astragalus

as·trag·a·lus

noun \ə-ˈstra-gə-ləs\

Definition of ASTRAGALUS

1

plural as·trag·a·li \-ˌlī, -ˌlē\ : ²talus 1

2

: the dried root of an Asian milk vetch (Astragalus membranaceus) used especially as a remedy in Chinese herbal medicine; also : a preparation or extract of this root

Origin of ASTRAGALUS

New Latin, from Latin, from Greek astragalos neck vertebra, ankle joint, milk vetch (from the vertebra-like appearance of the flower clusters)

First Known Use: 1541