The astragalus product, which is derived from the root of the plant, has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine in combination with other herbs to improve immunity. It is still used today by traditional healers to treat some forms of hepatitis, heart conditions, and cancer. As for its ability to help the immune system, the quality of the studies demonstrating the immune-stimulating properties of astragalus is poor. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) urges caution because the side effects of astragalus are not well known, as it is usually used in combination with other herbs.
The astragalus product, which is derived from the root of the
plant, has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine in
combination with other herbs to improve immunity. It is still used
today by traditional healers to treat some forms of...
More
Dr. Anthony Komaroff answered:The astragalus product, which is derived from the root of the plant, has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine in combination with other herbs to improve immunity. It is still used today by traditional healers to treat some forms of hepatitis, heart conditions, and cancer. As for its ability to help the immune system, the quality of the studies demonstrating the immune-stimulating properties of astragalus is poor. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) urges caution because the side effects of astragalus are not well known, as it is usually used in combination with other herbs.The astragalus product, which is derived from the root of the plant, has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine in combination with other herbs to improve immunity. It is still used today by traditional healers to treat some forms of... More
