concentrations of 0.1 μM and 1 μM, respectively. The potential of HDTIC-2 at 1 µM was consistent with that of carnosine at 20 mM, while HDTIC-1 at 0.1 µM was more effective; protein glycosylation and oxidation were also at lower levels in cells incubated with HDTIC isomers. Due to parallel anti-inflammatory mechanisms (MMP1, NF-kB), astragalus can protect the skin from harmful effects. The best dosage is 0.5% when applied topically (based on research on skin healing); the best penetration is carried out in the form of a hydrogel containing 1% sodium alginate (with gelatin and 1 to 100 dimethyl sulfoxide to astragalus for solubility). Interestingly, another component of Astragalus membranaceus called calycosin (a flavonoid) can inhibit the formation of melanin pigmentation in skin cells by inhibiting tyrosinase; It can be assumed that calycosin may reduce tan formation and promote skin lightening.

Skin healing rates

Astragaloside IV, the main constituent of Astragalus, is effective in increasing keratinocyte migration followed by wound healing at a concentration of 10 µmol per L, which in vitro shows doubling and tripling of wound healing rates (keratinocytes are used to form a new layer of skin). Using rats as an example, it was found that with daily topical application of 0.5% astragaloside IV to a wound, 21% of wound healing occurred on the 6th day after the wound appeared, while without the use of the drug, healing was only 8%. On day 30, complete healing was observed with the use of astragaloside IV, while the control group showed noticeable scarring. Skin healing rates were observed with the combined use of astragalus (0.25 g) along with a hydrogel based on 1% sodium alginate and gelatin daily, which turned out to be much more effective than simply using an astragalus solution. As noted in the section on interactions with dietary supplements, the combined use of astragalus and rehmannia may synergistically enhance wound healing.

Scar tissue

Application of 25-100 μmol of Astragaloside IV per liter per wound can significantly suppress TGF-beta secretion in vitro in fibroblasts while increasing circulating levels of TGB-beta. TGF-beta is considered to be a major element in the formation of scar tissue at wound sites. A TGF-beta inhibitor (mannose 6-phosphate or Juvidex) may reduce scar formation by speeding up the healing process. After 30 days of treatment with astragaloside IV, scars at the wound sites are not noticeable. Astragalus membranaceus may be more effective than isolated Astragaloside IV because its other component (formononectin) may also speed up wound healing.

Interactions with nutrients

Aluminum and calcium silicates

One study using Astragalus to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis found that combining Astragalus membranaceus with calcium and aluminum silicates as a mineral base worked synergistically in an unpublished preclinical trial, but did not show what parameters the herb worked synergistically with. This mixture is patented by the Croatian Ministry of Health under the trade name Lectranal.

Salvia red rhizome

Salvia red rhizome was tested with Astragalus membranaceus in a 1:1 ratio for effects on fatigue. This mixture, known as Myelophil, was consumed at 3g or 6g daily for 4 weeks, resulting in a reduction in fatigue compared to baseline measurements. However, the control group that consumed placebo (Hyangsapyunweesan) and the group that consumed 3 g of the mixture were found to have the most effective dosage, showed rather divergent results.

Angelica Chinese

Angelica root, also known as Dang Gui, is an herb used in various Chinese herbal blends, such as Dang gui Bu xue Tang (DBT) along with astragalus in a 5 to 1 ratio (astragalus to angelica). The traditional preparation procedure involves 30g of astragalus membranaceus and 6g of angelica sinensis, then simmering them in two bowls of water over medium heat until the total mass is halved. This particular herbal combination is recommended for menopausal women to “reduce the effects” of menopause. It turns out that the mixture worked better at a 5 to 1 ratio, as other ratios resulted in less flavonoids (calycosin, formononectin) and astragaloside IV, as well as ferulic acid from angelica. Interestingly, impressively lower levels of ligustilide are observed in this proportion. Adding wine (ethanol extract) to the mixture enhances its effect by increasing astragaloside IV and ferulic acid. Enhanced recovery rates with traditionally prepared Dang-Gui Buxue Tang have been associated with improved heart protective effects compared with using each herb alone. The molecules that Angelica is responsible for appear to be ferulic acid and ligustilide. Angelica chinensis appears to increase the intestinal absorption of two flavonoids from astragalus, formononectin and calocosin, in vitro. In addition, the combination of two herbs has greater antioxidant potential than the same herbs alone or when mixed together. This study was conducted in vitro and is independent of increased bioavailability when coadministered. The herbal combination has also been studied for stimulating erythropoiesis in vivo, as it may positively regulate the expression of the gene that encodes erythropoietin. Combination therapy of both herbs, each used at 0.5 g per kg body weight (1 g per kg body weight in general), is more effective than using each herb alone at 1 g per kg body weight in rats regarding increase in serum gland levels (no significant difference with respect to iron binding protein; there was also a slight trend for synergism with serum vitamin B12. In addition to stimulating erythropoietin, the herbal combination is also involved in the process of hematopoiesis. Regarding menopausal symptoms (traditional use of this herbal mixture) , a 5 to 1 ratio, appears to be synergistic in promoting osteoclast differentiation in vitro while stimulating estrogen exposure in vitro as well as antiplatelet functions. In vitro studies also suggest that the combination is synergistic in promoting endothelial differentiation and DNA expression. This combination is one of the most used traditional combinations with the addition of Astragalus membranaceus; Apparently this combination is quite reasonable since it is not difficult to obtain. The traditional preparation of extracts in a ratio of 5 to 1 (astragalus to angelica) with a small addition of wine is the best solution from the point of view of one study.

