Is Astragalus safe?
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Safety of Astragalus: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Astragalus Safety
Astragalus membranaceus, commonly known as Astragalus, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb widely used for its purported health benefits. This article synthesizes research findings on the safety of Astragalus, focusing on its use in various medical conditions and its potential side effects.
Safety in Diabetic Kidney Disease Treatment
Astragalus has been studied as an adjunctive therapy for diabetic kidney disease (DKD). A systematic review and meta-analysis involving 66 studies with 4785 participants indicated that Astragalus preparations, when added to conventional therapies, significantly reduced albuminuria, proteinuria, and serum creatinine levels compared to conventional therapies alone. Importantly, the adverse-events profile was similar between the Astragalus and control groups, suggesting that Astragalus is well-tolerated in the short term for DKD patients.
Subchronic Toxicity in Animal Studies
Subchronic toxicity studies of Radix Astragali extract (RAE) in rats and dogs have shown promising safety results. Over a three-month period, animals administered RAE exhibited normal body weight, organ weight, and hematological parameters. The study concluded that RAE is safe without distinct toxicity or side effects, with a safety dosage range significantly higher than the typical human dosage.
Safety in Radiation-Induced Lung Injury
Astragalus has also been evaluated for its efficacy and safety in treating radiation-induced lung injury (RILI). A meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1762 patients found that Astragalus-containing preparations significantly reduced the incidence of RILI and improved patients' quality of life without reported adverse reactions related to the treatment.
Genotoxicity and Antimutagenic Properties
Research on the genotoxicity of Astragalus species has shown that hexane extracts of various Astragalus species do not exhibit mutagenic activity at tested concentrations. Additionally, many of these extracts demonstrated antimutagenic properties, suggesting that they are genotoxically safe and may have protective effects against certain mutagens.
Use in Cancer Patients
Astragalus is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to support cancer treatment. Studies indicate that Astragalus can reduce immunosuppression caused by chemotherapy and enhance the effects of such treatments. While generally considered safe, the potential for herb-drug interactions exists due to the biologically active compounds in Astragalus. Therefore, caution is advised when used in conjunction with other medications.
Conclusion
Overall, the existing body of research suggests that Astragalus is generally safe for use in various medical conditions, including diabetic kidney disease, radiation-induced lung injury, and as an adjunct in cancer treatment. Animal studies further support its safety profile, showing no significant toxicity at high dosages. However, the potential for herb-drug interactions warrants careful consideration, especially in patients undergoing complex treatment regimens. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of Astragalus preparations.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Astragalus membranaceus (Huang Qi) as adjunctive therapy for diabetic kidney disease: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis.
Subchronic toxicity studies of Radix Astragali extract in rats and dogs.
Efficacy of astragalus in the treatment of radiation-induced lung injury based on traditional Chinese medicine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 RCTs
Mutagenic and antimutagenic effects of hexane extract of some Astragalus species grown in the eastern Anatolia region of Turkey
An Evidence-based Review of Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) for Cancer Patients
A Review of Recent Research Progress on the Astragalus Genus
Meta-analysis of the clinical value of Astragalus membranaceus in diabetic nephropathy.
Astragalus species: Insights on its chemical composition toward pharmacological applications
Astragalus membranaceus: A Review of its Protection Against Inflammation and Gastrointestinal Cancers.
Astragalus Mongholicus: A review of its anti-fibrosis properties
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