Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1989;9(11):656-7, 644. How to Market Your Business with Webinars. View abstract. feeling "hangry"), or feeling "tired but wired", especially at night, you may have some level of adrenal dysfunction. Life Sci 8-15-2006;79(12):1186-1193. You can add the powdered root to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods, and astragalus is also available in tinctures, glycerites (alcohol-free substitutes for tinctures), and as a cream you can apply to your skin. Journal of Shanxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2006;29(3):19-20. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Wong, E. L., Sung, R. Y., Leung, T. F., Wong, Y. O., Li, A. M., Cheung, K. L., Wong, C. K., Fok, T. F., and Leung, P. C. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of herbal therapy for children with asthma. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Zhongguo Zhong.Yao Za Zhi. The inhibitory effect of Astragalus membranaceus on coxsackie B-3 virus RNA replication. 2. Jiangxi Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2005;36:26-27. Dr. Weil says: Astragalus is an herb thats been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many centuries to boost the immune system. Lee, T. M., Guo, L. G., Shi, H. Z., Li, Y. Su, Z. You might hear astragalus called by different names, including hung q, milk vetch, and beg kei. Here are 17 foods that you should likely avoid. Hypoglycemic effect of astragalus polysaccharide and its effect on PTP1B. Wei Y, Li C Chen X Liu Y Luo N. Effect of Astragalus parenteral solution of cytokines and angiotensin II in patients with congestive heart failure. If rest is the body's way of recharging, then the supplement can provide a much-needed boost to the batteries. Reduces Sleep Issues. Lu, D. C., Su, Z. J., and Rui, T. [Effect of jian yan ling on serum lipids, apoprotein and lipoprotein-a]. View abstract. ", Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine: "Effects of astragalus on cardiac function and serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha level in patients with chronic heart failure. Nan.Fang Yi.Ke.Da.Xue.Xue.Bao. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), Everything You Need to Know About Ginkgo Biloba, 5 Types of Tea That May Support Your Immune System, Kombucha 101: Nutrition, Health Benefits, Side Effects, and More, regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 22 Recipes That Can Strengthen Your Immune System, What Is Vitamin C? Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Your lithium dose might need to be changed. If you have a sore throat, astragalus tea can coat those irritated membranes, she says. 2009;32(5):744-747. View abstract. View abstract. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Li, Z. Y., Liu, B. G., and Liu, Y. M. Observation on viral myocarditis treated with Huangqi injection. 2016;191:206-215. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.062. Am J Chin Med 1994;22:63-70. Astragalus is an herb known scientifically as Astragalus membranaceus, and commonly as milk vetch and locoweed. 1986;6(1):62-64. People sometimes use it on the skin for wound care. 2012;35(2):269-273. China Pharmaceuticals 2000;9(7):44. Dig and twist until a good portion of the root comes out. View abstract. Clinical research on Huangqi injection for congestive heart failure. Brush, J., Mendenhall, E., Guggenheim, A., Chan, T., Connelly, E., Soumyanath, A., Buresh, R., Barrett, R., and Zwickey, H. The effect of Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceus and Glycyrrhiza glabra on CD69 expression and immune cell activation in humans. View abstract. Clinical observation of Huangqi Injection for congestive heart failure. View abstract. Ashwagandha as an Adaptogen 1) Stress and Anxiousness 2) Nervous System 3) Reproductive Health 4) Men's Health 5) Fitness 6) Joint Health 7) Sleep 8) Immune Health 9) Heart Health Supplements With Ashwagandha Ashwagandha and the Synergistic Approach Talk to Your Doctor About Ashwagandha View abstract. View abstract. What are the benefits of taking Astragalus? Xu, Y. F. Efficacy of Astragalus for postponing the deterioration of renal function in patients with diabetic nephropathy. (5) Helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels (12) 6. 2016;194:954-962. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.058. The use of these supplements also seems to reduce levels of proteinuria in the kidneys. The primary role of your immune system is to protect your body against harmful invaders, including bacteria, germs and viruses that can cause illness (7). Journal of Guangdong College of Pharmacy 2005;21(5):610-611. Clinical observation on the effect of Xinshu Capsule (XC) in treating frequent ventricular extrasystoles due to viral myocarditis and the influence on NO, NOS AND SOD [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology Information 1997;4(4):22-23. Astragalus is usually well-tolerated. 