Astragalus (herb of life) - pharmaceutical preparations (syrup, extract, etc.), reviews of doctors. Recommendations for Astragalus Herb, Leaves and Roots

Astragalus norvegicus Web. 1784 - Norwegian Astragalus

Botanical characteristics. Stems 10-40 cm tall, ribbed, glabrous or with sparse hairs. Leaflets, 5-7 pairs, 8-25 mm long and 5-10 mm wide, oval, glabrous above, sparsely appressed-finely pubescent below, obtuse at apex, rarely just notched. Racemes ovate or oblong, with drooping lower flowers. Bracts lanceolate, equal to or twice as long as pedicels, sparsely ciliate. Calyx campanulate, 5-6 mm long, densely black- and white-haired, triangular-lanceolate teeth 3-5 times shorter than the tube. Corolla pale lilac, flag 11-12 mm long, with ovoid notched plate. Wings 9-10 mm long, entire above. Boat 7-8 mm long. Pods 6-7 mm long and 5 mm wide, on a stalk 1.5 mm long, drooping, oval, grooved on the back, densely black and white-haired, membranous, almost bilocular.

E c o l o g and i . Grows in tundra, taiga forests, on riverside pebbles, meadows, among shrubs, on rocky slopes.

Spreading. Within Siberia, plants of this species are common in a number of administrative entities and floristic regions.

In Western Siberia, these are the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug and the Republic of Altai.

AT Central Siberia Norwegian astragalus grows in the Taimyr floristic region, the Putoran floristic region, the Tunguska floristic region, the Upper Yenisei floristic region and the Republic of Tyva.

AT Eastern Siberia the plant is found in several floristic regions, which include the Angara-Sayan, Prilensko-Katangsky, North Buryat, South Buryat, Kalarsky, Shilko-Argunsky (Dauria), Arctic, Vilyuisko-Verkhnelensky, Yano-Indigirsky and Kolyma floristic regions.

Outside of Russia - Scandinavia, the Alps, the Carpathians, the mountains of Northern Mongolia, Northeast China.

Astragalus (herb of life) - pharmaceutical preparations (syrup, extract, etc.), reviews of doctors. Recommendations for Astragalus Herb, Leaves and Roots

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Astragalus has wound healing, hypotensive, hemostatic, diuretic, vasodilating, cardiotonic and diaphoretic effects, and therefore is used in the complex therapy of various diseases.

The Astragalus plant has become very popular in recent years as a unique flower that can cure severe chronic diseases and give vitality to any person. Astragalus is credited with the ability to prolong human life, while maintaining and maintaining sufficient physical and mental activity. Such ideas about Astragalus are connected with the fact that it is called the “grass of life of the Kremlin leaders”, which was used by the general secretaries of the CPSU Central Committee to prolong life and maintain normal tone and vigor.

According to legends and rumors, the Kremlin leaders began to use Astragalus, since it was found out that this particular plant is the mysterious Scythian "grass of immortality", also covered with a halo of mystery and power. And allegedly thanks to Astragalus, the leaders of a huge country lived to old age, being in fairly good shape. The authors proving this point of view, as an argument, cite the fact that any mention of Astragalus was classified until 1969.

Unfortunately, it is not known for certain whether Astragalus is a herb that gave long life to the Kremlin leaders, but it has been absolutely established that this plant has medicinal properties, and therefore can be used in the complex therapy of a number of diseases.

What plants are meant by the name Astragalus?

It is well known that, according to the rules, the botanical name of any plant consists of two words, the first of which is the name of the genus, and the second is a refinement, which is, in fact, the name of the species. For example, the full name of a plant is written as Astragalus woolly, where the word "astragalus" is the name of the genus, and "woolly-flowered" is a refinement indicating a particular species. The plant Astragalus membranosa also belongs to the genus Astragalus, but is a different species from the woolly flower.

In everyday life, various plants are almost always called one word, which reflects the name of the genus. But since in everyday conversation it is always clear what the other person means by calling this or that plant in one word, then it is not necessary to specify what kind of species it is. However, the situation with astragalus is somewhat different.

So, under the common name "Astragalus" several plant species belonging to the same genus are combined. The fact is that Astragalus is the name of a genus that includes more than 1,500 species of medicinal shrubs, herbs and subshrubs. Most often, the common name "Astragalus" means either woolly-flowered Astragalus or membranous Astragalus. It is these two plant species of the Astragalus genus that have the most powerful medicinal properties and are used in alternative medicine.

Astragalus membranous has the most powerful healing properties, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine and grows in Transbaikalia, the Far East, China and Mongolia. Woolly-flowered Astragalus has properties similar to it, which grows on the European continent in temperate latitudes and, in fact, is a European analogue of Astragalus membranous.

In the following text of the article, we will consider the properties and methods therapeutic use Astragalus woolly-flowered and Astragalus membranous, uniting them under one short name "Astragalus", since, in fact, they are analogues. We will use the full name of the plant species only if necessary to indicate any features.

general characteristics

Astragalus is a genus of herbaceous, shrubby and semi-shrub plants belonging to the legume family. The genus Astragalus includes about 1600 different plant species, some of which are used as medicinal herbs. Currently in Russia and countries former USSR The following two types of Astragalus are used as medicinal herbs:

• Astragalus Woollyflowered , which is also called Dense-flowered Astragalus, Fluffy-flowered Astragalus or Astragalus dasyánthus Pall;
• Astragalus membranous , which is also called membranous Astragalus or Astragalus membranaceus.

Both of these types of Astragalus have very similar properties, therefore they are conditionally considered analogues of each other. However, Astragalus membranosus has a more powerful therapeutic effect compared to woolly flowers.

Since Astragalus woollyflowered and Astragalus membranous are used in the treatment of the same conditions or diseases, they are often not separated, but combined under one common name "Astragalus". In the following text, we will also combine both types of plants under one name, and we will indicate the full name of the species only if necessary to focus on any of its features.

Astragalus Woollyflowered

Woolly-flowered astragalus is a perennial herb with complex pinnate leaves and pale yellow flowers. On the surface of all parts of the plant there are protruding thin whitish or yellowish soft hairs, creating a pubescent effect. The fruits are slightly pubescent beans 10-12 mm long.

Woolly-flowered astragalus grows in the southern and middle strip of the European part of the former USSR (Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, the European part of Russia) in the steppes, forest-steppes and mixed forests.

For medical use, the herb Astragalus woolly is harvested. The collection is made during the flowering period (May-June), cutting off the stem at a height of 5-7 cm from the soil surface, after which it is dried in the shade at an air temperature of 50-55 o C. The grass should be cut before the formation of fruits. Dried grass can be stored in rag bags for a year.

Ready dried plants are used to prepare infusions used in the treatment of hypertension in early stages, circulatory failure I or II degrees, as well as acute glomerulonephritis.

Astragalus membranous

Astragalus membranosus is a perennial herb with complex, unpaired pinnate leaves. The flowers of the plant are painted yellow-white and are collected in loose brushes, originating from the sinuses between the leaf stalk and the stem. The fruit of Astragalus membranosus is a dense bean, covered with a peel and hanging on a thin stalk.

Astragalus membranous grows on the territory of the Korean Peninsula, Eastern Siberia, the Far East and China (Manchuria) in forests (coniferous and deciduous), in the steppes, on sandy river banks, as well as on mountain slopes covered with rubble.

For medical use, the roots, grass, leaves and fruits of Astragalus membranous are collected. Grass and leaves are harvested during the flowering period (May-June), cutting off the stem at a height of 5-7 cm from the soil surface. The roots are dug up in autumn (September) and the fruits are harvested immature (August), when they have already grown, but their peel has not yet opened. Grass, leaves, roots and fruits of the plant after harvesting are dried in a dry, shaded place at a temperature of 50 - 55 o C. Ready dried parts of the plant (grass, leaves, fruits and roots) are stored in linen bags for a year.

Astragalus membranous roots are used in traditional Chinese, Tibetan, and Korean medicine as a diuretic, choleretic, tonic, and general tonic. In addition, the roots of the plant are used for eclampsia, diseases of the spleen, digestive tract and cardiovascular system, as well as metabolic disorders.

In China, Astragalus membranosus is included in the pharmacopeia and is considered equal in its medicinal properties to ginseng. In Europe and the USA, Astragalus membranous root is used as an immunostimulating and diuretic.

The herb Astragalus membranosus is an obstetric aid, as it accelerates the separation and exit of the placenta. In addition, the Astragalus herb can be effective in the complex therapy of infertility and dropsy.

A photo

This photo shows woolly-flowered Astragalus.

This photo shows Astragalus membranosus.

What parts of the plant are used for medicinal use

In medical practice, the following parts of Astragalus are used:

• Grass (stem with leaves and flowers) Astragalus woolly-flowered and membranous;
• Leaves of Astragalus woolly-flowered and membranous;
• Root of Astragalus membranous (occasionally the root of Astragalus woolly is also used);
• Astragalus membranous fruit.

In practice, the most commonly used herb Astragalus woolly and Astragalus membranous root. Tinctures and decoctions are made from the roots and herbs for medical use.

However, traditional healers or practitioners of traditional Chinese, Korean, or Tibetan healing methods also make powder from the roots, or extract and syrup from the roots and the herb. Such powders, syrups and extracts are not standardized or certified, so use them at your own risk.

plant composition

The herb of Astragalus woolly-flowered and the root of Astragalus membranous contain various biologically active substances belonging to the same groups of chemical compounds, and therefore, despite the difference, they cause similar therapeutic properties of two types of plants of the same genus. The biologically active substances that make up the roots and herbs are shown in the table.

Biologically active substances of the herb Astragalus woolly	Biologically active substances of Astragalus membranous root
Triterpene glycosides and saponins	Triterpene saponins
Flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, narcissin, isorhamnetin, astragaloside)	Flavonoids (formocoketin, kuatakeyin, calicosin, ononin)
Tannins	Astragalosides I, II, III
Coumarins	Sterols
Oxycoumarins	alkaloids
Essential oil	Phytosteroids (daucosterol, astramembranins I, II, beta-sitosterol)
Bassorin and Arabin	Essential and fatty oils

In addition, the herb and roots of both types of Astragalus contain the following vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin E;
• Vitamin C;
• Selenium;
• Iron;
• Aluminum;
• Zinc;
• Copper;
• Cobalt;
• Silicon;
• Magnesium;
• Manganese;
• Molybdenum;
• Chromium;
• Vanadium;
• Phosphorus;
• Sodium.

Astragalus accumulates significant concentrations of selenium, and therefore is an excellent source of this trace element.

