astrgalus

Astragalus is a genus of plants, with *Astragalus membranaceus* and *Astragalus mongholicus* being the primary species used in traditional Chinese medicine and dietary supplements. The root is the main part used, available as extracts, capsules, powders, teas, and sometimes injections. Astragalus is considered an adaptogen—substances believed to help the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. Its active compounds include polysaccharides, saponins (notably triterpenoid saponins), flavonoids (such as formononetin), and antioxidants. These are thought to stimulate immune function by increasing white blood cell production; reduce inflammation; provide antioxidant effects; support heart health; improve kidney function; lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes; reduce side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea or bone marrow suppression when used adjunctively; decrease fatigue; and possibly aid wound healing when applied topically. Despite widespread use for conditions like upper respiratory infections, allergies/hay fever, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic kidney disease (including diabetic nephropathy), diabetes mellitus type 2, heart failure or myocarditis symptoms—and even cancer adjuvant therapy—high-quality clinical evidence supporting these uses remains limited[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]. Most supplements contain *A. membranaceus*. Astragalus should not be confused with tragacanth.

Other names

huáng qímilkvetchAstragalus membranaceusAstragalus mongholicus