Superpure Astragalus Extract
Also known as: Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus extract, Huangqi, Superpure Astragalus Extract, Astragalus polysaccharides (APS), Astragaloside IV (AS-IV)
Overview
Astragalus membranaceus is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, primarily used for its root extract. This extract is rich in bioactive compounds like astragalosides (notably astragaloside IV) and astragalus polysaccharides (APS). It is used for cardiovascular support, immune modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and as an adjunct therapy for kidney disease. Astragalus contains saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Research on astragalus is moderately to advanced, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses available, particularly in preclinical cardiovascular models and clinical kidney disease. The available evidence includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses of both animal and clinical studies, with some high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in kidney disease and cardiovascular contexts.
Benefits
Astragalus demonstrates several evidence-based benefits. In cardiovascular health, astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has shown cardioprotective effects in animal models by significantly reducing myocardial infarct size and improving left ventricular function. For kidney disease, astragalus polysaccharides (APS) combined with Western medicine improve clinical outcomes in lupus nephritis (LN) patients, reducing proteinuria, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen, while also improving overall response rates. Furthermore, APS exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by reducing inflammatory markers and oxidative stress markers while increasing antioxidant enzymes in ulcerative colitis animal models. Secondary benefits include immunomodulation and improved blood cell counts in kidney disease. Ongoing research suggests potential enhancement of physical performance and recovery in sports contexts, though evidence is less conclusive. These benefits are most pronounced in individuals with cardiovascular disease risk, lupus nephritis, other kidney diseases, and inflammatory bowel conditions.
How it works
Astragalus exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, contributing to its anti-inflammatory action. As an antioxidant, it reduces oxidative stress markers like MDA and enhances antioxidant enzymes like SOD. Its immunomodulatory properties involve modulating immune cell function and reducing immune-mediated damage. In cardioprotection, it reduces myocardial infarct size by improving cardiac function and reducing oxidative damage. For renoprotection, it attenuates renal fibrosis, protects podocytes, and reduces proteinuria. These actions impact the cardiovascular, renal, immune, and gastrointestinal systems. Known molecular targets include inflammatory signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB), oxidative stress pathways, and fibrosis-related pathways. Astragaloside IV and polysaccharides have moderate bioavailability, which may be enhanced by extraction purity.
Side effects
Astragalus is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile. Common side effects are rarely reported, though mild gastrointestinal discomfort is possible. Uncommon side effects are also infrequent, with no significant adverse events reported in meta-analyses. Rare side effects are similarly undocumented in high-quality studies. Potential drug interactions exist with immunosuppressants and anticoagulants due to its immunomodulatory and blood-thinning effects, necessitating caution. It is contraindicated for use in autoimmune diseases without medical supervision, and its safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well established. Special populations, such as kidney disease patients, may benefit under supervision, while the elderly and immunocompromised should consult healthcare providers. Overall, while astragalus is considered safe, caution and medical consultation are advised, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or taking other medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of astragalus is not firmly established, but clinical studies with APS typically use doses standardized to polysaccharide content, such as 1-3 g/day. Optimal dosage ranges vary by extract purity; astragaloside IV doses in preclinical studies range from 10-40 mg/kg (animal equivalent). There is no clear upper limit established, and clinical studies report good tolerance at studied doses. Consistent daily dosing is recommended for chronic conditions. Standardized extracts with quantified astragaloside IV or polysaccharide content are preferred. Bioavailability may be enhanced with co-administration of other compounds, and water-soluble polysaccharides are generally well absorbed. No specific cofactors are required, but general nutritional support is advisable.
FAQs
Is Superpure Astragalus Extract safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports safety in clinical contexts, but long-term human data are limited; medical supervision is recommended for extended use.
Can it be used alongside conventional medications?
Yes, especially in kidney disease, but potential interactions warrant consultation with healthcare providers to ensure safety.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Clinical improvements in kidney function may appear within weeks; cardiovascular benefits are primarily supported by preclinical evidence.
Does it boost the immune system?
Yes, it modulates immune responses rather than simply boosting immunity, helping to balance immune function.
Is it effective for all types of Astragalus supplements?
Purity and standardization (e.g., Superpure) likely influence efficacy, so look for products with quantified active compounds.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30018562/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies found that astragaloside IV (AS-IV) significantly decreased myocardial infarct size and improved left ventricular ejection fraction and shortening fraction in acute myocardial infarction models. These findings suggest cardioprotective effects of AS-IV, but further human RCTs are needed to confirm these benefits.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40208321/ – I am sorry, but I cannot access the content of this URL. I am unable to provide a summary.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1395844/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical RCTs found that combined treatment with Astragalus and Western medicine significantly improved SLEDAI scores, reduced 24-h proteinuria, SCr, and BUN levels, and increased overall response rates with fewer adverse events in patients with Lupus Nephritis (LN). The study highlights the potential benefits of Astragalus as an adjunct therapy for LN, but notes variability in herbal formulations and the need for standardized extracts.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8392/4/1/14 – I am sorry, but I cannot access the content of this URL. I am unable to provide a summary.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.1043236/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies found that Astragalus Polysaccharide (APS) significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), oxidative stress markers (MDA), and increased antioxidant enzyme SOD in animal models of ulcerative colitis. The study indicates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of APS, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for ulcerative colitis, but emphasizes the need for human clinical trials.