Healing properties of Astragalus

Astragalus root and herb have the following therapeutic effects:

• Immunostimulating;
• Cardiotonic;
• Hepatoprotective;
• Antidiabetic;
• Antitumor;
• Antiviral;
• Hypotonic;
• Calming;
• Diuretic;
• Antibacterial;
• Vasodilator;
• Hemostatic;
• Antioxidant;
• Anti-aging.

Anti-aging effect Astragalus is to slow down the aging process and increase vitality. This effect is confirmed by modern research, so Astragalus is quite appropriate to use as a means of slowing down aging and keeping the human body in good shape.

Calming action plants are combined with an antidepressant effect, thanks to which Astragalus infusions and decoctions normalize the general mental state of a person and perfectly tone up, relieving blues, depression, anxiety and anxiety.

Cardiotonic action Astragalus is similar to the effects of cardiac glycosides, that is, infusions and decoctions of the plant dilate the vessels of the heart and kidneys, increase urination and, thereby, improve nutrition and oxygen supply, as well as myocardial contractility. Such effects have a positive effect on the state and functional activity of the heart, as a result of which heart pains are stopped.

Vasodilating effect Astragalus causes a decrease in blood pressure and improvement of microcirculation in all organs and tissues, including cerebral circulation. This effect, in addition to normalizing pressure, leads to an improvement in the supply of tissues with oxygen and nutrients, as a result of which headaches and dizziness disappear in a person. The effect of improving tissue nutrition and the trace element selenium, which is part of Astragalus, among other things, is used in the treatment of muscular dystrophies and Alzheimer's disease.

Antitumor activity plants due to the presence of isoflavone, which inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

In addition, Astragalus removes excess nitrogenous compounds (urea, creatinine, etc.) from the blood, acting similarly to the well-known drug Lespenefril.

Antibacterial effect Astragalus lies in the fact that the plant has a detrimental effect on a number of pathogenic microbes, such as shigella, beta-hemolytic streptococci, diphtheritic corynebacteria, diplococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Toxoplasma, Trichomonas, amoeba. In addition, Astragalus has a direct antiviral effect, inhibiting the development of Coxsackie viruses and adenoviruses.

Due to the normalization of the coagulation and anticoagulation systems, Astragalus optimizes blood coagulation, that is, depending on the need, it strengthens or weakens it. Thus, Astragalus stops internal bleeding and at the same time prevents thrombosis and thromboembolism.

In addition, Astragalus is very effective tool for the treatment of cold infections. The plant also increases stamina and is an excellent tool that allows a person to endure high mental and physical stress well, being in great shape and not exhausting.

Scope of application

The herb Astragalus woollyflora and Astragalus membranous root are used for a number of the same ailments, but in addition, each plant is also additionally used for some different pathologies.

Grass Astragalus

Astragalus herb is used for the following diseases and conditions:

• Diabetes;
• Bronchial asthma;
• Acute respiratory diseases (ARI, SARS, colds, flu, etc.);
• burns;
• Articular rheumatism;
• muscular dystrophy;
• prolapse of the uterus;
• The initial stages of hypertension;
• Chronic cardiovascular insufficiency;
• angina;
• Coronary artery disease;
• Acute and chronic nephritis;
• Edema or dropsy of the brain;
• Liver diseases;
• Stomach ulcer;
• neuroses;
• To accelerate the healing of wounds on the skin and epithelium (for example, with gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontitis, cuts, etc.);
• Malignant tumors, including leukemias.

Astragalus Root

Astragalus membranous root is used for the following diseases and conditions:

• heart attacks;
• thrombophlebitis;
• Bleeding and tendency to bleed;
• Hypertonic disease;
• Cardiovascular diseases (IHD, heart defects, arrhythmia, etc.);
• Viral myocarditis;
• Diabetes;
• Liver disease;
• Asthenia (failure);
• Night sweats;
• Chronical bronchitis ;
• Colds;
• swelling;
• bleeding;
• Arthritis;
• Metabolic disease;
• Digestive disorders;
• Violations of the sensitivity of the limbs;
• Nephritis and diabetic nephropathy;
• Diseases of the stomach;
• Malignant neoplasms;
• Leprosy;
• infected wounds;
• Age spots, dryness and peeling of the skin;
• Diseases of the digestive tract.

Finished pharmaceutical forms and preparations containing Astragalus

On the domestic pharmaceutical market, there is a drug Flaronin containing crushed Astragalus herb powder as an active substance and used for kidney diseases. This drug is standardized, registered, tested and officially approved for use by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation.

In addition, in the category of biologically active additives (BAA) on the pharmaceutical market, there is Astragalus syrup developed by Academician Voshchenko, an aqueous-alcoholic extract produced by VILAR and TA-65 capsules containing Astragalus membranous extract.

Flaronin tablets should be used only when indicated as a medicinal product. And Astragalus extract and syrup are recommended to be used either for prevention or for the treatment of mild pathological conditions (for example, colds, overwork, high mental or physical stress), or as part of complex therapy for serious diseases. It should be remembered that in case of severe diseases, Astragalus extract and syrup should be used only as an addition to the main therapy prescribed by the doctor.

Astragalus tincture - cooking rules

To prepare infusions, decoctions or tinctures, it is necessary to grind the available raw materials (roots, grass or leaves) into the smallest possible parts. It should also be remembered that the approximate weight of chopped herbs and roots in various spoons is as follows:

• Teaspoon - 5 g;
• Dessert spoon - 10 g;
• Tablespoon - 15;
• Tablespoon with a slide - 20 g.

For the preparation of decoctions and infusions, it is necessary to use glass, ceramic, porcelain and enamelware. For filtering ready-made infusions, decoctions and tinctures, you can use gauze folded in several layers, clean cotton or linen cloth.

To be taken for prevention or for mild health disorders, such as severe fatigue, high mental or physical stress, seasonal hypovitaminosis, episodic digestive disorders, stress, depression or acute respiratory diseases, it is recommended to take a weak infusion of Astragalus leaves of any kind. The infusion is prepared as follows: 5 - 7 fresh or dried leaves or 1/4 teaspoon of chopped dry herbs are poured into a glass of boiling water and infused overnight. Infusion is taken before meals for 1/2 - 1 glass 1 - 2 times a day.

For the purpose of calming you can drink a weak infusion of leaves, which is conventionally called astragalus tea. Such an infusion is prepared as follows: 5 - 7 fresh or dried leaves or 1/4 teaspoon of chopped dry herbs are poured into a glass of boiling water, insisted for 10 minutes and drunk like tea.

For use in severe diseases prepare a standard infusion of herbs or Astragalus roots (unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor). To do this, take 20 g of dry chopped grass or one teaspoon of root powder, pour 200 ml of boiling water over it and insist for 2 hours. The finished infusion is filtered and taken one tablespoon 3-6 times a day, or administered in the form of microclysters with a volume of 20-30 ml 1-2 times a day.

For long term use can cook alcohol tincture roots or grass Astragalus. In order to make a tincture, 50 g of crushed grass or Astragalus roots are poured into 600 ml of vodka or 70% alcohol. The composition is placed in a closed container and infused for 7-10 days, shaking occasionally. The finished infusion is filtered and taken 20-30 drops 3 times a day before meals for two or more months.

The use of Astragalus in various diseases

Consider the schemes recommended by doctors for the use of Astragalus in various diseases. It should be remembered that the indicated courses of Astragalus can be repeated, maintaining intervals between them of at least 1 month.

Hypertonic disease

Take a standard infusion (20 g of dry grass or a tablespoon of root powder, brew 200 ml of boiling water and infuse for 2 hours), one tablespoon 5 times a day before meals. The course of treatment lasts for 15 - 20 days. Such courses are periodically repeated, maintaining intervals between them with a minimum duration of 1 month.

Against the background of taking Astragalus infusion, people decrease

Wild growing perennial strongly pubescent herbaceous plant. It has a wide spectrum of action (wound healing, hypotensive, diaphoretic, hemostatic, diuretic, vasodilating and cardiotonic) on the human body.

Ask the experts

flower formula

Astragalus woolly flower formula: Ch(5)L1,2,2T(10)P1.

In medicine

In medical practice, an infusion of the herb astragalus woolly is allowed for use. The use of astragalus woolly-flowered herb infusion is especially effective in the initial stages of hypertension and in chronic cardiovascular insufficiency with a tendency to spasms of the coronary vessels, as well as acute and chronic nephritis. An infusion of Astragalus woolly-flowered herb contributes to the expansion of the vessels of the brain and peripheral vessels, which significantly improves blood circulation, indicators of general and intracardiac hemodynamics, and also saturates the internal organs with oxygen. It is good for them to treat angina pectoris, it is recommended for patients suffering from vascular diseases and kidney diseases. Astragalus herb infusion is used to rinse the mouth and throat, it is quite effective for sore throat, periodontal disease, stomatitis and other inflammatory processes. Astragalus has been used for a long time to normalize the coagulation and anticoagulation functions of the blood, normalize capillary blood flow and reduce capillary constriction, relieves shortness of breath and cyanosis, and increases diuresis in patients. Woolly-flowered astragalus is used in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, diabetes and bronchial asthma, lung diseases, eczema and psoriasis, as well as in many types of oncological pathologies, in particular leukemia, myeloma.

Contraindications and side effects

Despite a wide range of effects on the human body, it is undesirable to use Astragalus woolly flower herb in acute and chronic kidney diseases accompanied by edema, in case of individual intolerance, in chronic heart diseases, as well as in children under 3 years of age. Before using it, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

In other areas

The economic value of astragalus woolly-flowered, as well as other representatives of legumes (butterflies), lies in the ability to enrich the soil with nitrogen, due to their symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing nodule bacteria of the genus Rhizobium. After the death of their aboveground parts, the soil is significantly enriched with nitrogen-containing compounds, which, through bacteria, are used not only by themselves, but also by other plants.

Classification

Astragalus woolly-flowered (astragalus fluffy-flowered, or densely flowered (lat. Astragalus dasyanthus) is a species of the genus Astragalus (lat. Astragalus) family Legumes, or Butterflies (lat. fabaceae, or Papilonaceae, Leguminosae). The genus includes 1500 species, it is the largest in the family and among flowering plants in the flora of Russia (800 species). The scientific name of the genus comes from the Greek. astragalos- “vertebra; dice”, which is probably due to the knotty stems characteristic of most of its species. There is another name for it - "cat's peas".

