Astragalus The Ancient Root of Vitality and Immunity

For thousands of years, traditional healers have relied on one remarkable herb to fortify the body, enhance longevity, and strengthen resistance to disease—Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus). Rooted deeply in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and other healing traditions, this adaptogenic powerhouse has long been revered for its ability to strengthen Qi (vital energy), fortify immunity, and promote resilience against stress and illness.

Today, modern science is confirming what ancient healers have known for centuries: Astragalus enhances immune function, supports heart and kidney health, and may even slow the ageing process. But its benefits extend even further—this versatile herb is also valued for its role in reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and increasing endurance.

Astragalus in Traditional Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Astragalus is known as Huang Qi, meaning “yellow leader,” reflecting both its golden-coloured root and its esteemed status as one of the most important herbs in Chinese herbalism. It has been used for over 2,000 years to strengthen qi, particularly Wei Qi, which is the body's protective energy akin to the immune system.

According to TCM principles:

• Strengthen Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) – In TCM, Wei Qi is the body’s protective energy, which acts as a shield against external pathogens. A weak Wei Qi is believed to make one prone to colds, flu, and infections. Astragalus is one of the most important herbs for fortifying Wei Qi, helping the body resist illness.
• Support Lung Qi & Respiratory Health – The Lungs are closely linked to immunity in TCM. Astragalus is often prescribed for chronic cough, shortness of breath, and weakness in the lungs, helping to strengthen lung function and improve endurance.
• Enhance Spleen Qi & Digestion – The Spleen governs digestion and the transformation of food into energy. When Spleen Qi is weak, symptoms like fatigue, bloating, poor appetite, and loose stools arise. Astragalus helps restore digestive strength, increase energy, and improve nutrient absorption.
• Promote Longevity & Vitality – In TCM, Astragalus is a key longevity herb, traditionally used to slow aging, strengthen the blood, and improve resilience against stress and illness. It is often included in tonic formulas for the elderly or those recovering from long-term illness.
• Support Kidney Qi & Vitality – In TCM, the Kidneys store the Essence (Jing) and govern long-term energy, aging, and resilience. Astragalus helps to nourish Kidney Qi and Yang, making it useful for fatigue, lower back weakness, frequent urination, and promoting sustained energy and resilience.
• Boost Liver Qi & Detoxification – The Liver governs the free flow of Qi and plays a key role in detoxification. Astragalus helps reduce Liver Qi stagnation, which can contribute to fatigue, poor digestion, irritability, and sluggish detox pathways.
• Lifts Yang Qi – In cases of chronic fatigue, weakness, or prolapsed organs (such as a drooping stomach or uterus), Astragalus is used to “lift” and restore balance.

Astragalus in Korean Traditional Medicine

In Korean Traditional Medicine (KTM), Astragalus has long been revered as an herb that enhances vitality and resilience. It is particularly valued for strengthening the immune system, boosting stamina, and aiding recovery from physical exhaustion. Korean athletes, martial artists, and warriors historically used Astragalus before battle or intense training to sustain endurance and prevent fatigue. It was also commonly prescribed for individuals recovering from illness or surgery, promoting faster healing and restoring energy levels.

• Improves Physical Performance & Recovery – Traditionally used to enhance endurance, build strength, and accelerate recovery after strenuous activity.
• Restores Energy & Resilience – Helps combat fatigue and rebuild strength in those recovering from illness, surgery, or prolonged stress.
• Supports Digestion & Metabolism – Strengthens Spleen Qi, aiding nutrient absorption and steady energy production.
• Balances Qi & Prevents Burnout – Helps restore equilibrium in cases of chronic fatigue, organ prolapse, or energy depletion.

Today, Korean herbalists continue to use Astragalus for chronic fatigue, post-viral recovery, athletic endurance, and digestive health. While its applications mirror those in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Korean practice emphasises its role in physical stamina and post-illness restoration, making it a key herb in both historical and modern wellness traditions.

Astragalus in Mongolian and Russian Herbalism

Mongolian and Russian traditional medicine have long valued Astragalus for its ability to help the body adapt to extreme conditions, including harsh winters, high altitudes, and physical stress. Mongolian healers used it to increase circulation, warm the body, and support heart health, particularly in cold climates where maintaining strong immunity is crucial. It was often prescribed to strengthen endurance, protect against seasonal illnesses, and enhance physical resilience in those exposed to demanding environments.