Rehmannia root

Rehmannia root is a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat diabetes, as is the case with astragalus. A combination of two herbs in a 2 to 1 ratio (astragalus to rehmannia) has been recognized under the name "NF3" in the literature. Their combination is used to heal wounds in diabetics, with both plants being synergistic with each other. It turns out that this combination functions due to WnT and angiogenesis pathways, carried out primarily by VEGF. Due to its traditional use in diabetics, its effects on glucose uptake and insulin resistance in diabetic rats have been studied, but no significant effect has been found. The combination of the two herbs, however, inhibits CYP3A4 (IC50 of 0.88 mg per ml and Ki of 1.6 mg per ml) and CYP2C9 (IC50 of 0.86 mg per ml and Ki of 0.57 mg per ml). A high Ki level suggests a reduced likelihood of side effects when interacting with other drugs. A 2 to 1 combination of these two herbs (astragalus to rehmannia) may be effective in promoting angiogenesis in vivo, aiding in wound healing.

False ginseng root

At least one study noted synergistic interactions in vivo with astragalus (110 mg/kg body weight) and false ginseng root (115 mg/kg body weight) for MMP-9 inhibition and TIMP-1 induction, two effects which are protective regarding cerebral ischemic reperfusion injuries. This may be mediated in part through an antioxidant effect. By studying a Chinese mixture containing these two substances in rats (qizhu tang), the mixture was found to be effective, although the individual ingredients were not provided at these dosages. The mixture also included the herbs Rhizoma atractylodis and Poria, so synergy between these four plants may occur (has not been demonstrated).

Ural licorice

Regarding licorice root, the synergistic antioxidant potential in combination with astragalus was found. However, due to the weak antioxidant effectiveness of astragalus initially, the synergism was slightly more pronounced than when using licorice in an isolated state.

Rhubarb officinalis

Rhubarb shows a high degree of synergism with astragalus regarding antioxidant abilities in DPPH analysis.

Atractylis bighead

Atractylis megacephala exhibits synergism for antioxidant potential when combined 1:1 with Astragalus in DPPH assays; Due to the weak potency of Astragalus compared to Atractylis, the synergistic response did not significantly exceed the effectiveness of Atractylis in its isolated state.

Peony milky-flowered

Peony lactiflora root in combination with astragalus may have a synergistic antioxidant effect. 10 g of each herb extract showed a greater antioxidant effect than the sum of the parts, however, the mixture is not more effective than peony lactiflora in its isolated state due to its stronger antioxidant properties compared to astragalus. Peony also showed synergism with astragalus for systemic anti-inflammatory effects in septic mice.

Schisandra chinensis

Schisandra chinensis (from the family Magnoliaceae) is an herb that, along with astragalus, is widely used in China and is sometimes prescribed as part of a healthy diet. Ethanol extract of Schisandra chinensis (lignan content is 23.1%) and aqueous extract of astragalus are synergistic in suppressing the increase in liver enzymes when using hepatotoxin CCL4. While astragalus (polysaccharides) when taken orally at a dosage of 450 mg per kg body weight was able to suppress the increase in ALT, AST and ALP by 87%, 86.5% and 92.6%, when adding schisandra ethanol extract, these indicators were 43.8%, 53.4% ​​and 67.1%, respectively. Schisandra at 45 mg/kg body weight and astragalus at 150 mg/kg body weight were significantly more hepatoprotective than astragalus 450 mg/kg body weight in all parameters. Although neither ingredient in its isolated state affected reduced levels of glutanione CCL4, combined use was able to have an effect with a CDI score of 0.84.

