Astragalus
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), astragalus is commonly found in mixtures with other herbs. Western herbalists began using astragalus in the 1800s as an ingredient in various tonics. Gummy sap (tragacanth) from astragalus is used as a thickener (ice cream), emulsifier, denture adhesive, and for diarrhea.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Anti-viral activity C
Athletic performance C
Burns C
Cancer C
Chemotherapy side effects C
Coronary artery disease (CAD) C
Diabetes C
Heart failure C
Immune stimulation C
Kidney failure C
Liver protection C
Low white blood cell count C
Mental performance C
Myocarditis/endocarditis C
Smoking cessation (quit smoking) C
Tuberculosis C
Upper respiratory tract infection C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic to astragalus, peas, or any related plants or with a history of Quillaja bark-induced asthma. Avoid with aspirin or aspirin products or herbs or supplements with similar effects. Avoid with inflammation (swelling) or fever, stroke, transplant or autoimmune diseases (like HIV/AIDS). Stop use two weeks before surgery/dental/diagnostic procedures with a risk of bleeding and avoid use immediately after these procedures. Use cautiously with bleeding disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, lipid disorders or kidney disorders. Use cautiously with blood-thinners, blood sugar drugs, or diuretics or herbs and supplements with similar effects. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Abdominal discomfort, bleeding, breathing problems, bruising, changes in blood sugar, changes in blood pressure or heartbeat, changes in the immune system, dehydration, diarrhea, growth hormone changes, increased urination, itching, neurological problems, pneumonia (aspiration), palpitations, poisoning, skin rash, upset stomach.

Possible interactions:
Drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (anticoagulants), antiplatelet drugs, blood pressure drugs, blood sugar/diabetes drugs, cholesterol-lowering drugs, colchicine, some weight-loss drugs, diuretics, ephedrine or epinephrine, drugs broken down by the liver, drugs that alter the immune system, hypnotics, intravenous calcium salts, nalbuphine, oral medications, pain relievers (like ibuprofen) naproxen (Aleve®), pancuronium, procarbazine, propoxyphene, rauwolfia alkaloids, sedatives (like phenobarbital), succinylcholine, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:
Traditionally considered safe when used alone in recommended doses.

Adults (18 years and older):
Powdered dried whole root, capsules, fluid extracts, decoctions and tinctures have been taken by mouth. In the majority of the published clinical trials, astragalus is given as one component of a multi-herb mixture.
Astragalus has been applied topically in lotions, ointments, denture creams, toothpastes, cosmetics.
Injectable forms have been given by healthcare providers.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.