Astragalus root comes from the herbaceous perennial plant known by the Latin botanical name of Astragalus membranaceus. It is a member of the plant family called Fabaceae, which includes peas, beans and legumes. Astragalus root, which comes in many forms including astragalus extract, astragalus powder and astragalus capsules, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and the herb may help to improve immune system function, energy levels and vitality.

Botanists have developed several ways to identify members of the Fabaceae family, of which Astragalus is a part. Flowers of these plants are made up of five petals and five sepals, and are often bright colored and the appropriate shape to attract pollinators. Another interesting aspect of the roots of these plants is their ability to pull nitrogen from the atmosphere. This is an excellent trait, because it helps to replenish nitrogen back into the soil, where it is needed as a major component of plant fertilizer. Plant fertilizers consist of a blend of the macronutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K); you will see the exact levels of NPK listed on any package of fertilizer that is sold. Legumes are one type of Fabaceae that are often grown as an overwintering crop, known as a green manure, because in the spring the plants are plowed back into the earth to help fertilize the soil in a organic manner, all due to the plants' unique ability to trap nitrogen from the air.

Astragalus herb, in traditional Chinese medicine, is one of several commonly used herbs. Astragalus is one of the fifty fundamental herbs used in this Asian medical tradition. The name of the astragalus herb transliterated from the Chinese is huang qi or bei qi. Astragalus herb may help as an aid to digestion. It may also help to improve the immune system. A tonic made from the herb is thought to promote healing, and thus wounds and other injuries may benefit from these herbs. Astragalus is typically sold in a dried form, and the dried roots are made into a soup or tea that is drunk.

Other common uses for the herb is as a tonic used to help strengthen the lungs and gastrointestinal tract. The metabolism may be increased through the use of these herbs. Astragalus is also commonly used to induce sweating and reduce fatigue. People who tend to catch colds easily or develop respiratory infections may find help with astragalus root.

When you purchase astragalus extract or astragalus powder online, look for a superior online dried herb processor that controls every part of the process and also conducts thorough laboratory analysis in order to ensure that you will be receiving a premium product.