Astragalus Membranaceus Root Powder
Astragalus may be safe at typical supplement doses (up to 60 g/day for 4 months without notable adverse effects per NIH NCCIH). However, it can interact with immune-suppressing drugs and may pose risks during pregnancy.
What it is
Powdered root of Astragalus membranaceus, a perennial herb used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Used as a botanical supplement and traditional tonic; sometimes added to teas, soups, and dietary supplements.
Why it's flagged
- herb-drug interactions (CYP enzymes)
- potential immune suppression at high doses
- pregnancy safety unknown
- animal studies show fetal toxicity
What regulators actually say
"Astragalus has been promoted as a dietary supplement for many conditions... However, there is not sufficient reliable scientific evidence to know whether astragalus is useful for any health condition."
"Astragalus has not been associated with serum enzyme elevations during therapy nor in causing clinically apparent liver injury."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Marketed as a dietary supplement under DSHEA; not FDA-approved for any therapeutic claim.
European Union — EFSA
Not approved as a novel food in the EU for general use; supplement status varies by member state.
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