Astragalus is a large genus of about 3,000 species of herbs and small shrubs, belonging to the legume family Fabaceae. It is the largest genus of plants in terms of described species. The genus is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The natural gum tragacanth is made from several species of Astragalus occurring in the Middle East. Also Astragalus propinquus (syn. Astragalus membranaceus) has a history of use as a herbal medicine used in systems of traditional Chinese medicine and Persian medicine.
In traditional Chinese medicine A. membranaceus has been used to reinforce qi and strengthen the superficial resistance, and promote the discharge of pus and the growth of new tissue. Extracts of Astragalus propinquus (syn. Astragalus membranaceus) are marketed as life-prolonging extracts for human use.
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