Botanical description

Perennial herbaceous plant about 40 cm long, with a powerfully developed tap root system. The roots contain many sclerenchymal elements, an important feature is also the settlement of bacteria in them, which have the ability to use atmospheric nitrogen for protein synthesis. Thanks to this symbiotic relationship, it can thrive in nitrogen-poor soils. Stems are ribbed, hollow, numerous, recumbent and erect or ascending, not woody, leafy. The leaves are petiolate, alternate pinnately compound with 12-14 pairs of short-petiolate leaflets oblong-lanceolate or oblong-oval in shape (15-20 mm long and 6 mm wide). Stipules triangular-lanceolate, awl-shaped, pointed, whitish ends. The flowers are zygomorphic, moth-like, about 15-20 mm long, collected in dense capitate many-flowered (10-20 pcs) inflorescences (3-6 cm long), located on long axillary peduncles (15 cm). L1,2,2T(10)P1. Perianth double. Corolla light yellow, calyx bell-shaped densely pubescent. All organs of the plant, except for the corolla, are densely pubescent with soft long whitish-yellowish hairs, especially the calyx. The fruit is a bean. Flowering period June-July.

Spreading

It is found in the southeastern regions of the European part of Russia. The distribution area reaches Volgograd and the Stavropol Upland. Not picky about moisture, does not tolerate waterlogging and shading. It grows mainly in areas with preserved steppe vegetation (barrows, edges, clearings, abandoned places). The plant needs protection, it is classified as an endangered species and is listed in the Red Book, harvesting in large quantities is prohibited.

Distribution regions on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

Harvesting herb astragalus woolly-flowered as a medicinal raw material is carried out in the phase of mass flowering, before the formation of fruits. Cut off the aerial part of the plant with a knife or scissors. The grass is dried in attics or in well-ventilated rooms, it is also possible in dryers at temperatures up to 50-55 ° C. The yield of raw materials from freshly harvested plants is small - about 20%. Dried astragalus grass has non-lignified brownish-gray stems, grayish-greenish leaves, yellow flowers, as well as a slight peculiar smell and sweetish taste. Raw materials are stored in paper bags for no more than 1 year in a dry place.

Chemical composition

Flavonoids - quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, astragalozoid, narcissin - were found in the herb Astragalus woolly; vitamins A, B, C, E, tannins, organic acids, coumarins, essential oil, triterpene compounds - glycyrrhizin, daziantobioside, steroids, iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, silicon, manganese and other trace elements, and can also accumulate selenium. Astragalus grass juice contains bassorin - 60-70%, arabin - 8-10%, triterpene saponins, mucous substances, pigments.

Pharmacological properties

The medicinal properties of astragalus woolly-flowered are determined by its unique chemical composition and the harmonious ratio of the substances contained in this plant. useful substances. Infusion of the herb astragalus woolly has a diuretic, hypotensive, sedative and sedative effect. Improves heart function, dilates heart vessels and kidney vessels. The infusion has a positive effect on the course of hypertension, lowers blood pressure, so it is often used to treat the initial forms of hypertension, circulatory failure I and II degrees, as well as acute glomerulonephritis. Astragalus has a beneficial effect on the heart, dilates the coronary and kidney vessels, and increases diuresis. At topical application An infusion of the herb astragalus woolly has a wound-healing effect.

History reference

As a medicinal plant that cures many diseases, woolly-flowered astragalus has been known since ancient times. For many centuries, an infusion of astragalus herb, also called "Royal syrup" from royal herb, due to its natural force prolonged the heyday of the empire and kept many crowns.

It has been experimentally proven that astragalus herb syrup has a beneficial effect on the human body as a whole, it not only slows down the aging process, but also has a rejuvenating effect. Influencing gently, the syrup heals the body from the inside and retains freshness for many years.

The developer of the syrup, a new generation product, is A.V. Voshchenko is a Russian scientist, professor, academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences. The syrup is obtained from woolly-flowered astragalus, grown on plantations, where selenium microfertilizers are applied 3 times a season (according to the Voshchenko method). After the end of the growing season and the ripening of the seeds, the roots and stems are harvested and an extract is prepared from them. Then the selenium content is determined and the ingredients for the preparation of the syrup are calculated.

The syrup has many unique properties: it increases the level of hemoglobin and strengthens the immune system; improves cerebral circulation and the state of the nervous system; is an excellent regulator blood pressure and an antidepressant; helps to normalize hormonal levels; stops uterine bleeding; relieves dizziness, headaches and heart pain; significantly improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails; removes toxins and toxins; helps to control weight, gives a positive and health effect with allergic processes.

The syrup is indicated for pregnant women and children to improve psychophysical health, reduce hyperreactivity and fatigue.

Astragalus woolly flower syrup has practically no contraindications, it does not have any side effects.

Application in traditional medicine

In folk medicine, a decoction of the herb Astragalus woolly is used as an expectorant, diuretic, as well as for asthenia, kidney disease, burns, articular rheumatism, nervous diseases, for rinsing the mouth and throat with sore throat, stomatitis, periodontal disease. Woollyflowered astragalus was highly valued for its antitumor effect, which was confirmed by numerous herbalists in practice. Therefore, the herb is used to treat benign and malignant tumors, as well as after chemotherapy during the recovery period. Along with the valuable beneficial properties listed above, astragalus eliminates excessive accumulation of water during dropsy and prevents swelling of the brain. The use of astragalus herb is effective for rheumatism, muscular dystrophy, uterine prolapse and poisoning of various etiologies.

Literature

1. Blinova K. F. et al. Botanical-pharmacognostic dictionary / Ed. K. F. Blinova, G. P. Yakovlev. M.: Higher. school, 1990. S. 167.

1. Goncharov, N. F. et al. Genus Astragalus - Astragalus L. // Flora of the USSR / Ch. ed. acad. V.L. Komarov; Ed. volumes B.K. Shishkin M.-L.: USSR Publishing House, 1946. T. XII. pp. 114-117.

3. Gubanov, I. A. et al. Astragalus dasyanthus Pall. Astragalus fluffy-flowered // Illustrated determinant of plants of Central Russia. ed. KMK, Institute of Technol. issl., 2003. V. 2. Angiosperms (dicotyledonous: dicotyledonous). S. 233

4. Elenevsky A.G., M.P. Solovyova, V.N. Tikhomirov // Botany. Systematics of higher or land plants. M. 2004. 420 p.

5. Maznev N. I. Encyclopedia of medicinal plants. 3rd ed., rev. and additional M.: Martin, 2004. S. 82-83. 496 p.

6. Medicinal plants. Reference manual (under the editorship of N.I. Grinkevich). M. "Higher School" 1991. 396 p.

astragalus_membranous

Astragalus membranosus is one of the fifty basic herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used for a variety of purposes and is believed to increase lifespan. It has anti-inflammatory properties, being especially beneficial for the kidneys.

general information

Astragalus membranosus is an important herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used in a wide variety of herbal mixtures and "natural" preparations, including Dang-gui buxue tane, which is composed of astragalus membranosus and angelica chinensis. Astragalus membranosus has been shown in research to have cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and longevity effects. Although the use of Astragalus membranosus may reduce the occurrence of metabolic and physical complications associated with aging, to date there are no specific studies that clearly show that Astragalus affects the increase in life expectancy. The flavonoid content of Astragalus membranosus may also have cardioprotective effects. Its polysaccharide content also protects the heart through its ability to lower cholesterol levels. Astragalus membranosus' main mechanism of action is related to its active ingredients. The main component is astragaloside IV, which is presented in the form of an extract; it is available in isolated form under the patented name TA-65 and is being marketed as a life-prolonging agent. Unfortunately, astragaloside IV has a low bioavailability, indicating poor circulation in the body after consumption. This also indicates that it can only be present in the body in low concentrations. Low concentrations of astragaloside IV may have cardioprotective effects. Astragalus membranous may provide a number of health benefits, but may not increase longevity. Like resveratrol, astragalus membranous is more of a compound that makes you feel better than it adds years to your life. Also known as: astragalus, huangqi, (component) Danggui buxue tang (DBT), membranous astragalus root, ogi, Huang Qi, TA-65, TAT2 Not to be confused with: (red pigment), (Indian aphrodisiac)

Its useful to note:

A traditional Chinese preparation containing the herbal extract of Astragalus membranus diluted with wine (Astragalus: Angelica 5 to 1, ethanol extract), according to scientific research, is the most effective form Astragaloside IV from Astragalus.

Astragaloside IV has poor oral bioavailability, so this steroidal saponin (which is the active ingredient) may be effective at very low concentrations in vitro or at the expense of other compounds.

Astragalus herb can inhibit CYP3A4, which metabolizes a huge amount of pharmaceuticals, which can cause side effects.

Represents:

Traditional Chinese medicine drug

Immunomodulator

Pairs well with:

Angelica Chinese (increases the bioavailability of astragalus flavonoids, enhances a wide range of parameters in vitro due to unknown mechanisms).

Tetrandrine (in relation to the control of blood glucose levels in diabetics).

A variety of herbs at in vitro level regarding antioxidant potential (however, not the best synergy is shown).

Can be applied to

Aging retardation

Astragalus membranous: instructions for use

Astragalus membranosus and Angelica sinensis are highly synergistic, which means that when used together, they more clearly show their effects. The combination of these drugs is traditionally called Dang-gui buxue tang. The standard dosage of Dang-gui buxue tang is 30 g of membranous astragalus root and 6 g of angelica chinensis. They are combined in a ratio of 5 to 1, which is ideal for the manifestation of the properties of the bioactive ingredients of these plants. Astragalus membranosus can also be consumed as a root extract. The standard dosage for the root extract is 30 g. Astragalus membranosus' main bioactive compound is astragaloside IV, which can be taken on its own. The standard dosage of astragaloside IV is 5-10 mg.

Safety and toxicity

Astragalus membranosus isolated

When Astragalus membranous was taken at doses up to 100 g n kg bw by gavage in rats, no serious side effects were found, according to a 1993 Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica source. When injected into mice, the LD50 of astragalus was 40 g/kg body weight.

Herb combinations

Combination with rhubarb, red sage, ginger and turmeric (containing curcumin) showed no toxicity in reproductive age female rats at doses of 430mg/kg bw where astragalus was 13.3%, while at 860mg/kg body weight is associated with weight loss. Such a mixture is patented, and its purpose is to reduce the proportion of fat in body weight due to rhubarb, although the effectiveness is not reliable so far.

