Astragalus
Botanical
Also known as: Huang qi, Astragalus root, Membranous milk vetch, Astragalus Extract (Astragalus membranaceus), Astragalus membranaceus root
B
Grade B💊 500-1000mg extract 2-3x daily🎯 8 primary uses🔗 4 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upHeart & Longevity+50 pts
Overview
Astragalus root extract is a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient studied for potential immune-supporting and adaptogenic properties. Evidence for human efficacy is limited and primarily from small trials, with most research conducted in Asia.
Primary Uses
Immune modulationPreventionAdaptogenTraditional tonicImmune system supportStress adaptationEnergy and staminaExercise recovery
Frequently Asked About Astragalus
How much Astragalus should I take?
The typical effective range is 500-1000mg extract 2-3x daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Astragalus?
Daily for prevention. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Astragalus with food?
Either way.
Does Astragalus interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Immunosuppressants (may oppose) and Lithium (may affect levels). If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Astragalus.
What does Astragalus pair well with?
Astragalus stacks well with Reishi, Eleuthero, and Schisandra — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Astragalus?
Astragalus should be avoided or used with caution by people with Autoimmune diseases, Immunosuppressant use, and Active infection (some traditions say don't use). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Astragalus?
Most people tolerate Astragalus well. The most commonly reported side effects are Rare, well tolerated. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
500-1000mg extract 2-3x daily
Timing
Daily for prevention
With food
Either way
Duration
Can use long-term for prevention, not during acute infection
Special Populations
Those wanting immune support, elderly
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Astragalusyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Mechanism of Action
- • Increases T-cell activity
- • Stimulates macrophages
- • Promotes antibody production
- • Telomere support (TA-65 extract)
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade B
Traditional use supported by preliminary research
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • May stimulate immune system - avoid in autoimmune conditions
Contraindications
- • Autoimmune diseases
- • Immunosuppressant use
- • Active infection (some traditions say don't use)
Common Side Effects
- • Rare, well tolerated
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Traditional use in pregnancy, but limited modern data
Liver & Kidney Notes
Safe
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Immunosuppressants (may oppose)
- • Lithium (may affect levels)
🧪 Supplements
- • Often combined with other adaptogens
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No significant interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
ImmunosuppressantsUse cautiously with other immune stimulants
Best Goal Synergies
Immune preventionLongevityAdaptogen
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Root from mature plant
- • Standardized extract
- • Reputable source
Standardization Markers
Astragalosides contentPolysaccharide content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Prevention herb, not acute treatment
- • Safe for long-term use
- • Part of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Tags
immuneadaptogentonicpreventiontraditional-chinese-medicineimmune-supportadaptogenicpowder-form
Top Products with Astragalus
Highest-scored catalog products containing Astragalus, ranked by our scoring engine.
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Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Astragalus — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/astragalus
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.