Astragalus, also known as milkvetch or huáng qí, is a plant traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The species most common in supplements is Astragalus membranaceus. The root is the specific part utilized, traditionally associated with supporting the body’s vital energy, or “qi.” Practitioners value the root for its ability to act as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress.
Available Forms and Preparation Methods
Astragalus is available in several forms, ranging from the raw, dried root to concentrated liquid extracts. The most traditional preparation is a decoction, a strong tea made by boiling dried root slices. This involves simmering the root in water for 20 to 30 minutes to fully extract beneficial compounds, such as polysaccharides.
Ready-to-use forms include capsules and tablets, which contain either powdered root or a standardized extract, offering a convenient, pre-measured dose. The powdered root can also be mixed into smoothies or yogurt.
Liquid extracts, or tinctures, are concentrated options where active compounds are dissolved in a solution, often alcohol or glycerin. These are typically administered by placing drops under the tongue or mixing them into water or juice. The concentration of active ingredients varies significantly; a small quantity of a standardized extract may equal many grams of the raw root.
Determining Appropriate Intake
Determining the appropriate intake depends on the form used and the user’s health goals, as there is no single universally recommended dose. For the dried root used in a decoction, a typical daily amount for adults ranges between 9 and 30 grams. Some studies have safely used doses up to 60 grams per day for a limited time. This dosage is often divided and consumed throughout the day as a tea.
When using capsules or standardized extracts, follow the manufacturer’s directions, as the concentration of active compounds like astragalosides varies widely. Astragalus is typically viewed as a tonic or adaptogen and is usually taken on an ongoing, chronic basis rather than acutely. Users often take it consistently for several months to observe its full effects. Consulting with a healthcare provider or a TCM practitioner is advisable to tailor the amount to specific needs and individual health conditions.
Safety Considerations and Interactions
While astragalus is generally well-tolerated, caution is required due to its effects on the immune system. People with autoimmune conditions, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis, should avoid its use unless advised by a physician. The herb may stimulate the immune response, potentially exacerbating these conditions.
Potential drug interactions exist, most notably with immunosuppressant medications used by organ transplant recipients or those with autoimmune diseases. Astragalus may increase immune activity, potentially reducing the effectiveness of these drugs. It may also interact with certain blood pressure medications, anticoagulants, and diuretics, as it can sometimes lower blood pressure and affect blood clotting.
Mild side effects are uncommon but can include minor gastrointestinal upset, rash, or itchiness. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using astragalus due to insufficient safety research. To minimize risk, consumers should seek high-quality products tested by a third party for purity and concentration.