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Astragalus (Root) Extract

Also known as: Astragalus membranaceus, Astragale, Astragale à feuilles de réglisse, Beg Kei, Milk Vetch

Overview

Astragalus root extract is derived from the dried root of *Astragalus membranaceus*, a plant widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. It is primarily recognized for its potential to enhance immune function, support cardiovascular health, and aid in the treatment of chronic kidney disease. Astragalus is characterized by its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic properties. While research on Astragalus is extensive, the quality of evidence varies significantly. Many studies are of low quality or are conducted within the context of traditional Chinese medicine combinations, necessitating cautious interpretation of results. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are limited, and methodological issues in many studies further complicate the assessment of its efficacy. Astragalus is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquid extracts, and is often sourced from cultivated plants in Asia.

Benefits

Astragalus has shown potential benefits in several areas. In individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), Astragalus may improve kidney function by increasing creatinine clearance (CrCl) and reducing serum creatinine (SCr) levels, although the consistency of these results is variable. For cardiovascular health, combination therapy involving Astragalus alongside conventional treatments has demonstrated promise in enhancing left ventricular remodeling and function. Furthermore, when used in conjunction with chemotherapy, Astragalus-containing Chinese herbal medicine may improve tumor response and alleviate side effects such as hair loss and hepatic/renal toxicity. Traditionally, Astragalus has been used to support the immune system, although high-quality evidence supporting this claim is limited. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Astragalus are well-documented in vitro, but more human studies are needed to confirm their clinical significance.

How it works

Astragalus is believed to exert its effects through a combination of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-fibrotic mechanisms. Key components, such as Astragaloside IV, may inhibit inflammatory pathways, specifically targeting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. This modulation of the immune system and potential effects on the cardiovascular and renal systems contribute to its therapeutic properties. While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, Astragalus's interaction with these biological pathways suggests a multifaceted approach to promoting health. Limited data is available regarding the absorption and bioavailability of Astragalus compounds, but oral administration remains the most common method of consumption.

Side effects

Astragalus is generally considered safe when taken orally and appropriately, but some side effects and precautions should be noted. Common side effects, though rarely reported (occurring in >5% of users), may include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are not well-documented. Rare side effects (<1%) include the potential for allergic reactions. Astragalus may interact with immunosuppressive medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Due to limited data, caution is advised regarding its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Individuals with autoimmune diseases should also exercise caution, as Astragalus may stimulate the immune system. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using Astragalus, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Astragalus is not well-established, and dosages typically align with traditional use, such as up to 60 grams daily for short periods. Optimal dosage ranges vary depending on the specific condition being addressed, necessitating further research. The maximum safe dose is considered to be up to 60 grams daily for short durations, with no reported adverse effects at this level. There are no specific timing recommendations for Astragalus consumption. Oral administration is the most common form. Limited data is available regarding absorption factors and the need for specific cofactors. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for individual needs and to ensure safe usage.

FAQs

Is Astragalus safe to use?

Astragalus is generally safe, but it may interact with immunosuppressive drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications.

When is the best time to take Astragalus?

There are no specific timing recommendations for taking Astragalus. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance on timing and administration.

What results can I expect from taking Astragalus?

Expected results vary based on the condition being treated. Astragalus may enhance immune function or reduce side effects in cancer treatment, but its benefits are condition-specific and require more high-quality research.

Is Astragalus a cure-all?

No, Astragalus is not a cure-all. Its benefits are condition-specific and require more high-quality research to fully understand its efficacy. It should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatments.

Research Sources

  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.587021/full – This meta-analysis of 1,649 patients found that Astragalus-containing Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) combined with chemotherapy improved tumor response in cervical cancer treatment. The study also noted a reduction in side effects like hair loss and hepatic/renal toxicity. However, the authors noted that the included studies were of low quality and lacked long-term follow-up data.
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25335553/ – This systematic review, involving 1,323 participants, investigated the effects of Astragalus on chronic kidney disease (CKD). The findings suggest that Astragalus may improve kidney function by increasing creatinine clearance and reducing serum creatinine levels. However, the review also highlighted the inconsistency of these results and the low quality of the included studies, limiting the strength of the conclusions.
  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1345797/full – A meta-analysis of 1,565 patients indicated that combination therapy with Astragalus and conventional treatments improved left ventricular function and remodeling in cardiovascular conditions. The study suggests a potential benefit of Astragalus in supporting cardiovascular health. However, the findings are limited to cardiovascular conditions, and further research is needed for broader applications.
  • https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus – This resource from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) provides a general overview of Astragalus, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It serves as a reliable source for basic information on Astragalus, though it does not delve into specific research findings in detail.
  • https://karger.com/cmr/article-abstract/30/6/535/869772/The-Effect-of-Astragalus-on-Humoral-and-Cellular?redirectedFrom=fulltext – This study investigates the effect of Astragalus on humoral and cellular immunity. The research suggests that Astragalus may have immunomodulatory properties, potentially influencing both humoral and cellular immune responses. The abstract highlights the potential of Astragalus in modulating the immune system, but further details would require access to the full text.