Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a member of the pea family and it looks like a typical pea family member. It can reach up to four feet tall with fern-like foliage, drooping white flowers in the summer, and seed pods in the fall.
Other Names Chinese milkvetch, Huang Qi, Milk vetch root, Yellow leader, Yellow emperor, Yellow vetch
KEY TAKEAWAYS
This herb is known for its ability to improve the immune system and promote overall health, thanks to its high levels of antioxidants and adaptogenic properties.
Astragalus is believed to possess magical qualities, with ancient cultures using it for protection, energy, and spiritual purposes.
When harvesting astragalus, it’s crucial to do so in the right season (autumn) and handle the root carefully to preserve its medicinal potency.
In the culinary world, astragalus can be added to soups and stews to enhance flavor and health benefits, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
Contents
History and Folklore
Astragalus has been used in China as a popular herbal tonic for centuries.
There are actually more than 1000 species of vetch worldwide, some are poisonous so make sure you’re getting the right species!
| Folklore | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection and Warding | Astragalus has long been believed to possess protective properties, warding off negative energies and spirits. |
| Good Luck and Prosperity | It is associated with good luck and prosperity, and carrying or wearing astragalus is believed to attract wealth and abundance. |
| Healing and Vitality | Astragalus is highly regarded for its healing properties and is often used to boost vitality and overall well-being. |
| Spirituality and Divination | In some folklore, astragalus is believed to enhance spiritual practices and aid in divination and psychic abilities. |
In ancient Greek, astragalos referred to knucklebones, usually from sheep, gaming pieces made from them, and the milkvetch plant. I don’t know the connection.
Propagation
This is a hardy perennial that grows well in temperate climates. It should be planted in full sun at least a foot apart in slightly sandy, well-drained soil.
Rub seeds between to pieces of fine sandpaper before planting in February before moving them out to your garden after the last danger of frost has passed.
Harvesting & Storage
Dig up the roots in autumn of the fourth or fifth year.
Magical Attributes
Astragalus corresponds to the planet Jupiter and the element Air.
Astragalus is a Chi tonic. Chi is the vital force of the body in Chinese lore. Applied to Western traditions, it could be used to increase energy for a variety of applications.
| Magical Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection and Banishing | Astragalus is utilized in magical practices for protection, banishing negative energies, and creating sacred space. |
| Grounding and Stability | It is associated with grounding and stability, helping individuals feel more centered and connected to the earth. |
| Amplifying Other Spells | Astragalus is believed to enhance the power of other spells and rituals when included as an ingredient or carried. |
| Psychic Awareness | It is associated with increasing psychic awareness, intuition, and spiritual insight. |
| Manifestation and Abundance | Astragalus is sometimes used in manifestation rituals and spells to attract abundance and prosperity. |
Healing Attributes
Astragalus strengthens the body’s resistance to disease and increases energy by enhancing cell growth and longevity and stimulating the synthesis of antibodies. It has a tonic effect on the liver, heart, lungs, and kidneys. It lowers blood pressure and increases circulation. It enhances interferon production, preventing viruses from replicating inside the body.
Common uses include; chronic fatigue, cold extremities, chronic autoimmune disorders, Epstein Barr, stress, night sweats, appetite loss, mononucleosis, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s disease, some cancers, hepatitis, asthma, arthritis, nervousness, to increase fertility and to aid in the mending of broken bones.
| Healing Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Immune System Support | Astragalus is known for its immune-boosting properties and is used to support the body’s defense mechanisms. |
| Energy and Vitality | It is believed to increase energy levels, combat fatigue, and promote overall vitality and stamina. |
| Respiratory Health | Astragalus has been traditionally used to support respiratory health and alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions. |
| Anti-Inflammatory Properties | It possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is used to reduce inflammation in the body. |
| Digestive Health | Astragalus is known to support digestive health and improve digestion, aiding in the absorption of nutrients. |
Research has shown effectiveness in enhanced immunity, cardiovascular health, and male infertility and has been used to support cancer therapy.
To protect health on a long-term basis, it is recommended that you take astragalus in a three week on, one week off regimen.
Astragalus is very safe and no adverse side effects have been reported in human or animal studies.
Culinary Use
The roots may be cooked in stews (remove before serving) or the powder may be added to various recipes for flavor. It doesn’t make for a tasty tea but gives a nice nutty aroma to savory simmers.
Additional Notes
This is a good herb to switch off with echinacea. Many herbs start to lose effectiveness when they are taken for a long period of time.
Astralagus should be avoided during menstruation and when you have acute infections.
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