Adaptogens Herbs for Stress and Balance – Astragalus

By Staff
Updated on November 30, 2018
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What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are herbs that help us adapt to changes and stress caused by physical, biological, emotional, and environmental factors. They can assist in restoring balance within the body and help us defend against both chronic and acute stressors.

One of my favorite adaptogens is astragalus.

Astragalus (Astragalus Membranaceus)

Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb often used in Chinese medicine. It is calming to the Central Nervous System (CNS) and has antimicrobial properties. Astragalus helps support respiratory functions making it useful in times of infection and useful for allergies and asthma. This herb thought to boost the immune system, increase energy, and address fatigue associated with chemotherapy and chronic illness.

Due to it’s antibacterial and antiviral properties, along with it’s immune boosting capabilities it may be useful in preventing and decreasing the severity of common colds and respiratory infections. Astragalus may also be used with herbs such as milk thistle to help prevent damage to the liver and kidneys caused by other medications.

Precautions: There are no known contraindications although it may have interactions w/ immunosuppressant drugs.

Culinary Uses:

Incorporating adaptogens into your routine is quick and easy with this Adaptea recipe. Using adaptogens as part of your diet is a great way to get all the amazing stress busting, and healing benefits of adaptogens without having to take another supplement.

Try this tea and let us know what you think!

Adaptea Recipe

8 grams Astragalus ( 2 slices)
1 tbs Cat Nip
2 tsp Lemon Balm
1 tsp Nettles
1 tsp Red Raspberry Leaves 3 dried Stevia Leaves

Bring astragalus and 4 cups of water to boil and simmer for 20 mins. Turn off heat and add in remaining herbs. Steep covered for 5-10 mins. Strain. Add an additional 4 cups of cool water and allow to cool. Serve over ice.

To serve hot:

Bring astragalus and 8 cups of water to boil and simmer for 20 mins. Turn off heat and add in remaining herbs. Steep covered for 5-10 mins. Strain.

Learn how to make Adaptea in the video below!

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