Astragalus
Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it brings high levels down and low levels up to enable the body to return to a balance or homeostasis. It operates in the realm of the body's immune function. Astragalus influences bone marrow to increase production of white blood cells and killer T cells. The bone marrow is where the body manufactures blood cells and immune system cells.
Reportedly in a study performed in the 1980s 19 cancer patients and 15 healthy people were given astragalus extract. In some cases, the cancer patient's immune systems were like those of the healthy people. The researchers attributed this result to the immune system stimulating properties of astragalus. The Chinese have used astragalus, huang qi in Chinese, at least 2,000 years before the English knew it had medicinal qualities. Not all astragalus is medicinal.
Reportedly in a study performed in the 1980s 19 cancer patients and 15 healthy people were given astragalus extract. In some cases, the cancer patient's immune systems were like those of the healthy people. The researchers attributed this result to the immune system stimulating properties of astragalus. The Chinese have used astragalus, huang qi in Chinese, at least 2,000 years before the English knew it had medicinal qualities. Not all astragalus is medicinal.
Asia is where the medicinal form of astragalus, Astragalus membranaceus (or membranaceous), is grown. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) employs astragalus singularly and in compounds to strengthen the body's immune system against colds, the flu, respiratory diseases, boils and sores, and other sicknesses. The Chinese medical doctors are using astragalus to elevate immune system function as an adjunct during and after radiation or chemotherapy.
Cancer weakens the body and the radiation and chemotherapy treatments result in additional weakening; especially to the immune system. Because astragalus is adaptogenic in the immune system it can prevent bacterias and viruses from taking advantage of the compromised state that cancer treatments create. Moreover, astragalus can help in the fight for survival without recurrence, restore immune function and increase the body's production of T cells, macrophages and natural killer cells.
Astragalus stimulates the productiion of proteins that prevent viral infections. Interferon is one of those proteins. Interferon “sticks” to the surfaces of cells and makes it more difficult for viruses to execute their attack. If you have a hard time shaking off a cold or the flu, astragalus may help. Looking at chemotherapy or radiation treatments? Astragalus may be just the extra edge your immune system can use.
Astragalus stimulates the productiion of proteins that prevent viral infections. Interferon is one of those proteins. Interferon “sticks” to the surfaces of cells and makes it more difficult for viruses to execute their attack. If you have a hard time shaking off a cold or the flu, astragalus may help. Looking at chemotherapy or radiation treatments? Astragalus may be just the extra edge your immune system can use.