ENGLISH NAME: Astragalus
microcephalus
LATIN NAME: Astragalus microcephalus
LOCAL NAMES:
Georgian: გლერძა
COUNTRY:
Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Dry, rocky places—e.g. Kartli, Kakheti, Kiziki, Trialeti,
Meskhet-Javakheti in Georgia
Elevation: From lowlands up to montane zones (around 1,400–1,800 m in
Georgia)
Terrain: Well-drained, rocky or stony soils
DESCRIPTION:
A low-growing perennial in the pea family (Fabaceae), with pinnate leaves
bearing small leaflets. Stems are herbaceous, often several decimeters long,
forming loose mats or cushions. Flowers are clustered, papilionaceous
(“pea-type”), typically pale purple or creamy white, with a banner, wings, and
keel, but appear in small clusters rather than large inflorescences.
USABLE PARTS: Roots; leaves;
stems
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Adaptogenic: Helps the body
resist physical, chemical, or biological stressors.
Immunomodulatory: May enhance
activity of certain immune cells.
Antioxidant: Contains
flavonoids and saponins that scavenge free radicals.
Anti-inflammatory: May alleviate
inflammatory conditions.
Cardioprotective: Potential to
support heart function and help regulate blood pressure.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (skin rash, itching). May
interact with immunosuppressive or hypoglycemic medications—use cautiously if
diabetic or with autoimmune conditions.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often paired with other adaptogens (e.g., Panax ginseng) or
immune-supporting herbs (e.g., echinacea); monitor blood sugar when used
alongside diabetes medications.
PREPARATION:
Tea (Roots): Simmer 1–2 tsp
dried, chopped root in 1 cup water for 10–15 min; strain and drink.
Infusion
(Leaves/Stems):
Steep 1 tsp dried aerial parts in hot water for 10 min; strain.
Tincture (Roots): Macerate chopped
root in 5 parts alcohol for 4–6 weeks; strain and dilute before use.
HARVEST TIME:
Late autumn (after above-ground parts die back) for roots; spring to summer for
leaves and stems.
HARVEST METHOD:
Roots: Carefully dig
around mature plants (≥3 years old) with a garden fork; lift
and shake off soil.
Leaves/Stems: Snip healthy,
non-flowering shoots with clean shears, harvesting no more than one-third of
the plant.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Drying: Spread roots and
aerial parts in a single layer in a shaded, well-ventilated area until crisp.
Storage: Keep fully dried
material in airtight glass containers, in a cool, dark place; label with
harvest date and check for moisture or mold periodically.