Astragalus membranaceus

Natural immune defence and immune modulation

The polysaccharides found in Astragalus root – particularly the APS (Astragalus polysaccharides) – can stimulate the activity of macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-cells, thereby helping to strengthen the body’s natural immune defences. But the effects of Astragalus appear to go even further: recent studies suggest that the root not only has a stimulating effect, but also helps regulate the immune system. In other words, it supports immune balance rather than simply “boosting” immunity¹Wang, X.-Y. et al. (2022). Advances on immunoregulation effect of astragalus polysaccharides. Frontiers in Natural Products, 1, 971679. DOI: 10.3389/fntpr.2022.971679 → Link. Especially during life phases when the immune system becomes weaker and more prone to dysregulation, this modulatory support can be beneficial in helping to maintain long-term balance and resilience.

Astragalus also shows promise as a regulatory measure in cases of immunological imbalance, such as those seen in allergies and autoimmune conditions. Study results suggest that the plant may help stabilise the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory processes – without triggering an excessive immune response²Matkovic, Z. et al. (2010). Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Phytother Res., 24(2), 175-81. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2877 → Link^/3Weng, S. et al. (2023). Astragaloside IV ameliorates experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis by regulating CD4⁺ T cells and altering gut microbiota. Chinese Medicine, 18(1), 97. DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00798-6 → Link^/4Peng, Y. et al. (2022). Progress in Mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus and Its Chemical Constituents on Multiple Sclerosis. Chin. J. Integr. Med., 29, 89–95. DOI: 10.1007/s11655-022-3535-6 → Link^/5Sun, Y. et al. (2019). The PD-1/PD-Ls pathway is up-regulated during the suppression of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis treated by Astragalus polysaccharides. J Neuroimmunol., 332, 78-90. DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2019.03.019 → Link.

Cell protection and longevity – safeguarding the telomeres

One particularly remarkable aspect of Astragalus is its influence on the so-called telomeres – the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes that safeguard the genetic material within our cells. As we age, these caps gradually shorten, a process associated with cellular ageing, reduced regenerative capacity, and increased susceptibility to disease. Various studies have shown that extracts of Astragalus – particularly the active compound cycloastragenol – can stimulate the activity of the enzyme telomerase. This enzyme is responsible for maintaining the length of the telomeres⁶de Jaeger, C. et al. (2024). A natural Astragalus-based nutritional supplement lengthens telomeres in a middle-aged population: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrients, 16(17), 2963. DOI: 10.3390/nu16172963 → Link. In healthy ageing research, Astragalus is therefore regarded as one of the most promising natural substances for supporting cellular health.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Chronic inflammation is considered a key factor in numerous age-related conditions – from cardiovascular disease to neurodegenerative disorders. According to research findings, the flavonoids and saponins in Astragalus exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by helping to reduce pro-inflammatory messengers such as TNF-α and IL-6⁷Li, J. et al. (2018). Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of total flavonoids of Astragalus by regulating NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Pharmazie, 73(10), 589–593. DOI: 10.1691/ph.2018.8633 → Link. In this way, Astragalus may help regulate imbalanced, chronic inflammatory processes at an early stage and support inner balance both during the ageing process and later in life.

Natural protection for the liver and kidneys

Astragalus membranaceus has also traditionally been used to support the body’s detoxifying organs – the liver and kidneys. Modern research has shown that certain compounds in the root have antioxidant effects, which may help protect liver cells from oxidative stress. This could be particularly beneficial when the body is under strain from environmental factors, medication, or the natural ageing process⁸Ibrahim, R.S. et al. (2022). Alleviation of liver cirrhosis and associated portal-hypertension by Astragalus species in relation to their UPLC-MS/MS metabolic profiles: a mechanistic study. Sci Rep. 2022 Jul 13;12(1):11884. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15958-1 → Link. In addition, studies suggest that Astragalus may help stabilise kidney function and reduce protein excretion in the urine, indicating a potential supportive effect in chronic kidney conditions⁹Zhang, H.W. et al. (2014). Astragalus (a traditional Chinese medicine) for treating chronic kidney disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014 Oct 22;2014(10):CD008369. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD008369.pub2 → Link.

Positive impact on heart health

Studies show that Astragalus has vasodilatory and circulation-enhancing properties that may help regulate blood pressure. In addition, antioxidant effects have been observed which could help protect the cardiovascular system. Clinical studies have found that Astragalus can improve heart function and reduce pro-inflammatory markers, which may be particularly relevant for individuals with heart failure¹⁰Zang, Y. et al. (2020). An updated role of astragaloside IV in heart failure. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 126, 110012. DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110012 → Link
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Plant-based support for blood sugar metabolism

A stable blood sugar level is essential for overall health. Astragalus may provide support by improving insulin sensitivity and helping to regulate blood glucose levels. Meta-analyses suggest that Astragalus can be beneficial as an adjunct therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus by lowering HbA1c levels and improving glycaemic control¹¹Tian, H. et al. (2016). The effect of Astragalus as an adjuvant treatment in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A (preliminary) meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016 Sep 15;191:206-215. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.062 → Link.

Female balance: Perimenopause and menopause

Astragalus is also being studied in the context of women’s health. Early research suggests that combining Astragalus with other botanical ingredients may help improve the regularity of the menstrual cycle. There is also evidence that Astragalus may help relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings, indicating a potential hormone-regulating effect¹²Park, J.S. et al. (2022). Efficacy of Rubus coreanus Miq. and Astragalus membranaceus Bunge Extract for Postmenopausal Syndrome: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo Comparative Clinical Trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022 Feb 23;2022:4066054. DOI: 10.1155/2022/4066054 → Link^/13Su, J.Y. et al. (2013). Perimenopause Amelioration of a TCM Recipe Composed of Radix Astragali, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, and Folium Epimedii: An In Vivo Study on Natural Aging Rat Model. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:747240. DOI: 10.1155/2013/747240 → Link^/14Wang, G. et al. (2025). Synergistic Combination of Paeonia Lactiflora Pall with Astragalus Membranaceus for Alleviating Menopausal Symptoms in Mice. Journal of Food and Nutrition Research. 2025, 13(5), 215-225. DOI: 10.12691/jfnr-13-5-3 → Link.

Adaptogen – support during stress and fatigue

Astragalus is considered an adaptogen – a natural substance that helps the body cope more effectively with stress. This can be especially beneficial with age, as the body’s ability to adapt gradually declines, or during times of ongoing strain, as is often the case in modern life. Astragalus may help improve stress resilience, stabilise energy levels, and support overall vitality.

Traditional herbal medicine: balance for body and energy flow

In traditional Asian healing practices, Astragalus has been valued for centuries for its ability to help balance the body’s energy. The root is regarded as a tonic, traditionally used in cases of weakness and for preventative purposes. The aim is to harmonise the vital forces and support the body in maintaining inner balance and natural defences – especially during times of increased strain or emerging fatigue.