Friday, April 04, 2008
Take Astragalus For Immunity
This herb has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an immunity-booster.
It contains complex sugar molecules called polysaccharides, which some studies show stimulate virus-fighting cells in the immune system. Re-searchers at the University of Texas and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have turned up convincing evidence that astragalus boosts immune responses in lab animals, and in human cells in lab dishes.
“The findings on immune enhancement are very strong,” Blumenthal says. “And though we don’t have good evidence for its effects on colds and flu, there’s good reason to think it could help.”
Worth a try for: Boosting immunity.
How to do it: Astragalus is available in a variety of herbal cold formulations and in stand-alone supplement capsules. Concentrations vary, so follow package directions for use.
Source
It contains complex sugar molecules called polysaccharides, which some studies show stimulate virus-fighting cells in the immune system. Re-searchers at the University of Texas and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have turned up convincing evidence that astragalus boosts immune responses in lab animals, and in human cells in lab dishes.
“The findings on immune enhancement are very strong,” Blumenthal says. “And though we don’t have good evidence for its effects on colds and flu, there’s good reason to think it could help.”
Worth a try for: Boosting immunity.
How to do it: Astragalus is available in a variety of herbal cold formulations and in stand-alone supplement capsules. Concentrations vary, so follow package directions for use.
Source
Labels: astragalus, herbs, Holistic Health, immunity, Traditional Chinese Medicine
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