OTHER NAME(S):
Astragale, Astragale à Feuilles de Réglisse, Astragale Queue-de-Renard, Astragale Réglissier, Astragali, Astragalo, Astragalus Membranaceus, Astragalus mongholicus, Astragli Membranceus, Beg Kei, Bei Qi, Buck Qi, Chinese Astragalus, Huang Qi, Huang Se, Huangqi, Hwanggi, Membranous Milk Vetch, Membranous Milkvetch, Milk Vetch, Mongolian Milk, Mongolian Milkvetch, Ogi, Phaca membranacea, Radix Astragali, Radix Astragalus, Réglisse Bâtarde, Réglisse Sauvage.
Astragalus:
Astragalus is a genus of plants in the family Fabaceae (legume family). It is commonly known as “milkvetch” or “astragalus.” There are over 2,000 species of Astragalus, making it one of the largest genera of flowering plants. These plants are native to various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and some parts of Africa.
Astragalus plants are known for their distinctive pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers. They often have a characteristic taproot system that can be quite long and fibrous. In many traditional systems of medicine, especially in Chinese herbal medicine, certain species of Astragalus (such as Astragalus membranaceus) have been used for their potential health benefits.
Some potential uses of Astragalus in traditional medicine and alternative health practices include:
Immune Support:
Astragalus is believed to have immune-boosting properties. It is often used to support overall immune system function and to help the body resist various infections.
Adaptogenic Properties:
Astragalus is sometimes classified as an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body cope with stress and maintain balance.
Anti-Inflammatory:
It is thought that certain compounds in Astragalus may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for various conditions.
Antioxidant:
Some studies suggest that Astragalus contains antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Traditional Chinese Medicine:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Astragalus is often used to tonify the “Qi” (vital energy) and is considered a valuable herb for strengthening the body.
It’s important to note that while there is some evidence suggesting the potential health benefits of Astragalus, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and mechanisms of action. As with any herbal supplement, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using Astragalus, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Please be aware that my knowledge is based on information available up to September 2021, and there may have been developments or new research since that time.
Astragalus Uses:
Astragalus (Astragalus spp.) has been used for various purposes in traditional medicine and herbal practices. It’s essential to note that while some of these uses have historical or traditional significance, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Astragalus for all of these purposes may be limited. Here are some common uses and potential benefits of Astragalus:
Immune System Support:
Astragalus is often used to support and boost the immune system. It is believed to enhance the body’s defense mechanisms, making it potentially useful for preventing and managing colds, flu, and other infections.
Adaptogen:
Astragalus is classified as an adaptogen in herbal medicine. Adaptogens are believed to help the body adapt to stress and maintain overall balance. Astragalus may have a tonic effect on the body, promoting overall well-being.
Anti-Inflammatory:
Some compounds found in Astragalus may have anti-inflammatory properties. This has led to its use in traditional medicine for conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis.
Antioxidant:
Astragalus contains antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are essential for maintaining cellular health.
Cardiovascular Health:
Astragalus is sometimes used to support cardiovascular health. It may help improve blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, and promote heart health. However, more research is needed to establish these effects.
Energy and Vitality:
In traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus is believed to replenish vital energy (Qi) and improve overall vitality and stamina.
Diabetes Support:
Some studies suggest that Astragalus may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, more research is needed in this area.
Anti-Aging:
Astragalus is sometimes included in formulations aimed at promoting longevity and slowing the aging process. Its antioxidant and immune-supportive properties may contribute to this use.
Cancer Treatment Support:
Astragalus is being researched for its potential to enhance the immune system and support cancer patients during conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It’s essential to discuss this use with a healthcare professional.
Liver Health:
Astragalus may have a protective effect on the liver and could be used in traditional medicine for liver-related issues.
It’s crucial to emphasize that while Astragalus has a long history of use in traditional medicine, more rigorous scientific research, including clinical trials, is needed to confirm its effectiveness for many of these uses. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using Astragalus or any herbal remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
Astragalus Side Effects:
Astragalus is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts for short periods. However, like any herbal supplement or medication, it may cause side effects in some individuals, especially when used improperly or in excessive doses. It’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and consult with a healthcare professional before using Astragalus, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Here are some potential side effects associated with Astragalus:
Allergic Reactions:
Some individuals may be allergic to Astragalus or other plants in the Fabaceae family (such as peanuts or soybeans). Allergic reactions can range from mild skin irritation to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction (itching, swelling, rash, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
Gastrointestinal Distress:
Astragalus may cause mild gastrointestinal side effects in some people, including stomach discomfort, bloating, gas, or diarrhea.
Immunostimulation:
Astragalus is known for its immune-boosting properties, but in some cases, excessive immune stimulation might not be suitable, especially for individuals with autoimmune disorders. If you have an autoimmune condition, consult your healthcare provider before using Astragalus.