Sources and composition

Sources

Astragalus membranosus (from the Fabaceae family), more commonly known as astragalus, is medicinal plant which is used in traditional Chinese medicine. According to Zhang et al., it is a "dry root of the membranous astragalus or membranous astragalus Mongholicus of the Fabaceae family, growing predominantly in northern China, Mongolia and Siberia". Also known as Huang-Qi (Chinese), membranous astragalus root (English origin, ogi (Japanese origin) and Hwanggi (Korean origin); the roots of the plant are sometimes called in Latin Astragalus Radix; these are all synonymous concepts. The plant is usually , has a slightly sweet taste when consumed as a drink made from the powder of the root.Using traditional terminology (from traditional Chinese medicine), astragalus membranosus has traditionally been used for spleen qi disorders; diarrhea, fatigue, lack of appetite. It is also implicated in "yang qi "(gastric, uterine and anal prolapse) and "lung qi" (frequent colds, spontaneous sweating, loss of breath). It is a central component of some Chinese herbal teas.

Compound

The plant contains 126 different components, primarily flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides as the main bioactive components; it also contains sucrose, amino acids and phenolic acids. As an herb, Astragalus membranous contains:

Steroid saponins, astragalosides I to VII, based on spinal cycloastragenol. Astragaloside IV is present at about 1083.14 micrograms per g of root dry weight; or 1% by weight without standardization, although there are also higher contents from 0.8-1.7% and 1.58%; root extracts have a higher proportion of these substances than the whole plant extract.

Astragalus polysaccharides, two of which are known as APS-I and APS-II. APS-I is a carbohydrate chain of arabinose and glucose in a ratio of 1 to 3.45, and APS-II is a chain of rhamnose, arabinose and glucose in a ratio of 1 to 6.25 to 17.86, respectively.

Astragalin, which is Kaempferol-3-O-b-glucoside. This molecule can only be a bioactive polysaccharide, or at least one of the main components of Astragalus membranosus at approximately 72.46 micrograms per gram (0.073 mg per gram) of dry root extract, equally distributed throughout the root itself.

Formononectin and related glycosides. The glycoside formononectin-7-O-b-D-glycoside is also known under the name "Ononin", 6-acetylononine is also found in astragalus.

Dimethylhomoptercarpine and glucoside.

Calocosin and related glucosides at a concentration of 33.1 mg per kg of dry root extract.

(3R)-7,2"-dihydroxy-3",4"-dimethoxyisoflavan-7-O-beta-D-glucoside; flavonoid.

Methylinissolin glycosides at a concentration of 106 mg per 1 kg of dry root, mainly methylinissolin-3-O-b-glucoside.

Lycoagroside D, similar in structure to methylinissoline.

Isomucronulatol

Other compounds such as flavonoids such as kaempferol, quercetin, isohamnetin and rhamnocitrin

Vestikarpan

Pendulon, benzoquinone

Cyclocefazolide II

Astrapterocarpan

Gluconic acid

An anti-proliferative lectin at 7.8mg per 5g of root extract, the glycoprotein in structure is relatively resistant to heat but not to acids

Lignanoids biphenidates, (+)-lariciresinol and (-)-syringaresinol

The main ingredient in astragalus membranosus is one of the astragalosides, namely astragaloside IV. It is a steroidal saponin, but more specifically, it is a cycloartan type of triterpenoid glycoside. Its content in astragalus plants is at a standard level. Other active ingredients considered to be HDTIC isomers are polysaccharides and flavonoids (half of the above list; anything in the name includes "glycoside"). The sum of all flavonoid compounds may be approximately 0.215+/-0.022 mg of routine equivalents per ml (measured by their antioxidant capacity); relatively low antioxidant capacity for grass.

Properties

Astragalosides appear to be somewhat unstable in methanolic solution; one study using a 20% methanolic solution showed that within 35 days at 5 degrees Celsius, astragaloside I deviated 30% from baseline, astragalosides II and II deviated 50-75% from baseline, while astragaloside IV – Approximately 100% after 35 days.

TA-65

TA-65 is the trade name for Astragalus membranous extract taken orally at a dosage of 10-50 mg daily; the drug was developed and patented by TA Sciences and Geron, which wrote a scientific article about it. TA-65 can increase telomerase activity in isolated human keranocytes by 2-3 times. The highest activation of keranocytes was 0.1 µm, being able to induce activity at concentrations of 1 nM in MRC5 cells. After oral ingestion in female mice, it was found that TA-65 at a dosage of 25mg per body weight could preserve telomere length (note: study was conducted by creating TA-65). In addition, the standard health problems associated with aging (osteoporosis, insulin resistance, liver fat formation) were somewhat attenuated. These effects have been replicated in vitro with the associated Geron patented TAT2 molecule, albeit at a higher concentration. TAT2 appears to act as spinal cycloastrogenol. Telomerase activation has also been noted, which may be mediated through increased exposure to TERT, which has been shown to be 10 times normal in the liver of treated rats; this mechanism is based on growth hormone and Akt. TA-65 does not directly affect Akt. The use of 25 mg of TA-65 per kg of body weight did not significantly increase life expectancy in female mice, nor did the drug increase the risk of developing cancer. Unpublished data from TA studies suggest that circulating levels of TA-65 reach 1-20nM 4-8 hours after oral ingestion of 5-100mg TA-65. The substance appears to be effective in increasing telomerase, reversing the aging phenotype, but research to date is quite controversial (sponsors of research are stakeholders); an empirical increase in life expectancy has also not been identified. No information is provided regarding the oral bioavailability of TA-65, while Astragaloside IV generally has poor bioavailability (2.2%).

Pharmacology

Absorption

Astragalus IV appears to have an oral bioavailability of 2.2% in rats as measured in serum by high performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection after solid phase extraction, and in one study in humans to measure levels astragalosides in blood serum, these substances were not detected at all. In the example of Caco-2 cells, intestinal uptake of astragaloside IV was exceeded at a concentration of 50 μg per ml, being unaffected by co-incubation with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Apical basolateral transport was linear between 15 and 120 minutes with Papp values ​​of 10, 20, and 30 µg at 7.82, 6.19, and 5.9510-8, respectively. Unpublished data from TA Sciences (manufacturer of TA-65, who patented astragaloside IV) show that circulating levels of astragaloside IV reach 1-20nM 4-8 hours after oral ingestion of 5-100 mg of TA-65. Assuming linear kinetic absorption (5 mg changes serum level by 1 nm) using a molecular weight of 784.94, which corresponds to 0.00078 g (0.078 mg) of circulating astragaloside IV after 5 mg of oral ingestion; thus providing a bioavailability of 1.5%, which is similar to the aforementioned rat studies. Actual intestinal absorption of astragaloside IV appears to be passive via the paracellular route, as evidenced by interaction with calcium ions in the intestinal lumen. The high molecular weight along with paracellular transport may be responsible for its low bioavailability, which may be enhanced by components that reduce paracellular competition, such as chitsan and deoxycholate, or possibly astragalus compounds in general, as a whole plant has better digestibility than unmodified and isolated astragaloside IV. Since TA Sciences report about the same bioavailability, however, it is assumed that in the case of the use of combined drugs, bioavailability may vary slightly. Astragaloside IV appears to have poor bioavailability at 1.5-2.2%. The effects of astragoloside IV in vitro should be at the level of 1-5 nm in order to be of practical importance when taken orally. Regarding the content of flavonoids in Astragalus membranosus; compounds that have been found in human urine after consumption are calicosin and formononectin, as well as their metabolites (glucuronide and calicosin sulfate). Dimethoxypterocarpan-3-O-b-D-glucuronide was also detected in the urine, indicating that the "parent" molecule of dimethoxypterocarpan had been absorbed; dihydroxy-2',4'-dimethoxyisoflavane glucuronides have also been found. This information was obtained from a study on one person whose diet was controlled, however, the sample size leaves much to be desired. This study also found that no serum levels of saponins were found in the study subjects, which may be due to low levels of oral intake or low bioavailability. Other constituents that are not flavonoids in astragalus (GABA, ferulic acid, HDTIC isomers, and others) were also not detected due to their bioavailability or dosage. Concomitant use with angelica chinensis may increase the bioavailability of the flavonoids calicosin and formononectin. Flavonoids, as well as flavonoid glycosides (possibly due to their polysaccharide content), appear to be absorbed; there is no evidence of absolute bioavailability of this absorption.

Serum

At this point in time, only preliminary studies on the pharmacology of astragalus (the primary ingredient, namely astragalus IV) have been conducted in dogs and rats; LC/MS/MS confirmation using triple quadrupole mass spectrometer analysis method. Several more studies have been conducted, based on the isolated ingredient astragaloside IV. When administered orally to rats at a dosage of 20mg/kg bw (isolated Astragalus IV), the values ​​were: Cmax equal to 0.38µg per ml, Tmax equal to 0.43 hours, half-life was 4.65 hours, and AUC amounted to 1.06 μg per ml per hour. Blood parameters appear fairly normal with a moderate half-life; Astragaloside IV's only real limitation is its bioavailability.

Distribution

Looking at volume distribution relative to total body fluid in rats (0.61 kg), the rate was 0.201/kg and in dogs 0.14+/-0.071/kg, suggesting limited but still availability of astragalus IV for peripheral tissues. By measuring the levels of astragaloside IV in the organs after injection, it turned out that its limited amount can reach all organs (skin, stomach, heart, skeletal muscle, duodenum, spleen, ovaries); moderately elevated levels are noted in the lungs and kidneys, and very high levels can be isolated in the liver; the minimum amount of astragaloside IV enters the brain, which indicates problems in the blood circulation in the brain. Levels in these organs are high at 60 minutes after intravenous injection, then there is a rapid depletion to almost baseline at 240 minutes after injection. The substance appears to reach all organs, with the best susceptibility in those organs for which the herb is commonly used (lungs and spleen), with predictably high levels in the liver and relatively low levels in the brain.

Metabolism

After IV injection, about 50% of Astragalus IV is metabolized. The flavonoid components calicosin and formononectin appear to be subject to glucuronidation and calicosin to sulfation, as evidenced by urinary glucuronides that do not exist in the parent plant. Astragalus appears to have the ability to inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme and may also increase the AUC of some drugs when taken together.

breeding

Preliminary pharmacokinetic studies indicate that injections of 0.75/kg body weight in rats (0.5 m/kg body weight in dogs) result in astragalus having an elimination rate of 3 ml/kg/min in rats and 4+ /-1 ml per kg per minute in dogs, which is 5.43 and 12.9% of hepatic blood flow (respectively), suggesting low systemic clearance. Elimination half-life in rats (at 0.75 mg/kg) was 98.1 minutes and 60.02+/-8.39 in dogs, and these results are consistent with those found after oral administration of astragalus in rats. The elimination rate increases with dosages; bolus injections of 0.75, 1.5, and 3 mg/kg of astaragale IV resulted in elimination of half-life products in 98.1, 67.2, and 71.8 minutes, respectively. Interestingly, this trend was reversed in females at 34.0, 66.9 and 131.6 minutes. It does not accumulate in the body, it is excreted both in the urine and by processing in the liver through the intestines. The flavonoid components calicosin and formononectin are excreted in the urine, although fecal excretion was not measured in this study.

