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Astragalus membranaceus: A Revered Herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Astragalus membranaceus is a sun-loving perennial herb in the Fabaceae family, native to China, Mongolia, and North Korea. Renowned in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a Qi tonic, astragalus root has been used for centuries in classical herbal formulations. The dried root can be prepared as a tincture, simmered into soups and stews, or decocted into a nourishing astragalus tea.

This ancient herb has a prominent history in Chinese and Asian cultures. It was first mentioned in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic of the Materia Medica (circa 1st century AD), a foundational TCM text attributed to the legendary figure Shennong, who is believed to have lived 5,000 years ago.

Astragalus is traditionally valued for its ability to support immune health, bolster the body’s defenses, and promote resilience to stress. In TCM, it is considered an adaptogen that enhances energy and vitality.*

This herbaceous perennial grows to a height of 25-40 cm, thriving in sunny, grassy regions and mountainsides. For cultivation, plants are typically harvested after 4-5 years. The roots are collected in spring or autumn, sun-dried, and sliced into yellow, fibrous pieces with a subtly sweet, moistening flavor.

Usage
In TCM, 9-15 grams (about 3-5 tablespoons) of astragalus root is commonly recommended daily. It is typically decocted by boiling the dried root in water to make tea. Astragalus is also available in capsule or extract form. Traditional uses include supporting healthy immune function and heart health in otherwise healthy individuals. Common names for the plant include membranous milkvetch and huang qi.

Precautions
No known precautions. However, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications.