Astragalus complanatus
What's the taxonomical classification of Astragalus complanatus?
Astragalus complanatus belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, this plant is organized under the order Fabales. It is a member of the family Fabaceae, which places it within the genus Astragalus, ultimately reaching its specific identification at the species level as complanatus.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
| Species | complanatus |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Astragalus complanatus has prostrate, creeping stems that lie flat against the ground with pinnately compound leaves consisting of several pairs of small, oval leaflets. The leaves are typically covered in fine, soft hairs that give the foliage a slightly pubescent texture. Small, pea-like flowers emerge from the stems in compact clusters, often displaying shades of purple or pink. The legume-shaped seed pods are distinctive for their flattened, spreading shape, which is reflected in the species name. These pods eventually dry and turn brown, housing the seeds necessary for the plant's reproduction.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the western United States, specifically distributed across regions of California, Oregon, and Nevada. Its range is largely concentrated within the arid and semi-arid environments of the Great Basin and the Sierra Nevada foothills. Populations are often found in specialized habitats such as rocky slopes, sagebrush scrub, and open woodlands. The species tends to favor specific elevations and soil types that characterize these Mediterranean and steppe climates. This localized distribution pattern makes it a distinct component of the western montane and desert ecosystems.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, sandy or loamy soils and full sunlight to thrive in its natural Mediterranean-style habitat.
Because it is a drought-tolerant species, it should be watered sparingly once its root system is established to prevent fungal issues. It grows best in rocky or disturbed ground where competition from aggressive grasses is minimal. Planting during the cool autumn or early spring months helps the specimen settle before extreme temperatures arrive.
Regular maintenance involves occasional weeding to ensure the plant is not smothered by surrounding vegetation.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Astragalus complanatus is primarily utilized in traditional medicine through the use of its seeds. These seeds are often processed to harness their specific chemical properties for therapeutic purposes. Practitioners may employ them to support various bodily functions or to address specific ailments. The preparation of the seed is a critical step in ensuring its medicinal efficacy. This specific part of the plant serves as a concentrated source of active compounds.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the research observed the seeds of Astragalus complanatus and its 18 species. The study utilized a scanning electron microscope to compare the shapes, sizes, and morphology of seed cuticles. These observations allowed researchers to divide the 18 species into 3 groups. No information regarding the medicinal use of specific herb parts was provided in the text.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- seed
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Astragalus complanatus is utilized within Traditional Chinese Medicine to address various internal ailments through its medicinal roots. Practitioners often incorporate its components into formulas intended to bolster vital energy and strengthen the immune response. Historical applications frequently focus on its ability to tonify the spleen and lung systems to restore balance to the body. Beyond its role in herbal decoctions, the species has been studied for its specific biochemical properties that support overall physiological resilience. This long-standing history of use reflects a deep cultural understanding of its therapeutic potential.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Astragali Complanati Semen is derived from the dry mature seeds of Astragalus complanatus R. Br. This substance is a frequently used Chinese Materia Medica. Information regarding its traditional uses was compiled from diverse authoritative sources, including ancient books of traditional Chinese Medicine and academic theses such as Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations. The study also utilized medicinal plant monographs, international pharmacopoeias, and electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, ACS Publications, ScienceDirect, J-STAGE, SpringerLink, Taylor & Francis, CNKI, and Google Scholar. Approximately 40 compounds, such as flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, triterpene, and polysaccharides, have been isolated and identified from it.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Astragalus complanatus?