Lifespan

Mitochondria

A protective effect on mitochondria has been noted in a study of cristae in diabetic mice, where astragalus at a dosage of 700 mg per kg of body weight daily contributed to the preservation of mitochondrial structure. Mitochondrial membranes can be damaged by lipid oxidation, which increases with age; astragalus polysaccharides exert dose-dependent inhibition of lipid oxidation starting at a concentration of 2 ml per liter; have the ability to inhibit up to 90% of lipid oxidation in liver mitochondria and up to 78% in neurons at a concentration of 32 mg per liter. Astragalus can also prevent calcium and oxidant-induced mitochondrial membrane permeability. Mitochondria may also be a factor in some of the cardioprotective effects of astragalus, being more effective when combined with angelica; in Chinese medicine, their combination is called Dang-Gui Buxue Tang.

Telomeres

HDTIC isomers from Astragalus have been shown to reduce the rate of telomere shortening in vitro; control cells had a truncation rate of c 71.1+/-4.9, 0.1 µm to 31.5+/-2.4 and 1 µm in HDTIC-1 and 41.1+/-3.5 in HDTIC- 2 (note: values ​​based on telomere length (bd) / cell population doubling (PD)), protecting DNA from oxidative damage by hydrogen peroxide in a dose-dependent manner; 10-fold dosages (1 µm HDTIC-1, 10 µm HDTIC-2) resulted in increased DNA repair (deceleration of phenotypic aging) after hydrogen peroxide attack. The cell type studied was human diploid fibroblast cells in the lungs. The same dosage and the same basic cells were twice shown to delay aging due to HDTIC isomers, with HDTIC-1 being more potent. When investigating the mechanisms of action of HDTIC isomers, it appears that they (in such a 2BS cell line) are able to prevent aging-associated upregulation of p16 mRNA expression. p16 is a CDKI from the INK4 family, correlated with aging, its high expression may contribute to the aging phenotype. Astragaloside IV is implicated in increasing telomerase activity and telomere length after oral ingestion of 5-10mg, so there may be more than one bioactive substance in Astragalus membranus that affects telomere length. More information on this topic can be found in the TA-65 section. Astragalus may be a better solution than Astragaloside IV due to the bioactivity of HDTIC isomers regarding telomere preservation; however, there are no pharmacokinetic or in vivo data on oral isomers of HDTIC.

Neurology

Pharmacokinetics

When studying astragaloside IV injections and its distribution throughout the body, it appears that astragaloside IV may have problems interacting with the blood, as evidenced by small amounts of accumulation in nerve tissues compared to other organs.

Neuroprotection

Astragalus extract (63% astragalosides) taken orally at 10-40mg/kg body weight may attenuate Alzheimer's symptoms with dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid with cortisol-like effects in a dose-dependent manner. This extract may also protect the neural structure of the hippocampus and reduce side effects in caspase-3 and caspase-9, suggesting that astragalus may protect against neurodegeneration under stress. These stress protection effects have been noted previously with higher dosages of conventional astragalus extract, suggesting the herb's adaptogenic properties. It is noted that the anti-inflammatory properties of astragalus at a dosage of 40-80mg/kg body weight in rats can suppress the increase in TNF-alpha and IL-1beta associated with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. This can lead to reduced neuronal death and nerve damage. It is not known which constituents have these effects, but despite the limited absorption of astragaloside IV, it may well act as the active ingredient. On its own, it may reduce ischemia/reperfusion-related damage and overall neuroprotection. Studying the anti-stress effects of astragalus, it turned out that per gram of one gram of an extract with a large amount of astragalosides, a more powerful effect can be obtained than when using standard astragalus (1-2%). The contribution of fragments of flavonoids and polysaccharides is unknown. It turns out that the plant has neuroprotective and adaptogenic properties. For sure, their presence is due to astragaloside IV, but so far it has not been revealed how other bioactive substances influence these effects.

Cardiovascular diseases

heart tissue

Astragaloside IV appears to be able to partially protect the heart during myocardial ischemia and improve coronary blood flow; these processes are carried out indirectly through the enzymes of nitric oxide synthase. Sodium-potassium channels are also involved in the protective properties of astragaloside IV regarding ischemia-reperfusion. Cardiac mitochondria are also protected from toxic stroke (from danurubicin) at 250mg per liter of extract; best results are achieved at 500 mg per liter. An increase in the amount of danurubicin is a necessary condition for the induction of cell death. It is assumed that this is secondary to a decrease in oxidative load and fragmentation of mitochondrial nuclei.

Endothelium

Astragaloside IV has a relaxing effect on the aorta by dilating the arteries. Apparently, this occurs due to the NO-cGMP pathway in the endothelium in a dose-dependent manner. In addition to direct relaxation, astragalus can attenuate endothelial contractile stimuli such as phenylephrine and angiotensin II, giving astragaloside IV two mechanisms of action. In addition, astragaloside IV retains the relaxing stimuli (acetylcholine) during overexposure to homocysteine ​​(an inhibitor of acetylcholine actions) through its antioxidant action, which is more generalizing. An improvement in endothelial function has also been noted in rats with metabolic syndrome with injections of 0.5-2 mg of astragaloside IV per kg of body weight, but this effect was not observed with oral use. Astragaloside IV appears to have a potent protective effect on the endothelium, but the practical significance of this fact when taken orally has not been elucidated.

Blood pressure

In at least one study in humans, oral consumption has shown a reduction in blood pressure with astragalus (1050 mg per day), while co-administration of Coptis Chinensis (630 mg per day) and Lonicera Japonic (2520 mg per day) has been observed . A rat study using Astragalus membranous Shichimotsukokato (SKT) formula and 6 other herbs appeared to lower blood pressure in nephrectomy rats by preventing a decrease in a key antihypertensive enzyme, in another study using 100-200mg/kg body weight from the body of an astragalus-related plant (complanate), it was found that flavonoids (same as those of astragalus membranous) had the ability to lower blood pressure by 17% after oral consumption. Although flavonoids are thought to play a role in lowering blood pressure, astragaloside IV injections have also been shown to lower blood pressure in hypertensive rats at 0.5-2 mg per kg of body weight.

Blood synthesis

At least one in vitro study using an aqueous extract of astragalus root in HRK293T cells showed dose-dependent increases in erythropoietin (EPO) and mRNA expression; there is an increase of 60% compared with baseline measurements at a concentration of 1 mg per ml. This is noted, rather, due to flavonoids, rather than due to astragalosides or polysaccharides; also, it is worth noting that calicosin-7-O-beta-d-glucoside showed the strongest properties in terms of more than a two-fold increase in mRNA EPO (by 120%) with an EC50 value of 1.47 μm; these effects are secondary to accumulation of hypoxia-induced factor 1 (HIF-1) due to less degradation of HIF-1.

Atherosclerosis

This section of the article has interactions with the sections "Lipid metabolism" (due to information about lipoproteins) and "Immunity and inflammation" (due to the description of cohesion and anti-inflammatory factors); Simultaneous reading of these three sections is recommended. Astragalus (as a polysaccharide) appears to be able to protect the receptor (ABCA1) responsible for the reverse transport of cholesterol from pro-inflammatory elements. By inhibiting the effects of NF-kB in macrophages that have become foam cells, it can reduce plaque formation in the arteries from foam cells (one of the components of arterial plaque). In an experiment that aimed to clarify if astragalus can prevent the formation of foam cells from macrophages, it was found to be ineffective in vitro.

In vivo studies in humans

One study with 90 patients with chronic heart failure showed an improvement in heart rate with the use of astragalus (as astragalus granules), with 4.5 g and 7.5 g showing the same effectiveness, although better than using 2.25 g per day. day. Dose-dependent response influenced the quality of life. Astragalus is under rigorous research in China, being available as an injection for the treatment of heart failure. There are numerous texts (in Chinese) that describe the involvement of the plant as an IV injection (the articles are examples, most of them are available in the Medline database). As noted in the 2011 PLoS review (completed before meta-analysis), astragalus as an injection is described in a large number of sources (62 direct studies), but most of them are of poor methodological quality. As part of this review, calls for more careful therapy in chronic heart failure.

Triglycerides

Astragalus polysaccharides have been noted to reduce triglyceride levels by 30% after oral ingestion of 0.25 g/kg body weight in hypercholesterolemic hamsters.

Lipoproteins

After oral administration of astragalus polysaccharides at a dosage of 0.25 g per kg of body weight to rats with hypercholesterolemia, the levels of "bad" and "good" cholesterol decreased by 45.8%. This lipoprotein-lowering mechanism appears to be via bile salts and increased efflux of cholesterol from the liver to the intestines; this process can indiscriminately lower the levels of all circulating lipoproteins. Other mechanisms that have been identified are an increase in bad cholesterol receptor activity, inhibition of cholesterol absorption, and induction of cyp7alpha-1 gene expression. These results were obtained with the use of grain salt, and there are also some differences in the efflux of "good" cholesterol in humans and hamsters.

Bile

Astragalus polysaccharides (PSA) appear to be able to bind to bile acids, showing five times the affinity for cholic acid when compared to standard psyllium husk. Binding to bile acids in the intestine, causing their reduction through excretion in the feces (indirectly stimulating the conversion of cholesterol to replace bile acids, depleting systemic cholesterol), being the mechanism underlying cholesterol-lowering psyllium husk. It is believed that astragalus polysaccharides may lower cholesterol levels through this mechanism. This hypothesis was confirmed in a study on hamsters fed 0.25 g per kg body weight of polysaccharides; there is a decrease in cholesterol in the blood plasma by 45.8%, and the level of "bad" cholesterol decreased by 47.4%, acting in a stimulating way on reducing triglycerides by 30%.

