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 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.
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.