Astragalus supplements have become popular in recent years due to their various purported health benefits. It’s thought to help improve heart health, support the immune system, and help with healthy aging.
Astragalus is a perennial plant that grows throughout inner Mongolia and Tibet. This herb contains astragalosides, a group of phytochemicals that are thought to provide astragalus with its various health benefits.
Nonetheless, further clinical research is needed to understand the implications of astragalus supplements and their safety and efficacy. As with all supplements, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.
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#1. Editor's Choice
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#2. Best Organic Option
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#3. Best Tincture
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- 3rd-Party Tested
- Premium Standardized Extract
- Ideally Sourced
- Made in the USA
- 3rd-Party Tested
- Certified Organic Astragalus
- Non-GMO Verified
- Made with Organic Astragalus
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-Free and Vegan
Table of Contents
The Best Astragalus Supplement Brands
Not sure where to turn when looking for the best astragalus supplement? This helpful article will guide you through the key factors to consider when choosing the best astragalus brand – we detail which brands to look for and which ones to stay away from.
1. Utzy Naturals
We recommend Astragalus by Utzy Naturals as the best overall astragalus supplement.
This formula by Utzy Naturals provides a daily dose of astragalus in one easy-to-take capsule.
It contains 500mg of astragalus root extract. This is the premium form of astragalus that is standardized to contain astragalosides – the key polyphenols thought to give astragalus its health benefits.
This formula is made with astragalus root sourced from Mongolia and China, this is the ideal source.
This formula comes in standard veggie-based capsules (certified vegan). Packaged in an environmentally-friendly green glass bottle.
Utzy Naturals is a family-owned business that specializes in making high-quality natural supplements. They produce their products in the USA, are NSF-certified, and conduct thorough tests to guarantee purity and safety.
If you’re looking to support your overall health and boost your immune system – this premium formula is for you. That’s why it’s our editor’s top pick as the best astragalus supplement.
Pros:
- Premium extract standardized to contain 0.5% Astragolsides
- One capsule serving size
- Sourced directly from Mongolia & China (the top growing regions for astragalus)
- Environmentally friendly glass bottles
- Made in a cGMP, NSF® certified facility
- Tested for purity, potency, and safety
Cons:
- Frequently out of stock
- Not certified organic
2. Wild Harvest
We recommend Astragalus by Oregon's Wild Harvest as the best organic astragalus option.
Oregon’s Wild Harvest is a US-based company with a strong tradition in creating high-quality herbal extracts.
This formula contains 1,125mg of astragalus root per serving (3 capsules). Note, this product contains whole herb astragalus, not an extract (which means you have to take more capsules to get the same benefit).
This product is made with certified organic astragalus. It’s unsure whether the astragalus is grown in the US, or whether it’s from overseas.
Oregon’s Wild Harvest is a brand of natural health products that is committed to providing high-quality, organic supplements. The company sources its ingredients from sustainable farms in the Pacific Northwest and manufactures its products in small batches to ensure freshness and potency. Oregon’s Wild Harvest offers a wide variety of supplements, including herbs, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
All in all, this formula is a good overall formula. The added plus is that it’s certified organic, an attribute that few Astragalus brands can offer. It’s also listed as non-GMO. Unfortunately, it comes as a whole herb, which means that you have to take many capsules to get the optimal daily dose.
Pros:
- Made with certified organic astragalus
- Non-GMO verified
- Made in a cGMP, NSF® certified facility
- Tested for purity, potency, and safety
- Glass bottle
- Free from gluten, dairy and soy allergens
Cons:
- Whole herb formula (versus a standardized extract)
- Requires taking 3 capsules daily
- Higher cost
3. Herb Pharm
We recommend Astragalus by Herb Pharm as the best astragalus tincture.
This formula contains a certified organic astragalus in a tincture form. It delivers 665mg of astragalus per serving.
This is a high-potency formula – backed by Herb Pharm’s reputation as a reliable astragalus brand.
While some individuals may be leery of alcoholic extract, it should be noted that this product is made with certified organic cane alcohol.
Herb Pharm is a brand of herbal supplements that has been in business for over 40 years. The company is committed to providing high-quality, organic herbal extracts and tinctures.