2000;20(4):255-257. Am J Kidney Dis. Doses of up to 60 grams per day have been safely used for up to 4 months. Astragalus is also classified as an adaptogen which means it helps the body deal with and adapt to stress. Firenzuoli, F., Gori, L., Di Simone, L., and Morsuillo, M. Important bias in the Astragalus meta-analysis. Journal of Practical Traditional Chinese Medicine 2004;20(9):501. 2003;28(8):746-751. Liu, S. S. Study of adjunct treatment of Astragali membranaceus for viral myocarditis. View abstract. J Clin Lab Immunol 1988;25:119-23. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. Zeng, F. The effect of Astragalus injection on incipient diabetic nephropathy and plasma endothelin. Check Price at Amazon. Yang, Y. X. [Experimental study of the effect of Astragalus membranaceus against herpes simplex virus type 1]. The University of Texas has shown it to be an adaptogenic herb which enables viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells to be "picked up" on the immune system's radar. However, you should consult a doctor if youre looking to use astragalus to supplement treatment for a medical condition, as some doses may be more effective than others., The American Journal of Chinese Medicine: "Astragalus membranaceus: A Review of its Protection Against Inflammation and Gastrointestinal Cancers. View abstract. Academic Proceedings of National Emergency Medicine Conference on Serious Disease 2005;156-157. 2009;29(5):381-385. Chu DT, Lepe-Zuniga J, Wong WL, et al. Zhang, H. Shi X. Ji J. L. The effect of Astragalus injection on proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy. While most people take astragalus for a few weeks, some people take it continuously. This is a marker used to determine kidney function and damage. [Effect of Astragalan on secretion of tumor necrosis factors in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells]. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Zhang, W. J., Hufnagl, P., Binder, B. R., and Wojta, J. Antiinflammatory activity of astragaloside IV is mediated by inhibition of NF-kappaB activation and adhesion molecule expression. Astragalus may cause rash, itchy skin, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort. Am J Chin Med 1992;20:289-94. This article has been viewed 5,628 times. Stegelmeier BL, James LF, Panter KE, et al. 2002;23(8):757-761. J Zhejiang.Univ Sci B 2009;10(5):380-390. Haines, C. J., Lam, P. M., Chung, T. K., Cheng, K. F., and Leung, P. C. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effect of a Chinese herbal medicine preparation (Dang Gui Buxue Tang) on menopausal symptoms in Hong Kong Chinese women. When taken by mouth: Astragalus is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults. Before you take astragalus supplements, make sure the herb is right for you and your medical needs. View abstract. 2003;28(1):78-80. Song, J., Meng, L., Li, S., Qu, L., and Li, X. Flavonoids and other compounds such as astragaloside IV can help relax blood vessels, allowing them to widen. Therefore, take 200-400 mg of elemental magnesium per day, preferably as magnesium taurate or Jigsaw Magnesium, the most absorbable kinds. Endocrine. If you have kidney disease, reducing your potassium, phosphorus, and sodium intake can help manage it. Wang, Y. G. An X. J. Wu X. Traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus reverses predominance of Th2 cytokines and their up-stream transcript factors in lung cancer patients. Z. Z., Chai, Z. N., Li, W. S., Liu, X. F., Wang, S., Qin, L., and Guo, W. Q. Pharmacologic effects of codonopsis pilosula-astragalus injection in the treatment of CHD patients. Theres still limited research on astragalus, but it has uses in treating the common cold, seasonal allergies, heart conditions, kidney disease, chronic fatigue and more (5, 6). Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Xue.Bao. 2002;8(5):379-382. individual. Contraindications. What are the benefits of taking Astragalus? Effect of astragaloside IV on the embryo-fetal development of Sprague-Dawley rats and New Zealand White rabbits. People who are on immunosuppressive medications shouldnt take astragalus. 3. Researchers from Texas have suggested that taking astragalus extract can prolong the life of cancer patients while studies on animals have shown that astragalus has potential anti-tumor effects against certain types of cancer including leukemia and melanoma.. 2009;29(6):1192-1194. 2009;36(2):268-274. Zhou, Y, Huang, Z, Huang, T, and et al. Li, N. Q. Wei, H., Sun, R., Xiao, W., Feng, J., Zhen, C., Xu, X., and Tian, Z. Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2001;7(3):214-216. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that children with a fever should not take astragalus because it may increase the fever and result in it lasting longer. View abstract. View abstract. 6 Are there any side effects to taking astragalus root? 10. However, there are no studies to determine the safety of high doses in the long term. View abstract. [Prospective clinical study of radix astragali and its compound prescription for treatment of beta-thalassemia in children]. Yet, findings are mixed (18). Its considered an adaptogen. 