Astragalus (root) 10:1 concentrate
Also known as: Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus mongholicus, Huang Qi, milk vetch root
Overview
Astragalus, primarily *Astragalus membranaceus*, is a perennial plant native to China and Mongolia. Its root has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It contains bioactive compounds like astragalosides, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Astragalus is used for immune support, fatigue reduction, renal protection, and as an adjunct in cancer therapy. Research suggests it may enhance immune cell activity, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines. While multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses exist, the quality of evidence varies, with some limitations in study design and heterogeneity. It is available in various forms, including raw root, extracts, capsules, and as a 10:1 concentrate, which is believed to improve bioavailability.
Benefits
Astragalus has several evidence-based benefits. As an adjunct to chemotherapy, meta-analyses show it can increase tumor response rate, improve quality of life, and reduce some chemotherapy side effects. For renal protection, systematic reviews indicate potential benefits in reducing proteinuria and improving renal function in chronic kidney disease models, although human data are less robust. Additionally, a meta-analysis found that Astragalus combined with conventional treatment improved left ventricular remodeling outcomes. Secondary benefits include fatigue reduction, with preliminary evidence suggesting it may help reduce cancer-related fatigue. These benefits are particularly relevant for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and individuals with chronic kidney disease.
How it works
Astragalus exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It acts as an immunomodulator, enhancing immune cell activity and cytokine production. It also functions as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, and as an anti-inflammatory agent, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. Astragalus interacts with the immune system by stimulating macrophage and T-cell activity, with the cardiovascular system potentially improving cardiac remodeling and function, and with the renal system by reducing proteinuria and glomerular injury. Key molecular targets include astragaloside IV, which modulates NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, and TGF-β pathways, and polysaccharides, which activate immune cells via toll-like receptors.
Side effects
Astragalus is generally well-tolerated, with adverse events being rare and mild. Common side effects, reported in less than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include allergic reactions and mild rash. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include severe allergic reactions and, very rarely, liver enzyme elevation. Astragalus may interact with immunosuppressants and anticoagulants, so caution is advised when used concurrently. It is contraindicated in individuals with autoimmune diseases due to the theoretical risk of immune stimulation. Safety in pregnancy and lactation has not been established, and caution is advised for immunocompromised individuals.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Astragalus is not well established, but typical doses range from 2–6 g/day of raw root equivalent. Optimal dosage ranges are between 4–8 g/day of raw root equivalent, which translates to 400–800 mg/day for a 10:1 concentrate. A maximum safe dose of up to 12 g/day of raw root equivalent (1.2 g/day of 10:1 concentrate) has been used in studies without significant adverse effects. It is usually taken in divided doses with meals. A 10:1 concentrate is often preferred for standardized dosing and potentially improved bioavailability. Absorption is best when taken with food, as polysaccharides and flavonoids are more bioavailable than astragalosides.
FAQs
Is Astragalus safe?
Astragalus is generally safe, but monitor for rare allergic reactions. Consult a healthcare provider if you have autoimmune conditions or are taking immunosuppressants.
When should I take Astragalus?
Take Astragalus with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Consistent daily use is typically recommended for optimal benefits.
What benefits can I expect from Astragalus?
Expect modest improvements in immune function, chemotherapy tolerance, and possibly renal protection. It is not a cure but an adjunctive therapy.
Can Astragalus cure cancer or kidney disease?
No, Astragalus is not a cure for cancer or kidney disease. It is used as an adjunctive therapy to support conventional treatments.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare and mild, including gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse effects.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11885490/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of Astragalus-containing herbal medicine combined with Western medicine. The study found improvements in disease activity scores and reduced adverse events compared to Western medicine alone in patients with cancer and autoimmune diseases. However, the review noted heterogeneity in interventions and outcome measures, as well as methodological limitations in some included studies.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6700271/ – This meta-analysis of 1,409 cancer patients found that Astragalus-based products combined with chemotherapy increased tumor response rate, improved quality of life, and reduced chemotherapy side effects. The authors noted that many of the included RCTs had low methodological quality, and there was a lack of registration and potential language bias, suggesting the need for confirmation in higher-quality studies.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15347354241313344 – This systematic review explored the potential of Astragalus supplementation in reducing cancer-related fatigue. The review found preliminary evidence suggesting a reduction in fatigue, but noted the limited number of high-quality studies available. The authors concluded that more research is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711324003052 – This article discusses the potential renal protective effects of Astragalus in chronic kidney disease models. The review indicates benefits in reducing proteinuria and improving renal function. However, the authors highlight that human data are less robust, suggesting the need for further research to confirm these effects in clinical settings.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1345797/full – This meta-analysis investigated the impact of Astragalus on cardiac remodeling. The study found that combination therapy with Astragalus and conventional treatment improved left ventricular remodeling outcomes compared to conventional treatment alone. This suggests a potential benefit of Astragalus in improving cardiac function in conjunction with standard medical care.
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