Interaction with glucose metabolism

Skeletal muscles

Astragalus appears to be effective in preventing palmitate-induced insulin resistance, as excessive phosphorylation of IRS-1 by palmitate promoted inhibition of PTP1B (a negative regulator of insulin action) and NF-kB in muscle cells, improving glucose uptake by 25%. % at a concentration of 0.2 mg per ml. This suppression of PTP1B, which indirectly enhances insulin action, may be localized to skeletal muscles than in the liver, being an important factor in improving peripheral insulin sensitivity. In vivo studies in diabetic rats have shown that the increase in peripheral glucose metabolism due to astragalus can alleviate the condition of type II diabetics through oral administration of 400-700 mg per kg of body weight in diabetic rats. These effects are due to astragalus polysaccharides rather than due to the steroidal saponin content. When examining the role of AMPK in skeletal muscle glucose uptake, the reduction in AMPK phosphorylation noted with palmitate-induced insulin sensitivity is not reversed with astragalus. Over time, however, AMPK can be restored to its basic levels due to the indirect effect of astragalus, contributing to glucose homeostasis in skeletal muscles. In myotubes that are not insulin resistant, astragalus can prevent glucose toxicity by activating AMPK.

adipocytes and glucose

The flavonoids from astragalus, formononectin and calicosin, appear to be able to interact with PPAR receptors. Formononectin is a PPARgamma and PPARalpha agonist with an activation ratio of 3 to 1 and 1 to 1 depending on the type of in vitro study; the EC50 value was 2.6-4.3 µmol/L at PPARgamma, exceeding 1.0-3.7 µmol/L at PPARalpha. These effects induced adipocyte differentiation, which is an anti-diabetic mechanism mediated by thiazolidinedione (glitazone) compounds. Astragalus polysaccharides may also contribute to this mechanism in the same way as in the case of astragaloside IV. Finally, two other astragalosides (astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I) may increase adiponectin secretion from adipocytes (without affecting adipogene genes; by mediating this mechanism, glucose levels in rats may be improved in models based on appropriate diet or genetics. Increased adiponectin mRNA 1.2 times as compared with control measurements and an increase in secretion from 80% to 100% occurs at a concentration of 5 μg per ml; in vivo, this experiment occurs at a high dosage of 50 mg of astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I per kg of body weight for 6 weeks Astragalus appears to have the ability, via adipocytes, to improve glucose metabolism and possibly influence diabetic conditions through various mechanisms and components. there may be an effect of accumulation of fat mass due to increased differentiation of adipo quotes.

Fat mass and obesity

Mechanisms of glucose metabolism

Astragalus flavonoids, formononectin, and calicosin appear to interact with PPAR receptors. Formononectin is a PPARgamma and PPARalpha agonist with activation rates between 3 to 1 and 1 to 1 depending on the in vitro assay; its EC50 value was 2.6-4.3 µmol/L at PPARgamma, which is greater than 1.0-3.6 µmol/L at PPARalpha. These effects induce adipocyte differentiation, which is an anti-diabetic mechanism that can be mediated by the pharmaceutical drug thiazolidinedione (glitazone). The polysaccharide content of astragalus may also exhibit this mechanism in the same way as astragaloside IV. Finally, two other astragalosides (astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I) have been shown to increase the secretion of adiponectin from adipocytes (without affecting adipogenic genes) and, indirectly through this mechanism, there has been an improvement in glucose parameters in rats that were susceptible to metabolic syndrome from both diet and diet. and due to the genetic factor. Adiponectin mRNA increased 1.2 times the control level, increasing the secretion rate to moderate from 80% to 100% at a concentration of 5 μg per ml, and the in vivo experiment was carried out on a high dosage basis, namely 50 mg per kg of body weight bodies of astragaloside II and isoastragaloside I for 6 weeks. Astragalus appears to have the ability, via adipocytes, to improve glucose metabolism and diabetic conditions through a variety of mechanisms and compounds. Not enough research has been done on how it affects fat mass, but it is possible that the plant may have an obesity-producing effect by increasing adipocyte differentiation.

Mass gain

One study using Boi-ogi-to, an herbal blend of Astragalus (27%), and 5 other herbs that Astragalus appears to synergize with, showed improved glucose and insulin levels; there was also a significant decrease in body weight gain associated with menopause in rats fed 1% Boi-ogi-to of the total diet. The mechanism of action of Boi-ogi-to is not known to date. With the exception of this study, no further testing has been conducted on the effect of astragalus on weight loss.

Effects on skeletal muscles

Glucose metabolism

Astragalus appears to be effective in preventing palmitate-induced insulin resistance in the presence of excessive IRS-1 phosphorylation, where palmitate inhibited PTP1B (a negative regulator of insulin action) and NF-kB in muscle cells, improving glucose uptake by 25% at concentration of 0.2 mg per ml. This suppression of PTP1B, which indirectly enhances insulin action, may be localized in skeletal muscle rather than hepatic tissue, being an important factor in improving peripheral insulin sensitivity. In vivo studies in diabetic rats have shown that the increase in peripheral glucose metabolism due to astragalus can reverse conditions of type II diabetes induced by oral diets of 400-700 mg/kg body weight in diabetic rats. These effects are due to astragalus polysaccharides rather than steroidal saponins. In studying the role of AMPK in skeletal muscle in muscle glucose uptake, the reduction in AMPK phosphorylation seen in palmitate-induced insulin sensitivity is not reversed with astragalus. Over time, however, AMPK activity may return to base value due to the indirect effect of astragalus on glucose homeostasis in skeletal muscles. In myotubes that are not insulin resistant, astragalus may prevent glucose toxicity by activating AMPK.

Inflammation and Immunology

Astragalus is known to have immunomodulatory interactions, showing interaction with the immune system in vivo.

Macrophages

The polysaccharide content of astragalus has been studied as a macrophage stimulant, which appears to work by heparinase, an enzyme that enhances the macrophage response by increasing its activity. When astragalus polysaccharides are incubated with macrophages, the astragalus polysaccharide content can increase the production of cytokines from macrophages (TNF-alpha, GM-CSF, nitric oxide). This stimulation is noted in vivo by increasing macrophage infiltration and cell phagocytosis (engulfment) during injections into mice. Unlike the flavonoid content, formononectin can suppress the production of nitric oxide from LPS-stimulated macrophages. Studies examining how astragalus affects macrophages when combined with pro-inflammatory agents (liposaccharide being a common link) have shown that astragalus has the ability to prevent LPS-induced iNOS activation in macrophages and the pro-inflammatory effects of excess nitric oxide production from iNOS; there is also a decrease in inflammatory factors such as TNF-alpha and IL-8. These effects on pro-inflammatory factors are not seen at low doses without LPS, but may be enhanced at high concentrations of astragalus. Although the steroidal saponins (astragalosides) of astragalus may affect the immune system, most of the beneficial effects are secondary to the polysaccharide content of astragalus. Astragalus polysaccharides appear to be able to induce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and stimulate immune cell production in the absence of pro-inflammatory attacks; there is also an active prevention of pro-inflammatory effects from influencing macrophages, which can induce large bursts of inflammation. The biological plausibility of astragalus as an immunomodulator is noted.

Adhesion factor

By inhibiting NF-kB, the effects of reducing TNF-alpha induced expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 are reduced; there is a lower expression of these cellular adhesion molecules, secrete less migration of leukocytes in tissues. This mechanism may also have anti-atherogenic effects against plaque formation in foam cells, which are mainly dead macrophages. Both astragalus polysaccharide and astragaloside IV are implicated in NF-kB inhibition, resulting in a decrease in VCAM-1 and ICAM-1; this is an anti-inflammatory effect.

adaptive immunity

There is a mitogenic (increases cell proliferation) effect on T cells in vitro in mice and humans at the time of T cell depletion; however, there is no effect on B cells. Mitogenicity is manifested in the case of splenocytes, where there is an increase in the content of IL-6 receptors. B-cell activation is also noted in mice due to the expression of membrane immunoglobulins and macrophages due to TLR4; T cells were not affected in this study, but their consumption with antigen is noted. There has been an increase in TLR4 in other studies. Suppression of Tregs cells was revealed during the subsequent suppression of Foxp3 and IL-10; this appears to be mediated by TLR4 in vivo. However, one study in mice shows an upregulation of Treg activity. Also, this substance can be involved in the process of maturation of dendritic cells.

Interaction with hormones

Insulin-like growth factor

After taking HT042 (31.2 to 26.5 to 42.3 mixture of Astragalus Root, Phlomis umbrosa Root and Eleuthercoccus Senticoccus Stem) at 200mg/kg bw/day as 2 doses for 3 weeks, an increase in length was seen and bone thickness in juvenile rats, which may be associated with increased circulating levels of IGF-1. Astragalus is one of the few herbs traditionally used (in Korea) to promote growth in adolescence. Astragalus in isolation has shown an increase in serum levels of IGF-1 in rats with cerebral degeneration. May increase circulating levels of IGF-1, but more research is needed on this topic.

Testosterone

Astragalus membranous at a dosage of between 100-1000 mg per kg body weight in rats can eliminate negative impact on semen due to cyclophosphamide by 9-49% (relative to motility in a dose-dependent manner); thus, the plant is believed to help protect male fertility. Astragalus is able to preserve the expression and protein content of the protein protein (CREM) during the cAMP response, which is usually reduced after injections of cyclophosphamide, which suppresses male fertility. Testosterone was not measured in this study, and no direct studies were conducted regarding the effects of astragalus on testosterone levels. When evaluating the effect of astragalus on the androgen receptor, 20 μg per mg does not significantly affect its effect. ==== Estrogen ==== When screening herbal medicines for estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects, astragalus 95% ethanolic extract did not show any significant interaction with the estrogen receptor at concentrations below 1 mg per ml.

Interaction with authorities

kidneys

In humans, astragalus is implicated in reducing the damage done to the kidneys by the "shock wave" of lithotripsy, which is a clinical treatment for urinary stones. The published results accounted for the use of a combination of 10 herbs. One way or another, astragalus in particular is involved in the process of protecting the kidneys; injection of astragalus prior to surgery may reduce adverse effects on the kidneys, may also help during lupus nephritis, IgA-related diabetic nephropathy, or general nephropathy. At a minimum, clinical use of astragalus has been shown to be protective of the kidneys during disease states; these conclusions come from a meta-analysis that confirms previous animal data. At least one study notes that oral ingestion of 15 g in humans may promote recovery from kidney disease in situations where the patient has failed to respond to standard treatment. Despite the large amount of evidence for the effects of astragalus on the kidneys, many studies have been conducted using astragalus injections. Oral dosages also appear to be effective, however they are quite high compared to prophylactic dosages of 500-1000 mg. The defense mechanism is an element of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, in which 1 g of astragalus polysaccharides per kg of body weight (oral dosage in rats) showed a decrease in NF-kB activation in the kidneys, other studies using astragalus show a decrease in TGF-beta, a biomarker of inflammatory lesions in kidneys. Astragalus has been associated with an increase in diuresis (urination) at an oral dosage of 0.3 g per kg of human body weight. This mechanism occurs by enhancing the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the kidneys up to 4 hours after ingestion, although the bioactive agent responsible for this effect has not been identified and is not astragaloside IV. Although the effects of astragalus in protecting the kidneys during disease states are quite compelling, its effect on the kidneys in preventive medicine at basic oral dosages has not been elucidated. Astragalus is thought to have a protective effect as a supplement, but this has not been shown. The above information is quite reasonable, since the active ingredient that has an effect has not been accurately identified, therefore, suspicions fall simultaneously on polysaccharides, flavonoids and astragaloside IV; due to the low oral bioavailability of astragaloside IV, low doses of astragalus may not have protective effects on the kidneys; the effect can be achieved, rather, with intravenous injections.

