Astragalus Benefits: Exploring Research-Backed Health Improvements
By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
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By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
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The realm of traditional medicine is rich and inviting. There are remedies and herbs that have been used for ages. Astragalus is one of them. Used in traditional Chinese medicine, it’s admired for its healing traits. For many years, people have respected this amazing plant for its potential benefits. They believe it can boost the immune system, improve heart and kidney health, and ease chemotherapy side effects.
In this blog, we’ll explore Astragalus. We will look at its history, nutritional value, and suggested health perks. We’ll also look at its precautions and side effects. Plus, we’ll talk about dosage tips for safety and effectiveness. So, let us journey through the captivating world of Astragalus!
Did you know?
Astragalus comes from the roots of its parent plant. It belongs to the pea family, with over 2,000 species all over the world. The two main types used for medicinal benefits are Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus. Found in China, Mongolia, and Korea, this perennial herb can grow up to 16 to 36 inches high. It has hairy stems and leaves with 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets.
Dating back over 2,000 years, Astragalus has deep roots in Chinese medicine. Its Chinese name, huáng qí means “yellow life energy”. It shows its standing as a potent herb. People use it traditionally to make their bodies stronger against diseases. Often, they mix it with other herbs to enhance the effect.
While there are over 2,000 species of Astragalus, only two are used for their medicinal value. These are Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus mongholicus. They grow in China, Korea, and Japan. The dried root is reaped from the mature plants (aged four to seven years). It is then used in dietary supplements, extracts, and remedies.
Astragalus carries many active plant compounds that are suggested to give it its health perks. The three key active compounds in the Astragalus species are:
Researchers have also found other compounds in the Astragalus plant. These include sterols, amino acids, volatile oils, and trace minerals like zinc, iron, copper, manganese, vanadium, and tin.
Astragalus is said to be great for boosting the immune system. Its active compounds, especially polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins, have shown this ability in research.
Let’s understand the proposed mechanisms by which Astragalus may boost our immune system.
Studies have shown that Astragalus may help make more white blood cells. Also, It has been proposed to aid in the formation and functioning of other immune cells such as macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-helper cells. All these cells help our body defend against harmful invaders and boost our immune system.
Astragalus has antiviral and antibacterial traits as per some studies. It may help lower the risk of encountering infections like the common cold and flu and also get rid of them sooner.
Despite its long use in traditional medicine to bolster immune health, there isn’t solid science to back it up. More studies are needed to see how much Astragalus improves immunity.
Since no standard dosage guidelines exist for Astragalus, each person’s dose can differ. However, some studies have used doses from 9 to 30 grams per day. But before starting to use Astragalus for immune support, you must talk to a healthcare expert.
Astragalus is proposed to have possible benefits for heart health. Studies have looked at how it may affect blood vessels, heart muscle function, and heart disease damage.
Astragalus might widen blood vessels, boosting blood flow and reducing blood pressure. This could possibly help handle high blood pressure and better our overall heart health.
Recent studies show Astragalus might protect the heart. It could lessen inflammation and stress in the heart. This might shield the heart from damage linked to heart disease or other heart issues.
There’s limited research on how Astragalus affects heart function. Few small studies suggest it might help heart failure patients when used with regular treatment. But we need bigger, better research to find out more about its potential heart benefits.
As with immune support, the best dosage for heart health is still unclear. Always talk to a health expert before starting to take any supplement.
Chemotherapy is a key treatment for many cancer patients. But it can lead to severe side effects. Astragalus may help reduce effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue.
Astragalus is found to reduce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in a study. Also, in another study, it was found to help lessen extreme tiredness during the first week of chemotherapy.
It’s not clear how Astragalus may help lower chemotherapy side effects. However the plant’s active compounds like polysaccharides and saponins might be beneficial.
Even though these studies show promise, we need more research. We need to confirm these findings and to know the right dosage.
Scientists are looking at whether Astragalus affects blood sugar levels, especially in managing type 2 diabetes. The plant’s active compounds like polysaccharides and flavonoids might aid insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
Research says that astragalus supplements might help manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. In animal and lab studies, Astragalus improved sugar metabolism and lowered blood sugar levels.
Astragalus might improve insulin sensitivity and lower insulin resistance, which are key to managing type 2 diabetes. By improving these factors, Astragalus might offer another option for diabetics.
Some studies hint Astragalus might help in managing diabetes. It could improve the effects of usual treatments. However we need more research to confirm these early findings and find out the best dosage.
Researchers are studying Astragalus for its potential benefits for kidney health and function, especially in managing kidney disease.
Studies suggest astragalus might improve blood flow and signs of kidney function like protein in urine. So, astragalus might offer support for people managing chronic kidney disease.
Though there’s some clinical evidence about Astragalus and kidney health, more research is needed to confirm these findings. Also, we need to know the right dosage.
According to research, the Astragali radix variety of astragalus is believed to be effective against tumours and cancer. According to laboratory, animal as well as human research, this herbal extract may reduce the risk of bladder cancer, improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy, and kill gastric cancer cells.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Apart from the main potential health perks we discussed, Astragalus might affect other aspects of human health too.
