Milk Vetch (Astragalus membranaceus)

Milk Vetch (Astragalus membranaceus)

Botanical Description

Milk Vetch refers to various species within the Astragalus genus, most commonly Astragalus membranaceus in herbal use. It is a hardy, perennial plant in the legume family, producing feathery foliage and clusters of purple or white pea-like flowers. Native to Northern and Eastern Asia, some species grow wild in parts of Europe and the British Isles, though these are not always the same as those used medicinally.

Parts Used
  • Root (primary part used in herbal medicine)
  • Aerial parts (less commonly used)
Constituents
  • Polysaccharides (Astragalans I, II, III)
  • Flavonoids (including isoflavones)
  • Saponins (Astragalosides)
  • Trace minerals (selenium, zinc)
  • Amino acids
  • Coumarins
Actions
  • Adaptogenic
  • Immunomodulating
  • Anti-viral
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Diuretic
  • Antioxidant

Equine Use

Benefits:
  • Supports immune system in stressed, ageing, or convalescing horses
  • Aids recovery from chronic fatigue or post-viral syndromes
  • May help in supporting adrenal function and energy levels
Use Considerations:
  • Often used in powdered root or decocted forms
  • Best avoided during acute infections or in horses with autoimmune conditions
Form
  • Powder, decoction added to feed, tincture (less common in equines)

Canine Use

Benefits:
  • Boosts immune response in dogs with chronic illness
  • May support energy in older dogs or those with cancer
  • Can be beneficial for allergy support due to modulation of immune function
Use Considerations:
  • Avoid in autoimmune disorders unless guided by a veterinary herbalist
  • Use in moderation – small amounts are sufficient due to potency
Form:
  • Powder mixed into food, glycerite extract for ease of dosing

UK and Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Use

While Astragalus membranaceus is not native to the UK, wild-growing species of Milk Vetch (Astragalus danicus, A. glycyphyllos) appear in traditional meadows and coastal areas. In folklore, these plants were considered protective of livestock, with dried stems sometimes hung in barns to "strengthen the herd."

In the Isle of Man, plants with deep roots and resilience like vetches were occasionally linked to the vitality of the land and were believed to restore soil and body. Though more commonly associated with clover and vetch for their nitrogen-fixing properties, some oral traditions may have blurred boundaries between useful legumes, hinting at a shared reverence.

⚠ Safety & Contraindications

  • Avoid during acute infections
  • Avoid in autoimmune conditions unless advised
  • Not to be used with immunosuppressant drugs
  • Sourcing matters: avoid species that may be toxic (e.g., locoweed varieties in North America)

Inflamation

Wellbeing

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Mint (Mentha spp.)