Traditionally, it was used in China for conditions such as night sweats, diarrhea, and qi deficiency. Preliminary studies conducted in Asia have determined that astragalus can enhance immune function and lengthen the lives of people with cancer. Other studies suggest that it may prevent some infections in people undergoing dialysis for kidney failure. Some textbooks recommend taking between 9-15 grams of astragalus in a decoction, which is made by boiling astragalus root in water for a few minutes, then brewing the tea. Astragalus root is most commonly available in its raw form.
Many stores sell astragalus supplements, which are available in capsules or powders.
Other stores sell astragalus tinctures. At present, there are no known side-effects when astragalus is used as recommended. There are no well-known drug interactions with astragalus. Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics , 2nd ed.