Interaction with Immunosuppressive Drugs:
Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, potentially reducing the effectiveness of these drugs. If you’re taking immunosuppressive medications, consult your doctor before using Astragalus.
Interaction with Anticoagulants:
There’s some concern that Astragalus may have a mild blood-thinning effect. If you’re taking anticoagulant medications or have bleeding disorders, discuss the use of Astragalus with your healthcare provider.
Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure):
There’s a theoretical risk that Astragalus could lower blood pressure. Individuals with low blood pressure or those taking medications for hypertension should exercise caution and discuss Astragalus use with their doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
There’s insufficient evidence to establish the safety of Astragalus during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to avoid using Astragalus during these periods, or consult a healthcare provider before use.
Interactions with Diabetes Medications:
Some preliminary studies suggest that Astragalus may affect blood sugar levels. If you’re taking diabetes medications, monitor your blood sugar levels closely if using Astragalus and consult your healthcare provider.
Rare Side Effects:
In rare cases, high doses or prolonged use of Astragalus might lead to potential side effects not yet well understood. Always follow recommended dosages and guidelines.
Remember that individual responses can vary, and not everyone will experience side effects. If you experience any unexpected or severe reactions while using Astragalus, discontinue use and seek medical advice. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you’re taking, including Astragalus, to ensure safe and effective healthcare management.
Astragalus Precautions:
Astragalus is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately and in moderation. However, there are several precautions you should be aware of before using Astragalus or any herbal supplement. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
Consult with a Healthcare Professional:
Before starting any new supplement, including Astragalus, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are taking medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have allergies.
Dosage and Duration:
Follow recommended dosages and guidelines for Astragalus. Using excessive amounts or taking it for prolonged periods might increase the risk of side effects.
Allergic Reactions:
If you have known allergies to plants in the Fabaceae family (peanuts, soybeans, etc.), there’s a possibility of cross-reactivity with Astragalus. Be cautious and discontinue use if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
Autoimmune Disorders:
If you have an autoimmune disorder (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis), consult your healthcare provider before using Astragalus. It has immune-stimulating properties that might not be suitable for individuals with certain autoimmune conditions.
Immunosuppressive Medications:
Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system. If you’re taking immunosuppressive drugs, discuss the use of Astragalus with your doctor to avoid potential interactions.
Blood Pressure:
Astragalus might have a mild hypotensive effect (lower blood pressure). If you have low blood pressure or are taking medications for hypertension, use Astragalus cautiously and under medical supervision.
Diabetes Medications:
Astragalus might affect blood sugar levels. If you’re taking diabetes medications, monitor your blood sugar levels closely while using Astragalus, and inform your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
There is limited information regarding the safety of Astragalus during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to avoid its use during these periods or consult a healthcare provider before using it.
Children:
The safety and appropriate dosage of Astragalus for children are not well established. Consult a pediatrician before using Astragalus in children.
Quality and Source:
Ensure that you obtain Astragalus from a reputable source, and consider using standardized extracts when available. Quality can vary among products, and contaminants or incorrect species identification can pose risks.
Monitoring:
If you decide to use Astragalus, pay attention to how your body responds. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Remember that individual responses to herbs and supplements can vary, and what works for one person might not work the same way for another. Always prioritize your health and safety by discussing the use of Astragalus with a qualified healthcare professional who can take your specific health situation into account.
Astragalus Dosing:
The appropriate dosage of Astragalus (Astragalus spp.) can vary based on factors such as the form of the supplement (powder, capsules, tincture, etc.), the concentration of active compounds, the reason for use, individual health status, and the guidance of a healthcare provider. There is no one-size-fits-all recommendation, but I can provide some general guidelines based on traditional use and available information.
Please note that my knowledge is based on information available up to September 2021, and there may have been developments or new research since that time. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, including Astragalus, to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs and health condition.
Dried Astragalus Root:
Traditional Chinese medicine often uses dried Astragalus root as a decoction (a strong herbal tea). A common dosage is 9-30 grams of dried root per day, simmered in water and consumed as tea. However, this method may not be as common in other herbal traditions.
Astragalus Extracts:
If using standardized Astragalus extracts (liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets), follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the product label. Dosages can vary based on the extract’s concentration, which is typically indicated as a ratio (e.g., 5:1) or in milligrams of active compounds.
Tinctures:
If using an Astragalus tincture, follow the dosage instructions on the tincture bottle. Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts, so the dosages are usually lower than those for dried roots.
Powder:
If using Astragalus powder, the dosage can vary. Start with a lower dose (e.g., 1-3 grams per day) and gradually increase if needed. You can mix the powder with water, juice, or smoothies.
Combination Formulas:
Astragalus is often included in combination herbal formulas, such as immune-boosting blends. In such cases, the dosage of Astragalus within the formula will depend on the specific formulation.
Consult a Healthcare Provider:
The best approach is to consult with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about herbal medicine. They can take your individual health status, any existing medications, and the reason for using Astragalus into account to provide personalized dosing recommendations.
