Astralagus is a genus of herbs and small shrubs of more than 3000 species belonging to the Fabaceae family. Other names include milk-vetch, locoweed and goat's thorn. The genus is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

The natural gum tragacanth is made from several species of Astralagus, whilst Astralagus propinquus has been used historically as an alternative medicine,especially in traditional Chinese medicine. Although evidence for its use as a medicine is limited, the National Institutes of Health state that it may have benefits for the immune system, heart, liver, and as a potential cancer therapy. There have also been studies to show its antiviral and antiaging properties. However some species of Astralagus can be toxic.