Astragalus

Perennial to Zone 4. Safe effective adaptogenic tonic to use daily throughout the year, aiding digestion and promoting immune system health ( wei qi ). Called huang qi in Chinese and Chinese Milk Vetch Root in English. Especially good for vegetarians. Also used in cases of exhaustion, food allergy or depression, and to increase assimilation, improve digestion, and eliminate excess fluids. In his book Healing Lyme Stephen Harrod Buhner makes a convincing case that astragalus can prevent and treat the many and varied symptoms of Lyme disease. Small yellow pea-like flowers on upright 1½–4' stems with vetch-like leaves. Plant in deep well-drained slightly alkaline soil. Harvest 4- to 6-year-old roots in fall. ~250 seeds/g. 441