Remember that the safety and efficacy of Astragalus supplements are still being researched, and more clinical studies are needed to establish optimal dosages for specific health conditions. Always start with lower doses, especially if you’re new to using Astragalus or if you’re using it for the first time, and monitor how your body responds. If you experience any side effects or have concerns, seek medical advice promptly.
FAQs:
What is a astragalus used for?
Its root is used for health care purposes. Commonly combined with other herbs, astragalus has been promoted as a dietary supplement for many conditions, including upper respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic kidney disease, among others.
What is the common name for astragalus plant?
milkvetch Astragalus is a very large genus of the legume family (Fabaceae). Another name is “milkvetch,” which is said to be the designation for less poisonous (or rather, less immediately poisonous) species. The generic name, Astragalus, is a Greek word for the anklebone, which probably refers in some way to the fruits (pods).
Is astragalus safe to take everyday?
When taken by mouth: Astragalus is possibly safe for most adults. Doses of up to 60 grams daily have been safely used for up to 4 months. Astragalus is usually well-tolerated.
When should astragalus be used?
While there aren’t studies that prove astragalus is effective in people, it’s used to boost immunity and treat colds, seasonal allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, kidney disease, and wounds.
Is astragalus a blood thinner?
Anticoagulants: Astragalus and its constituents have anticoagulant properties , which may increase the risk of bleeding.
Is astragalus OK for kidneys?
Our study also demonstrated that astragalus decreased urinary excretion of 8-OHdG levels and reduced the expression of several oxidative stress markers in kidney tissue. Therefore, these findings indicate that astragalus has anti-oxidative effects for chronic kidney disease.
Is astragalus a vitamin?
Astragalus is an herbal supplement that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s purported to enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Who Cannot take Astragalus?
Possible Interactions If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or take cyclophosphamide, a medication used to reduce the chances of rejection in transplant recipients, or corticosteroids, do not take astragalus.
Can men take Astragalus?
There are some key astragalus benefits for men, which stand out. Astragalus has traditionally been known to help maintain heart health and function. ‡ The properties in astragalus root can help to maintain healthy blood flow and circulation‡ – both these areas affect men more than they affect women.
Does Astragalus make you younger?
Substances within astragalus root (called cycloastragenols and astragalosides) are believed to slow the ageing process by activating telomerase enzyme production. This is the process responsible for telomere regeneration. Help cells live longer and function as they did when they were younger.
Is astragalus hot or cold?
Astragalus is a slightly warm herb, which means it can help with imbalances related to coldness in the body. It’s flavor profile is sweet, making it suitable for issues of digestion.
Does astragalus increase muscle growth?
Astragalus Advanced Astragalus root has been known to help build muscle for over two thousand years. It has been used by countless warriors and athletes to build muscle and to improve muscle firing capacity and endurance.
Is ashwagandha the same as astragalus?
No, Ashwagandha is not the same as astragalus. They both are adaptogens and share some similarities. However, they differ in terms of their application. One has relaxing properties while the other generates more energy.
Does astragalus help you sleep?
Astragalus helps in curbing the stress level and promoting peace and calm in our mind and body. Those who suffer mood swings and constant nervous tension can benefit from this ancient herb. Insomnia, sleeplessness, and interrupted sleep patterns can be cured by regular consumption of astragalus root.
Is astragalus natural?
Astragalus is a natural dietary supplement that’s used for various health conditions. For instance, it’s used to treat the common cold, upper respiratory infections, fibromyalgia, and diabetes.
Is Astragalus good for hair loss?
Astragalus Membranaceus and Rehmannia Glutinosa Apoptosis (cell death) of hair keratinocytes with premature termination of hair follicle growth induces several types of hair loss. Astragaloside (a major biocomponent of Astragalus) has been shown to inhibit apoptosis in hair keratinocytes and promote hair regrowth.
Does Astragalus increase energy?
Astragalus may help boost energy and increase stamina, both physically and mentally. In TOM, astragalus is one of the most powerful herbs for increasing qi, or life-force energy. It is often used to increase energy and stamina when energy is depleted.
Is astragalus good for the brain?
Our findings demonstrated that flavonoids from Astragalus membranaceus ameliorated brain impairment, and its modulation on gut-brain axis plays a pivotal role.
Does astragalus help eyes?
Astragalus root extract inhibits retinal cell apoptosis and repairs damaged retinal neovascularization in retinopathy of prematurity.
Is astragalus good for skin?
Astragalus increases our vitality and can transform a dull, sagging skin into firm, glowing skin. It restores the natural balance of our skin by removing toxins, stimulating collagen production, reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation and regenerating skin cells.
Is astragalus good for nervous system?
There are many reasons astragalus root has been revered in TCM for centuries. It can help protect against diseases like diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and even neurological disease like Alzheimer’s and dementia. As an adaptogen, astragalus can help you beat stress and boost your immune system.
