Common Names: astragale, licorice-leaf astragalus, beg kei, milk vetch, Huang Qi

Latin Name: Astragalus membranaceus

Background

• Astragalus is a flowering plant whose root has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine, often as part of herbal combinations.

• The root is classified as an adaptogen—a natural product thought to help the body manage physical and emotional stress.

• It’s marketed in supplements claiming to support treatment for various conditions like respiratory infections, seasonal allergies, asthma, fatigue, kidney issues, and diabetes. It’s also believed to help boost immune function.

• Some products are meant to be applied on the skin to support the healing of wounds.

How Much Do We Know?

• Current scientific understanding is not strong enough to confirm whether astragalus is effective for managing health conditions.

What Have We Learned?

Recent evaluations have reviewed what clinical studies suggest about astragalus use.

• A 2024 analysis of 20 studies with 953 adults who had type 2 diabetes suggested that combining astragalus with metformin may improve blood sugar levels more than metformin alone. However, the studies reviewed showed significant methodological weaknesses.

• In 2023, a research review of 19 trials involving 1,094 people found that astragalus appeared to enhance immune function and lower levels of certain inflammatory proteins. Still, study sizes were small and inconsistent in design.

• Another 2023 review looked at 50 studies with 3,423 participants suffering from membranous nephropathy, a kidney condition. It found potential improvements in kidney function when astragalus was added to regular care. Despite these findings, the studies had numerous limitations, including poor quality and a narrow population focus.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Oral use of astragalus at doses up to 60 grams per day for four months appears to be safe, but thorough studies are lacking.

• There is not enough solid evidence regarding the safety of applying astragalus to the skin.

• People with autoimmune diseases should avoid astragalus, as it could worsen symptoms or interfere with medications designed to suppress immune responses. If you take prescription medicine, consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal products.

• Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding remains unclear. Some animal studies suggest that using astragalus during pregnancy might cause harm to the fetus.

Keep in Mind

• Always discuss any natural remedies or supplements you’re considering with your healthcare provider to make well-informed decisions about your care.

• Herbal remedies are regulated differently depending on their use and method of application. In many cases, they’re sold as dietary supplements, with different rules than pharmaceutical drugs.

• Unlike medications, dietary supplements do not receive FDA approval before reaching consumers. If safety concerns arise, the FDA can take regulatory action. Companies are responsible for ensuring their products meet safety and labeling standards.

For More Information

• Tips for Using Supplements Wisely

• Understanding Interactions Between Drugs and Supplements

• How to Interpret Studies in Medical Journals

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Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health

The ODS promotes knowledge of dietary supplements by reviewing scientific data, backing research, and educating the public. It provides resources covering a wide range of supplements and related health topics.

Key References

• Astragalus. NatMed Pro. Accessed April 24, 2024.

• Hong K-F, Liu P-Y, Zhang W, et al. Study on the effectiveness and safety of astragalus as an additional treatment for type 2 diabetes. Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine. 2024;30(1):11-24.

• Wang D, Wang L, Zhang M, et al. Astragalus-based therapy for moderate-to-severe idiopathic membranous nephropathy: meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore). 2023;102(9):e32918.

• Zhang X, Qu X, Zou Y. Impact of astragalus on immune system response: a meta-analysis review. Complementary Medicine Research. 2023;30(6):535-543.

This text is public domain and may be freely replicated. It is intended to offer information and should not replace guidance from qualified healthcare professionals. Mentioning a product or treatment does not imply endorsement by the NCCIH.