special subjects
Astragalus
Does astragalus work?
Any single compound, including astragalus, is highly unlikely to have such a broad range of health benefits. Thus, evidence is very unlikely to confirm such multiple benefits. The evidence from studies in people to show that astragalus has the claimed health benefits is limited. Most or all of these studies are small (fewer than 150 participants) and of poor quality. These studies suggest that astragalus, often combined with standard treatment, could have the following benefits, among others: Improve heart function in people with Heart Failure (HF) who are also treated with standard therapy (although some evidence does not confirm this benefit) Control blood sugar levels in people with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) None Reduce signs of kidney damage in people with Chronic Kidney Disease None Prevent infections in people with Hepatitis B, Chronic None Reduce fatigue in athletes and people who have had a Overview of Stroke None Injectable forms of astragalus might reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in people with cancer, but evidence is lacking to show that oral forms of the root offer the same benefits. Larger, well-designed, and longer studies are needed to confirm any benefits of astragalus. 