Stefania tetrastaminata

Stephanie tetrastaminata is a traditional Chinese medicine herb. The two components (stephania and astragalus) are used together in Japanese medicine under the name Boi-ogi-to (in China - Fang-ji-huang-qi-tang) along with other herbs (atractylis, licorice, ginger. Traditionally used to treat swelling and arthritis, as well as in diabetic retinopathy. In rats, the active component of Stephania tetrastaminata called fangquinoline showed antidiabetic effects in rats in a dose-dependent manner. Aqueous extract of astragalus may enhance the effects of fangquinoline, and then it was found that formononectin and calycosin (astragalus flavonoids) synergistically enhanced fangquinoline-induced insulin release , although only formononectin showed a statistically significant effect. While 3-100 mg of astragalus per kg of body weight did not show any effect, and 0.3 g of fanquinoline also did not show any effect, when taken together, there was a dose-dependent decrease in blood sugar levels blood and increased influence of insulin, mediated through fanquinoline; all effects may be secondary to increased insulin release. Astragalus may enhance the effects of Stephania on lowering blood glucose levels and insulin secretion, thereby positively influencing the antidiabetic effects of Stephania tetrastamen.

:Tags

List of used literature:

Roberts AT, et al. The safety and efficacy of a dietary herbal supplement and gallic acid for weight loss. J Med Food. (2007)

ABSORPTION AND METABOLISM OF ASTRAGALI RADIX DECOCTION: IN SILICO, IN VITRO, AND A CASE STUDY IN VIVO

Zhang LJ, et al. New isoflavonoid glycosides and related constituents from astragali radix (Astragalus membranaceus) and their inhibitory activity on nitric oxide production. J Agric Food Chem. (2011)

Xu DJ, et al. Molecular weight and monosaccharide composition of Astragalus polysaccharides. Molecules. (2008)

Saito S, et al. Astragalin from Cassia alata Induces DNA Adducts in Vitro and Repairable DNA Damage in the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Int J Mol Sci. (2012)

Wang P, et al. HDTIC-1 and HDTIC-2, two compounds extracted from Astragali Radix, delay replicative senescence of human diploid fibroblasts. Mech Ageing Dev. (2003)

Zhang X, et al. Simultaneous quantification of three isoflavonoid glycosides in rabbit plasma after oral administration of Astragalus mongholicus extract by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta. (2007)

Xu F, et al. Absorption and metabolism of Astragali radix decoction: in silico, in vitro, and a case study in vivo. Drug Metab Dispos. (2006)

Nagasawa H, et al. Effects of gold banded lily (Lilium auratum Lindl) or Chinese milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L) on spontaneous mammary tumorigenesis in SHN mice. Anticancer Res. (2001)

DeJesus BB, et al. The telomerase activator TA-65 elongates short telomeres and increases health span of adult/old mice without increasing cancer incidence. Aging Cell. (2011)

Fauce SR, et al. Telomerase-based pharmacologic enhancement of antiviral function of human CD8+ T lymphocytes. J Immunol. (2008)

Kang SS, et al. Akt protein kinase enhances human telomerase activity through phosphorylation of telomerase reverse transcriptase subunit. J Biol Chem. (1999)

Huang CR, et al. Absorption enhancement study of astragaloside IV based on its transport mechanism in caco-2 cells. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. (2006)

Astragalus is a plant belonging to the legume family.
Astragalus grows in the form of subshrubs and bushes with short stems.
Astragalus leaves are slightly elongated, with lanceolate leaves from ten to sixteen pairs (the same number for acacia). The root of the plant is multi-headed, with a hard shaft.
Astragalus flowers grow in an inflorescence similar to a spike. This inflorescence usually contains about 10 flowers of different shades.
Astragalus begins to bloom in late spring and fruits appear in mid-summer.
The Astragalus fruit is round, it grows between leathery flaps, similar to legumes.

What types of astragalus are there, where does it grow?

There are more than one thousand six hundred species of this plant.
It contains a lot of useful things: antioxidants, tocopherol, trace elements, selenium, biologically active substances, that is, everything that a person needs who is struggling with various diseases.
I suggest you familiarize yourself with the types of astragalus that can be used for healing purposes.

