Astragalus root is used orally to strengthen and regulate the immune system and to increase the production of blood cells particularly in individuals with chronic degenerative disease or in individuals with cancer undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It is also used orally to treat the common cold, upper respiratory infections, chronic nephritis and diabetes. Astragalus has been shown to have the following actions: antibacterial, antiviral, immune stimulant, tonic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic, vasodilator and hypotensive actions.