==The benefits of Astragalus are==
Astragalus is a Chinese herb whose root is used primarily for the treatment of chronic immune problems. It contains a variety of phytonutrients, such as flavonoids, saponins and polysaccharides, that stimulate factors of the immune system, thereby, quickening a patient's recovery from a damaged immune system. Astragalus can be used alone or in combination with other herbs in the forms of decoctions, herbal teas, capsules and tablets. If you want to use astragalus, consult with your doctor first.
* [[Immunological Disorders]] : Although more evidence is needed, one of the ways astragalus is thought to work is by increasing the production of immune cells. It may also have mild antiviral activity and help with the prevention of colds. There's little evidence from human studies, however, on the effectiveness of astragalus as an antiviral.
* Stress : Astragalus is considered adaptogenic because it helps your body build up energy that resists stress and fatigue. It can also be used for rebuilding the body following illness. Basically astragalus encourages the production of adrenal hormones, especially cortisol, which helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress.
* Cancer : Astragalus may boost immune response in patients with cancer and increase their body's ability to kill cancer cells, according to a 2003 study conducted by Samantha Dodd, which was published on the University of Colorado, Denver, website. However, the available scientific evidence, which indicates astragalus may be useful in the treatment of cancer, mostly comes from laboratory and animal studies. More human trials are needed to confirm that these results also apply to humans.