In Russian herbalism, Astragalus was considered a longevity herb, believed to strengthen the heart, support liver detoxification, and help the body withstand the effects of aging. It was traditionally used to promote vitality, endurance, and resilience, especially in those experiencing fatigue or declining strength with age. Astragalus was also valued for its role in balancing blood sugar and metabolism, making it a key herb for maintaining steady energy levels.

• Supports Circulation & Heart Health – Traditionally used to increase blood flow, warm the body, and strengthen the heart, especially in cold climates.
• Enhances Resilience in Harsh Environments – Valued for helping the body adapt to extreme weather, stress, and physical exertion.
• Boosts Endurance & Longevity – Helps restore balance in cases of burnout, chronic fatigue, or physical depletion, promoting lasting strength and resilience.
• Aids Liver Detoxification & Digestion – Helps process heavy, meat-rich diets, supporting digestion and metabolic health.

Today, Astragalus remains an important adaptogenic herb in these traditions, offering benefits for circulatory health, immune function, and overall energy balance.

Scientifically Studied Benefits of Astragalus

While Astragalus has been revered in traditional medicine for centuries, modern research is now validating its wide-ranging health benefits. Scientific studies have uncovered its ability to enhance immune function, support cardiovascular health, protect kidney function, and combat the effects of ageing. Researchers are also exploring its adaptogenic properties, showing how it helps the body cope with stress, improve endurance, and restore energy levels.

Enhances or modulates Immune Function

Astragalus is one of the most well-studied immune-modulating herbs. Studies show that it enhances white blood cell production, stimulates macrophages, and increases natural killer (NK) cell activity, all of which help the body defend against infections.

• A 2013 study published in the Acta Pharmacologica Sinica found that Astragalus extract significantly increased T-cell activity and antibody production, enhancing immune responses against pathogens. [1]
• Research from 2020 in Phytotherapy Research confirmed that Astragalus polysaccharides enhance immune function by increasing cytokine production and supporting a balanced immune response. [2]
• Traditionally, Astragalus has been used in autoimmune conditions such as lupus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS) in TCM and some integrative medicine practices. Clinical studies suggest that Astragalus helps regulate immune overactivity, rather than simply stimulating it. [3]

Supports Thymus Health & T-Cell Immunity

The thymus gland plays a key role in the immune system, helping to produce T-cells, which protect the body from infections. However, the thymus naturally shrinks with age, leading to fewer T-cells and a weaker immune defense. This process can be accelerated by chronic stress, poor diet, infections, and exposure to environmental toxins, making it even harder for the body to fight off illness.

• A 2020 A Review of the Pharmacological Action of Astragalus Polysaccharide found that they stimulated thymus regeneration and increased T-cell production, helping restore immune function in ageing and immunocompromised individuals. [4]
• Additionally, research published in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2020) showed that Astragalus enhances T-cell differentiation and cytokine regulation, further supporting immune balance. [5]
  
• By helping protect thymus function and sustain T-cell production, Astragalus may be particularly beneficial for ageing individuals, those recovering from illness, and people with weakened immune systems.

Astragalus has long been used to support immune resilience, making it a key ingredient in herbal formulations designed to strengthen the body's natural defences. It plays a vital role in our Immune Boost Tonic for humans and Immune Care For Pets, where it helps promote long-term vitality and immune balance.

Supports Heart and Circulatory Health

Astragalus contains flavonoids and saponins that help regulate blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve circulation. It also reduces oxidative stress in blood vessels, which is key in preventing heart disease.

• A 2017 meta-analysis in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Astragalus significantly improved heart function in patients with chronic heart failure, reducing inflammation and enhancing blood flow. [6]
• In a 2018 clinical trial, Astragalus extract was shown to lower blood pressure and reduce arterial stiffness, making it beneficial for hypertension management. [7]

Supports Kidney Function and Detoxification

Astragalus is widely used in renal health to protect against kidney damage, improve filtration, and reduce protein loss in urine. It is particularly beneficial in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic nephropathy.