1. Danish Astragalus– it grows everywhere in Russia, Ukraine, Western Siberia, Primorsky Krai, and the Caucasus.
The Danish plant species is found in the steppe, in the forest, in the meadow, and on slopes with stones.
2. Marsh astragalus. You can find the plant in the Primorsky Territory, in the west and east of Siberia, in Asia. The habitat of the swamp astragalus is the outskirts of dark coniferous forests, floodplain meadows, light forests, steppes, lake shores.
3. Astragalus licorice. This species grows in the Caucasus, Ukraine, in the central part Russian Federation. It can mainly be found on floodplains of rivers, in oak-pine forests, in clearings, forest edges, and near bushes of other plants.
4. Astragalus wooliflora. This type of plant is found in the forest-steppe zone of Russia (Volgograd, Kursk regions), in Ukraine, and Moldova.
Astragalus wooliflora can be found on a plain with dense thickets in Buryatia and the Irkutsk region, in the tundra, in forests where cedar and larch grow.

What are the healing properties of the astragalus plant?

Many experiments have been carried out, during which it was found that the components of astragalus have a beneficial effect on the body as a whole, on each of the systems, and help slow down the aging process of the body.
Astragalus is considered an elite plant whose properties are used by people all over the world.

The plant contains substances such as:
• essential oils - they fight inflammation and germs, calm the nervous system;
• organic acids. They promote proper digestion of food;
• tannins are known for their ability to strengthen the walls of blood vessels, cleanse blood vessels, and fight bacteria;
• polysaccharides perfectly stimulate the immune system and prevent decay processes from developing;
• flavonoids – have the property of absorbing ultraviolet radiation and are excellent at fighting malignant tumors;
• vitamins of groups C and E.

The plant perfectly tones the body and has a hypotensive effect. Astragalus restores blood, removes fluid from the body well, promotes vasodilation, and has a positive effect on blood circulation.

Astragalus licorice serves well as a remedy for constipation and expectoration. It is also known to help with scrofulosis, rheumatism, sexually transmitted diseases, and dermatitis.

Medicinal raw materials of astragalus

The entire plant can be used for healing. It is better to dig up the roots in late autumn. Astragalus must be washed and dried in a room that is periodically ventilated. When the plant blooms, it is necessary to cut off the leaves, flowers and grass, grind it, and put it in a ventilated room.

Here is a recipe that will help you undergo treatment for hypertension and support the entire cardiovascular system.
How to prepare this infusion: take a glass, pour two hundred milliliters of boiled water into it. Place 2 tablespoons of crushed astragalus in a glass and steam in a water bath for about fifteen minutes. Now cool a little, pass through a strainer, bring the volume to 200 milliliters.
Drink two tablespoons of the infusion three times a day for about six weeks. This will be one course.
During the treatment of vascular atherosclerosis, you can use an infusion of woolly-flowered astragalus, prepared with alcohol (70 degrees), stems and leaves in a ratio of three to one.
Drink, taking weekly breaks, thirty drops of infusion three times a day before breakfast, lunch and dinner.
How to prepare a decoction that will generally strengthen the body and restore blood.

Take 1 tbsp of boiled water, pour about twenty grams of the plant into it. Wait a little. Drink about two tablespoons of the decoction three times a day.
How to cure constipation: Take 10 g of dry extract of astragalus roots, put it in a container with boiled water (1 glass). We wait about fifteen minutes, cool.
Now administer the infusion using an enema.
To strengthen the body’s immune system and achieve a sedative effect, drink the infusion, the recipe for which is written above: three tablespoons twice a day for one month.
If you need a sedative, add an infusion of astragalus to a bath of water and lie in it.

What are the contraindications to the use of astragalus

If you are pregnant (at any month);
People with advanced stages of hypertension should be careful.

2

Dear readers, today we will talk about amazing plant, the history of which is used for medicinal purposes goes back more than a thousand years and can serve as the basis for an exciting adventure film or book. The ancient Scythians used this plant for treatment, rejuvenation and prolongation of life only for members of the royal family and only for males.

Why did ancient healers care so much only about men? The fact is that the rulers were afraid that women would not be able to keep the recipes for using wonderful plant in secret and it will become known to hostile tribes. What kind of plant is this? This is astragalus or, if applied to the Scythians, then astragalus wooliflora.

The range of effects of astragalus on the human body is very wide. There is probably no organ or system on which it does not have a beneficial and therapeutic effect - from colds to cancer. The plant also tones, strengthens, restores and heals the entire body as a whole, inhibits the aging process, and has a rejuvenating effect. Let's talk today in more detail about this miracle plant: what it looks like, what are its beneficial and medicinal properties, what diseases can be treated with its help. And at the end of the article I will tell you why astragalus is called the herb of life of the Kremlin leaders.