Interactions with cancer metabolism

Adjuvant use

In mice, astragalus appears to be able to restore suppressed immune function in animals with tumors, as well as a suppressed mitogenic response. It shows cytostatic ability against myeloid-like and macrophage tumors.

Aesthetic indicators

Skin quality

After oral administration of astragalus to mice with atopic dermatitis at a dosage of 100 mg/kg body weight, there is an inhibition of skin reactions response to 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene, a chemical used to induce dermatitis, being more effective than 3 mg prednisone/kg body weight. body when suppressing these flashes. By studying these mechanisms, astragalus was unable to inhibit the increase in IgE (high levels are a hallmark of atopic dermatitis) and IL-4 (helps convert IgM to IgE), but still contributed to the suppression of inflammation. Mechanisms may operate through suppression of IFN-gamma, for which astragalus and prednisone have shown similar efficacy. Due to its ability to inhibit MMPs, in particular MMP1, astragalus may protect the skin from UV-induced photoaging. It is also able to reduce mRNA transcription and the content of MMP1 protein compounds in vitro by secondary to ERK fibroblast phosphorylation or NF-kB translocation. In addition, putative components of HDTIC-1 and 2 may preserve the quality of human fibroblasts and negate the visible effects of in vitro aging at concentrations of 0.1 µm and 1 µm, respectively. The potential of HDTIC-2 at 1 µm was similar to that of carnosine at 20 mm, while HDTIC-1 at 0.1 µm was more effective; protein glycosylation and oxidation were also at lower levels in cells incubated with HDTIC isomers. Due to parallel anti-inflammatory mechanisms (MMP1, NF-kB), astragalus can protect the skin from harmful effects. The best dosage is 0.5% topically (based on skin healing studies); the best penetration is in the form of a hydrogel containing 1% sodium alginate (with gelatin and 1 to 100 dimethyl sulfoxide to astragalus for solubility). Interestingly, another component of Astragalus membranous called calicosin (a flavonoid) can inhibit the formation of melanin pigmentation in skin cells by inhibiting tyrosinase; it can be hypothesized that calicosin may reduce tanning and promote skin lightening.

Skin healing rates

Astragaloside IV, the main constituent of astragalus, is effective in increasing keratinocyte migration followed by wound healing at a concentration of 10 µmol/L, which in vitro shows doubling and tripling of wound healing rates (keratinocytes are used to form a new layer of skin). On the example of rats, it was found that with daily topical application of 0.5% astragaloside IV per wound, 21% of wound healing occurred on the 6th day after the appearance of the wound, while without the use of the drug, healing was only 8%. On day 30, complete healing was observed with the use of astragaloside IV, while the control group showed marked scarring. Skin healing rates have been shown with the combined use of astragalus (0.25 g) with 1% sodium alginate gelatin hydrogel daily, which proved to be much more effective than simply using astragalus solution. As noted in the section on interactions with dietary supplements, the combined use of astragalus and rhemania may synergistically enhance wound healing.

scar tissue

Application of 25-100 µmol of astragaloside IV per liter per wound can significantly suppress in vitro secretion of TGF-beta in fibroblasts while increasing circulating levels of TGB-beta. TGF-beta is considered as the main element in the formation of scar tissue at the site of wounds. A TGF-beta inhibitor (mannose-6-phosphate or juvidex) can reduce scarring by speeding up the healing process. After 30 days of treatment with astragaloside IV, scarring at the wound site is not noticeable. Astragalus membranosus may be more effective than astragaloside IV alone, as its other component (formononectin) may also promote wound healing.

Interactions with nutrients

silicates of aluminum and calcium

One study using astragalus to reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis found that combinations of astragalus membranous with calcium and aluminum silicates as a mineral base worked synergistically in unpublished preclinical trials, but it is not shown with which parameters the herb works synergistically. This mixture is patented by the Croatian Ministry of Health under the trade name Lectranal.

red rhizome sage

Red sage was tested with Astragalus membranous in a 1 to 1 ratio for effects on fatigue. This mixture, known as myelophile, was taken at 3g or 6g daily for 4 weeks, resulting in less fatigue than baseline. However, the placebo control group (Hyangsapyunweesan) and the 3g mixture group, which proved to be the most effective dosage, showed quite divergent results.

Angelica Chinese

Angelica Root, also known as Dang Gui, is an herb that is used in various Chinese herbal mixtures such as Dang gui Bu xue Tang (DBT) along with Astragalus in a 5 to 1 ratio (Astragalus to Angelica). The traditional order of preparation includes 30 g of astragalus membranous and 6 g of angelica chinensis, then they are boiled in two bowls of water over medium heat until the total mass is reduced by half. This particular combination of herbs is recommended for menopausal women to "reduce the effects" of menopause. It turns out that the mixture shows its effects better at a ratio of 5 to 1, since other proportions resulted in less flavonoids (calicosin, formononectin) and astragaloside IV, as well as ferulic acid from angelica. Interestingly, this proportion shows significantly lower levels of ligustilide. The addition of wine (ethanol extract) to the mixture enhances its effect by increasing astragaloside IV and ferulic acid. Enhanced recovery rates with conventionally prepared Dang-Gui Buxue Tang have been linked to improved heart protective effects when compared with either herb alone. The molecules that angelica is responsible for appear to be ferulic acid and ligustilide. Angelica sinensis appears to increase intestinal absorption of two flavonoids from astragalus, formononectin and calocosin, in vitro. In addition, the combination of two herbs has more antioxidant potential than the same herbs alone or when mixed together. This study was conducted in vitro, being independent of increased bioavailability when used together. The combination of herbs has also been investigated to stimulate erythropoiesis in vivo, as it may positively regulate the expression of the gene that codes for erythropoietin. Combination therapy of both herbs, each used at 0.5 g per kg of body weight (1 g per kg of body weight in total), is more effective than using each herb alone at 1 g per kg of body weight in rats regarding increase in serum levels of the gland (no significant difference in iron-binding protein; there is also a slight trend in synergy with serum vitamin B12. In addition to stimulating erythropoietin, the herbal combination is also involved in the process of hematopoiesis. In relation to menopausal symptoms (traditional use of this mixture of herbs) , a 5 to 1 ratio appears to be synergistic in promoting osteoclast differentiation in vitro, stimulating in vitro estrogen exposure as well as antiplatelet function. In vitro studies also suggest that the combination is synergistic in promoting endothelial differentiation and DNA expression. This combination is one of the most used traditional combinations with the addition of Astragalus membranosus; apparently, this combination is quite reasonable, since it is not difficult to obtain it. The traditional preparation of extracts in a ratio of 5 to 1 (astragalus to angelica) with a small addition of wine is best solution in terms of one study.

Rehmania root

Rehmannia root is a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat diabetes, as is the case with astragalus. The combination of two herbs in a ratio of 2 to 1 (Astragalus to Rehmannia) has been recognized under the name "NF3" in the literature. Their combination is used to heal wounds in diabetics, and both plants have a synergistic relationship with each other. It turns out that this combination functions due to WnT and angiogenesis pathways, which are carried out mainly due to VEGF. Due to its traditional use in diabetics, its effects on glucose uptake and insulin resistance in diabetic rats have been studied, but no significant effect has been found. The combination of the two herbs, however, inhibits CYP3A4 (IC50 of 0.88mg/mL and Ki of 1.6mg/mL) and CYP2C9 (IC50 of 0.86mg/mL and Ki of 0.57 mg per ml). High level Ki suggests a reduction in the likelihood of side effects when interacting with other drugs. A 2 to 1 combination of these two herbs (astragalus to rhehmannia) may be effective in inducing angiogenesis in vivo, aiding in wound healing.

false ginseng root

In at least one study, there are synergistic interactions in vivo with astragalus (110mg/kg bw) and false ginseng root (115mg/kg bw) for MMP-9 inhibition and TIMP-1 induction, two effects which are protective against cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury. This may be mediated in part by the antioxidant effect. When studying a Chinese mixture containing these two substances in rats (qizhu tang), it turned out that the mixture was effective, while the individual ingredients were not presented at these dosages. The mixture also included the herbs Rhizoma atractylodis and Poria, so synergy between these four plants may occur (has not been demonstrated).

Ural licorice

Regarding licorice root, a synergistic antioxidant potential has emerged when combined with astragalus. However, due to Astragalus' weak antioxidant efficacy initially, the synergy was marginally more pronounced than with licorice alone.

Rhubarb officinalis

Rhubarb officinalis shows a high degree of synergy with Astragalus in terms of antioxidant capacity in DPPH analysis.

Atractylis bighead

Atractylis bighead shows synergistic antioxidant potential when combined in a 1:1 ratio with Astragalus in DPPH assays; due to the weak potential of astragalus compared to atractylis, the synergistic response did not significantly exceed that of atractylis alone.

Peony lactiflora

Peony lactiflora root combined with Astragalus may have a synergistic antioxidant effect. 10 g of extract of each herb showed a greater antioxidant effect than the sum of parts, however, the mixture is not more effective than peony lactiflora in an isolated state due to its strong antioxidant properties compared to astragalus. Peony also showed synergy with astragalus for systemic anti-inflammatory effects in septic mice.

Schisandra chinensis

Schisandra chinensis (from the Magnoliaceae family) is an herb that, along with astragalus, is widely used in China and is sometimes prescribed as part of a healthy diet. Schisandra chinensis ethanolic extract (lignan content 23.1%) and astragalus aqueous extract are synergistic in suppressing the increase in liver enzymes when using CCL4 hepatotoxin. While astragalus (polysaccharides) when taken orally at a dosage of 450 mg per kg of body weight was able to suppress the increase in ALT, AST and ALP by 87%, 86.5% and 92.6%, with the addition of Schisandra ethanol extract, these indicators were 43.8%, 53.4% ​​and 67.1% respectively. Lemongrass at 45mg/kg bw and astragalus at 150mg/kg bw were significantly more hepatoprotective than astragalus 450mg/kg bw across the board. Although none of the ingredients in the isolated state affected the reduced levels of CCL4 glutathione, combined use was able to influence with a CDI (drug interaction ratio) of 0.84.