Herb Pharm sources its ingredients from sustainable farms around the world and manufactures its products in small batches to ensure freshness and potency.
While herbal tinctures aren’t for everyone (the taste can be difficult for some), this is a great organic astragalus supplement. This get’s the stamp of approval as our recommended astragalus tincture formula.
Pros:
- Made with certified organic astragalus
- Glass bottle
- Gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan
Cons:
- Liquid extracts can have an unpleasant taste (plus alcohol content can be problematic for some)
- Not a good option for kids
- Not standardized to contain astragalosides
- Higher cost
4. Gaia Herbs
We recommend Astragalus Supreme by Gaia Herbs as the best astragalus capsule.
Gaia Herbs’ Astragalus Supreme formula is a great all around astragalus supplement.
It includes a 1,300mg blend of astragalus and ligustrum berry. They are sold as a liquid Phyto-Cap®, which includes a liquid extract that’s enclosed in a traditional capsule, which makes it easier to consume for some individuals.
This product is vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and and soy free. It’s tested for microbes, heavy metals, identity, and pesticides.
Gaia Herbs is a highly trusted supplement brand established in 1987. They’re a Certified B Corporation and have strong connections with organizations like the American Botanical Council and the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. These partnerships ensure product safety and authenticity for customers.
This is our recommended formula for liquid-cap formula. If you do best with liquid extract but have a hard time consuming them, then this is a great option for you.
Pros:
- Easy-to-take liquid phyto-cap
- Made in a cGMP, NSF® certified facility
- Tested for purity, potency, and safety
- Glass bottle
Cons:
- Proprietary blend (which isn’t transparent to consumers)
- Not certified organic
- Includes ligustrum berry, which some reports indicate as potentially being toxic
5. Starwest Botanicals
We recommend Astragalus Root by Starwest Botanicals as the best bulk astragalus option.
For those looking for bulk astragalus, we recommend Starwest Botanicals.
This product contains certified organic whole astragalus root. If you are looking to make your own tinctures (or other herbal products), then this is a great option.
Starwest Botanicals is a brand of bulk herbs, spices, teas, and essential oils that has been in business since 1977. The company is based in Sacramento, California, and sources its ingredients from around the world. Starwest Botanicals products are certified organic by the USDA and non-GMO. The company also offers a satisfaction guarantee on all of its products.
Is free from fillers, soy, preservatives, and binders. This supplement is also gluten-free, dairy-free, and non-GMO.
This is the best bulk astragalus product on the market.
Pros:
- Certified organic astragalus
- Cut & sift form, which makes it easy for processing
Cons:
- Requires work to process before use
- Packaged in an unsustainable mylar bag
What is Astragalus?
Astragalus is a perennial herb. It belongs to the legume family and originally comes from Asia, where it grows in places like inner Mongolia and Tibet.
This plant has a scientific name, Astragalus membranaceus, but most people just call it astragalus. In China, it’s also known as Huang qi, and in other places, it might be called astragali radix or Mongolian milkvetch.
There are many different kinds of astragalus, around 2,000 types in total. Inside this plant, there’s a special group of natural compounds called astragalosides, and these are thought to be the reason why astragalus is good for your health.
Some people say that astragalus is an adaptogenic plant. In the past, it was used in Asia to help with lots of problems like feeling weak, having wounds, being anemic, having a fever, or dealing with allergies. It was even used for things like tiredness, not wanting to eat, and certain issues related to women’s health.
Doctors also use astragalus for problems with mucus and digestion. It can help with stomach problems like ulcers and diarrhea.
Research indicates that astragalus contains beneficial phytochemicals, including:
- Flavonoids
- Saponins
- Polysaccharides
Overall, this is a unique herb hat holds both cultural and practical significance.
Potential Health Benefits of Astragalus:
Below are the top researched-backed health benefits of astragalus
1. Immune Health
Astragalus has potential benefits for the immune system. It can boost the activity of immune cells called macrophages, which are like the body’s quick-response team against harmful invaders.
A study from the 1970s showed that high doses of astragalus increased immune markers. When combined with vaccines, it also showed immunological effects.
In animal and lab studies, astragalus was effective against avian influenza and the Epstein-Barr virus, displaying antiviral properties.