• A 2014 study in Renal Failure found that Astragalus reduced proteinuria (excess protein in urine) and slowed kidney disease progression. [8]
• In 2022, a review in Sage Journals concluded that Astragalus protects kidney function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. [9]

Traditionally, Astragalus has been used to support kidney function and fluid balance. It continues to be valued in herbal formulations that nourish and protect kidney health. In our Kidney Support Tonic for humans and Kidney Care For Pets, Astragalus works alongside other kidney-supportive herbs to promote healthy filtration and long-term renal function.

Supports Lung Health & Respiratory Function

Astragalus has been shown to improve lung function, reduce inflammation, and protect against respiratory conditions such as COPD and pulmonary fibrosis. Studies indicate that Astragalus enhances lung defence mechanisms and reduces oxidative damage, supporting long-term respiratory health.

• A 2024 study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacy found that Astragalus polysaccharides improved lung function and reduced inflammation in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study showed that Astragalus helped enhance pulmonary defence mechanisms and reduce oxidative stress in lung tissues. [10]
• A 2020 study analysed Astragalus’s role in pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue). It found that Astragalus extract reduced lung inflammation and fibrosis progression, suggesting potential benefits for lung diseases such as asthma and interstitial lung disease.[11]

Supports Liver Health & Detoxification

Astragalus has been traditionally used to support liver function and aid detoxification, and modern research confirms its hepatoprotective benefits. Studies show that Astragalus can reduce liver inflammation, support enzyme activity for detoxification, and protect against liver fibrosis and fatty liver disease.

• A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology systematically reviewed the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) in treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now reclassified as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Since there is no approved pharmaceutical treatment for MAFLD, researchers have turned to natural compounds like APS for potential therapeutic benefits. [12]
• 2023 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated how Total Astragalus Saponins (TAS)—key active compounds from Astragalus—protect against cholestatic liver fibrosis (CLF), a severe liver condition caused by bile accumulation and inflammation.[13]

Anti-Aging and Longevity Benefits

Astragalus is rich in antioxidants and contains compounds like cycloastragenol, which may help slow cellular aging by protecting telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of DNA strands.

• A 2022 study published in BioRxiv found that cycloastragenol extracted from Astragalus activated telomerase, potentially delaying cellular ageing. [14]
• Research from 2016 suggests Astragalus may improve mitochondrial function, increasing energy production and reducing fatigue. [15]

Adaptogenic Stress & Energy Support

As an adaptogen, Astragalus helps the body cope with physical, mental, and emotional stress. It supports adrenal function, improves stamina, and combats chronic fatigue.

• A 2016 study found that Astragalus polysaccharides attenuate chronic stress-induced fatigue by modulating oxidative stress and mitochondrial function. [16]
• A 2024 systematic review examined Astragalus effect on exercise endurance and post-workout recovery. Participants who supplemented with Astragalus extract for 8 weeks showed increased VO₂ max (oxygen utilisation capacity), reduced lactic acid buildup, and improved endurance compared to the placebo group. These findings suggest that Astragalus enhances physical resilience and speeds up muscle recovery after exertion. [17]

As an adaptogen, Astragalus helps the body manage stress, restore energy, and support adrenal function. It is often included in herbal blends for those experiencing fatigue, burnout, or chronic stress. Our Adrenal Support Tonic pairs Astragalus with other adaptogens to promote resilience and balanced energy levels.

Organs & Systems Supported by Astragalus

Immune System – Enhances defence against infections, supports long-term immune resilience, and modulates an overactive immune system in autoimmune conditions.

Heart & Circulation – Reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and regulates blood pressure.

Kidneys & Detoxification – Protects kidney function, helps with protein loss in urine, and supports the body's natural detoxification pathways.

Kidneys & Urinary System – Regulates fluid balance, supports kidney function, and helps reduce oxidative stress in the renal system.

Lungs & Respiratory System – Strengthens Lung Qi, supports oxygenation, and is useful for chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and frequent lung infections.

Liver & Digestion – Supports liver detoxification and metabolic function, aids digestion by enhancing nutrient absorption, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Endocrine & Energy Systems – Supports adrenal function, combats fatigue, and enhances stress resilience, making it particularly beneficial for those experiencing burnout, chronic stress, or adrenal fatigue.

