USA. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) Root, Shredded, Certified Organic Common names: Astragalus, Bei Qi, Huang Qi, Ogi, Hwanggi, Milk Vetch Family: Fabacae (Legumes; Pea family) Astragalus membranaceus is a shrub-like plan that generally grows 16 to 30 inches tall. While Astragalus is originally native to China, Mongolia, and Korea, it has been cultivated across the United States since being introduced in 1925. Astragalus grows naturally in grassy areas and on mountainsides, thriving in sandy, well-drained soil with full sun. Herbalists assert that Astragalus Root boosts the immune system, slows tumor growth, helps relieve side effects from chemotherapy, preserves collagen, helps alleviate asthma symptoms, and can be used as an antiviral.