WHAT IS ASTRAGALUS ROOT EXTRACT?
Astragalus, also known as Astragalus membranaceus or Astragalus mongholicus, is a medicinal herb that is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. The plant’s root is mostly used for medicinal purposes, and it can be found in a variety of forms, including liquid extracts, tablets, powders, and teas. It can also occasionally be injected or given intravenously in medical contexts. The active plant chemicals found in astragalus roots are thought to be the cause of the herb’s possible health benefits, which include strengthening the immune system and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Although astragalus research is still limited, astragalus root extract has demonstrated potential in treating several conditions, including seasonal allergies, heart disease, renal disease, chronic fatigue, and the common cold. Because of its many applications and possible therapeutic purposes, astragalus is valued in herbal medicine by both traditional and contemporary medical practises.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ASTRAGALUS ROOT EXTRACT?
Astragalus root, a traditional Chinese medicine staple, has a number of possible health advantages ascribed to active plant components. Astragalus has drawn attention for its effects on many facets of health, but more research is needed to properly understand its medicinal potential. Here are some key benefits of Astragalus root:
- May boost your Immune system: The ability of astragalus root extract to strengthen immunity is one of its main advantages. The main function of the immune system is to protect the body from dangerous intruders like viruses and bacteria. White blood cells, which are essential for the immune system’s defence against disease, may be stimulated by astragalus. Studies on animals have demonstrated that astragalus can eradicate bacteria and viruses to treat illnesses. Although human research on the subject is still in its infancy, there is hope in the fight against viral infections such liver infections and the common cold. To completely comprehend astragalus’s efficacy in both treating and preventing infections, further thorough research is necessary.
- May improve cardiovascular health: Astragalus root extract has also demonstrated potential to improve heart health, especially in those with certain heart diseases. It’s thought to enlarge blood arteries and boost the heart’s blood pumping capacity. Astragalus was shown to significantly improve heart function when administered in conjunction with standard treatment in clinical trials involving patients suffering from heart failure. These improvements were far higher than those obtained with only basic care. In another trial, individuals with heart failure who also received normal medication but astragalus intravenously (IV) demonstrated noticeably better symptom relief. However, not all heart failure patients benefited equally, and several trials produced contradictory findings. Additionally, astragalus may be able to reduce the symptoms of myocarditis, an inflammatory heart ailment, however the evidence remains inconclusive.
- May relieve side effects of chemotherapy: Astragalus has also shown potential in reducing the unfavourable effects of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive exhaustion are common. According to clinical research, astragalus might considerably lessen these side effects, especially when given intravenously. For example, patients receiving chemotherapy who had astragalus intravenously (IV) experienced decreased nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. This indicates that it could be able to lessen some of the upsetting side effects of chemotherapy. Additionally, astragalus might help with the extreme fatigue that comes with chemotherapy, especially in the first week of treatment. As with all of astragalus’ potential advantages, more research is necessary to determine whether or if it can effectively manage side symptoms associated with chemotherapy.
While astragalus root has been shown to support the immune system, improve cardiac function, and lessen the negative effects of chemotherapy, additional research is needed to thoroughly validate its efficaciousness. Astragalus continues to be a topic of attention in both conventional and modern healthcare due to its intriguing potential for addressing many health issues. We hope to have a more thorough understanding of astragalus’s therapeutic potential as science continues to explore its qualities and uses.
HOW DOES ASTRAGALUS ROOT EXTRACT WORK IN HUMAN BODY?
The active chemicals found in astragalus root are thought to function in the human body through a variety of mechanisms. Its support for the immune system is one of its main functions. Certain bioactive components found in astragalus, such as polysaccharides and saponins, are believed to promote the development of white blood cells, including T, B, and macrophage cells.
These white blood cells are essential parts of the immune system that help the body identify and fight hazardous bacteria. It is thought that astragalus interacts with these cells to boost immunity, improving the body’s defences against illnesses and infections. Additionally, it is believed to affect the synthesis of cytokines, signalling proteins that control inflammation and orchestrate immunological responses, ultimately leading to a more robust immune defense.
Apart from its immune-suppressive characteristics, astragalus is also thought to possess vasodilatory qualities, which cause blood vessels to relax and enlarge. This action may contribute to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases by increasing blood flow and lowering arterial resistance to blood flow. Nitric oxide is a chemical that aids in blood vessel dilatation and enhances blood circulation, and astragalus may boost the synthesis of this molecule.
Astragalus may also improve cardiac function, lessen the strain on the heart, and lessen some of the symptoms connected to heart conditions by encouraging vasodilation. However, it is crucial to recognise that research into the entire range of astragalus’s methods of action and its interactions with the human body is still underway, and more studies are required to have a better understanding.
HOW MUCH ASTRAGALUS ROOT EXTRACT CAN A PERSON TAKE?
The right dosage for astragalus root supplements might vary based on the intended purpose and can be found in a variety of forms, including capsules, liquid extracts, powders, teas, and decoctions. Astragalus dosages are not universally agreed upon, yet the usual daily intake varies from 9 to 30 grams. The amount may vary depending on the health status of the person taking the astragalus and how it is ingested. Certain studies have shed light on more accurate dosing for specific medical issues.
For example, a dosage of 2–7.5 grams of powdered astragalus administered twice daily for up to 30 days has demonstrated potential advantages for congestive heart failure when combined with standard treatment. Likewise, 40–60 grams of astragalus decoction given over four months has been recommended for blood sugar control; additionally, 7.5–15 grams of astragalus powder taken twice daily for up to six months may help lower the risk of infections in renal disease cases. The safety of high doses over a longer period has not been thoroughly investigated, despite indications of safe and effective levels in a number of trials.
Although these dosage guidelines provide some assistance, it is important to proceed cautiously when supplementing with astragalus, especially when considering high doses for an extended period. When used within the prescribed dosage range, astragalus is usually regarded as safe; however, there is still a dearth of long-term safety information, particularly for high doses. Therefore, to ascertain the ideal dosage for their particular health difficulties, people need to consult with medical specialists or herbalists who have expertise in astragalus.
WHAT ARE THE VARIATIONS OF ASTRAGALUS ROOT EXTRACT?
Astragalus Root Extract is also available as:
- Astragalus Root Extract 5:1 (Medicago sativa)
- Alfalfa Fruit Juice Powder (Medicago sativa) Organic
- Alfalfa Powder (Medicago sativa)
- Alfalfa Powder (Medicago sativa) Heat Treated
Astragalus Root Extract is commonly available in:
- Astragalus Root Extract tablets
- Astragalus Root Extract capsules
- Astragalus Root powder
- Astragalus Root liquid extract
Glentworth Formulations is here to suit your every need. Everything from Tablets, Capsules and Powder blends.
If you are wanting to know more information, please get in contact with us. Either using the contact form or contacting us directly on: enquiries@glentworthformulations.com.
