There is a rise in the number of available quick cures for the flu. Many products of questionable value are being sold, and unsupported medical claims are being made. One herb that is often brought up is Huang Qi/Astragalus root. This herb is often promoted inaccurately as an immune booster.
Huang qi is a valuable and useful herbal medicine. Huang qi is used traditionally in Chinese medicine to stabilize the exterior by strengthening Lung function. It should be noted that Lung function in Chinese medicine includes breathing, the skin, the sinuses and weakness due to grief. As a result Huang qi is common in herbal formulas for asthma, skin disorders and for those who are physically weak.
Huang qi is one of many good herbs to strengthen the functions of the body that protect us from the environment. It does not “boost” immunity, so much as help specific functions of your body related to breathing. In other words, if your immunity is low due to poor diet, and stress then huang qi is not going to be helpful. Herbal medicine is also not going to protect you if you had a strong exposure to a virus (e.g. some one coughed in your face),
Huang qi is appropriate for people who are frequently exposed to many viruses (teachers, nurses,etc.) as well as those who catch colds easily due to asthma or other lung conditions. As always, it is best to get huang qi in a formula specific to your situation. Get a herbal diagnosis from a nationally board certified herbalist before using any herbal medicine. If you already have an infection then other classes of herbs should be prescribed to help the body clear the virus.
Do not use huang qi if you are already showing signs of an infection, or have ongoing stomach problems. In many of these situations Huang qi will not provide relief or may make other symptoms worse. Caution is advised with women who are having signs of menopause, as huang qi can increase hot flashes and other symptoms.
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