Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 12/8/2010

Question
I am 52, in general OK health, apart from hypertension which is being treated.
I cant shake off a bad head cold-in fact working as a bus driver I am susceptible to lots of communicable disease.
I started taking astragalus recently. I know its not a quick cure, but I am hoping it will help?
Apparently it is considered one of the most important chinese herbs so it must work?
After researching it online it seems to be a miracle herb for everything from weight loss to anti-aging.
Your thoughts appreciated!

Answer
Hello Barry,
Astragalus is a useful herb, but needs to be used properly to see the best effects.  It is often used as a tonic for long term strenthening the system, especially the immune system, and therefore prevent immune problems like colds, flus, etc.  Using it acutely for a current infection may not be harmful but may not have the same effects.  Since it is used as a tonic, it does have the reputation for weight loss and other uses, but it is not as well established, and used short term.  If you are taking medications, it is a good idea to make sure there are no interactions, but it is not likely with anti-hypertension meds.  
Also, herbs can be of limited use without changing foundational lifestyle first.  So make sure you limit exposure, get adequate sleep, rest, and exercise, manage stress well, and eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, omega 3 and 9 oils, whole grains, water, low in processed foods, sugars, caffiene, alcohol.  Herbs should be ideally just a supplement with a healthy lifestyle.  
In health,
Dr Conner