Mongolian Astragalus

Astragalus mongholicus

Physical Characteristics

Astragalus mongholicus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). 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). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China and Mongolia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Cardiotonic Diuretic Vasodilator The root is cardiotonic, diuretic and vasodilator[176]. It is used in the treatment of spontaneous and night sweats, prolapse of the uterus and anus, abscesses and chronic ulcers, chronic nephritis with oedema and proteinuria[176]. The roots contain astragalan - this has various effects on the body including aiding detoxification, increasing the function of humoral immunity (increasing the size of the spleen, increasing the production of plasma cells and antibodies and having an effect against immunosuppressants), increasing the production of macrophages and increasing bodily resistance[176].

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].