Traditional Chinese approaches to health often use astragalus as an adaptogen to support the body’s ability to adjust to varying environmental and biological changes. For centuries, the dried roots of this plant have been used as a treatment for colds and flu, protection from stress, fatigue, and as a general tonic. Its adaptogenic qualities appear to provide wide-ranging benefits, thanks in particular to its potent antioxidant properties. The root’s active compound cycloastragenol (TAT2) may even have anti-aging properties. Here are 3 facts of how astragalus root promotes youthful health.

1. Protects Immune Cells Against Aging

TAT2 increases the activity and production of telomerase, an enzyme which facilitates the repair of telomeres on DNA. ^[1] Telomere length has been strongly associated with aging, and shorter telomeres are typically indicative of older, damaged cells. These segments of DNA protect our cells from damage and the wear-and-tear process associated with aging. By protecting telomeres, cellular replication can continue its normal process.

2. Supports Toxin Removal

The liver is the body’s main detoxifying organ and is constantly removing toxins from the blood. In the modern world of processed foods, PBDEs contaminating our indoor environment, phthalates, and other chemical pollutants, it’s no wonder the liver quickly becomes overloaded. This allows toxins to build up throughout the body, damaging cells and advancing the aging process. Research has shown that extract of Astragalus membranaceus protects the liver against cellular dysfunction and liver fibrosis. ^[2] Protection like this against advanced liver damage suggests astragalus may support normal liver activity and help reduce the effects of toxic overload.

3. Protective Effects for Kidney Health

Even the best filters get clogged. The kidneys are no different. Like the liver, damaged kidneys result in a toxin buildup and expedited aging. A regularly kidney cleanse helps remove buildup, but herbs such as astragalus can help support health of the kidney itself. In some studies, researchers have discovered that astragalus offers protective effects against kidney disease. ^[3] The more wastes removed, the younger and healthier the body.

Using Astragalus Root

Additional studies support that astragalus aids immune function and cardiovascular health, and other research shows it may reduce the effects of seasonal allergies. ^{[4] [5]} It has no known side effects when used by adults, but it’s important to always discuss supplementation with a doctor. Rare species can be toxic to humans, but all supplements on the market containing astragalus are non-toxic varieties. Astragalus is typically found in extracts, yet sometimes the dried roots can be purchased and prepared like a tea.

Have you used astragalus root for a specific use? How well did it work? Share your thoughts and comments!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

1. Fauce SR1, Jamieson BD, Chin AC, Mitsuyasu RT, Parish ST, Ng HL, Kitchen CM, Yang OO, Harley CB, Effros RB. Telomerase-based pharmacologic enhancement of antiviral function of human CD8+ T lymphocytes. J Immunol. 2008 Nov 15;181(10):7400-6.
2. Wu JJ1, Sun WY, Hu SS, Zhang S, Wei W. A standardized extract from Paeonia lactiflora and Astragalus membranaceus induces apoptosis and inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of human hepatoma cell lines. Int J Oncol. 2013 Nov;43(5):1643-51. doi: 10.3892/ijo.2013.2085.
3. Mingxin Li1, Weixin Wang1, Jun Xue , Yong Gu, Shanyan Lin. Meta-analysis of the clinical value of Astragalus membranaceus in diabetic nephropathy. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Volume 133, Issue 2, 27 January 2011, Pages 412-419. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2010.10.012.
4. Yang QY1, Lu S, Sun HR. Clinical effect of Astragalus granule of different dosages on quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure. Chin J Integr Med. 2011 Feb;17(2):146-9. doi: 10.1007/s11655-011-0647-9.
5. Zinka Matkovic1, Visnja Zivkovic1, Mirna Korica1, Davor Plavec2, Silva Pecanic3 and Neven Tudori. Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Phytotherapy Research. Volume 24, Issue 2, pages 175-181, February 2010. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2877.