Astragalus root- Astragalus membranaceus

Description

Astragalus is a strong immune- enhancing herb and superior tonic. Used to help in the recovery from illness and surgery. Astragalus root has been used in China for centuries, where it is still commonly used to prepare restorative teas and tonics. Sometimes known as Syrian Tragacanth and Gum Dragon, astragalus root is also used in cooking to add a sweet, earthy flavor to soups, broths and stews, while the powdered root is mixed into foods or encapsulated as a supplement. The yellow, fibrous roots of astragalus are typically harvested after four years of plant growth. The sliced root adds a sweet, mildly earthy flavor to soups and teas (but remove the pieces before consuming. Add 2 or 3 pieces to simmering vegetable stocks, soups or stews (remove before eating). Some people claim that the scent of dried astragalus root has a calming effect. Use in teas, infusions and tonics. Astragalus root may also be tinctured. Consult a health care practitioner before using this herb if you take other medicines because astragalus is known to increase the effects of some agents or reduce the absorption of others. Safety: Do not use Astragalus if you suffer from skin disorders.