Astragalus Propinquus – An Overview | Planet Ayurveda
There are selected few herbs that are considered legendary for both modern and Ayurveda system of medicine. Astragalus is considered among the special class of herbs that has health-boosting properties.
Astragalus is a perennial plant which grows in a temperate climate. It is most commonly used for boosting the immune system. Most of the researchers have focused on its immune boosting activity and its ability to stimulate the suppressed immune system.
It’s another Latin name is Astragalus membranaceus and belongs to family Fabaceae. It is one of the fundamental herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. In Hindi, it is commonly called as katira.
It grows up to 40 cm in height and also known as “energizer”
Part used: Roots
Chemical Composition
Its roots contain polysaccharides as well as isoflavones and their glucosides and malonates that have antiviral, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids control and kill the free radicals, preventing heart diseases, cancers and immunodeficiency virus. Saponins present in it maintain the blood sugar level.
What are the Properties of Astragalus Propinguus?
- Rasa (taste): Katu (pungent) and Kashaya (Astringent)
- Guna (qualities): Laghu (light) and rooksha (Dry)
- Veerya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
- Vipaka (end product of digestion): Katu (pungent)
- Karma (effects on doshas): It pacifies Vata and Kapha dosha and eliminates pitta dosha.
What are the Medicinal Uses of Astragalus Propinquus?
- Roots of astragalus have an anti-inflammatory property which relieves inflammation and other associated symptoms.
- Being a strong immune booster, it prevents the body from infections and diseases and fights against it.
- Antioxidants present in it prevent the plaque deposition and narrowing of the blood vessels.
- Its roots reduce stress and promote the peace of mind.
- Its anti-diabetic property prevents the beta cells of the pancreas from damage and increases insulin sensitivity.
- It also decreases the symptoms and makes the recovery of the patients
- It has a diuretic property that eliminates the excess water content from the body and maintains the proper functioning of kidneys.
What are the Therapeutic Uses of Astragalus Propinquus?
- Immune Booster
Astragalus propinquus is a potent immune boosting herb and a disease fighter. It acts as an immune stimulant that increases the count of white blood cells and stimulates the production of antibodies. This herb not only boosts up the immune system but also encourages an increase in the immune cells activity and production
- Anti-aging Property
Astragalus propinquus has also been used in traditional Chinese medicine for longevity and provides strength to the body. This herb has an anti-aging property that slows down the aging process at a cellular level.
- Adaptogen
This herb builds and restores the overall health of the body. It is mostly useful in the cases of adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
- Heart Health
Flavonoids present in this herb have a wonderful cardio-protective property that helps to prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries and narrowing of the blood vessels by protecting the inner walls. It also lowers the triglycerides level and reduces blood pressure.
- Sexual Health
Scientists have proved that Astragalus propinquus increases the sperm motility and supports the male hormones by balancing the levels of testosterone and growth hormones.
- Kidney Health
Astragalus propinquus improves the blood flow and maintains the level of protein in the urine. Proteinuria is a condition in which high or abnormal level of protein is found in the urine which is a sign of the improper functioning of kidneys. It also prevents the body from infections which are caused due to the reduced kidneys functions.
- Seasonal Allergy
This herb has been used in seasonal allergies for many ages. It also provides relief in associated symptoms such as running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and ear congestion by triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream.
- Reduces Stress
Astragalus propinquus is also a adaptogen which has unique effects and has the ability to bring the body and mind into greater balance. It provides a calming effect on the brain and keeps the stress away.