2002;22(7):515-517. The recommended dose is 20 to 60 drops three times a day. The supplements can stimulate your immune system, leading to medical issues if you have an autoimmune disease. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. View abstract. Zhou, S., Shao, W., and Zhang, W. [Clinical study of Astragalus injection plus ligustrazine in protecting myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury]. Astragalus membranaceus and Polygonum multiflorum protect rat heart mitochondria against lipid peroxidation. Hepatoprotective effects of astraglus root. It is also used for energy tonics that are taken daily at certain times of the year. View abstract. [Primary research on the clinical significance of ventricular late potentials (VLPs), and the impact of mexiletine, lidocaine and Astragalus membranaceus on VLPs]. Chu DT, Wong WL, Mavligit GM. View abstract. Influence of traditional Chinese anti-inflammatory medicinal plants on leukocyte and platelet functions. A., Sun, L. M., and Chen, Y. X. ", Phytotherapy Research: "Efficacy and safety of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.". 2008;28(6):495-498. View abstract. Astragalus is a powerful adaptogenic herb that has gained popularity recently as research has emerged about the possibility that it can protect DNA and increase longevity. View abstract. Traditional Chinese Medicine for treatment of cerebral palsy in children: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. 2001;21(4):274-276. View abstract. Fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb, potentiates LAK cell cytotoxicity generated by a low dose of recombinant interleukin-2. Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih 1990;10:278-9, 260. Li, L. Diabetic nephropathy treating with Astragalus. I find that L-theanine with my coffee as well as before bed helps with focus and rest. 2010;9(1):24-31. According to some studies, astragalus may help alleviate some of them. Clinical observation on the effect of Astragalactoside injection in the treatment of infantile viral myocarditis [in Chinese]. If you want to keep the plant alive, only harvest 30% of the smaller roots. Analysis on the effect of garlicin for treating viral myocarditis. 2003;23(5):351-353. Z., Qi, X. L., Zhang, M. X., and Li, Y. P. [Clinical and experimental study of treatment of nanmiqing capsule for chronic prostatitis]. This article has been viewed 5,628 times. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Some evidence shows that astragalus may help improve strength and stamina. Yang, Y. Kim, C., Ha, H., Lee, J. H., Kim, J. S., Song, K., and Park, S. W. Herbal extract prevents bone loss in ovariectomized rats. 4 You shouldn't use astragalus without a healthcare practitioner's recommendation if you have autoimmune diseases such as: Crohn's disease Multiple sclerosis Psoriasis Rheumatoid arthritis Type 1 diabetes Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) 30 cases of infantile viral myocarditis treated by integrated Chinese and western drugs. 1. Astragalus root can be found in many different forms. Z. View abstract. Wu C. Clinical effects of Huangqi injection on heart failure. Nan.Fang Yi.Ke.Da.Xue.Xue.Bao. All rights reserved. Creatine therapy in myophosphorylase deficiency (McArdle disease): a placebo-controlled crossover trial. Liu Z. Ma L, Yu J Han Y. Ma, K., Sun, L. H., and Wang, Q. H. [Clinical study on treatment of 405 cases of irregular menstruation by tiaojing zhixue granules]. J Pharm Pharmacol 2003;55:1275-82. Gao Z, Zhang L Xu Y Liu L Zhang L. Clinical observation of Astragalus injection for congestive heart failure. View abstract. Supports Digestive Health. Chinese Medicine of Factory and Mine 2004;17:446-447. View abstract. View abstract. Lee, H. J. and Lee, J. H. Effects of medicinal herb tea on the smoking cessation and reducing smoking withdrawal symptoms. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Zhongguo Zhen.Jiu. Studies indicate that astragalus supplements may help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Answer: Atorvastatin (Lipitor), rosuvastatin (Crestor), and other cholesterol-lowering statin drugs can be affected by taking supplements and can affect your ability to absorb certain vitamins and minerals. Shi, H. M., Dai, R. H., and Fan, W. H. [Intervention of lidocaine and Astragalus membranaceus on ventricular late potentials]. Zhang L, Wang G Zhang G. Therapeutic effect observation of Huangqi injection as assisted treatment for pulmonary heart failure. Zhonghua Jie.He.He.Hu Xi.Za Zhi. Astragalus is an herb that is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Wu, J. H., Li, Q., Wu, M. Y., Guo, D. J., Chen, H. L., Chen, S. L., Seto, S. W., Au, A. L., Poon, C. C., Leung, G. P., Lee, S. M., Kwan, Y. W., and Chan, S. W. Formononetin, an isoflavone, relaxes rat isolated aorta through endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent pathways. Chen, Z. