Astragalus root supercharges the immune system. Studies at the University of Texas revealed that astragalus enables viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells to be “picked up” or detected by the immune system. Astragalus enables the body to boost its white blood cell count, produce more antibodies and natural killer cells, strengthen its antiviral immunity, and increases the production of interferon. Astragalus heals wounds, slows aging, lowers blood pressure, regulates blood sugars and builds the blood.
Astragalus is a powerful “non-specific” immune modulator. Instead of activating our defense system against a specific disease organism, astragalus modulates immunity by increasing the numbers and activity of macrophages, which are roving white blood cells that engulf invading organisms. This powerful ability to activate and tune the immune system accounts for the many benefits and uses of astragalus in cancer patients.
In one study, astragalus was able to restore immune function in 90% of the cancer patients studied! The roots of the astragalus plant are able to stimulate the production of interferon. Interferon is effective in fighting cell mutation and cancer development and is an essential chemical that induces the proper functioning of the immune system. To get these powerful health benefits, you want to be sure you are getting professional quality and strength astragalus root extract. Astragalus Root Extract 300 mg 90 Capsules from Vital Nutrients is a genuine and effective astragalus root extract you can rely on. (As an Amazon Associate I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases.)
For cancer patients coping with the effects of chemotherapy, astragalus works miracles. In a 1994 Italian study (Morazzoni, Bombardelli), breast cancer patients were given a combination of ligustrum and astragalus. Patients given this mix showed a decline in mortality from 50% to 10%. Researchers at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas believe cancer patients who use astragalus will double their chances of survival.
Astragalus enhances the ability of T-cells and NK cells to destroy tumors. It activates interleukin-2, which kills cancer cells and helps relieve the side effects of chemotherapy such as immunosuppression, fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and overall weakness. Researchers at the Hiroshima School of Medicine in Japan found that astragalus directly increases B-cell and T-cell levels, interleukin, and antibody production. Astragalus both increases the number of leukocytes, in particular the “hunter” T-cells while also helping the immune system to identify the viruses, bacteria, and other rogue cells.
Native to China, Mongolia, and Korea, astragalus is an herb that grows up to three feet tall. The botanical name is Astragalus membranaceus. An ancient Chinese herb, astraglus root is called “huang qi,” which means “yellow leader”. It is an adaptogenic herb and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years.
More about the healing powers of astragalus below!
§ Wound and Skin Care: When applied topically, astragalus effectively alleviates eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and has also been used to treat wounds. Taken as a tea, the antioxidant property of astragalus improves your blood flow – crucial for great looking skin.
§ Slow Signs of Aging: Astragalus improves your cellular health by slowing down the wear and tear of your DNA. Within your DNA, there are small strands called telomeres that keep your cells from unraveling. Astragalus root extracts help extend the life of your telomeres, making you look younger and slowing down the aging process on a cellular level.
§ Healthy Heart: Astragalus’s diuretic effect flushes toxins from your body. Many studies have shown that high blood pressure is a critical factor contributing to heart disease. Astragalus aids in blood vessel dilation, which can lower your blood pressure naturally.
§ Regulates Blood Sugar: Patients with diabetes can safely rely on astragalus to lower and balance their blood glucose levels. One study discovered that astragalus restored high blood sugar to normal and raised blood sugar when it was too low.
§ Immune System Optimization: Since astragalus contains antibacterial and antiviral properties, it has been used effectively in TCM to treat allergies, colds, flus, and respiratory conditions.
§ Improves Anemia: Early studies showed that astragalus root increased the blood count of anemic patients, especially those who have aplastic anemia. Though more research is needed in regards to anemia, initial results are promising.
Thanks to Ty Bollinger at The Truth About Cancer for this helpful list…