In Chinese medicine, the astragalus plant is used to boost immune function and fight infections. It also has many other purported uses, including treating diabetes, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. People can have one of two types of diabetes. With Type 1, the body does not produce the hormone insulin to regulate blood-sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes--the most common form--develops when the body cannot use insulin or does not make enough. Both are serious medical conditions that can cause life-threatening complications. Do not use astragalus supplements to self-treat diabetes without first consulting with a doctor.
Plant Description
Astragalus is a flowering perennial that is native to China, Korea and Mongolia, although it can be found growing elsewhere in the world today. It can reach heights between 16 inches and 36 inches and produces hairy stems and 12 to 18 leaflets per plant. Only the root of the astragalus plant is used medicinally, and plants are typically harvested when they are 4 years old.
Chemical Constituents
The root of the astragalus plant has many chemical properties that may be useful medicinally. However, precisely what chemicals are involved in its effects on diabetes is not known. Among the known chemical constituents in astragalus are amino acids, saponins and isoflavonoids, according to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Before using astragalus supplements to treat diabetes, consult with a knowledgeable health practitioner who can advise you of potential risks and benefits.
Dosage
Supplements containing astragalus root are available in many forms, including powdered root in tablets and capsules, extracts and tinctures. Topical preparations are available but are typically reserved for treating skin conditions. Dosing is based on the type of supplement you are using. People taking capsules and tablets can take 500 mg to 1,000 mg three or four times a day, while those using a standardized extract can take 250 mg to 500 mg three or four times a day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are using a fluid extract, the dose is 2 mL to 4 mL three times daily. The dose for a liquid tincture is 3 mL to 5 mL three times daily. Before you use astragalus to treat diabetes, speak with a medical professional about proper dosing.
Side Effects
Astragalus root regarded as safe when taken as directed, and side effects are rare. Known side effects include mild gastrointestinal distress, but this is usually associated with large doses. Allergic reactions are also possible, according to New York University's Langone Medical Center. Do not take astragalus to treat diabetes without first consulting with a doctor who can advise you about potential side effects.
Warnings
Although generally regarded as safe, people with certain medical conditions should not take astragalus supplements. In particular, it is not known whether it is safe for people with severe liver or kidney disease or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It also may have an effect on your blood pressure, depending on the dose, according to Langone Medical Center. Because of these risks, always go over your complete medical history with your doctor before taking astragalus supplements.
