Archive for June, 2011
Traditional uses: abscess, adrenal disorders, AIDS, anasarca, anorexia, arthralgia, arthritis, asthma, boil, bronchitis, cancer, chronic lung weakness, common cold, cystitis, debility, diabetes mellitus, diarrhea, dysuria, edema, excessive perspiration, fatigue, fever, hepatitis, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension, immunodeficiency, influenza, lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, malaria, metrorrhagia, nephritis, nervousness, neurodermatitis, night sweats, numbness, oliguria, peritonitis, prolapse of organs, proteinuria, retinitis, septicemia, shortness of breath, splenomegaly, ulcer, urethritis, urinary tract infection.
Astragalus (Astragalus spp.) is one of the more famous tonic herbs from China. In traditional Chinese medicine it is said to tonify the blood and spleen and aid the defensive chi. Thus, astragalus is often added to formulations used to treat weak patients. Similarly, it is used in combination with other herbs to enhance recovery following an illness or prolonged stress and to boost vitality. Astragalus is said to protect and enhance the functioning of distressed organs.17 Numerous studies show the herb enhances immune function by increasing natural killer cell activity,18 increasing T cell activity,19 and enhancing macrophage activity 20 in immune-compromised patients.
A SUPERIOR HERB
Astragalus, with the Latin name Astragalus membranaceus, is derived from the root of this perennial herb that is Chinese in origin and considered a traditional Chinese herb.
Astragalus is considered an immune stimulation herb. The “stem cells” in the bone marrow are increased and their development is stimulated into active immune cells that are then released into the body. Essentially, every phase of the immune system activity is stimulated by Astragalus.
Active ingredients contained in astragalus include bioflavanoids, choline, and astragalan B, a polysaccharide. Astragalan B has been shown in animal studies to be effective at protecting the body against a number of toxins, controlling bacterial infections and stimulating the immune system. Astragalan B appears to work by allowing the body’s immune system to attack the outer membranes of viruses destabilizing their defenses allowing them to be overwhelmed by the immune response.
Astragalus increases interferon production and enhances NK and T cell function, increasing resistance to viral conditions. Astragalus has also been shown to be a support for the body in peripheral vascular disease and peripheral circulation. Astragalus aids adrenal gland function which often need support in chronic and degenerative health states.
Researchers in China have conducted recent studies which report that astragalus is an effective treatment for supporting the immune system in cancer patients. Two separate studies followed patients receiving traditional chemotherapy and radiation treatment, which typically devastate the immune system and leave the recipients weak and susceptible to new opportunistic infections. Patients receiving astragalus extracts had twice the survival tare of those only receiving standard therapies. Further studies in the U.S. confirmed that astragalus has unique immunity enhancement qualities.
Astragalus has been available in China for centuries and has a long history of use in traditional medicine in China. It is used to strengthen the Wei Ch’i or “defensive energy”. It is regarded as a tonic for stimulating the immune system, increasing energy levels, as a diuretic, a vasodilator for respiratory infections, a treatment for cold, flu and to increase stamina.
Originally published here.
Terry & Lynda Sherback
Before discussing adrenal fatigue treatment in detail, it’s better to elaborate on the causes of the disease. Adrenal fatigue is related to excessive tiredness. We all feel tired after work but some of us continuously complaint of being tired all the time. Such people feel finished throughout the day. This is the symptom of adrenal fatigue syndrome. If treated properly the patient can live a healthy and happy life but if the disease is overlooked for a long time, it gives birth to ailments out of which depression is most threatening.
Adrenal fatigue treatment starts from the recognition of the disease and a commitment to stick to a treatment plan. Fatigue attacks those who are malnourished or eat unhealthy food like unprocessed food. Stress at work or home also cause fatigue. When fatigue attacks, only vitamin supplements can help. Take sufficient supplements for vitamin C and D until you feel great, energized and lively. It’s much better, if you can go on taking these supplements even after you have recovered from the fatigue. Though vitamins are available in our food, there is no harm if we take them directly. With these supplements, you can prevent the fatigue from coming back.
Besides taking vitamin supplements, adrenal fatigue patients should try to change their lifestyle. A little physical activity is most required, however busy you are. Walking could help when there is no time for exercise. You can use stairs instead of escalators; walk down to office or at least park your car at some distance from your office premise so that you can do some brisk walking. When inside the office, try to move from one corner to another either for water, coffee or meeting colleagues. Doctors recommend thirty minutes of exercise per day as adrenal fatigue treatment .
The root cause of adrenal fatigue is poor nutrition and overstretching. When feeling tired, take a refreshing 10 to 15 minutes power nap rather than working continuously. This way you can allow your brain to rest a bit. Smiling is the beadrenal fatigue treatment. Always wear a smile on your face, it will lighten you heart and soul. Another way to treat adrenal fatigue is be happy in any circumstance, read jokes, play with children and think positive. Say good bye to stress and tension and welcome rest and relaxation. Together with vitamin supplements, sports, smile and rest and relaxation, you can with the battle against deadly adrenal fatigue.
Originally published here.
Brad Huse