2. Heart Health
Astragalus has been extensively studied for its potential in aiding viral myocarditis, an inflammatory heart disease.
Research suggests its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties could assist those with this condition. Clinical research, mostly in China, utilizes a patented astragalus form administered via an IV drip.
A meta-analysis involving 2,522 participants across 28 trials found that astragalus significantly lowered heart enzyme levels, improved treatment efficacy, and showed no major adverse reactions. However, the researcher highlighted some poorly executed trials and called for more robust studies to solidify astragalus’s efficacy for myocarditis.
3. Anti-Aging Benefits
Astragalus’s antioxidants may aid healthy aging. Free radicals harm cells, but astragalus helps to stabilize cells and protect them.
Lab studies show it resists oxidation, reduces oxidative stress, and boosts defenses. Astragalus has also been found to improve antioxidant levels in animals, promoting healthy aging.
4. Respiratory Support
Astragalus may help to ease asthma symptoms.
In a study with kids that had asthma, this herb was shown to improve forced expiratory results due to anti-inflammatory properties.
Another study found that blend of Dangshen and Chinese licorice enhanced lung function in adult asthmatics.
In one final study involving allergy-induced asthma mice, astragalus was found to help lower inflammation and lung mucus. This positions astragalus as a promising remedy for asthma symptoms and respiratory health.
It is important to note that additional human clinical research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of astragalus and to determine appropriate doses and usage.
Side Effects of Astragalus:
Astragalus is generally safe to consume for most people. However, there are a few potential side effects of astragalus to be aware of.
Safety studies show that possible astragalus side effects can include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort, but these are uncommon. Astragalus may also interact with medications that suppress the immune system.
Before using any supplements containing astragalus, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
FAQs:
What is Astragalus?
Astragalus is a medicinal herb used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. The herb is known for its immune-boosting and adaptogenic properties, which may help the body better cope with stress and support overall well-being. It is often consumed in the form of teas, extracts, or supplements to promote vitality and immune system function.
What Does Astragalus Do?
Astragalus is thought to enhance the immune system, protect against oxidative stress, and act as an adaptogen, aiding stress management and overall well-being. It’s used in various forms like teas and supplements for immune support and stress resilience.
How Does Astragalus Work?
Astragalus contains antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage. It’s used to strengthen the immune system, prevent colds, manage blood pressure, address diabetes, and support the liver. Additionally, astragalus possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Where Can I Buy Astragalus?
You can find astragalus supplements and teas at natural food stores, health food stores, online retailers like Amazon, and at specialty shops. It’s important to choose high-quality products from trusted sources and carefully read the label for proper usage and check for any interactions with medications or health conditions.
Who Should Not Take Astragalus?
Those who have an autoimmune condition like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or if you’re on medications like cyclophosphamide or corticosteroids, avoid using astragalus.
What is the Best Way to Take Astragalus?
There is no clinically researched optimal time to take astragalus. That said, some individuals opt to take Astragalus in the morning with breakfast to enhance energy and immune function during the day. Alternatively, others may choose to consume it at night to aid relaxation and enhance sleep quality.
Can You Take Astragalus Every Day?
When ingested orally, Astragalus is generally considered safe for most adults. Dosages of up to 60 grams per day have been used safely for up to 4 months. It is typically well-tolerated.
How Much Astragalus Should You Take?
Astragalus is commonly available in powdered root form and is often taken in capsules. A usual dosage is around 500 milligrams (mg) of whole herb, taken two or three times daily. If taking an extract, then 300-500mg daily is typical.
Conclusion:
Astragalus supplements have surged in popularity due to their claimed health benefits. Known to potentially support heart health, immune function, and healthy aging, astragalus offers a range of potential advantages.
However, while astragalus shows promise, further clinical research is imperative to fully comprehend its implications, safety, and efficacy. As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating astragalus into your routine is strongly advised.
When seeking the best astragalus supplement, it’s essential to consider reputable brands that offer standardized extracts for optimal benefits. Utzy Naturals, Oregon’s Wild Harvest, and Herb Pharm offer variations of astragalus supplements, catering to different preferences and needs. Remember to prioritize consultation with a healthcare provider for a personalized approach to enhancing your well-being through astragalus supplementation.
