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Some studies suggest Astragalus is safe and offers various health benefits, while other studies highlight potential toxicity due to selenium accumulation and the presence of toxic compounds.
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Astragalus, a genus of flowering plants in the Leguminosae family, has been widely used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, for its purported health benefits. It is known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, questions about its safety, especially concerning its potential toxicity and side effects, remain pertinent.
Genotoxicity and Mutagenicity:
Subchronic Toxicity:
Selenium Accumulation:
Safety in Cancer Treatment:
General Safety and Toxicity:
Astragalus, particularly its extracts and polysaccharide fractions, is generally considered safe for medicinal and dietary use, with no significant genotoxic or subchronic toxic effects reported in animal studies. However, certain species can accumulate toxic levels of selenium, posing risks to animals and potentially humans. While Astragalus is safe for use in cancer treatment and traditional medicine, caution is advised due to the potential for herb-drug interactions and the presence of toxic compounds in some species.
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