Astragalus Daily Dosage Recommendations

For best results, liquid extracts offer fast absorption and concentrated medicinal benefits compared to powders, capsules, or tablets. Tinctures extract a broader spectrum of beneficial plant compounds, including both water- and alcohol-soluble constituents, which may not be fully available in powdered or encapsulated forms. Unlike dried herbs that require digestion, tinctures bypass this step for quicker and more complete absorption. Our Astragalus tincture ensures you receive only the most potent medicinal constituents, without the bulk of indigestible plant matter.

• For Daily Wellness & General Health: 3–5 ml per day
• For Extra Support (Immune, Stress, lung, heart, or Kidney Health): 5–10 ml per day

For best results, take in split doses (morning and evening)

Our tinctures are alcohol-free, making them suitable for all ages and those who prefer to avoid alcohol. We use alcohol during the initial extraction process to draw out the full spectrum of medicinal compounds, then carefully remove the alcohol using a vacuum-based extraction method, leaving behind a pure, highly bioavailable herbal concentrate.

While powdered Astragalus is traditionally used, it requires higher doses to achieve similar effects. Capsules and tablets often contain binders and fillers, while tinctures deliver a pure, concentrated extract in an easy-to-take liquid form. Our alcohol-free tincture provides a highly bioavailable and effective way to support immune resilience, energy, and heart health. Find out more.

Safety & Contraindications for Astragalus

Astragalus is generally considered safe for long-term use and is well-tolerated in most people. However, there are some important considerations based on its immune-modulating, blood pressure-regulating, and kidney-supporting properties.

Autoimmune Conditions:

• Astragalus is an immune modulator, meaning it helps balance the immune system rather than simply stimulating it. Unlike herbs like echinacea, which can increase immune activity indiscriminately, Astragalus works to regulate and support immune function based on the body's needs.

  In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and herbal medicine practices, Astragalus has been traditionally used for autoimmune conditions such as lupus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS). It is especially beneficial when the immune system is weakened, such as in chronic infections or immune suppression, where it can help restore balance.

  However, during an active autoimmune flare-up, when the immune system is already overactive, Astragalus could theoretically exacerbate symptoms. For this reason, those with autoimmune conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using Astragalus.

  Some herbalists recommend low doses of Astragalus in cases where immune suppression is a concern, but higher doses should be avoided during flares unless used under professional supervision.

Blood Pressure & Heart Medications

• Astragalus may lower blood pressure due to its mild vasodilating effects. If you take antihypertensive medications (such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors), monitor your blood pressure to avoid excessive drops. It also has mild diuretic properties, which may enhance the effects of diuretics like furosemide (Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide.

Immunosuppressive Drugs (e.g., Post-Transplant Medications)

• Since Astragalus enhances immune function, it may reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or corticosteroids. People taking these medications (e.g., after an organ transplant) should avoid Astragalus unless prescribed by a doctor.

Diabetes & Blood Sugar Medications

• Astragalus may lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. If you take diabetes medications (like metformin or insulin), monitor your blood sugar levels to avoid hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).

Astragalus A Resilient Herb for Health and Longevity

For centuries, Astragalus has been used to fortify the body, enhance endurance, and defend against illness. From ancient healers in China, Korea, and Mongolia to modern researchers, its reputation as a powerful adaptogen and immune modulator has only grown stronger.

In today’s world of rising stress, immune challenges, and chronic health concerns, Astragalus remains an essential herbal ally. Whether for daily wellness, recovery from illness, or strengthening resilience, this golden root continues to provide vital support for immunity, cardiovascular health, and overall vitality.

Astragalus is also a key ingredient in our Everyday Range—herbal multivitamin tonics designed to promote balanced energy, immune function, and whole-body wellness for every life stage:

• Everyday Male – Supports energy, endurance, and immune resilience
• Everyday Woman – Promotes hormonal balance and daily vitality
• Everyday Child – Gentle nourishment for growing bodies
• Everyday Mature Woman – Encourages longevity and well-being

Beyond human health, Astragalus also plays a valuable role in pet wellness. Our Everyday Care formula for pets is crafted to support immunity, vitality, and overall well-being, helping your furry companions thrive.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal remedies, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications. For pet health concerns, please seek guidance from a holistic veterinarian.