Astragalus root has played a prominent role in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, modern scientific research indicates that astragalus root extract does, in fact, contain compounds that may make it useful in treating a variety of medical conditions, including cancer and heart disease. Astragalus root has possible side effects, and no form of astragalus has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Talk to your doctor about the potential dangers before using astragalus root extract.
Background
Astragalus, also known as huang chi or milk vetch, is an herb native to Mongolia, Korea and China, where its powdered root is used to stimulate the immune system and to treat conditions like nephritis and diabetes. Astragalus contains triperpenoid saponins, polysaccharides, isoflavonoids and cycloartane triterpene, compounds that, together, give the herb's root antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Astragalus is sold by supplement manufacturers in several forms, including a tincture, or liquid alcohol extract, tablets and capsules.
Uses
Drugs.com reports that astragalus root is most often used in the United States in two ways: as a method for supporting immune system function in patients undergoing cancer therapy and as a supplemental treatment for HIV. Astragalus root has also been used for high blood pressure, preventing colds and protecting the health of the liver. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that there are few reputable clinical studies proving that astragalus should be recommended as an effective treatment for any of these conditions.
Possible Side Effects
Astragalus root extract may cause mild side effects like bloating, dehydration, a decrease in blood pressure, and diarrhea. No serious side effects of the herb have been reported, although further studies are needed to determine the safety of long-term use. Astragalus may interfere with the proper functioning of blood thinning medications and immunosuppression drugs, including corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. Avoid using astragalus if you are pregnant or nursing, have an allergy to legumes or if you suffer from blood sugar problems or high blood pressure.
Considerations
As a dietary supplement, astragalus root extract and all other forms of astragalus are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This means that any astragalus root product that you may purchase commercially has not been checked for safety, purity or effectiveness. In addition, there are few clinical trials available to guide safe dosage limits for astragalus. The NCMM warns against attempting to prepare astragalus root extracts on your own since several related astragalus species in the United States contain toxic compounds. Do not use astragalus root extract without first speaking to your doctor.
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