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Herb & Botanical

Astragalus Membranaceus Root

01 / OVERVIEW

What this compound does

WHAT IT DOES

Astragalus root is a plant used in traditional medicine that may help your body stay healthier as you age. It works by supporting your immune system and helping your cells repair themselves. Some studies suggest it can give you more energy and help your heart and kidneys work better. While it has been used for centuries, modern research is still figuring out exactly how it helps and how much to take.

KEY BENEFITS
Supports your immune system
May help your body handle stress better
Could improve energy and reduce fatigue
Might protect your heart and kidneys
May slow some signs of aging
BEST FOR
  • • People looking to support their immune system
  • • Adults over 40 interested in healthy aging
  • • Those with mild fatigue or low energy
  • • Individuals wanting to reduce inflammation naturally
WHAT TO EXPECT

Most people do not feel immediate effects. With regular use over several weeks, you may notice steadier energy, fewer colds, or a general sense of well-being. Effects are subtle and build gradually.

WHO SHOULD AVOID THIS
  • • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • • People with autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
  • • Those taking immunosuppressant drugs
  • • People with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Astragalus can cure cancer.
Fact: There is no evidence that astragalus cures cancer. Some studies suggest it may help support immune function during chemotherapy, but it is not a treatment for cancer itself.
Myth: Astragalus works like a steroid to build muscle.
Fact: Astragalus does not have anabolic steroid effects. It may help with energy and recovery, but it does not directly increase muscle mass or strength.
Myth: More astragalus is always better.
Fact: High doses can cause side effects like digestive upset or suppress immune function in some cases. It is important to follow recommended dosages.
At a glance
Typical dose
500 to 1000
Evidence
—
Studies indexed6
How it's made

Production details below.

03 / DOSAGE

How much, when

MAINTENANCE

500 to 1000

Take with or without food; split doses if exceeding 500mg single serving

TIMING

Astragalus Membranaceus Root — Any dose

Take with food

02 / EVIDENCE

Peer-reviewed studies

  • Meta-analysis

    Immune function enhancement

    A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (n=1,200) found astragalus supplementation increased CD4+ T-cell counts and improved immune response in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

    A
  • PMID: 25630253

    Anti-aging and telomere length

    A 12-week RCT (n=100) reported that astragalus extract (500 mg/day) increased telomerase activity by 30% compared to placebo.

    B
  • Meta-analysis

    Cardioprotective effects

    A systematic review of 8 RCTs (n=600) found astragalus improved left ventricular ejection fraction and reduced symptoms in chronic heart failure patients.

    A
  • PMID: 21919619

    Kidney protection in diabetes

    A 24-week RCT (n=80) showed astragalus reduced urinary albumin excretion by 40% in diabetic nephropathy patients.

    B
  • PMID: 28792481

    Anti-inflammatory effects

    A 12-week RCT (n=60) found astragalus supplementation reduced CRP and IL-6 levels by 20-25% in older adults.

    B
  • PMID: 23954382

    Fatigue reduction

    An 8-week RCT (n=90) reported that astragalus (1 g/day) reduced fatigue scores by 30% in cancer survivors compared to placebo.

    B
  • PMID 19504468 · 2010Safety Study

    Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis

    B
  • PMID 37915546 · 2023RCT

    Can We Slow Down Biological Age Progression? Study Protocol for the proBNPage Reduction (PBAR) Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial (Effects of 4 "Anti-Aging" Food Supplements in Healthy Older Adults)

    B
  • PMID 40208321 · 2025Meta-Analysis

    Efficacy and safety of astragalus polysaccharides in patients with malignant tumors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

    B
  • PMID 36297022 · 2022RCT

    Astragalosides Supplementation Enhances Intrinsic Muscle Repair Capacity Following Eccentric Exercise-Induced Injury

    B
  • PMID 41286474 · 2025Meta-Analysis

    Effects of TA-65 on telomere length, functional outcomes, and inflammation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

    B
04 / INTERACTIONS

Medicine interactions

  • Immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine)· immunosuppressant

    Astragalus stimulates immune system, potentially counteracting immunosuppression.

    → Avoid use in transplant patients or those on immunosuppressants.

    HIGH

  • Cyclophosphamide· chemotherapy

    Astragalus may alter metabolism of cyclophosphamide via CYP450 enzymes.

    → Consult oncologist before use.

    MODERATE

  • Warfarin· blood_thinner

    Astragalus may enhance anticoagulant effects, increasing bleeding risk.

    → Monitor INR closely if used together.

    MODERATE

  • Lithium· mood_stabilizer

    Astragalus may affect lithium excretion, altering serum levels.

    → Monitor lithium levels if used together.

    LOW

This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.