SafePlants

Chinese Milk Vetch

Chinese Milk Vetch refers to several plants in the Astragalus genus, prized for their varied uses, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine and as a green manure.

Considerations for Pets

• Some members of the Astragalus genus contain toxic glycosides.

Scientific Name and Nomenclature

• Accepted Scientific Name: Astragalus sinicus
• Other Scientific Names: Astragalus membranaceus (often referred to as Chinese Milk Vetch)
• Common Names: Chinese Milk Vetch, Milkvetch, Yellow Vetch, Renge
• Family: Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae or the pea family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Found throughout northern and southwestern China and northern North America.
• Widely grown in central and southern China as a green manure and forage crop.
• Prefers cold, arid to semi-arid climates.
• In China, it is mainly produced in Heilongjiang, Jilin, Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Shanxi, and Gansu.

Ecological Role

• Utilized as a green manure crop.
• Used as a cover crop to control weeds and improve wheat growth.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Perennial herb.
• Legume with a reclining, spreading growth habit.
• Deep-rooted plant that forms an upright bush with many stems.

Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional Chinese medicine, often in combination with other herbs.
• Astragalus membranaceus is used to reinforce the body.
• Astragalus seed, also known as Sha Yuan Zi, is a tonic used for lower back pain, tinnitus, and other ailments.
• The root (Huang Qi) is considered a superior tonic in Chinese medicine, strengthening the body's resistance.

Quirky Facts

• Chinese angelica root and milk vetch tea is sometimes enjoyed to "bring out your inner woman".
• Chinese Milk Vetch Honey is used in creating Flaved dark chocolate ganaches or truffles.