We have a strong immune system that works hard to prevent and defend us from invaders such as bacteria and poisons. The key to a good immune response is assuring that the immune process is operating efficiently. It has been shown that traditional herbal treatments such as Astragalus membranaceous may help maintain a healthy immune system.

Astragalus is one of the most revered herbs in TCM, where it is regarded as a master immune tonic. TCM has recommended astragalus as a qi tonifier for thousands of years (qi meaning the vital life force). Because of its ability to boost the immune function, astragalus is now widely used in Western herbal therapy.

Researchers at the Peking University Health Science Center in Beijing have found that astragalus has a positive impact on the immune system by enhancing the activity of B and T lymphocytes, which are immunological cells that play a critical role in the body's defence against disease.

Inflammatory cytokines, which are essential for a healthy immune system, may be balanced by astragalus, according to research.

During the sympathetic "fight or flight" reaction, acute stress may develop and improve the immune system. For optimal immune cell activity, long-term stress levels must be maintained at a healthy level.  Stress management may be improved by having a well-balanced diet with protein, wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, among other things. Getting at least eight hours of sleep each night is essential, as are activities like meditation, yoga, mindfulness exercises, and social interactions with loved ones.

Plant polysaccharides are a key component of astragalus' immune-enhancing properties. Polysaccharides, it turns out, may alter gut flora in a way that benefits the immune system. Astragalus polysaccharides have been demonstrated to boost good GIT bacteria while lowering harmful microflora in animal and in vitro investigations.

Some of my favourite Astragalus containing supplements include;

Metagenics Super Mushroom & Astragalus tablets 

Panaxea - Resist 

Biopractica - Adrenergy Forte 

 References:

1. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 4th ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2015. 
    
2. Shao BM, Xu W, Dai H, et al. A study on the immune receptors for polysaccharides from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004;320(4):1103-1111. 
    
3. Jin M, Zhao K, Huang Q, et al. Structural features and biological activities of the polysaccharides from Astragalus membranaceus. Int J Biol Macromol 2014;64:257-266. 
    
4. Morey JN, Boggero IA, Scott AB, et al. Current directions in stress and human immune function. Curr Opin Psychol 2015;5:13-17.s