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Astragalus

Posting Date: 01/01/2000

Astragalus saponins seem to have anticoagulant activity. Other preliminary research suggests a protective effect on the kidney and an ability to increase sperm motility. These studies need to be confirmed with further research before physicians in the United States would generally accept their findings.

In Chinese folk medicine, astragalus is also used in ointments to treat stubborn wounds.

Dose

For treatment of colds or flu: 10 g in a tea.

For treatment of wounds: 10 percent ointment.

Special Precautions

Astragalus may have a negative impact on anesthesia and on the analgesic Nubain (nalbuphine), so people about to undergo surgery should refrain from taking this herb.

Adverse Effects

Astragalus does not appear to be very toxic, but very little information is available on side effects.

Possible Interactions

The anticoagulant activity of astragalus may interact with that of Coumadin, increasing the risk of bleeding. It may counteract diabetes drugs.

Phenobarbital and beta-blockers such as propranolol or atenolol may be incompatible with astragalus.

There is also some indication that it can interact with other medicines, such as decongestants given for colds.