Astragalus Extract
Also known as: Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao, Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge., Huangqi, Astragalus
Overview
Astragalus is an herbal supplement derived from the root of the *Astragalus membranaceus* plant, a staple in traditional Chinese medicine. It is primarily used to support kidney function, enhance immune response, and improve physical performance. The plant contains active compounds like astragalosides, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Astragalus is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and extracts. While research on Astragalus is extensive, the quality of evidence varies, and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm its efficacy for specific conditions. It is often used as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatments, particularly in managing chronic kidney disease and supporting cancer treatment outcomes. The herb is also investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Benefits
Astragalus has shown potential benefits in several areas. It may improve kidney function in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by increasing creatinine clearance and reducing proteinuria, as indicated by a systematic review of studies with 1323 participants. Another systematic review suggests that astragalus can enhance aerobic performance and post-exercise immune function in athletes. Furthermore, astragalus may improve tumor response when combined with chemotherapy in cervical cancer patients, according to a meta-analysis. It is also traditionally used to support the immune system, although more high-quality research is needed to confirm this benefit. The effect sizes vary across studies, but significant improvements have been noted in kidney function and physical performance. However, the duration of these benefits is not well-documented and may vary depending on the condition being treated.
How it works
Astragalus is believed to exert its effects through multiple biological pathways, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory actions. It interacts with the immune system by modulating immune cell activity and cytokine production. In the kidneys, it may improve glomerular filtration and reduce protein excretion. The active compounds, such as astragalosides, are thought to target various cellular pathways to exert these effects. While the exact mechanisms are still being investigated, Astragalus's ability to influence these key systems contributes to its potential therapeutic benefits. The bioavailability of Astragalus compounds after oral administration is an area requiring further research.
Side effects
Astragalus is generally considered safe for most people, with no major adverse effects reported in many studies. However, potential side effects and interactions should be considered. Due to its immunomodulatory effects, caution is advised in patients with autoimmune diseases, as it may exacerbate their condition. Astragalus may interact with immunosuppressants, potentially reducing their effectiveness. It may also interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding, although this is not extensively studied. Due to a lack of safety data, Astragalus is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Common and uncommon side effects are not well-documented, and rare side effects are rarely reported. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using Astragalus, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of Astragalus varies depending on the intended use and individual factors. Typically, doses range from 500 mg to several grams per day. However, a minimum effective dose and maximum safe dose are not clearly defined. There are no specific timing recommendations for Astragalus administration. It is often used in capsule or powder form. The bioavailability of Astragalus compounds may be influenced by the presence of other herbs or compounds. No specific cofactors are required for its absorption or activity. It is crucial to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it while monitoring for any adverse effects. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.
FAQs
Is Astragalus safe to use?
Astragalus is generally considered safe for most people, but caution is advised for those with autoimmune diseases or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
When is the best time to take Astragalus?
There are no specific timing recommendations for taking Astragalus. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, depending on personal preference and tolerance.
What results can I expect from taking Astragalus?
The expected results vary depending on the condition being treated. Some studies suggest improvements in kidney function, immune response, and physical performance, but individual results may vary.
Is Astragalus a cure-all?
No, Astragalus is not a cure-all. It should be used under medical supervision for specific conditions and is often used as an adjunct to conventional treatments.
Can Astragalus interact with other medications?
Yes, Astragalus may interact with immunosuppressants and blood thinners. Consult with a healthcare professional before using Astragalus if you are taking other medications.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8392/4/1/14 – This systematic review examines the effects of Astragalus on sports performance, finding that it may enhance aerobic performance and post-exercise immune functions in athletes and healthy subjects. The review acknowledges the limited number of high-quality studies available, suggesting a need for further research to confirm these benefits and establish optimal usage protocols. The evidence quality is considered moderate, highlighting the potential of Astragalus in sports-related applications.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25335553/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, involving 1323 participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD), investigates the impact of Astragalus on kidney function. The findings suggest that Astragalus may improve kidney function parameters, such as creatinine clearance, and reduce proteinuria in CKD patients. However, the review notes the low quality of the included studies, indicating that the evidence is of low to moderate quality and further research is needed to validate these findings.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.587021/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of Astragalus in treating cervical cancer, including data from 1649 patients. The study indicates that Astragalus, when combined with chemotherapy, may improve tumor response in patients with cervical cancer. The authors point out the low quality of the included studies, which limits the strength of the conclusions, but the overall evidence quality is considered moderate.
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus – The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) provides general information about Astragalus, including its uses and potential benefits. The information highlights that while Astragalus has been used for various health conditions, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy. The NCCIH emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before using Astragalus.
- https://karger.figshare.com/articles/dataset/Supplementary_Material_for_The_Effect_of_Astragalus_on_Humoral_and_Cellular_Immune_Response_A_Systematic_Review_and_Meta-Analysis_of_Human_Studies/24541216 – This supplementary material accompanies a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effect of Astragalus on humoral and cellular immune responses in human studies. The review assesses the impact of Astragalus on various immune parameters, providing insights into its potential immunomodulatory effects. The findings contribute to the understanding of Astragalus's role in supporting immune function.