Astragalus - what kind of plant

Astragalus is the name of a genus that includes about 2,000 plant species. Many of them are recognized as medicinal and grow in Western and Eastern Siberia, the Far East, and some in Central Asia. Others can be found in the European part of the CIS.

Types of Astragalus:

• swamp;
• Daurian;
• shrubby;
• pendulous;
• rising;
• Danish;
• licorice (sweet leaf) and others.

Many types of astragalus are widely used in medicine, including official medicine, in Mongolia, Korea, China, including Tibet.

More details about medicinal properties This plant can be read in the reference books of Lavrenova G.V., Lavrenova V.K. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants” Volume 1 and Sanina I.L. “Complete Directory of Medicinal Plants”.

In official medicine of Russia, two types of astragalus are recognized: astragalus membranaceus (a perennial plant), which grows on the Korean Peninsula, Eastern Siberia, the Far East, China and Mongolia, and its European analogue - astragalus wooliflora (also a perennial), which can be found in the middle and southern parts of the CIS (Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Russia).

These two plants are used interchangeably in official medicine and are used to treat the same diseases. True, Astragalus membranaceus has a more powerful effect and, unlike Astragalus wooliflora, in addition to the herbaceous part (stem with leaves and flowers), medicinal purposes The root and seeds are also used.

Today we will talk about these two types of astragalus, and for convenience I will combine them under one name “astragalus”.

Other names

Astragalus wooliflora and membranaceus are known in medicine and among herbalists and under other names. Pay attention to this when you buy a plant in pharmacies or markets.

Woolly-flowered astragalus - dense-flowered astragalus, woolly-flowered astragalus or Astragalus dasyanthus Pall.

Membranous astragalus - membranous astragalus or Astragalus membranaceus.

The ancient Scythians called Astragalus woolly-flowered “herb of immortality” and “royal grass”.

How to prepare and store astragalus

Astragalus can be harvested by collecting it in natural growing areas, but some sources indicate that woolly-flowered astragalus is listed in the Red Book. Therefore, you can consider other options - growing the plant on personal plot or even at home, as a houseplant. It is worth making an effort, because it is quite difficult to buy astragalus in pharmacies, and its beneficial properties in the treatment of various, including intractable diseases, are very significant.

Astragalus grass and leaves are harvested during the flowering period (May-June) before fruit formation, cutting with a knife or sickle at a height of 7-10 cm from the soil. You cannot pick the plant so as not to damage the root system. You should also leave a few branches on each bush to form seeds.

Astragalus seeds are beans that are harvested in July-September, when 70-80% of the seeds have turned brown and the beans themselves are in the stage of waxy ripeness.

The roots are dug up in the fall (September-October), cleared of soil, and cut into small pieces.

The raw materials are dried in the usual way, spread out in a thin layer, in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated place. Don't forget to turn over often.

Dried raw materials are stored in linen bags made of natural fabric in a well-ventilated area. Shelf life – 1 year.

Photo of astragalus

If we want to harvest astragalus ourselves or grow it in our garden, then we should know what it looks like.

Chemical composition of astragalus

Astragalus herb is especially rich in a variety of macro- and microelements. These are calcium, silicon, aluminum, iron, magnesium, cobalt, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, chromium, vanadium, phosphorus, sodium. One of important features plant is its ability to accumulate a significant amount of selenium.

Selenium is an important trace element, an antioxidant, a sufficient amount of which in the body significantly protects against many forms of cancer, heart disease, the harmful effects of radiation, normalizes blood pressure, and helps lower blood sugar levels. Selenium improves brain function, strengthens the immune system, increases the overall tone of the body, promotes rejuvenation and increases life expectancy.

Among the vitamins, the plant contains vitamins C and E.

Astragalus also contains triterpene glycosides (daziantosides) and saponins, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, narcissin, isorhamnetin and astragaloside), polysaccharides (glucans and heteropolysaccharides), tannins, coumarins and oxycoumarins, essential oil, amino acids.

According to research by scientists, the components of astragalus are combined in certain proportions, which provides the unique medicinal properties of the plant.

Beneficial and healing properties of astragalus

Astragalus has widest spectrum effects on the human body. The plant has antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties, relieves swelling, has an astringent effect, has a hemostatic and wound-healing effect, and promotes the resorption of even very severe hematomas.

The healing effect of astragalus on the cardiovascular system is simply amazing. It has hypotonic, cardiotonic, vasodilating effects; the highly effective use of the plant as a means for recovery in the post-stroke and post-infarction period has been practically proven.

Astragalus also has diuretic, hepatoprotective (protects and restores the liver), choleretic, antidiabetic effects, and is successfully used for treatment oncological diseases, has a diaphoretic and expectorant effect.