Limited proof hints that Astragalus might support liver health. It does so by improving blood flow and signs of liver function. But we need more studies to confirm these.
Astragalus is also being studied for its possible benefits in nerve regeneration and neuroprotection. Though some early research shows promise, we need more studies to confirm these findings.
Traditional Chinese medicine regards Astragalus as a powerful anti-aging solution. Some experts believe the plant’s compounds might help fight oxidative stress and inflammation. These factors are thought to play a major part in aging, although there’s limited evidence to back this and more investigations are needed.
Experts are also looking at Astragalus for better respiratory health and managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Initial studies suggest that the herb might improve breathing and immune function in individuals with COPD. But we need more research to confirm this.
Here’s a summary of the potential benefits mentioned above.
Potential Health Benefit | Mechanism of Action | Research Level | Suggested Dosage |
Boosting Immune System | Stimulating white blood cell production | Limited, inconclusive | 9 to 30 grams per day |
Improving Heart Function | Widening blood vessels | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Alleviating Chemotherapy Side Effects | Active compounds in Astragalus | Limited clinical trials | Consult a healthcare professional |
Controlling Blood Sugar Levels | Improving insulin sensitivity | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Improving Kidney Function | Renoprotective properties | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Liver health improvements | Improving blood flow and liver function | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Nerve injury and neuroprotection | Promoting nerve regeneration and neuroprotection | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Anti-aging properties | Combat oxidative stress and inflammation | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
Respiratory health and COPD management | Improving breathing parameters and immune function | Limited, inconclusive | Consult a healthcare professional |
A 2022 study found that astragalus species possess active components that may help with liver disease symptoms like cirrhosis and portal hypertension. I strongly recommend the consumption of astragalus only with prior consultation with the doctor and avoid self-medication at all costs.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
While astragalus is usually safe for most people when taken in proper dosages, we need to keep some precautions, side effects, and interactions in mind.
Common side effects of astragalus include rash, itching, belly discomfort, and nasal symptoms.
Serious side effects from astragalus are likely rare, but it’s key to share any concerns with your healthcare provider. If serious side effects do occur, you must get medical attention right away.
Certain people should stay away from Astragalus. These include:
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Astragalus can interact with certain medicines and supplements. These include antiviral drugs, blood pressure drugs, cancer treatments, diuretics, and immunomodulators. Consult your doctor, if you have any worries about possible interactions between astragalus and any medicines or supplements you’re taking.
On the whole, if you suffer from any medical conditions or are on any medication, you must speak to your healthcare provider before incorporating any herbal supplement into your diet. Here’s a quick summary of risks and issues,
Type | Specific Issues & Concerns |
Common side effects | Rash, itching, abdominal discomfort, nasal symptoms |
Severe side effects | Rare; discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider |
Contraindications | Pregnancy, breastfeeding, autoimmune diseases, immunosuppressant users |
Interactions | Antiviral medications, blood pressure medications, cancer treatments, diuretics, immunomodulators |
There are no standard dosage tips for Astragalus yet, so recommendations can vary. Always consult a healthcare expert for the right dose before starting to use Astragalus.
Some studies suggest dosages between 9 and 30 grams per day with the best dosage varying based on the person and the intended use. However, without standard dosage tips, it’s key to talk to a healthcare provider. This will help find out the safest and most effective dosage for your particular needs and health conditions.
Like any supplement, it’s key to adjust dosage tips based on personal health issues and any ongoing treatments or medicines. Speak to a healthcare provider to discuss suitable dosage adjustments for your specific situation.
Astragalus is an ancient herb that has piqued the interest of modern science due to its potential health benefits. It’s been linked to boosting immunity and also has been proposed to improve heart and kidney function. This makes Astragalus a buzzing area of research in our quest to uncover natural solutions for common health woes.
Yet, it’s key to use Astragalus wisely as sturdy scientific proof of its efficacy is still limited and we need more human studies. Always speak to a healthcare provider first before starting to take Astragalus. This is necessary if you have health conditions, are on medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. With strong roots in centuries of tradition, the future of Astragalus might hold fruitful answers for those seeking other paths toward health and wellness.
Astragalus is usually safe for most people when taken in proper dosages. However it’s key to consult a healthcare provider before using it regularly due to any underlying health issues and potential interactions with medications.
There’s no evidence to suggest that Astragalus causes liver damage when used properly. However, there is a case where reversible liver cysts formed after daily usage of Astragalus. It is best to always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement.
No, they aren’t the same. Astragalus and Ashwagandha are two different herbs. Even though both are used traditionally for health benefits, they belong to different plant families and have different attributes.
Studies show that Astragalus might have kidney-protective (or renoprotective) properties and improve blood flow and kidney function markers. These could help individuals manage chronic kidney disease. Still, we need more research.
Choose Astragalus supplements from trusted makers. These should be tested for quality, purity, and potency by third-party firms. Always read the label thoroughly and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
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