Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus, commonly known as huangqi in traditional Chinese medicine, is a perennial herb traditionally used in East Asian and some Central Asian cultures. It has been employed for its purported benefits on immune function, wound healing, and diabetes management, though specific uses vary among traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that Astragalus supplementation may reduce inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-6 during resistance training, enhance lactation performance and antioxidant capacity in sheep, and improve gut microbiota composition and immune status in broilers without negatively affecting growth. A network meta-analysis indicates potential benefits when added to Western medicine treatment for heart failure management, though the evidence is still preliminary. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded, but further research is needed to fully understand its 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