Astragalus Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Astragalus Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Astragalus is generally considered safe when used orally and appropriately. Doses up to 60 grams daily for up to 4 months have been used without reported adverse effects. When used intravenously under medical supervision, doses up to 80 grams daily for up to 4 months have also been used with apparent safety. However, there is insufficient reliable information about the safety of topical use of astragalus. It is recommended to avoid using astragalus during pregnancy and lactation due to limited information about its effects in humans and the potential maternal and fetal toxicity observed in animal studies.

It's important to note that astragalus supplements used by humans typically contain Astragalus membranaceus and not the species of astragalus that contain the neurotoxin swainsonine, which has been linked to livestock poisonings. However, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

Regarding its use for COVID-19, there is no good evidence to support using astragalus for this viral infection. It is recommended to focus on healthy lifestyle choices and proven prevention methods instead.

How Is Astragalus Thought To Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

Astragalus, derived from the root of the plant, contains various active constituents, including saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, trace minerals, amino acids, and coumarins. These constituents contribute to the multiple therapeutic properties attributed to astragalus.

Here's a breakdown of some of the mechanisms of action associated with astragalus:

• Antibacterial effects: Astragalus exhibits broad-spectrum antibiotic activity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria in laboratory studies.
• Anticancer effects: Astragalus shows potential in promoting apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells and modulating immune responses. It may also enhance lymphocyte activity and reverse Th2-predominant immune status in certain cancers.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Astragalus possesses anti-inflammatory properties by modifying gene expression and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids. It may help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions.
• Antioxidant effects: Astragalus acts as an antioxidant, inhibiting the production of free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the body.
• Antiviral effects: Astragalus exhibits antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex-1 virus (HSV-1). It may also enhance interferon production and reduce viral load in certain viral infections.
• Bone effects: Astragalus has shown potential in promoting bone health by increasing the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow stem cells and inhibiting the development of osteoclasts, leading to increased bone area.
• Cardiovascular effects: Astragalus is believed to cause vasodilation, increase cardiac output, and improve myocardial and renal function. These effects may be beneficial in conditions such as angina, congestive heart failure, and post-myocardial infarction.
• Immunomodulatory effects: Astragalus enhances immune response by stimulating lymphocyte production, increasing antibody levels, and potentiating the activity of various immune cells, including T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages. It may restore immune function in cases of immune deficiency.
• Renoprotective effects: Astragalus has shown renoprotective effects by improving renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, and microvascular lesions in animal models. It may also protect against renal damage caused by certain conditions.
• Wound-healing effects: Astragalus is believed to promote wound healing by enhancing the viability of fibroblasts, which are involved in the healing process.

These mechanisms of action contribute to the diverse therapeutic effects attributed to astragalus. However, further research is needed to fully understand its complex actions and their clinical implications.

Pharmacokinetics

Astragalus flavonoids, the active constituents of astragalus, can be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract according to a pharmacokinetic evaluation in healthy human volunteers. The major metabolites of the flavonoids are glucuronides.

Interaction Overview (See Below for Full List)

Astragalus may interact with certain drugs and should be used with caution in combination with cyclophosphamide, immunosuppressants, and lithium. It's important to discuss with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications to avoid potential interactions.

Currently, there are no known interactions between astragalus and supplements.

Common Side Effects to Watch For

Astragalus root, when used orally or intravenously, is generally well-tolerated. No adverse effects have been reported for topical use. However, it's worth noting that a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.

In rare cases, serious adverse effects associated with oral use of astragalus have been reported, including concerns about liver and kidney cysts. These serious adverse effects are uncommon.

If you experience any unexpected or concerning symptoms while using astragalus, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Astragalus herbal products used in clinical research are typically prepared from Astragalus membranaceus root. Some specific astragalus root extracts have been standardized to contain a certain percentage of active compounds. For example, one astragalus root extract known as Lectranal has been standardized to contain 40% polysaccharides. In clinical studies, intravenous astragalus solutions have often been standardized to contain 2 grams/mL.

It's important to note that many studies have evaluated the effects of astragalus in combination with other herbal supplements.

Drugs that interact with Astragalus