# Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/astragalus
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Astragalus membranaceus, Huang Qi, Radix Astragali, Milk Vetch, Bei Qi, Mongolian Milk Vetch, Membranous Milk Vetch, Chinese Astragalus

## Overview

Astragalus membranaceus is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herb containing astragalosides and polysaccharides as primary bioactive compounds. These compounds modulate [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) through T-cell activation and exhibit [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects via NF-κB pathway inhibition.

## Health Benefits

• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity (preliminary evidence from in vitro/animal studies only)
• [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties (preliminary evidence from in vitro/animal studies only)
• Potential antitumor effects (preliminary evidence from in vitro/animal studies only)
• Antiviral activity (preliminary evidence from in vitro/animal studies only)
• Traditional [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) support (based on 2,000+ years of use in TCM, no clinical trials available)

## Mechanism of Action

Astragalus polysaccharides enhance [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) by stimulating T-helper cell proliferation and increasing interleukin-2 production. Astragalosides IV and II inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway, reducing [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokine release including TNF-α and IL-6. The herb's [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) stems from flavonoids that scavenge free radicals and upregulate [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase enzyme activity.

## Clinical Summary

Human clinical trials on astragalus are limited, with most evidence derived from animal studies and in vitro research. Small human studies (20-60 participants) have shown modest immune enhancement in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, but results lack statistical power. Animal studies demonstrate significant [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects at doses equivalent to 10-15g daily in humans. The current evidence is considered preliminary and insufficient to establish definitive therapeutic claims.

## Nutritional Profile

Astragalus root (dried) contains primarily complex polysaccharides (astragalans/APS: ~1-3% dry weight), saponins (astragalosides I-IV, cycloastragenol: ~0.02-0.5% dry weight), and flavonoids (calycosin, formononetin, astragalin: ~0.1-0.5% dry weight). Macronutrient composition per 100g dried root: carbohydrates ~60-70g (predominantly structural polysaccharides and starch), protein ~10-15g (containing essential amino acids including gamma-aminobutyric acid precursors), dietary fiber ~25-40g, fat ~1-3g. Micronutrients include: selenium (trace amounts, ~2-8 mcg/100g), zinc (~2-4 mg/100g), iron (~3-6 mg/100g), manganese (~1-3 mg/100g), potassium (~500-800 mg/100g), calcium (~150-300 mg/100g), and magnesium (~80-150 mg/100g). Key bioactive compounds: cycloastragenol (telomerase-activating aglycone, <0.001% dry weight), astragaloside IV (most studied saponin, ~0.02-0.08% dry weight), polysaccharide fractions APS-I through APS-IV (primary [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) agents). Bioavailability notes: Polysaccharides have limited oral bioavailability as intact molecules and act partly via [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) modulation. Astragaloside IV has poor oral bioavailability (~5-15%) due to hydrophilicity; cycloastragenol is more bioavailable (~20-40%). Traditional water decoction (boiling 9-30g dried root) extracts primarily polysaccharides and some saponins. Standardized extracts are typically standardized to astragalosides (0.5-2%) or polysaccharides (40-70%). Flavonoid absorption is moderate and enhanced by gut microbial [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management).

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for extracts, powders, or standardized forms are available in current research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Astragalus is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects including nausea and diarrhea in sensitive individuals. It may enhance [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity, potentially interfering with immunosuppressive medications like cyclosporine and corticosteroids. The herb should be avoided in autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis due to immune-stimulating properties. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established through clinical research.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals no human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs for Astragalus membranaceus. Current evidence is limited to extraction method optimization and preclinical activities demonstrated in vitro or in animal models.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Astragalus membranaceus, known as Huang Qi or Radix Astragali, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years to tonify qi (vital energy), strengthen the spleen and lungs, and promote diuresis. Traditionally prepared as decoctions from its roots, it has been valued for supporting [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) in TCM practice.

## Synergistic Combinations

Ginseng, Reishi mushroom, Rhodiola, Schisandra, Licorice root

## Known Interactions

| Substance | Severity | Summary | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Basil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Holy Basil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/holy-basil |
| Moringa | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Moringa can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/moringa |
| Spirulina | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Spirulina can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/spirulina |
| Chlorella | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Chlorella can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/chlorella |
| Bee Pollen | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Bee Pollen can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/bee-pollen |
| Royal Jelly | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Royal Jelly can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/royal-jelly |
| Colostrum | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Colostrum can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/colostrum |
| DIM | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and DIM can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/dim |
| Bromelain | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Bromelain can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/bromelain |
| Digestive Enzymes | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Digestive Enzymes can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/digestive-enzymes |
| Lutein | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Lutein can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/lutein |
| Lycopene | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Lycopene can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/lycopene |
| Resveratrol | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Resveratrol can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/resveratrol |
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Alpha-Lipoic Acid can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/alpha-lipoic-acid |
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Acetyl-L-Carnitine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/acetyl-l-carnitine |
| Taurine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Taurine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/taurine |
| Glycine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and Glycine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/glycine |
| PEA | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and PEA can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/pea |
| CBD Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and CBD Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/cbd-oil |
| MCT Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Astragalus and MCT Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/mct-oil |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended astragalus dosage for immune support?

Traditional dosing ranges from 9-30g of dried root daily, while standardized extracts typically recommend 500-1000mg twice daily. Clinical studies have used doses up to 60g daily without serious adverse effects.

### How long does astragalus take to show immune benefits?

Preliminary studies suggest immune markers may improve within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. However, traditional Chinese medicine typically recommends 2-3 months of use to assess full therapeutic benefits.

### Can astragalus be taken with blood pressure medications?

Astragalus may have mild blood pressure-lowering effects and could potentially enhance antihypertensive medications. Consult healthcare providers before combining with ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics to avoid excessive blood pressure reduction.

### What is astragaloside IV and why is it important?

Astragaloside IV is the primary bioactive compound responsible for astragalus's cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. It inhibits NF-κB signaling and has been shown to protect against oxidative stress in laboratory studies.

### Is astragalus safe for people with diabetes?

Animal studies suggest astragalus may lower blood glucose levels, potentially beneficial for diabetes management. However, it may enhance diabetes medications' effects, requiring blood sugar monitoring and possible medication adjustments under medical supervision.

### What forms of astragalus are available, and do they differ in effectiveness?

Astragalus is available as dried root, powders, extracts, and standardized supplements containing astragaloside IV. Standardized extracts are designed to deliver consistent levels of active compounds, while whole root preparations provide a broader spectrum of constituents; the most effective form depends on individual needs and intended use. Research on astragalus extracts has been more extensive than on whole root preparations, though both are used in traditional medicine.

### Is astragalus safe for children, and if so, what considerations apply?

Astragalus has a long history of safe use in traditional Chinese medicine for children, though clinical safety studies in pediatric populations are limited. If giving astragalus to children, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing based on age and weight, as standardized pediatric dosing guidelines are not well-established. Children with autoimmune conditions should avoid astragalus without medical supervision, as its immune-stimulating properties may not be appropriate for their condition.

### What does current clinical research show about astragalus's effectiveness compared to animal and laboratory studies?

While laboratory and animal studies demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties, human clinical trials on astragalus remain limited and often focus on immune support rather than these other mechanisms. Most human evidence supports traditional use for immune system support, but the preliminary findings from in vitro and animal studies have not yet been definitively confirmed in rigorous human trials. This gap between basic research and clinical evidence means astragalus's broader health claims require further investigation in human populations.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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