Astragalus cut root – Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus is a perennial plant native to temperate regions of Asia. Its pale yellow, fibrous, and dense root is harvested in autumn after several years of cultivation. It is traditionally dried and then used in slices or chunks in long-lasting preparations.

Description

The cut root appears as elongated, fibrous segments, light yellow to beige in color. Its odor is slightly sweet and woody. It is commonly incorporated into traditional decoctions or dry blends reserved for professionals.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Astragalus, Huang Qi (in traditional Chinese medicine)
• Latin name: Astragalus membranaceus
• Family: Fabaceae
• Part used: Root
• Form: Cut, dried
• Origin: China, Mongolia, Central Asia
• English name: Astragalus root
• German name: Tragantwurzel
• Name in Spanish: Raíz de astrágalo
• Name in Italian: Radice di astragalo
• Name in Arabic: جذر الاستراغالوس (Jathr al-Astragalus)

Main virtues

Astragalus is considered a tonic plant in Asian tradition. It is also incorporated into certain bath formulations, compresses, and slow-release decoctions. Its use is reserved exclusively for professional contexts.

Main constituents

Polysaccharides, triterpene saponins (astragalosides), flavonoids, amino acids, minerals.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 10 to 20 g in 500 ml of water, boil for 30 to 40 minutes, filter.
• Macerate: based on alcohol or vegetable oil depending on the formulation.
• External use: used in traditional baths or compresses.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Strictly regulated use. Reserved for professionals or under medical supervision.
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.
• Possible interactions with immunosuppressive treatments.

History and origin

Used since the Han Dynasty in China, astragalus is listed in traditional pharmacopoeias as a major herb for vitality. It is mentioned in the ancient texts of the Shennong Bencao Jing and is still cultivated for this specific use.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in an airtight container, away from light and humidity.
• Packaging: kraft bag, metal box or tinted glass jar.
• Appearance: Pale yellow to light beige fibrous segments.
• Odor: woody, slightly sweet, characteristic.

Sources and references

• Chinese Pharmacopoeia – Huang Qi monograph
• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Corpus of Traditional Asian Medicine
• Sinomongole herbalism manuals

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