In addition, this extraordinary plant has a calming effect, stimulates increased immunity, tones, strengthens the body, is an excellent anti-aging agent, antioxidant and antidepressant.

Health Benefits of Astragalus

Now let's talk in more detail about therapeutic effects astragalus on individual organs and systems of the body, as well as what diseases are well treated by this plant.

For the heart and blood vessels

Astragalus, as I already wrote, is a highly effective remedy for the treatment and restoration of the cardiovascular system. It improves blood circulation, acts as a vasodilator, and, as a result, improves nutrition and oxygen supply to all organs and systems of the body.

Astragalus is used to treat circulatory failure. It helps reduce blood pressure, especially in the initial stages. A high effect was obtained when it was used to treat atherosclerosis and cardiosclerosis.

Astragalus normalizes the balance of the blood coagulation and anticoagulation systems, which provides protection against thrombus formation and thromboembolism on the one hand and stops internal bleeding on the other.

Astragalus also has great benefits for the heart. It dilates the blood vessels of the heart, improves its functioning, thanks to this medicine, including official medicine, successfully uses it for chronic cardiovascular failure, coronary artery disease and angina pectoris, heart defects, interruptions and pain in the heart as a means to prevent myocardial infarction.

For the brain

Astragalus has a beneficial effect on brain function. Some consider this impact to be no less than or even greater than that. With regular use of astragalus, cerebral circulation and tissue respiration of the brain improves.

Astragalus is used for various diseases of the brain, including high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, hot flashes in the head, and “floaters” flashing before the eyes. It is also used for swelling or dropsy of the brain and hematomas. In Europe, practical research is being conducted on the use of the plant for such a difficult-to-treat disease as Alzheimer's disease.

Simply amazing and fairly quick results are achieved when using the plant as a restorative remedy after a stroke, even in people in serious condition. And what is also important: course use of astragalus protects against recurrent stroke.

I suggest watching a video about the benefits and use of astragalus for dizziness, tinnitus, and for general strengthening of the body.

For vision

Thanks to the positive effect of astragalus on the blood vessels of the brain, blood circulation in the organs of vision is normalized, the narrowing of capillaries is reduced, and pressure is reduced, which is used to treat diseases associated with this effect.

For digestion

Astragalus helps normalize digestion and is used to treat gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, including old ones. It is used for diarrhea and vomiting, a tendency to flatulence, as well as for chronic constipation.

For the kidneys

Official medicine has recognized astragalus as an effective remedy for the treatment of various kidney diseases, such as acute and chronic nephritis, glomerulonephritis, etc.

For respiratory diseases

Possessing antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, astragalus has found its use in respiratory diseases. It is used to treat influenza, acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections, tonsillitis, as well as acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia and other pulmonary diseases, including emphysema.

Astragalus is taken orally in the form of infusions and decoctions, used for rinsing and as an ointment for rubbing the chest and back. It helps with dry cough, thins mucus, relieves inflammation and sore throat, and has a diaphoretic effect.

Also, due to its strong antibacterial effect, this plant is used for diphtheria.

Astragalus helps strengthen the immune system, so it is good to drink it as a prophylactic during flu epidemics and other colds.

For the female body

Astragalus is used to treat infertility, uterine prolapse, cervical erosion, uterine bleeding, painful menstruation, and also as a means to speed up labor.

The plant is also used in folk medicine for benign and malignant formations of the female genital area, such as uterine fibroids and fibroids, cervical, ovarian, and breast cancer.

For muscles and joints

Astragalus contains a unique complex of substances that ensures normal muscle function. Thanks to this, official medicine uses it to treat various muscular dystrophies.

The plant has also found its use in articular rheumatism, osteochondrosis, deforming arthrosis, arthritis and polyarthritis.

For oncology

Traditional healers, both modern and historical, have successfully used astragalus to treat various forms of cancer, including leukemia.

However, although the plant suppresses the growth of cancer cells, modern representatives of traditional medicine recommend using it in combination with other medicinal plants and/or drugs.
Astragalus is also used after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, for impotence and lack of appetite.

Due to the seriousness of these diseases, before starting treatment with astragalus, ALWAYS consult with your oncologist and/or herbalist.

For the nervous system

Both official and unofficial medicine note beneficial influence Astragalus on the nervous system, normalizing the general mental state of a person. Therefore, the plant has proven itself well in the treatment of neuroses, depression, as well as irritability, mild excitability, feelings of anxiety and restlessness, insomnia, and in stressful situations.

