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Astragalus

Astragalus is presented as an immune stimulant useful for treating colds and flus. Many people believe they should take astragalus, like echinacea, at the first sign of a cold.

The belief that astragalus can strengthen immunity has a partial basis in traditional Chinese medicine. The expression noted above, "stabilize the exterior," means helping to create a "defensive shield" against infection. However, according to tradition, astragalus formulas should not be taken during the early stage of infections.

Although Chinese herbal tradition suggests that astragalus should generally be used in combination with other herbs, modern Chinese investigators have found various intriguing effects when astragalus is taken by itself. Extracts of astragalus have been found to stimulate parts of the immune system in mice and humans, and to increase the survival time of mice infected with various diseases. Other highly preliminary research suggests that astragalus might be useful in treating atherosclerosis, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, insomnia, diabetes, chronic active hepatitis, genital herpes and increase the efficacy and/or reduce the side effects of cancer chemotherapy. However, none of these possibilities can be regarded as proven. 

Safety Issues
Astragalus appears to be relatively nontoxic. High one-time doses, as well as long-term administration, have not caused significant harmful effects. Side effects are rare and generally limited to the usual mild gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions..
Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.

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