Most commonly referred to as Astragalus. This hearty root is a wonderful tonic for the immune system when preparing for seasonal sickies. It increases resistance to viral infections, has antibiotic properties and it has been shown to enhance the function and production of white blood cells.
This Chinese tonic herb is said to be an appropriate ginseng for younger people and is non-toxic in any dose. Not only does it nourish the immune systems in young and old, but it also speeds recovery from flus and colds. In Chinese medicine, it is said to energize the outside of the body and tonify the protective energy known as the Chi, which protects the body from external “pathogenic factors”, such as cold, damp, wind and heat.
Astragalus is traditionally used in soups and broths as a general health tonic for the entire family. I personally like to add a sliced root to a small pot of homemade chicken soup and let it simmer during the cooking time. Just remember to remove them before eating, they’re tough! Others like to add a tablespoon of the root to a cup of boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes. When I do this, I like to add a slice a ginger or a teaspoon of peppermint to improve the taste. The root itself is very mild tasting, but few people prefer it by itself. For the best results, take Astragalus three times a day.
There is no study that says Astragalus is safe during pregnancy, however, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for a very long time as a safe herb for children to elders. Those on blood thinners should never take Astragalus.
One of my favorite ways to use it, is by adding the blend below to any homemade broth recipe. All of the herbs boost your immune system, are antibacterial, anti viral and good for sore throats, coughs, congestion or stomach bugs.
This Chinese tonic herb is said to be an appropriate ginseng for younger people and is non-toxic in any dose. Not only does it nourish the immune systems in young and old, but it also speeds recovery from flus and colds. In Chinese medicine, it is said to energize the outside of the body and tonify the protective energy known as the Chi, which protects the body from external “pathogenic factors”, such as cold, damp, wind and heat.
Astragalus is traditionally used in soups and broths as a general health tonic for the entire family. I personally like to add a sliced root to a small pot of homemade chicken soup and let it simmer during the cooking time. Just remember to remove them before eating, they’re tough! Others like to add a tablespoon of the root to a cup of boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes. When I do this, I like to add a slice a ginger or a teaspoon of peppermint to improve the taste. The root itself is very mild tasting, but few people prefer it by itself. For the best results, take Astragalus three times a day.
There is no study that says Astragalus is safe during pregnancy, however, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for a very long time as a safe herb for children to elders. Those on blood thinners should never take Astragalus.
One of my favorite ways to use it, is by adding the blend below to any homemade broth recipe. All of the herbs boost your immune system, are antibacterial, anti viral and good for sore throats, coughs, congestion or stomach bugs.
Immunity Broth Blend
Makes enough for 16 cups of broth.
1 cup of dried Astragalus root
1/4 cup Dulse flakes
1 Tbsp Thyme
1/2 Tbsp Mixed Peppercorns
1 Bay Leaf
1 cup of dried Astragalus root
1/4 cup Dulse flakes
1 Tbsp Thyme
1/2 Tbsp Mixed Peppercorns
1 Bay Leaf
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