Astragalus Root Extract
Also known as: Astragalus membranaceus, huang qi, Astragalus mongholicus, astragalus polysaccharides
The root of a legume used for centuries in Chinese herbal practice as a tonic, now included in immune, energy, and longevity formulas. Human evidence in healthy adults is thin; a small pilot study in humans examined immune cell markers after astragalus alongside other herbs, and most clinical work has used injectable or multi-herb preparations that do not translate to capsule doses. It is usually chosen for its traditional reputation and is dosed by product convention rather than trial data.
Research summary
Astragalus polysaccharides and astragalosides are proposed to enhance macrophage and T-cell activity and to support antioxidant defenses.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 250–1,000 mg | — | — |
250 to 1,000 mg per day of root extract, typically split with meals, as commonly labeled on commercial products; controlled dose-finding data in healthy adults are lacking. Extracts are usually standardized to polysaccharides or astragaloside IV.
Standardization: Typically 16–70% polysaccharides or 0.3–0.5% astragaloside IV, grade dependent
Source material: root extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Mildly sweet, beany flavor; easy in powders.
Formulation notes
Commonly blended with elderberry, reishi, or eleuthero. Traditional use avoids it during acute infection; note for label copy.
Sources
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