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine on Cardio/Cerebrovascular Disease 2005;3(11):1006. Adaptogens are a class of natural substances that are believed to stimulate the body's resistance to physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. Luo X. Zhongguo Zhong.Yao Za Zhi. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Z., Yu, X. H., Zhang, P., and Yang, Y. H. Observation on 20 cases of viral myocarditis treated with. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2010;7:67. View abstract. Jiao X, Duan Y. Singapore Med J 1995;36:387-90. Astragalus root is an adaptogen herb that aids the body in dealing with a variety of stressors, including chemical, physical and emotional stress. . View abstract. With a lot of these botanicals, theres great anecdotal evidence, but the research hasnt quite caught up yet, she says. Complement Ther.Med 2009;17(3):141-146. It should only be administered by IV or injection under medical supervision (17). Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. She is a member of the Arkansas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2005;26(2):345-352. 2005;33(1):127-138. Interventions for preventing infection in nephrotic syndrome. Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Xue.Bao. Other types of astragalus, including some that grow in the United States, have different components and could make you sick, according to NCCIH. Chinese Journal of Primary Medicine and Pharmacy 2003;10:38-39. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements for content, potency, labeling, or claims. Hou YD, Ma GL, Wu SH, et al. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. While further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of astragalus root, its used for diabetes management in China., Though studies are limited, some evidence points toward astragalus as a means of reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Zhongguo Wei Zhong.Bing.Ji.Jiu.Yi.Xue. A few people who take astragalus orally have reported rashes, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort. Dai, F. and Long, Y. C. Combined Chinese and Western treatment of chronic hepatitis B: an analysis of 38 cases [in Chinese]. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Integr.Cancer Ther. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. These other types of astragalus are generally not used in dietary supplements. It is also used for energy tonics that are taken daily at certain times of the year. View abstract. 2008;6(5):530-532. Zhai L, Wang M Yue J Ma Y. Check that the supplement has been verified by a third party or a regulatory organization like US Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1994;14(4):199-202. Wang, Q. L. Application of Astragalus injection on 30 patients with diabetic nephropathy. View abstract. Miao, Q. F. Wang L. Wang J. Y. View abstract. Zhongguo Dang.Dai Er.Ke.Za Zhi. Li S, Hao J Wu F et al. Effect of Astragulas membranaceus on natural killer cell activity and induction of alpha- and gamma- interferon in patients with coxsackie B viral myocarditis. Astragalus is used in traditional Chinese medicine for night sweats and diarrhea . Astragalus is a powerful "non-specific" immune modulator. View abstract. Clinical observation of Huangqi Injection for congestive heart failure. For adults, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 250 to 500 mg standardized extract three to four times daily. Native to parts of China and a member of the pea family, this bushy perennial plant grows from a hairy stem that produces clusters of small flowers. 2011;31(5):631-634. With that said I see people who have chronic lyme take it, and it's in the AL Complex which I have just started again. Bi, Z. J. It is also advised to avoid using astragalus while pregnant or breastfeeding because of harmful effects that have been shown in preliminary studies. 2008;28(9):859-861. View abstract. Zhang, B. R., Li, S., Yuan, P. Y., Zhang, X. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. The effect of Astragalus on early stage of diabetic nephropathy. Taixiang, W., Munro, A. J., and Guanjian, L. Chinese medical herbs for chemotherapy side effects in colorectal cancer patients. For example, a child weighing 50 lbs. Consult your healthcare provider or herbalist for the correct dose for you. Chem.Pharm Bull. Have you ever heard of astragalus? The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the pediatric dosage is calculated using the standard adult dosage based on a 150-lb. 2009;29(4):313-316. However, astragalus only appeared to be helpful during the first week of treatment (21). Is Astragalus safe to take everyday? Shi, F. S., Yang, Z. G., and Di, G. P. [Effect of Astragalus saponin on vascular endothelial cell and its function in burn patients]. It is also often used in combination with other herbs. Zhao, K. S., Mancini, C., and Doria, G. Enhancement of the immune response in mice by Astragalus membranaceus extracts. Cancer. Hu J, Gan J. Astragalus injection for 30 cases with chronic heart failure. View abstract. Here's an in-depth look at how CBD may interact with other substances, including over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs. Acta Pharmacol.Sin. Mo, W., Shi, Q., Hou, B., Ge, J., Ye, J., and Wan, H. Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy with Single Disease Control in the Treatment of Mild Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. Liao, J. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. View abstract. Sleep-related side effects from fish oil, such as sleepiness or insomnia, don't occur commonly, and when they do they usually improve within a couple of weeks as your body adjusts to the influx of omega-3 fatty acids. Chen, H. W., Lin, I. H., Chen, Y. J., Chang, K. H., Wu, M. H., Su, W. H., Huang, G. C., and Lai, Y. L. A novel infusible botanically-derived drug, PG2, for cancer-related fatigue: a phase II double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled study. Effects of several Chinese herbal aqueous extracts on human sperm motility in vitro. Similarly, several other studies have demonstrated benefits of the herb for nausea and vomiting in individuals undergoing chemotherapy for colon cancer (20). Astragalus is used in traditional Chinese medicine for night sweats and diarrhea. Chinese Journal of the Practical with Modern Medicine 2006;19(8):880-881. Absorption and metabolism of Astragali radix decoction: in silico, in vitro, and a case study in vivo. 2003;10(5):1507-1512. View abstract. Rehmannia has been used to balance the yin for 2,000 years. Fasting Teas 101: Potential Benefits, Known Risks, and More, Mangoes 101: Nutrition, Benefits, Types, and More, What Is Scurvy? 1995;15(8):483-485. 2005;1-72. Astragalus root can be found in many different forms. Traditional Chinese Medicine used this herb for night sweats, deficiency of chi (e.g., fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite), and diarrhea . 2012;11:CD003711. 1999;19(2):90-92. View abstract. A much lower dose, 0.25 to 0.3 mg, may be more effective for regular use. J Nutr 2006;136(4):899-905. Liu, J. P., Yang, M., and Du, X. M. Herbal medicines for viral myocarditis. Z., and Song, G. Y. Leehey, D. J., Casini, T., and Massey, D. Remission of membranous nephropathy after therapy with Astragalus membranaceus. Li, L., Zhang, S. L., Zhong, X. L., Xu, L. L., and Duan, A. Y. Product is not available in this quantity. For example, studies have shown that taking 4060 grams of astragalus per day has the potential to improve blood sugar levels after fasting and after meals in people with type 2 diabetes when taken daily for up to four months (27). View abstract. Z. Vascul.Pharmacol. Fu X. Astragalus has been shown to improve proteinuria in several studies involving individuals with kidney disease (29). You can choose supplements that meet independent quality standards from ConsumerLab.com, NSF, or USP. ", Molecules: "Astragalus membranaceus improves exercise performance and ameliorates exercise-induced fatigue in trained mice. View abstract. Sichuan Journal of Physiological Sciences 2006;28(2):81. Am J Public Health 2002;92(10):1619-1628. Biol.Pharm.Bull. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 1998;26(1):9-10. A., and . For most people, astragalus is well tolerated. Park JH, Kim BK, Park MK, and et al. Its purported to enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation. would take about 1/4 the adult dose. View abstract. Macrophages are immune cells that engulf and remove pathogens from the human body. Z. If you are giving astragalus supplements to a child, always speak to your doctor first to determine the correct dosage. 8-7-2009;15(29):3676-3680. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Ai.Zheng. View abstract. On the other hand, if you want to use astragalus primarily to help support your immune system, taking it at night before bed can also be beneficial, as this gives your . Yang, R. F. Application of Astragalus injection on 56 patients with diabetic nephropathy. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 1990;30(2):145-149. Liang, H. Y., Hou, F., Ding, Y. L., Zhang, W. N., Huang, X. H., Zhang, B. Y., and Liu, Y. View abstract. Observation on efficiency of jiangtang capsule in treating diabetes mellitus type 2 with hyperlipidemia. Liu A. Xiong, M., He, Q., Lai, H., Huang, W., Wang, L., Yang, C., and Wang, J. Radix Astragali injection enhances recovery from acute acoustic trauma. The. If you have these conditions, it would be best to speak with a Doctor or TCM Practitioner to see if Astragalus is safe for you to take, and if not, which other herbs might be beneficial instead. Its important to keep in mind that when we talk about astragalus we are talking about the speciesAstragalus membranaceus. View abstract. Harbin Med 1997;17(3):50-52. Astragalus root contains antioxidants, which act to remove harmful free radicals from the body. Astragalus has antioxidant effects that prevent free radical production, which means that it inhibits any kind of free radical damage that can cause long-term negative effects.