Astragalus

Latin Name: Astragalus membranaceus
Herb Class/Action: Immune Support, Spleen Qi Tonic, Wei Qi Tonic, Adaptogen
Parts Used: Root
Flavors: Sweet
Energetics: Slightly warming
Traditional Benefits: Adrenal support, immune system boost, liver health support

Comforting, nourishing, and warming — Astragalus Root feels like a cozy bowl of soup for both body and mind. Perfect for those feeling drained, Astragalus acts as a tonic for the Spleen, Lungs, and Wei Qi, offering strong immune and energy support.*

A staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for hundreds of years, Astragalus is a flowering plant with remarkable health benefits. Its sweet and revitalizing properties make it especially effective for supporting the adrenal glands, immune system, and lung health.

Here’s a closer look through a traditional perspective: Astragalus strengthens the body’s protective energy, known as “Wei Qi,” which forms a barrier to guard against external “chills” and uninvited elements. By nourishing this protective layer and promoting lung health, Astragalus enhances the body’s ability to stay resilient during vulnerable times. As an inwardly-focused tonic, it’s excellent for defense but not ideal for immediate action when the body needs an energetic boost outwardly.

Astragalus also supports lung strength, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range, and encourages the production of key immune cells like white and red blood cells as well as macrophages—all essential for robust immune function.

In addition to these key benefits, Astragalus is thought to promote liver health and, in TCM, is believed to enhance “Spleen Qi” to improve digestion, nutrient absorption, appetite, and overall energy transformation. Its support for circulation may even indirectly benefit hair health—though this is more of a bonus than a primary use.*

In Chinese, Astragalus is called “Yellow Leader,” a nod to its golden root and its esteemed place in TCM traditions.