Overview
TCM tonic with immune-stimulating and CKD-supportive evidence.
- Whole dried plant material (root, leaf, flower, or aerial parts depending on the species)
- Standardized hydroethanolic or aqueous extract (capsule, tincture, or tea)
- Powdered traditional preparation used in Ayurvedic, TCM, or Western herbal practice
- Standardized extract capsule
- Liquid tincture (alcohol or glycerin)
- Powdered whole herb
- Traditional decoction or tea
Mechanism of action
Astragalosides upregulate T-cell function; nephroprotective in animal models.
- · Astragalosides upregulate T-cell function
- · nephroprotective in animal models
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces proteinuria in CKD (Chinese trials)
Limited evidencePotential side effects
- · Astragalus is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- · Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- · Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
- · Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- · Sleep disturbance if taken late in the day
- · Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
Supplement interactions
- A high-quality multivitaminCovers micronutrient cofactors that support most supplement pathways.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Foundational anti-inflammatory support that complements most regimens.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Scientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Astragalus and immune function
Block KI, Mead MN
Review of astragalus in immune modulation.
Improved immune markers and reduced chemotherapy side effects.
PubMed: Astragalus — Reduces proteinuria in CKD
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PubMed: Astragalus — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Astragalus — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Astragalus — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Astragalus — safety adverse events
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PubMed: Astragalus — dose response
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Google Scholar: Astragalus — clinical evidence
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Cross-database citation index for Astragalus as it relates to "clinical evidence".
Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.