Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus, commonly known as huangqi in traditional Chinese medicine, is a perennial legume traditionally used in East Asian herbal practices. It has been employed for various conditions including immune support and wound healing, but specific recorded uses vary widely. Scientific evidence suggests that Astragalus supplementation may reduce inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-6 during intense training, though its impact on muscle function is not well-documented. In livestock, moderate levels of Astragalus in feed have shown benefits for immune status and gut microbiota without affecting growth performance. A network meta-analysis indicates potential synergistic effects when combined with Western medicine treatments for heart failure, but the evidence remains preliminary. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported, though further research is needed to fully understand its comprehensive effects and applications.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Astragalus membranaceus supplementation did not enhance muscle function but reduced TNF-α and IL-6 levels during intensified resistance training.
- Supplementation with both Astragalus and fermented Astragalus improved lactation performance and antioxidant capacity in Turpan black sheep, though fermented Astragalus showed superior effects.
- Moderate supplementation (1-3%) of Astragalus membranaceus stems and leaves did not negatively affect broiler growth performance but enhanced their immune status and gut microbiota composition.
- A network meta-analysis suggested that adding oral traditional Chinese medicine containing Astragalus to Western medicine treatment may further improve clinical efficacy in heart failure patients, though results are preliminary.
- The study found that Qishen Yiqi Dripping Pills, containing Astragalus membranaceus, may alleviate myocardial ischemia-reperfusion-induced fibrotic injury by targeting the TGF-β/Periostin pathway.
- Qishen paste improved cardiac conduction and function in heart failure mice by upregulating Cx43 in cardiac resident macrophages.
Frequently asked questions
What is Astragalus membranaceus?
Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Astragalus membranaceus?
6 sourced findings are recorded for Astragalus membranaceus; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Astragalus membranaceus supplementation did not enhance muscle function but reduced TNF-α and IL-6 levels during intensified resistance training.
How strong is the evidence for Astragalus membranaceus?
The strongest finding for Astragalus membranaceus carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Astragalus membranaceus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Astragalus membranaceus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Astragalus membranaceus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Astragalus membranaceus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Astragalus membranaceus a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Astragalus membranaceus Modulates Inflammatory Markers Without Enhancing Muscle Function Following Intensified Resistance Training. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The clinical efficacy of Astragalus-containing Chinese patent medicines in the effective treatment of heart failure: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Astragalus membranaceus stems and leaves on broiler growth, antioxidant and immune status: Associating gut microbiota and serum metabolome. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effects of supplementing Astragalus and fermented Astragalus on lactation performance, rumen microbiota, and lamb weight gain in Turpan black sheep. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Qishen Paste Improves Cardiac Conduction in Heart Failure by Regulating Cardiac Resident Macrophage Connexin43. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Qishen Yiqi Dripping Pills Alleviate Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion-Induced Fibrotic Injury by Inhibiting Fibroblast Activation via the Transforming Growth Factor-Beta/Periostin Pathway. literature abstract metadata