Milkvetch is a type of herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family. It is also known as "astragalus", "locoweed", "rattleweed", and "goat's-thorn". These synonyms are often used interchangeably with milkvetch when referring to the various species in the genus Astragalus. The name "astragalus" is derived from the Greek word "astragalos", which means "anklebone", due to the shape of the plant's seed pods. Milkvetches are valued for their medicinal properties and are used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost the immune system and treat a variety of ailments. They are also popular as ornamental plants and as food sources for grazing animals.