Astragalus, a medicinal material used in traditional Chinese medicine. This plant grows mainly in northern China, Mongolia and Siberia. With the advancement of science and technology, astragalus can be prepared by microbial fermentation, which is more stable and safer.
The dried roots of Astragalus contain polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, amino acids and various trace elements, among which Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) are the most abundant. Its main biological activities are to enhance immune function, splenomegaly, anti-influenza, anti-tumor, anti-aging and anti-radiation. It can improve myocardial contractility in dogs with acute infarction, reduce infarct size and reduce myocardial damage.
Pharmacological effects of Astragalus
1. Cardiovascular protection
Cardiotonic effect: In in vitro experiments, total saponins of Astragalus can increase the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and protect the myocardium. Astragalus preconditioning can alleviate ischemia-reperfusion injury in cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells, possibly by stabilizing the structure and function of cardiomyocyte membranes and mitochondria.
Regulate blood pressure and protect blood vessels: Astragalus has a two-way regulating effect on blood pressure. Astragalus can diuretic blood pressure, reduce pulmonary artery pressure and right ventricular preload, expand peripheral blood vessels, improve microcirculation, reduce arterial pressure, and directly expand coronary arteries.
2. Immunomodulatory effects
In animal experiments, astragalus can enhance T cell function, enhance the clearance of circulating immune complexes, and increase antibody production. It promotes the mass production of plasma cells, mainly mature plasma cells, and increases the number of antibody-forming cells.
3. Anti-diabetic effect
Astragalus is the most commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of diabetes.
Astragalus can improve diabetes complications. It can improve the early hyperperfusion and hyperfiltration state of diabetic nephropathy by inhibiting the synthesis of renal NO, and can also increase the level of plasma albumin, regulate lipid metabolism, and promote the excretion of water and sodium. Astragalus promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis, protects kidney function.