- Supports the immune system
- Activates the body's defense mechanisms
- Has anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects
- Counteracts liver dysfunction
- Supports the heart and circulatory system
- Cancer prevention
Now Foods Astragalus Extract is a specialized formulation that includes Astragalus root extract.
Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus has attracted the interest of Western scientists who, in numerous clinical studies, have confirmed the safety of use and the remarkable effectiveness of the plant's extract against a wide range of ailments, both common ones, such as the flu or the common cold, as well as serious cardiovascular, liver and cancer diseases. However, the greatest benefit of using the supplement is its remarkable potential for modulating the immune system.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus, known in Poland as astragalus) is a Chinese plant that has been used in herbal medicine for centuries, mainly as a strengthening and regenerative agent. Numerous biologically active compounds have been discovered in its root, among which saponins (including the best studied Astragaloside IV), flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, trace elements and amino acids predominate. These are responsible for the therapeutic properties of Astragalus. Through complex mechanisms of action, these compounds effectively strengthen the body, regulate its immunity, and improve the quality and length of life.
Astragalus is included in the group of adaptogens, which means that it helps the body adapt and better tolerate difficult conditions, such as above-average physical or intellectual exertion, tension and stress. At the same time, it is safe for the system, and when used as indicated, it has no side effects.
Stimulation of the body's natural defense mechanisms
The active substances contained in Astragalus extracts activate the immune system in many ways. They affect almost all elements of the immune system, strengthening and multiplying them.
Clinical studies have proven that Astragalus increases the production of immunoglobulins (antibodies that play an essential role in protecting the body against viruses, bacteria and parasites) and T-lymphocytes (cells responsible for destroying cancerous and microbe-infected cells). Stimulates macrophages - cells involved in the elimination of viruses, bacteria, fungi and fragments of damaged cells. It stimulates the activity of LAK cells (Lymphokine-Activated Killer cells), which play the greatest role in fighting cancer, and NK cells (Natural Killers), whose role is to recognize and destroy abnormal or infected cells.
Targanek also affects the elevation of cytokines - chemical messengers involved in the immune response. Due to Astragalus, the body increases the secretion of interferon - a protein produced and released by cells in response to the presence of pathogens inside the body.
Strengthening and multiplying the population of key elements of the immune system naturally stimulates the body's own defense forces, improves the ability to destroy pathogens and effectively protects against disease.
Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Clinical studies have confirmed the cardioprotective properties of Astragalus extracts. First of all, it is a powerful antioxidant, so it can be helpful in the treatment of various forms of heart disease, alleviating their symptoms and improving the function of the heart muscle.
The saponins contained in Astragalus show the ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation in the heart muscle. This is an eminently unfavorable process of lipid oxidation, leading to the formation of peroxides of these lipids, triggering destructive chain reactions. Stopping this cycle protects the heart from damage caused by lipid free radicals.
Astragalus intensifies the strength of muscle contraction, thereby improving blood circulation throughout the body. In a study, Astragaloside IV, isolated from its root and administered to patients with congestive heart failure and after a myocardial infarction, was proven to relieve chest pains and increase the physical performance of the subjects after just two weeks of regular use.
The polysaccharides present in the plant show strong anti-inflammatory effects and are capable of lowering cholesterol levels. Clinical tests conducted on rodents have proven that Astragalus counteracts the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the walls of arterial vessels. It also has a very positive effect on the fibrinolytic properties of blood vessel cells, thus minimizing the risk of blood clots. This makes it an ideal preventive measure for cardiovascular disease.
Other health-promoting properties of astragalus
Astragalus exhibits strong hepatoprotective effects - it protects the liver parenchyma from damage, including that caused by toxins and alcohol. It slows down the development of cirrhosis, and thanks to its strong antiviral effect, it can also be helpful in the treatment of viral hepatitis.
The adaptogenic properties of targana cannot be overestimated. Used in states of exhaustion and severe stress, it adds energy, strengthens and immunizes the body, increasing its tolerance to harsh external conditions. In China, it has been used successfully in place of ginseng for people under 40, for whom ginseng sometimes proves too stimulating.
Studies suggest that Astragalus can supplement therapy for cancer patients. Supplementation in people undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy showed that study patients recovered faster and lived longer. Those treated with Interleukin 2 (IL-2) were more resistant to its toxic effects and side effects. Some studies suggest that Astragalus reduces the risk of cancers in which the p53 protein is involved. Finally, as an immune system booster, astragalus mobilizes the body to fight pathological cells whose growth can lead to cancer.
Astragalus Extract is a supplement with a very broad spectrum of health-promoting properties. It is an optimal choice for strengthening the immune system, thus giving protection against various types of diseases. It can also support standard treatment in people fighting diseases with an underlying weakened immune system. Due to its anticancer and immunomodulatory properties, it is one of the standard elements of anticancer prevention. The extract contained in the preparation is very well studied, non-toxic and virtually free of the risk of side effects.
