Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has relied upon Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) for many millennia. It is frequently combined with other traditional herbs to strengthen the body against disease. Astragalus is referred to as an adaptogen, which means it bolsters the body’s ability to fight against physical, mental, and emotional stress.
Astragalus may help protect the body from diseases such as cancer and diabetes. It contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage. Astragalus protects and supports the immune system, preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, lowering blood pressure, treating diabetes, and protecting the liver.
Astragalus has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically to help wounds heal. In addition, astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, which means it may help prevent colds.
Scientists in the U.S. are investigating astragalus as a potential treatment for people with immune systems compromised by radiation or chemotherapy. Studies show that astragalus may help people recover and live longer.
Astragalus is an antioxidant, which means that it may help people with severe forms of heart disease, relieving symptoms, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving heart function. At low-to-moderate doses, astragalus has few side effects. It does have some interaction with some herbs and prescription medications, so be sure to consult with your doctor before adding it as a supplement to your daily routine.
Medicinal uses and indications
- Astragalus has been used for the following:
- Colds and influenza. Astragalus is used as part of an herbal combination to prevent or treat colds.
- Diabetes. Astragalus appears to lower blood sugar. More studies are needed to determine whether it can help treat diabetes.
- Fatigue or lack of appetite from chemotherapy. Some studies suggest astragalus may help reduce side effects from chemotherapy. The studies have not been well designed, however. More research is needed.
- Heart disease. Several studies suggest that astragalus may act as an antioxidant and help treat heart disease. Other studies suggest astragalus may help lower cholesterol levels.
- Adaptogen. Protects the body from stress and disease.
- Anemia. One early study suggested astragalus may improve blood counts in people with aplastic anemia. The study was poorly designed, so more research is needed.
- Hepatitis. A few studies have used a combination of herbs containing astragalus to treat hepatitis. Results have been mixed.
- Kidney disease. Preliminary research suggests astragalus may help protect the kidneys and may help treat kidney disease. More studies are needed.
- Seasonal allergies. One study found that astragalus may help reduce symptoms in people who have allergic rhinitis or hay fever.
- Cancer. Preliminary studies suggest astragalus may have anti-tumor effects, specifically against melanoma and leukemia.
Precautions when taking astragalus
At recommended doses, astragalus has no serious side effects and can generally be used safely. It does interact with other herbs and medications. Check with your doctor first.
We don’t have evidence regarding the safety of astragalus for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Again, check with your doctor first.
Astragalus can stimulate the immune system, so if you have an autoimmune disorder, check with your doctor.
If you take astragalus as an adaptogen, you may want to rotate it with other adaptogens over long periods.
If you take any of the following drugs, do not take astragalus unless you have asked your doctor first:
Drugs that suppress the immune system: Astragalus may interfere with these drugs. 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.
Lithium: Astragalus can make it harder for the body to get rid of lithium, so dangerously high levels of the drug could build up.