Astragalus, (Astragalus membranaceus), is a herbaceous perennial plant of the pea family and is most commonly used for immune enhancement. Most research on Astragalus has focused on its immunostimulatory activity and its seemingly remarkable ability to restore the activity of a suppressed immune system.

Astragalus Health Benefits

Astragalus is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb known for its wide range of health benefits.

These include; immune support, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, cardiovascular health, anti-aging properties, energy enhancement, kidney support, blood sugar regulation, improved wound healing and support during chemotherapy.

Below we will explore these health benefits in more detail:

Astragalus Enhances Immune Function

Astragalus is known for its ability to boost the immune system by stimulating the production and activity of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections.

Studies show that it increases macrophage activity, T-cell proliferation, and immunoglobulin production, helping the body defend against both bacterial and viral threats.

Antiviral Properties of Astragalus

Astragalus has been shown to help the body resist viral infections and may be beneficial in preventing colds and upper respiratory infections.

Research suggests it may interfere with viral replication and modulate interferon production, supporting the body’s antiviral defences during acute infections.

Astragalus Reduces Inflammation

Astragalus contains saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

It has been observed to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, which are key drivers in chronic inflammatory conditions.

Astragalus Neutralizes Free Radicals

Astragalus is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health.

Polysaccharides and isoflavonoids in astragalus scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative stress in tissues.

Astragalus Supports Heart Health

Astragalus can help improve heart function by reducing blood pressure, decreasing levels of blood lipids, and preventing plaque buildup in arteries.

Animal and human studies suggest that astragalus may protect against heart failure by improving cardiac output and reducing inflammatory markers in the vascular system.

Astragalus Improves Circulation

Astragalus helps improve blood flow and circulation, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. This may be due in part to its ability to dilate blood vessels via nitric oxide pathways and protect endothelial cells lining the arteries.

Astragalus Promotes Longevity

Some studies suggest that astragalus can increase the activity of an enzyme called telomerase, which helps maintain the length of telomeres and may slow down the aging process. Telomere preservation has been linked to reduced cellular aging, and one of the active compounds in astragalus, cycloastragenol, is under study for its potential anti-aging effects.

Astragalus for Skin Health

The antioxidant properties of Astragalus can protect skin cells from damage, promoting healthier and more youthful skin. It may also help regulate collagen production and reduce photoaging by inhibiting UV-induced oxidative stress in skin cells.

Astragalus to Boost Energy Levels

Astragalus is often used to combat fatigue and improve energy levels. It may enhance physical stamina and endurance. Clinical studies have found improvements in exercise performance and reduced post-exertional fatigue, especially in individuals recovering from illness.

Adaptogenic Properties of Astragalus

Astragalus helps the body adapt to stress, reducing the impact of physical and mental stressors. Its adaptogenic effect may be linked to regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which governs the body’s stress response.

Astragalus Supports Kidney Function

Astragalus has been shown to improve kidney function and protect against kidney diseases by reducing proteinuria (excess protein in urine) and improving overall renal function. It may reduce fibrosis and inflammation in kidney tissues, which is particularly beneficial in diabetic nephropathy and chronic kidney disease.

Astragalus Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels

Some studies indicate that Astragalus may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes. This effect is thought to result from improved glucose uptake in cells and regulation of enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.

Astragalus Accelerates Healing

Astragalus can enhance wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation at the wound site. Topical and internal use may speed up recovery by enhancing collagen synthesis and improving local immune responses.

Astragalus Reduces Cancer Treatment Side Effects

In cancer treatment, astragalus is sometimes used to help mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue, nausea, and immune suppression. It is also being investigated for its potential to support bone marrow recovery and maintain white blood cell counts during chemo.

Astragalus Clinical Trials

Studies indicate astragalus can increase metabolism and energy, boost stamina and promote healing. Other uses of astragalus; atherosclerosis, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, insomnia, diabetes, chronic hepatitis, genital herpes, AIDS and chemotherapy side effects. If you have a serious condition you should consult your doctor, but astragalus is considered safe and free of harmful effects.

Clinical trials as well as pharmacological data provide evidence for its usefulness in the prevention of the common cold and as an adjunct to cancer therapies. It is may be useful as a complementary treatment during chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immune deficiency syndromes. Astragalus is used to strengthen the immune system over time, building resistance to illness and disease. Echinacea may be used in conjunction with astragalus to provide an extra short term boost in immunity.

There is also evidence for cardiovascular system improvement, particularly in clinical parameters associated with angina, congestive heart failure and acute myocardial infarct. This may be due to the herb’s antioxidant activity. Its use in the treatment of hepatitis in modern Chinese medicine is supported by the demonstration of hepatoprotective activity in animal studies.

Pharmacological research of Astragalus in combination with ligustrum (Ligustrum lucidum) provides evidence for activity against cancers of the breast, cervix and lung.

A number of clinical studies have been reported regarding the use of astragalus for colds and upper respiratory infections.

How to take Astragalus

Astragalus is often used in combination with other botanicals and is very seldom used as a single agent.

Astragalus can be taken as capsules, tinctures, tea or nasal spray.

Administration of Astragalus, given either orally or as a nasal spray may decrease the incidence of illness and shorten the length of its course.

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Astragalus Herb Notes / Side Effects

Generally Safe: Astragalus is considered safe for most healthy adults when used appropriately and for short durations. It has a long track record of use in traditional medicine and modern herbal practice with minimal reported adverse effects.

Not Suitable for Autoimmune Conditions: Because Astragalus stimulates immune function, it may exacerbate autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis. People with autoimmune conditions should avoid it unless under professional supervision.

Interactions with Immunosuppressive Drugs: Astragalus may interfere with medications that suppress the immune system, such as those taken after organ transplants or for autoimmune diseases.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable data to confirm safety during pregnancy or lactation. It’s best avoided unless specifically prescribed by a qualified practitioner.

Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Effects: Astragalus may lower blood pressure or blood sugar levels slightly. This can be helpful for some people but may interact with medications for diabetes or hypertension, potentially causing levels to go too low.

Rare Side Effects: In rare cases, people have reported:

• Mild gastrointestinal upset
• Diarrhoea
• Allergic reactions (especially in people allergic to legumes, as Astragalus is part of the pea family)

Latin Name

Astragalus propinquus (syn. Astragalus membranaceus)

Other Names

Huang Qi, Beg Kei, Buck Qi, Huang Chi, Milk Vetch, Yellow Leader

Suggested Properties

Studies indicate that Astragalus can increase metabolism and energy, increase stamina, and promote healing.

Uses

Atherosclerosis, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, strengthens the immune system, antioxidant, insomnia, diabetes, chronic hepatitis, genital herpes, AIDS and side effects of chemotherapy, chronic fatigue, persistent infections, night sweats, multiple allergies, glandular fever, Soothing and healing stomach ulcers. The herb helps counteract fatigue and lack of appetite in patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer.

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