Tragacanth

What is tragacanth?

Tragacanth is the German name for the plant genus Astragalus, which comprises over 2000 species. However, not all species are suitable for medicinal purposes, but only the subspecies Astragalus membranaceus or mongholicus. This grows mainly in China and Mongolia and is called Huang Qi there, which means "yellow guide".

The root of this plant is dried and processed into powder, which you can give your dog as a food supplement. The root contains many valuable ingredients, such as polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, amino acids and micronutrients. These have various effects on your dog's body.

How does tragacanth affect dogs?

According to TCM nutritional science, tragacanth has a slightly warming and sweet effect. It strengthens the Qi, i.e. the life energy, and supports the function of the spleen, lungs and kidneys. This has the following benefits for your dog:

• Tragacanth promotes cellular energy production in the body, which improves your dog's performance and recovery. This is particularly important for sports and working dogs, but also for older or sick dogs.
• Tragacanth strengthens your dog's immune system and helps it to fight off infections. It has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect and can help with various illnesses such as allergies, skin problems, respiratory infections or cancer.
• Tragacanth supports your dog's kidney function and helps it to eliminate toxins. It can help with kidney disease or bladder infections.
• Tragacanth regulates your dog's blood pressure and blood sugar levels and can help with cardiovascular problems or diabetes.

What are the disadvantages of tragacanth for dogs?

Tragacanth is a very safe herb for dogs that rarely causes side effects. However, there are some situations in which you should be careful or avoid tragacanth:

• Tragacanth can enhance or weaken the effects of certain medications. This applies in particular to immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, diuretics or antidiabetics. If your dog is on such medication, you should speak to your vet beforehand.
• Tragacanth can cause gastrointestinal problems in some dogs, such as diarrhea or flatulence. This is because it alters the intestinal flora. If your dog reacts sensitively, you should reduce or discontinue the dose.
• Tragacanth can cause allergic reactions in some dogs, such as skin rashes or itching. This is rare, but possible. If you notice such symptoms in your dog, you should stop using the herb immediately.

How do you dose tragacanth for your dog?

The dosage of tragacanth depends on various factors, such as your dog's weight, age and state of health. A general recommendation is to give 0.5 to 1 gram of tragacanth powder per 10 kilograms of your dog's body weight per day. You can simply mix the powder into the food or moisten it with a little water or broth.

You should not use tragacanth permanently, but only as a cure, for example for four to six weeks. Then you should take a break of at least two weeks before giving it again. This will prevent habituation or overdosing.