Astragalus Menbranaceus
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Rosids |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
| Species: | A. Propinquus |
| Binomial name: | Astragalus Propinquus |
Quick Facts
| Common name | Astragalus |
| Scientific name | Astragalus membranaceus |
| Type | Perennial herb in the pea family |
| Habitat | Dry sandy soil, mountain thickets and meadows |
| Native range | Northeast Asia |
| Height | 11.5–39 in |
| Special feature | Dried root used in traditional Chinese medicine |
A large variety of around 3000 species of shrubs and herbs known as Astragalus are found in the northern hemisphere regions. It belongs to the Fabaceae family. It has a subdivision called Faboideae. This genus is believed to have originated from the Northern Hemispheres temperate region. There are many names for this genus. Most species are known as Milk Vetch, whereas some species in North America are called locoweed. Some other species like Astragalus Gummifer and Astragalus Tragacanthus are known as goat‘s thorns.
History
Astragalus membranaceus is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese scholars recommend the use of this special herb for boosting the immune system in human bodies. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for about 2,000 years. It is still used in China as a traditional remedy for cold and upper respiratory infections. It is generally used with other herbs. Though it is not clinically proven, medical experts are more curious and are continuing to research on the possibility that, it can decrease the deadly after effects caused by chemotherapy.
Habitat
Astragalus is known as “King of herbal tonics. This herb originates from Northeast Asia. It is a perennial plant in the pea family. It can also be seen in dry, sandy soil, mountain thickets, meadows etc.
Soil
This herb prefers well drained soil. It can also grow in sandy soil, deep soil and poor soil. Slightly alkaline mixed soil is best for this herb. It doesnt prefer clay soil.
Plant
Astragalus Membranceus is a beneficial herb from the pea family (legumes). It is an upright plant that grows around 11.5 to 39 inches in height. Its leaves are feather like or in pinnate arrangement that has around 9 – 21 leaflets. It grows about ¼ to ¾ of an inch long and 1/3 of an inch in width. The stem of this herb has many branches. The stem is slanting upwards and looks bushy in appearance. The plant has racemes on it which are in auxiliary position. The shrubs peduncle is very fragile and it can bear only 3 9 flowers which bloom on the upper part of the plant. The plant also bears seed pods which look swollen and are more than 1 inch long. Its tip seems to have a beaked appearance. This herb produces around 30 seeds.
Water
While germinating, it prefers a bit moist soil. When harvesting taproots, if it gets slight rain then it is well and good.
Temperature
This herb appears to be hardy, because it has survived in some places where the temperature is below -20 degree Celsius. The seed should be preserved in -18 degree Celsius continuously for 7 days.
Care
Till now, no clinical research has found any serious side effects by using Astragalus. But the intake of this herbal medicine during breastfeeding or pregnancy should be confirmed with a medical practitioner. In traditional Chinese medicines, the dried root of this herb was used in doses of 9 to 15 grams. Usually it does not react with any other herbs or medicines. For a safer side, all medicines including herbs should only be taken after consulting your doctor.
Uses
Astragalus is believed to be a remedy for many diseases, though more research is required to prove it. Some people use Asragalus as a general tonic to protect the liver and to fight bacteria and viruses. It is also believed to reduce blood sugar level. Some believe it can reduce cholesterol levels and upper respiratory infections. Overall, it helps to stimulate the immune system. However the present studies will not be enough to prove the uses of this herb.
Pests and Diseases
The insects include thrips, aphids, grasshoppers and seed chalcids. Grasshoppers cause much damage to this herb by eating the seed pods and flower buds. The diseases that may affect includes root crown or stem rot diseases. The infection is usually very light.
Astragalus FAQs
What is astragalus?
Astragalus is a perennial herb in the pea family. Its dried root has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for about 2,000 years, where it is known as the ‘king of herbal tonics’.
Where does astragalus come from?
Astragalus membranaceus comes from Northeast Asia. It grows in dry, sandy soil, mountain thickets and meadows.
How tall does astragalus grow?
The plant grows about 11.5 to 39 inches tall. Its leaves are feather-like with 9 to 21 leaflets, and the stems are branched and bushy.
Is astragalus safe to take?
The article says no serious side effects have been found, but many of its health claims are not proven. Check with a doctor before taking any herb, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How cold can astragalus survive?
Astragalus is hardy and has survived places where the temperature dips below minus 20 degrees Celsius.
Randi Jones is the owner and founder of the Nature Gift Store, an online retailer specializing in nature-themed gifts, educational science projects, live animal nature kits and real butterfly artwork. A biology graduate who fell in love with insects, she founded the company in 2001 to make active learning about nature fun, accessible and engaging for children and adults. Her store offers real butterfly frames, home and garden decor and educational live animal kits, including ant farms, worm farms, tadpoles, ladybugs and hermit crabs, and she runs a bug museum in Washington featuring live animals like Eddie the Iguana alongside other reptiles and insects.
