Astragalus

Description

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a fundamental herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily known for its adaptogenic qualities. It aids the body in adapting to various stresses, whether physical, mental, or environmental, helping to maintain overall balance and resilience. Its active compounds, primarily polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids, are believed to be responsible for its diverse health benefits. The herb is widely studied for its potent immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can help regulate and strengthen the immune system. It's often used to support the body's natural defenses, particularly during seasonal changes or periods of increased vulnerability. Beyond immunity, Astragalus also exhibits antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. Traditionally, Astragalus has been valued for its role in boosting energy, promoting cardiovascular health, and supporting kidney function. It's often included in formulations aimed at improving stamina, recovery, and general well-being, making it a versatile botanical ingredient for foundational health support.

Sources
Roots of the Astragalus membranaceus plantNative to northern and eastern China, as well as Mongolia and Korea
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Timing & Intake
AnytimeWith food
Often taken in divided doses throughout the day for consistent support.
Optimal Dosage
Minimum500 mg
Maximum1500 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Product stats
Price per product
Average$24.95
Median$19.43
Price per serving
Average$0.75
Median$0.62
Price per 100 mg
Average$0.66
Median$0.29
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per 100 mg
Reference amount: 100 mg
Forms
Paired ingredients
Ingredient forms
Polysaccharides (7)88
Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) are a major active constituent responsible for many of Astragalus's immunomodulatory properties. They have been shown to stimulate T-cell proliferation, enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity, increase interferon production, and promote macrophage phagocytosis, thereby boosting both innate and adaptive immunity.
Pros
  • Strong scientific evidence for immune enhancement
  • Directly target immune cells to boost function
  • Exhibit adaptogenic properties
Cons
  • May not capture the full synergistic effects of the whole herb
  • Purity and concentration can vary between products
Per product
Avg$20.78
Med$18.00
Per serving
Avg$0.38
Med$0.27
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.07
Med$0.08
Price distribution
Astragalosides (4)85
Astragalosides, particularly astragaloside IV, are a class of saponins that contribute to Astragalus's therapeutic effects. They support immune function by promoting T-cell activation, increasing antibody production, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects that can indirectly benefit immune health. They also possess antioxidant properties that protect immune cells.
Pros
  • Specific immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Well-researched component of Astragalus
  • Often standardized for consistent potency
Cons
  • Focus on a specific compound group might exclude other beneficial co-factors of the whole plant
Per product
Avg$19.65
Med$19.50
Per serving
Avg$0.25
Med$0.25
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.05
Med$0.05
Price distribution
Astragalus membranaceus Root Extract (4)85
This form is a concentrated preparation of the *Astragalus membranaceus* root, aiming to provide a higher potency of beneficial compounds compared to the raw herb. Extracts can be standardized to specific markers like polysaccharides or astragalosides, or provided as a broad-spectrum extract, offering a balance of key bioactives for immune enhancement and overall adaptogenic benefits.
Pros
  • Higher concentration of active compounds
  • More consistent potency (especially if standardized)
  • Convenient and easier to dose than raw herb
Cons
  • Extraction processes might alter or reduce some minor compounds
  • Not all extracts are standardized, leading to variability
Per product
Avg$37.00
Med$34.00
Per serving
Avg$0.96
Med$0.98
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.50
Med$0.57
Price distribution
Astragalus membranaceous (2)82
*Astragalus membranaceus* is the botanical name for the species from which the root is traditionally used in herbal medicine. When specified as *Astragalus membranaceus*, it typically implies the use of the whole root or a minimally processed extract, preserving the full spectrum of its natural compounds, including polysaccharides, astragalosides, and flavonoids, which work synergistically.
Pros
  • Provides a full spectrum of natural compounds
  • Traditional use supports holistic benefits
  • Potential for synergistic effects among its constituents
Cons
  • Potency can vary significantly depending on cultivation, harvest, and processing methods
  • Less precise dosing compared to standardized extracts
Per product
Avg$19.83
Med$19.83
Per serving
Avg$0.29
Med$0.29
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.04
Med$0.04
Price distribution
Astragalus membranaceus (2)82
*Astragalus membranaceus* is the botanical name for the species from which the root is traditionally used in herbal medicine. When specified as *Astragalus membranaceus*, it typically implies the use of the whole root or a minimally processed extract, preserving the full spectrum of its natural compounds, including polysaccharides, astragalosides, and flavonoids, which work synergistically.
Pros
  • Provides a full spectrum of natural compounds
  • Traditional use supports holistic benefits
  • Potential for synergistic effects among its constituents
Cons
  • Potency can vary significantly depending on cultivation, harvest, and processing methods
  • Less precise dosing compared to standardized extracts
Per product
Avg$18.25
Med$18.25
Per serving
Avg$0.82
Med$0.82
Per 1000 mg
Avg$1.53
Med$1.53
Price distribution
Calycosin 7-O-Beta D-Glucopyranoside (1)65
Calycosin 7-O-Beta D-Glucopyranoside is one of several flavonoids present in Astragalus. While flavonoids are generally known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can indirectly support a healthy immune system by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, this specific compound is not considered the primary direct driver of Astragalus's broad immune-modulating benefits attributed to polysaccharides and astragalosides.
Pros
  • Specific antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Contributes to the overall beneficial profile of Astragalus
  • Supports cellular health indirectly benefiting immunity
Cons
  • Limited direct research on its isolated impact on broad immune function compared to other Astragalus components
  • Typically present in smaller amounts and less potent for direct immune modulation
Per product
Avg$46.43
Med$46.43
Per serving
Avg$0.38
Med$0.38
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.08
Med$0.08
Price distribution