This plant has demonstrated significant pharmacological activities including anti-cancer, anti-fatigue, anti-ulcerogenic, gastro-protective, and hepatoprotective properties. Its medicinal potential involves inhibiting the growth of malignant cells through various biochemical pathways. The plant also acts against fatigue by enhancing energy metabolism and physical endurance. Furthermore, it provides gastro-protective and anti-ulcerogenic effects that help prevent and treat gastric ulcers. Finally, its hepatoprotection capabilities assist in safeguarding the liver from chemical or oxidative damage.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Astragalus complanatus R. Br. seeds exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. These activities include anti-fatigue, anti-cancer, regulation of bone metabolism, hepatoprotection, lipid-lowering, blood pressure-lowering, and protection of the urogenital system. The pharmacological effects of Astragali Complanati Semen mainly affect the urogenital systems, cardiovascular systems, and nervous system. Approximately 40 compounds, including flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, triterpene, and polysaccharides, have been isolated and identified from the plant. Research continues to summarize the pharmacological activities and mechanisms of the crude extract and its main bioactive compounds.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-cancer
- anti-fatigue
- anti-ulcerogenic
- gastro-protective
- hepatoprotection
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the specific medicinal compounds complanatoside A, myricomplanoside-(VIII), neocomplanoside (VII), rhamnociitrin (I), and formononetin (II). These bioactive molecules are extracted from the various tissues of the Astragalus complanatus species. Researchers study these substances to understand their potential pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications. The presence of these diverse chemical constituents contributes to the complex chemical profile of the plant. Understanding the structure of each compound helps scientists explore new avenues for medicinal development.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the medicinal compound complanatoside A can be determined in the seeds of Astragalus complanatus. An HPLC method was developed using a ZORBAX EXTEND-C18 column measuring 4.6 mm x 250 mm with a 5 microm particle size. This method utilized an acetonitrile-water-phosphoric acid mobile phase of 20:80:0.2 and UV detection at 267 nm. The linearity for complanatoside A ranged from 0.086 to 0.430 microg with an r value of 0.9999. An average recovery of 99.8% was achieved with an n of 5 and a RSD of 1.0%.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- complanatoside A
- myricomplanoside-(VIII)
- neocomplanoside (VII)
- rhamnocitrin (I)
- formononetin (II)
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating high blood pressure, high lipids, high transaminase levels, and liver damage. It serves as a therapeutic agent to help stabilize blood pressure in patients experiencing hypertension. The botanical extracts are also applied to manage elevated lipid levels in the bloodstream. Furthermore, it is utilized to reduce high transaminase levels which often indicate physiological stress. These properties make it particularly valuable for supporting recovery from various forms of liver damage.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus is used to address blood pressure issues in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Administration of 100 mg.kg-1 and 200 mg.kg-1 of this fraction decreased blood pressure by 7.1% (P < 0.05) and 9.3% (P < 0.01) respectively. In anesthetized rats, a dose of 200 mg.kg-1 decreased total peripheral resistance by 20% (P < 0.05). The study found that the fraction did not produce significant changes in heart rate or influence cardiac output. Ultimately, the total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus possesses an obvious hypotensive effect primarily by decreasing the total peripheral resistance.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- blood pressure
- high blood pressure
- high lipids
- high transaminase levels
- liver damage
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create medicinal preparations including an 80% ethanolic extract, seed oil, and a total flavonoid fraction. Researchers utilize the 80% ethanolic extract to isolate bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant biological activities. The seed oil provides a concentrated source of lipids that can be integrated into various therapeutic applications. Additionally, the total flavonoid fraction is specifically targeted for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These diverse preparations highlight the multifaceted pharmacological potential of Astragalus complanatus.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", beta-sitosterol and fatty acids were obtained from the oil of seeds of Astragalus complanatus. The fatty acids were separated and their molecular weights were determined by GC-MS. Fourteen of these fatty acids were identified within the oil. These identified components include heptenoic acid, tetradecanoic acid, pentadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid, octadecenoic acid, octadecanoic acid, octadecadienoic acid, linolenic acid, eicosanoic acid, eicosenoic acid and docosanoic acid.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- 80% ethanolic extract
- seed oil
- total flavonoid fraction
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause decreased blood pressure in individuals who consume it in large quantities or combine it with antihypertensive medications. Such a drop in pressure may lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting spells during daily activities. Some users also report potential gastrointestinal discomfort or mild nausea following ingestion. Because it interacts with the circulatory system, people with pre-existing heart conditions should exercise extreme caution. Monitoring cardiovascular stability is essential when using extracts derived from this species.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus at doses of 100 and 200 mg.kg-1 could decrease the blood pressure of conscious SHR by 7.1% (P < 0.05) and 9.3% (P < 0.01) respectively. There was no significant change in heart rate (HR) following these administrations. At a dosage of 200 mg.kg-1, Astragalus complanatus could decrease total peripheral resistance (TPR) by 20% (P < 0.05) in anesthetized SHR. This same dosage did not influence the cardiac output (CO) or the heart rate. The total flavonoid fraction of Astragalus complanatus possesses an obvious hypotensive effect, primarily by means of decreasing the TPR.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- decreased blood pressure
What herbs are paired with Astragalus complanatus?
This plant, Astragalus complanatus, is most effectively paired with Astragalus membranaceus and Panax ginseng to enhance its traditional immunological properties.
These combinations are frequently utilized in herbal formulations designed to fortify the body's defensive responses and support long-term vitality. Pairing it with licorice root can further help to harmonize the different energetic profiles of the herbs used in a blend. Practitioners often integrate these specific combinations into decoctions to maximize the synergistic effects of the plant's active compounds.
This methodical approach to blending ensures that the medicinal qualities of the species are balanced and potent.