Pharmacology and Ethnomedicine of the Genus Astragalus

Abstract

The genus Astragalus, consisting of about 3000 species, is a valuable source of herbal drugs. The review article comprises scientific data concerning morphological, distribution and phytochemical characters of the genus. Polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids are considered main active principles. Astragalus spp. have long been used as medicinal plants in folk medicine as cardiovascular, antihypertensive, diuretic, choleretic, as well as antimicrobial and antiviral agents. The plants of the genus exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, among which major include diuretic, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, hypotensive, and sedative ones. The review focuses on uses of about 30 Astragalus species in official medicine and ethnomedicine and their pharmacological action.