July 2, 2009

Prevent Colds and Flu with Astragalus

Astragalus is a plant that is native to Asia and is considered to be one of the most important herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. The root of the plant is commonly used medicinally and it can be used to treat illness, such as colds, flu, night sweats, diarrhea, upper respiratory infections, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, and heart disease. It helps to prevent and treat colds and flu by increasing the production of immune cells and having mild antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can treat heart disease by relieving symptoms, lowering blood pressure, and improving heart function. It can help to treat chronic hepatitis by protecting the liver and it can be used ans an adjunctive therapy when it comes to cancer.

Astragalus also contains antioxidants, which can protect cells against damage caused by free radicals. It can be found in supplement form at some health food stores and may take 6 to 8 weeks to work best.