Astragalus
Habit: astragalus plants are Globular in shape; this is another extremely attractive neat herb for a townhouse or pool area. Keeping its lovely rounded form without trimming, it is green in summer and an attractive brown in winter; it is also a strand grower. Bright golden yellow during the warmer months, leaves turn to a bronze-green color in winter. Undoubtedly it is one of the finest plants grown in South Africa and also best planted on east or south-facing wall. Another versatile plant for those sun-shade positions in cold gardens.
Planting: In whole 65cm x 65cm at top, but about 45cm deep, add one third compost and kraal manure (half-half) to your soil moisture. Conifers in nature have poor but well drained soil so DO NOT ADDS FERTILIZERS to mixture. Transplant only when young, during autumn or winter, and on cool day. Once moved, water well and spray foliage immediately afterwards and regularly until established to prevent leaf burn. A much of peat moss will also help prevent root burn.
Feeding and watering: Mulch with compost or peat moss in spring to keep roots cool. Water regularly, particularly during long hot dry spells, to ensure conifer never dries out. Also spray foliage to prevent excessive transpiration. Little feeding necessary, but to keep its roots cool during hot months surround base of stem with a mulch of compost and to this you may add a cupful of bone phosphate. Never allow to dry out water well.
Pruning: Cut out old growths and trim back immediately after flowering in order to promote growth and flowers for following years.
Astragalus root is invariably difficult to acquire at nurseries so it is best to sow your own seed in trays, during November-December. Plants take two weeks to germinate and when 15cm tall, should be planted out to their permanent site a meter apart in deep fertile soil. Remember you need one male plant for about 10 female plants for fertilization. While transplanting herbs, always set them out facing the same direction which they are facing in their original hole. A new orientation is detrimental to their chances of growing well in their new location. Tie a maker to the north side when moving plant-memory often plays strange tricks.
Astragalus benefits: Astragalus ( Astragalus membranaceus) has been used in Chinese Medicine for more than 2500 years, often astragalus membranaceous is used in combination with other herbs, to support the body and improve its resistance against diseases the combination of astragalus, schisandra and ligustrum is very famous . Astragalus membranaceus plant pictures are available at various websites. Astragalus affects the immune system and prevents colds and liver. As an herbal supplement, astragalus plants are said to protect against infections and conceivably even cancer. It is effective in part by assisting the skin to get rid of toxins. Astragalus extracts are beneficial topically to aid sores on the skin to heal. It can also treat chronic symptoms of colds and flu, in addition to diarrhea. Astragalus for muscle pain relief is an efficient supplement for relaxing muscles.
Astragalus Side Effects:
If the recommended dose is not exceeded, there are no astragalus negative effects and can be used safely. Most importantly it does interrelate with other supplements and herbs. Does not use astragalus while breastfeeding or during pregnancy, you should always consult to your doctor before taking any supplements, including any sort of herbs. Astragalus and the penis can work together as Astragalus is used for penis enlargement.