Wounds, ulcers, bleeding, burns, inflammation

Astragalus, having antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and hemostatic effects, gives good results in the treatment of various damage to the skin - wounds and ulcers (including non-healing), cuts, abrasions, burns. It can be used in the form of compresses, for washing, wiping alcohol tincture, as well as in the form of ointment and oil.

The plant is also an excellent remedy for resolving bruises and relieving swelling.

For the elderly

IN Soviet time many Kremlin leaders, reaching old age, nevertheless remained in relatively good physical and intellectual shape. And astragalus also served as a means to help them achieve this.

Traditional medicine has recipes for using astragalus in the fight against aging of the body. According to it, astragalus inhibits the aging process and is used not only to maintain strength in elderly and/or infirm people, but also helps their recovery.

According to one folk healer, astragalus cannot restore youth, but it can turn a frail old man into an active old man.

If you start using astragalus in a timely manner, it, having a general healing effect on the entire human body, is able to prolong life, preserving and maintaining physical fitness and intellectual abilities in a fairly good and active state.

Astragalus also gives good results for memory problems and loss of strength inherent in older people.

For our entire body

Astragalus has found wide application not only for the treatment of individual diseases, but also as a preventive and healing agent for the entire body. Plant preparations help strengthen the immune system, normalize hormonal balance and metabolism.

It is recommended as a restorative remedy for high physical and mental stress (allows you to easily endure it), loss of strength, chronic fatigue syndrome, and also after a serious illness.

As a prophylactic agent, astragalus is used to maintain strength, energy and good physical and intellectual shape, and slow down the aging process. There is information about the rejuvenating effect of the plant.

Chinese traditional medicine believes that the beneficial and healing properties of astragalus are superior to those of ginseng!

It’s not for nothing that astragalus is called the herb of life, because “it restores life and vigor to the elderly, gives health and strength to the young, and cures a huge number of ailments.”

Astragalus. Contraindications

With such extensive and varied beneficial and medicinal properties of astragalus, it has practically no contraindications.

The plant should not be used during pregnancy, since it is, as I already wrote, an obstetric aid. At the same time, there are recommendations for the use of astragalus for children almost from infancy. Although I still strongly recommend that you exercise caution and ALWAYS consult with a pediatrician you trust before starting. For the same reason, it is necessary to consult a specialist when breastfeeding.

Although astragalus is generally well tolerated and allergic reactions to it are extremely rare, people with a tendency to allergies should exercise caution and start taking plant preparations in a weaker concentration than indicated in the recipe. In the absence of negative manifestations, you can safely continue treatment at the dosage indicated in the recipe.

If there are serious chronic diseases and the need for constant use of medications, before starting treatment with astragalus, consult your doctor regarding their compatibility.

I would also like to recommend that you read Ekaterina Melekhova’s book “Astragalus - the herb of life of the Kremlin leaders.” Series "Kremlin Secrets". Ekaterina herself is a journalist. The book is written in an easy and interesting way. There are so many facts about miraculous healing with this herb. There you will also find detailed descriptions of the use of the plant for various diseases. I think this information will be very useful to many.

Tea with mint. Pure Joy

Today a lot is known about the medicinal properties of astragalus. However, the healing properties of the herb have not yet been fully studied. Astragalus is considered the herb of longevity. It has a beneficial effect on the nervous, cardiovascular, hematopoietic and other systems of the body, allowing a person to live and enjoy every happy minute.

And life becomes more beautiful...

Weed and weed are different

Astragalus is a common representative of the Legume family, which has over 2000 (!) species of herbaceous and shrub plants.

Important! Among the variety of varieties, only a few are endowed with healing properties. Most popular among traditional healers Used: Astragalus wooliflorum and Astragalus membranaceus. Let's take a closer look at both types.

All about the woolly flower panacea

Habitat of growth, harvesting rules

Astragalus wooliflora - this species is popularly known under other names:

• densely flowered
• fluffy-flowered
• cat peas
• sweetleaf flight
• licorice potion.

However, do not be deceived by the appetizing names, because the plant tastes far from sugar; on the contrary, it is a little bitter.
The medicinal flower grows everywhere in the European steppes of Russia and partly in the south of Ukraine. It can be found on field edges, in the steppes and on the hills of mounds.
Astragalus begins to bloom in late spring - early summer. The healing herb is unpretentious to growing conditions, but does not like high humidity and shade. Its stems, inflorescences and leaves are covered with thin fluffy hairs, which distinguishes this species from similar plants. A kind of symbol of love and tenderness.

