05/25/2025
Today's Health Tip!
27 Health Benefits of Astragalus Root
Reduces stress
Mild diuretic
Lowers cholesterol
Natural support for asthma
Fights free radical damage
Boosts energy
Prevents collagen degradation
Aids in wound healing
Supports healthy cell cycles
Supports Allergy relief
Alleviates symptoms from chemotherapy
Helps break down arterial plaque
Anti-viral
Anti-bacterial
Fights inflammation
Fights cancer
Boosts immune system
Increases white blood cell count
Fights colds and flu
Fights respiratory issues
Promotes circulation
Promotes healthy blood pressure
Protects cardiovascular system
Promotes healthy blood sugar
Strengthens liver
Regulates diabetes
Supports kidney health
Health Benefits of Astragalus Root
Astragalus Root as an Adaptogen
An important benefit of astragalus root is that it’s an adaptogen. An adaptogen is defined as a substance that works with a person’s body to regulate the effects of stress and fatigue — whether chemical, physical, or biological. In other words, astragalus root can help safeguard the body from emotional, physical, and mental stress. Studies show additional positive effects of astragalus on respiratory health, seasonal health, cardiovascular health, and more. However, it’s astragalus’ influence on the immune system as well as its antioxidant qualities that empower it to support the health of so many organs and therefore, lessen the results of aging.
Astragalus Root Can Reduce Estrogen Dominance
Estrogen and progesterone are two of the primary s*x hormones involved in the many everyday biological functions that occur in our bodies. Estrogen dominance, which can happen in both women and men, occurs when the ratio of estrogen to progesterone is not balanced.
Plant phytoestrogens which are also adaptogens, such as astragalus, are often referred to as anti-estrogenic, due to their ability to occupy estrogen receptor sites, they lower an excess net effect of circulating estrogen and can compete for binding in our bodies estrogen receptor sites against the more potent synthetic xenoestrogens. Xenoestrogens are a subclass of endocrine disruptors that are able to bind to estrogen receptor sites and elicit an estrogenic effect. In a nutshell, phytoestrogens tend to balance estrogen, with estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects to match whatever the body needs.
Phytoestrogens may even protect the body against xenoestrogens (man-made hormone mimics), also known as xenohormones. Today, excess estrogen (or estrogen dominance) is a growing concern for women in all seasons of life. This is partly because of the abundance of xenoestrogens coming into our bodies from synthetic pesticides, hormone-injected animal foods, plastics, personal body care products, polluted water, and hormone-containing drugs. Phytoestrogens can bind to hormone receptor sites before the xenoestrogen, blocking its harmful activity.
A direct plant estrogen binds to hormone receptors. Their chemical structure is similar to human hormones. Most are very gentle. For example, some research and studies suggest phytoestrogens are only 1/400th to 1/1000th of the potency of one’s naturally circulating estrogen. Because they are low in potency, when they bind to receptor sites, the net effect for most people is lower estrogen levels. However, for those with very low estrogen, phytoestrogens can modestly support and keep levels from falling by binding to estrogen receptor sites.
Anti-Aging Benefits of Astragalus Root
DNA is held by chromosomes that are bound by structures called telomeres. As cell division occurs, the telomeres shorten and then signal a stop in cellular growth called cellular senescence and may lead to aging and illness. T cells, part of the immune system, switch on the enzyme telomerase. This enzyme repairs and lengthens the telomeres, aiding the life of the cell. Astragalus root extracts are shown to switch on telomerase activity in human T cells. The results are healthier cell longevity and function.
Other than activating the telomerase enzyme, astragalus also slows the aging process by safeguarding mitochondria. By lessening or removing dangerous free radicals from cells, harm may be reduced or reversed; thus, slowing the aging process. A large number of anti-aging beauty creams include astragalus root in their formulations.
Safety & Side Effects of Astragalus Root
Clinical trials have not shown any indication of toxicity linked to astragalus root extract when used by itself. Some noted side effects that are minimal include diarrhea and as well as some other gastrointestinal issues. As is the case with all herbs, care should be taken before mixing astragalus root with other herbal supplements or medications, particularly those that lower the immune system. Not much is known about the effects of astragalus root during pregnancy. As always it’s crucial to ask your healthcare provider before taking any supplement while pregnant and/or breastfeeding.
More Information about Astragalus Root
Astragalus root is usually available in capsules, tablets, or as a liquid extract. Another way to take astragalus is by using astragalus tea which is made by steeping the shavings of the root in hot water. The natural soothing properties of astragalus root make it a beneficial ingredient for skincare products, thus it has become a customary ingredient in many anti-aging creams, lotions, and ointments.
References
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