Stephanie four stamina

Stephania chetyrehstamenochnaya is a plant from traditional Chinese medicine. The two components (stephania and astragalus) are used together in Japanese medicine under the name Boi-ogi-to (in China - Fang-ji-huang-qi-tang) along with other herbs (atractylis, licorice, ginger). Traditionally used to treat edema and arthritis, as well as diabetic retinopathy.In rats, the active component of stephania quaternary called fangquinoline showed anti-diabetic effects in rats in a dose-dependent manner.Aqueous extract of astragalus can enhance the effects of fangquinoline, and then it was found that formononectin and calicosin (astragalus flavonoids) synergistically increased the release of insulin induced by fangquinoline , although only formononectin showed statically significant effect. While 3-100 mg of astragalus per kg of body weight did not show any effect, and 0.3 g of fangquinoline also did not show any effect, when they are taken together in a dose-dependent manner, there is a decrease in blood sugar levels and an increase in the effects of insulin mediated through fangquinoline ; all effects may be secondary to increased insulin release. Astragalus may enhance the effect of stephania on lowering blood glucose levels and insulin secretion, influencing positively the antidiabetic effects of stephania quaternary.

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List of used literature:

Roberts AT, et al. The safety and efficacy of a dietary herbal supplement and gallic acid for weight loss. J Med Food. (2007)

ABSORPTION AND METABOLISM OF ASTRAGALI RADIX DECOCTION: IN SILICO, IN VITRO, AND A CASE STUDY IN VIVO

Zhang LJ, et al. New isoflavonoid glycosides and related constituents from astragali radix (Astragalus membranaceus) and their inhibitory activity on nitric oxide production. J Agric Food Chem. (2011)

Xu DJ, et al. Molecular weight and monosaccharide composition of Astragalus polysaccharides. Molecules. (2008)

Saito S, et al. Astragalin from Cassia alata Induces DNA Adducts in Vitro and Repairable DNA Damage in the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Int J Mol Sci. (2012)

Wang P, et al. HDTIC-1 and HDTIC-2, two compounds extracted from Astragali Radix, delay replicative senescence of human diploid fibroblasts. Mech Aging Dev. (2003)

Zhang X, et al. Simultaneous quantification of three isoflavonoid glycosides in rabbit plasma after oral administration of Astragalus mongholicus extract by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta. (2007)

Xu F, et al. Absorption and metabolism of Astragali radix decoction: in silico, in vitro, and a case study in vivo. Drug Metab Dispos. (2006)

Nagasawa H, et al. Effects of gold banded lily (Lilium auratum Lindl) or Chinese milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L) on spontaneous mammary tumourigenesis in SHN mice. Anticancer Res. (2001)

DeJesus BB, et al. The telomerase activator TA-65 elongates short telomeres and increases health span of adult/old mice without increasing cancer incidence. aging cell. (2011)

Fauce S.R., et al. Telomerase-based pharmacological enhancement of antiviral function of human CD8+ T lymphocytes. J Immunol. (2008)

Kang S.S., et al. Akt protein kinase enhances human telomerase activity through phosphorylation of telomerase reverse transcriptase subunit. J Biol Chem. (1999)

Huang CR, et al. Absorption enhancement study of astragaloside IV based on its transport mechanism in caco-2 cells. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. (2006)

Botanical characteristics of astragalus

Astragalus is a truly unique plant. Due to its medicinal properties, the use of the plant is effective in various diseases. In nature, it is found as a herbaceous plant, a small shrub or semi-shrub. As a rule, perennial, but there are also annual species of astragalus. The stem is erect, the height varies from 40 to 60 cm. The leaves of the plant are compound, they are appressed-hairy below, in other places they are odd-pinnate. Depending on the type of astragalus, the flowers and inflorescences of the plant, as well as its color, differ. Flowering begins in June and lasts until August. The fruits (beans) appear in late autumn.

Astragalus properties

Astragalus - treatment plant. Medical practice actively uses many types of astragalus in the treatment of hypertension and kidney diseases, chronic insufficiency, blood circulation, colds, diseases gastrointestinal tract. Some species are recommended as a diuretic and hemostatic.

There are about 1600 species of astragalus around the world, but there are several species whose healing properties are especially valued in folk and scientific medicine.

Astragalus membranous("centaury", or "cat's peas"). Today, the plant is very rare, as an endangered species is listed in the Red Book. It grows in the Northern Hemisphere, but it can be found in South America and in the tropics. Root and grass are used as medicinal raw materials. The root is dug up in the fall, it is thoroughly, but quickly washed with water, dried for fresh air and then dried completely indoors. The grass, unlike the root, is cut off during the flowering period. It is dried in small bunches.

Astragalus membranous has a tonic, tonic, analgesic and diuretic effect, stimulates hematopoiesis. It is also used externally as an ideal antiseptic and wound healing agent. Various decoctions and infusions of astragalus roots are used as a hemostatic, choleretic, antipyretic and expectorant.

The plant effectively reduces arterial and renal, activates the tone of internal organs, helps to normalize the metabolic processes of the body during, as well as suppress the vital activity of the bacterial flora (Toxoplasma, Trichomonas, amoebas, etc.).

The diuretic, antitumor, hypotensive and immunostimulating properties of astragalus have been scientifically confirmed.

Danish Astragalus- in the people it is called "cotton candy". You can meet a plant in forests, for example, pine forests, in their bright places, as a rule, on the edges. Danish astragalus is very rare. It grows in Kazakhstan, in the Trans-Urals - to the south of Yakutia. Danish astragalus contains flavonoids and alkaloids. Herbs (flowers, leaves, stems) are used as medicinal raw materials. Collect raw materials from May to June. The plant has a tonic effect, quickly restores strength and relieves fatigue.

Tonic: 2 tablespoons of herbs must be poured into 0.5 cups of cooled boiled water, insisted for 4 hours, then strained thoroughly. It is recommended to take 1/2 cup 3 (sometimes 4) times a day.

Astragalus sandy

Astragalus sandy recognizes as a remedy not only folk, but also scientific medicine. A useful raw material is grass (above-ground part of the plant), the root is not used. The herb contains flavonoids. Tinctures and decoctions of sandy astragalus have a cardiotonic, diuretic, vasodilating effect, are used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and contribute to the normalization of blood clotting. They are successfully used as antibacterial and antifungal agents.

Astragalus sandy is collected during the flowering period of the plant (in June). It is carefully dried under a canopy and placed in wooden boxes for further storage.

Astragalus sandy can be found in light forests, in the coastal zone of rivers, on the sands, near lakes, on roadsides. The plant is widespread in Central Russia, in Ukraine, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Sweden, Lithuania, Estonia and Germany.

Astragalus chickpea

Chickpea astragalus contains a number of valuable active substances, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids. In order to prepare medicinal decoctions and tinctures, plant grass (flowers, leaves, stem) is used.

From ancient times to the present day, chickpea astragalus has been used to treat the gastrointestinal tract and heart. Decoctions also have a sedative effect on the body, are used as an effective diuretic, reduce the content of beta-lipoproteins in the blood, and adrenaline and norepinephrine in tissues.

Astragalus chickpea grows in Central Europe and the Western Mediterranean on the slopes, in the steppes, in glades and meadows, along the banks of rivers.

Astragalus decoction: you need to pour 20 grams of dry grass into a container, after grinding it, then pour 200 ml of clean water over the grass, put it on a small fire and boil for three to four minutes. Then the broth must be insisted for 2 hours, then strain. It is recommended to take the drug with strong arousal, hypertension, as well as in violation of metabolic processes, 2-3 tablespoons 3 times a day.

The use of astragalus

The positive effect of astragalus on the normalization of the functioning of organs and various body systems, improving well-being allows us to call it a miraculous plant. To date, there are many ways to prepare useful plant drugs in pharmacology, infusions and decoctions in folk medicine.

astragalus syrup

Astragalus syrup is a selenium-containing product that has no contraindications, slows down the aging process, and is especially useful for adults and children who have a selenium deficiency. When taking syrup by children under 10 years old, age is taken into account: one year - one drop, two years - two drops, and so on. Adults are prescribed 10-15 drops once a day for prevention, in case of diseases, the dosage is determined individually.

astragalus root

Astragalus root is dug up in spring and autumn, fibrous roots and root base are removed, dried in the sun and used as a tonic in the form of infusions and decoctions. Astragalus root surpasses ginseng in its restorative, immunomodulatory properties. It is indicated for hypertension, edema, chronic and acute glomerulonephritis, rheumatic pain, edema of various etiologies, prolapse of the uterus and kidney, scrofula, as well as chronic heart failure of the first and second degree, accompanied by.

From the healing root you can cook:
- tincture on water: 1 tablespoon of raw materials is poured with 2 cups of boiling water, insisted in a thermos for 30 minutes and taken 1/3 cup 3 times a day after meals;
- vodka tincture: you need to mix 40 grams of astragalus root and 400 grams of vodka, insist for 10 days in a dark place with room temperature- and you can take 10-20 drops 2-3 times a day before meals.

Astragalus infusion

Astragalus tincture can be prepared in two ways.

The first way: 1 tbsp. a spoonful of chopped grass should be poured with 1 glass of water, boiled for 3-4 minutes, insisted for 2 hours, strained. Take it 1/4-1/3 cup 3 times a day for gastroenteritis, diseases of the spleen,. A decoction of the herb is also used as a labor-stimulating and accelerating separation of the placenta.

The second way: take 2 tablespoons of dry chopped grass for 1 cup of boiling water, leave for 2 hours, strain and use to rinse the throat with flu 3-4 times a day.

Contraindications to the use of astragalus

To date, no specific contraindications to the use of astragalus have been identified. It is undesirable to use it for the treatment of children under two years of age, because the effect of the plant on children's body not fully explored. You should also avoid the use of astragalus tinctures with strong arousal.

Expert editor: Sokolova Nina Vladimirovna| Phytotherapeutist

Education: A diploma in the specialty "Medicine" and "Therapy" received at the University named after N. I. Pirogov (2005 and 2006). Advanced training at the Department of Phytotherapy at the Moscow University of Peoples' Friendship (2008).