Is astragalus used in Ayurveda?
Preparation and Usage: Astragalus is commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or in powdered form. In Ayurveda, it might be combined with other herbs or formulations to create blends that support immune function and vitality, although traditional Ayurvedic texts do not typically mention astragalus specifically. A number of clinical studies have shown that Astragalus can improve kidney function, reduce proteinuria, increase serum superoxide dismutase, decrease lipid peroxidation, decrease endothelin‐1 and regulate cellular immunity in patients with moderate to severe CKD (Yang 1997; Zhou 2001; Zuo 2003).Astragalus is also taken by mouth for angina, asthma, irregular menstruation (amenorrhea), menopausal symptoms, and beta-thalassemia, and to improve athletic performance and weight loss.Although we found some promising evidence suggesting that when given with conventional treatment, Astragalus may help to decrease the serum creatinine, reduce the amount of protein lost in urine and diminish the effects of some complications, such as anaemia and malnutrition, evidence quality was low.Astragalus may improve your immune system and symptoms of chronic fatigue and seasonal allergies. It may also aid people with certain heart conditions, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. Though no dosage recommendation exists, up to 60 grams daily for up to four months appears to be safe for most people.
What are the negative side effects of astragalus?
Adverse effects from astragalus are uncommon, but rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort may occur. Astragalus might make the immune system more active, which can worsen the symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Most people tolerate astragalus well. But in rare cases, people in astragalus studies have developed minor side effects, including rashes, headache, fatigue, itching, runny nose, nausea, and diarrhea.
Who cannot take astragalus?
Because astragalus might worsen symptoms of autoimmune diseases, people with autoimmune diseases should avoid using astragalus. Also, astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system. So you should avoid using astragalus if you are taking immune-suppressing drugs. Pregnant or nursing women should not use astragalus root. If you have an immune system disease such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or another autoimmune disease, you should not use astragalus root.