Huang Qi

Astragalus membranaceus

Physical Characteristics

Astragalus membranaceus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Mongolia and Siberia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

1. Nectary - Flowers rich in nectar and pollen: Yes –Astragalus species produce flowers that are rich in nectar, making them attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. 2. Wildlife - Food (Fruit, Seeds, Leaf litter, Shelter, Nesting, Roosting): Yes – The seeds of Astragalus species are edible and can serve as food for various wildlife. The plant’s foliage may also provide cover for small animals, although it is not typically used for nesting. 3. Invertebrate Shelter (Overwintering sites, Leaf litter, Groundcover): Yes – Astragalus species can provide habitat for invertebrates, and its leaves contribute to leaf litter that supports beneficial insects. Some species may spread out enough to offer ground cover. 4. Pest Confuser (Smell): No – Astragalus species are not specifically recognized for its ability to confuse pests through its scent.

Medicinal Uses

Adaptogen Antibacterial Cancer Cardiotonic Diuretic Febrifuge Hypoglycaemic Hypotensive Pectoral Tonic Uterine tonic Vasodilator Huang Qi is commonly used in Chinese herbalism, where it is considered to be one of the 50 fundamental herbs[218]. The root is a sweet tonic herb that stimulates the immune system and many organs of the body, whilst lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels[238]. It is particularly suited to young, physically active people, increasing stamina and endurance and improving resistance to the cold - indeed for younger people it is perhaps superior to ginseng in this respect[254]. Huang Qi is used especially for treatment of the kidneys and also to avoid senility[218]. The plant is often used in conjunction with other herbs such as Atractylodes macrocephala and Ledebouriella seseloides[238]. The root contains a number of bio-active constituents including saponins and isoflavonoids[279]. It is adaptogen, antipyretic, diuretic, tonic, uterine stimulant and vasodilator[218, 254, 279]. It is used in the treatment of cancer, prolapse of the uterus or anus, abscesses and chronic ulcers, chronic nephritis with oedema and proteinuria[176, 218]. Recent research in the West has shown that the root can increase the production of interferon and macrophages and thus help restore normal immune function in cancer patients[254, 279]. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy recover faster and live longer if given Huang Qi concurrently[254]. The root of 4 year old plants is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238, 254]. The plant is antipyretic, diuretic, pectoral and tonic[218]. Extracts of the plant are bactericidal, hypoglycaemic and hypotensive[218]. Cardiotonic, vasodilator[176].HIV Infections [301].

Known Hazards

Many members of this genus contain toxic glycosides[65]. All species with edible seedpods can be distinguished by their fleshy round or oval seedpod that looks somewhat like a greengage[85]. A number of species can also accumulate toxic levels of selenium when grown in soils that are relatively rich in that element[65]. Toxic doses may result in neuroligical dysfunction leading to paralysis [301]. Should be used cautiously in immunosuppressed patients [301].