For medicinal purposes, all parts of astragalus are collected during its flowering period.

Important! This species of the Legume family is on the verge of destruction, and therefore is on the Red Book lists. When preparing the medicinal mixture, try to cut the grass, stepping back about 5 cm from the roots. Do not cut the entire bush, leave some of the shoots for the seeds to ripen. Do not tear the stems with leaves, do not damage the roots and buds. Don't restock in the same places every season.

How to store?

There is no need to lay out supplies under the scorching sun; you can end up with an unpresentable appearance of the collection - discolored, overdried and devoid of useful substances hay.

Health Pantry

All parts of the medicinal plant contain:

• group of flavonoids
• organic acids
• tanning components
• essential astragalus oil
• coumarins
• vitamins C, E
• organic metals: iron, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and in slightly smaller quantities sodium, silicon, manganese, selenium.

Some may find it difficult to thoroughly study the influence of all of the listed microelements on the human body, so we will try to highlight the main advantages of using astragalus in folk medicine, without going into details of its chemical composition.

Effect on the cardiovascular system

Doctors and patients note that the medicinal properties of astragalus are manifested in the cardiotonic and hypotensive effects of the herb on the heart, arteries and capillaries. Today, many herbalists prescribe decoctions and infusions to patients with chronic heart failure and a tendency to spasms of the coronary vessels.

Relief of hypertension symptoms

Drinking infusions from the stems and leaves of astragalus is beneficial for people with high blood pressure. Drinking them regularly will help normalize blood pressure, as well as reduce the symptoms of initial hypertension.

Strengthening the nervous system

In folk medicine, decoctions of astragalus herb are used primarily to combat stress symptoms and diseases of the nervous system. Astragalus is believed to have calming and sedative properties, and therefore relieves headaches and reduces emotional stress without a hypnotic effect.

Stop – oral diseases

Herbalists have noticed the beneficial effects of astragalus in the treatment of sore throat, stomatitis or periodontal disease.
In the first case, leaves, flowers and stems of astragalus are added to the collection pharmaceutical chamomile, eucalyptus and marigold. Gargle the throat 2 times a day.
When treating stomatitis or periodontal disease, to eliminate inflammation, rinse the mouth with a pure decoction of astragalus for 1-2 weeks.

An effective remedy for burns

Infusions of Astragalus wooliflora are used externally to relieve pain and accelerate the healing of burns. Here's a simple one effective recipe: 1 tbsp. Brew a spoonful of herbs in a glass of boiling water, cool, water the affected areas until you feel relief!

Down with rheumatism

Astragalus has proven itself well in the treatment of rheumatic pain. Are you completely overcome by the disease? Try pouring the herb into a bottle and filling it with vodka (½). After 21 days the medicine is ready for use. Infusions are used as rubs and compresses.

Important! Use folk recipe, as an adjuvant, but under no circumstances determine the course of treatment yourself and do not replace effective medications with tinctures!

Astragalus membranaceus - healthy competition for woolly flowering plants

The medicinal properties of Astragalus membranaceus deserve special attention. This is an effective tool of modern Chinese medicine.

Recent laboratory developments have been incredibly encouraging. It turned out that astragalus root extracts are a powerful pharmacological drug with the following effects:

• immunostimulating
• antiviral
• antitumor
• antioxidant
• antidiabetic
• antibacterial
• wound healing.

Astragalus root has become a popular remedy among Chinese doctors for the prevention and treatment of colds, as well as against strains of certain viruses. It is successfully used in the fight against heart disease, immunodeficiency and side effects of chemical drugs in oncology. It is believed that preparations with astragalus root slow down the physical aging of the body and have a beneficial effect on the overall tone of a person.

Preparations from the country garden

Traditionally, miraculous raw materials are dug up in the fall or spring. The roots are thoroughly washed, dried outside under the sun, after which they are crushed and used to prepare tinctures, teas and decoctions.

Indications for use:

• chronic fatigue
• insomnia
• lack of appetite
• diarrhea
• decreased immunity
• cardiac fibrosis
• deterioration of capillary elasticity
• respiratory infections
• many other diseases.

From dried and crushed raw materials, herbalists prepare teas, infusions and other medicinal preparations at home. Internet pages are replete with recipes containing certain components of astragalus. How not to get confused in the variety of offers and choose the right combination of herbal tea? It's simple.

Tip: the most effective recipes for Astragalus membranaceus are contained in product inserts (herbal infusions) in pharmacies. You should not self-medicate; consult a herbalist about proper use of the root!

All materials on the Priroda-Znaet.ru website are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any product, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!