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The Function and Application of Astragalus Extract
Author : Naturalin Date : Click : times
For thousands of years, Astragalus membranaceus, known as "Huang Qi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been revered as a precious herbal remedy for invigorating vitality and safeguarding health. With the advancement of modern biotechnology, Astragalus extract—derived from the dried roots of this perennial plant—has transcended traditional usage to become a versatile ingredient in health products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its rich array of bioactive compounds endows it with remarkable functional properties, making it a focal point of interest in both traditional and modern health research. Let’s delve into the core functions and diverse applications of Astragalus extract.
Core Functional Properties of Astragalus Extract
The efficacy of Astragalus extract stems from its abundant bioactive components, including astragalosides, polysaccharides, flavonoids, and isoflavones . These compounds work synergistically to deliver multiple health benefits, with the following functions being the most well-documented:
1. Immune Modulation: Strengthening the Body’s Natural Defense
Astragalus extract is widely recognized as a potent immunomodulator. Its polysaccharides, such as Astragalan I, II, III and APS-I, APS-II, play a pivotal role in enhancing immune function by stimulating the activity of macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-lymphocytes . These immune cells are critical for identifying and eliminating pathogens like viruses and bacteria, as well as regulating the body’s immune response. Additionally, the extract promotes the production of interferon, a protein that boosts antiviral immunity . In clinical research, Astragalus extract has shown promise in supporting immune recovery in patients with weakened immunity due to chemotherapy or radiation .
2. Anti-Inflammatory and Joint Health Support
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many modern health issues, including joint disorders. Astragalus extract’s flavonoids—such as quercetin and kaempferol—inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes (e.g., cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase) and reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β . A 2025 in vitro study demonstrated that hydroalcoholic Astragalus extract effectively downregulated inflammatory mediators and matrix-degrading enzymes in human chondrocytes, highlighting its potential as a nutraceutical strategy for joint health . A subsequent randomized, double-blinded clinical trial confirmed that 480mg of standardized Astragalus extract reduced knee joint pain by 30% in adults after 28 days, along with significant improvements in joint mobility and function .
3. Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effects
Oxidative stress caused by free radicals is a major contributor to cellular damage and aging. Astragalus extract’s polysaccharides and flavonoids act as powerful antioxidants, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress . Moreover, it exhibits hepatoprotective properties: animal studies have shown it can alleviate liver inflammation and fibrosis, while human studies have confirmed it does not cause liver injury and may even support liver health . This makes it a valuable ingredient in products targeting liver protection.
4. Adaptogenic and Anti-Fatigue Benefits
As an adaptogen, Astragalus extract helps the body cope with physical, mental, and emotional stress . It regulates the body’s stress response by balancing energy metabolism, reducing fatigue, and enhancing vitality. This aligns with its traditional TCM use as a tonic for combating weakness and exhaustion. Modern applications often include it in anti-fatigue supplements to support an active lifestyle.
5. Cardiovascular and Renal Protection
Emerging research highlights Astragalus extract’s potential in supporting cardiovascular and renal health. Its polysaccharides have been shown to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive mice by inhibiting the TGF-β1-ILK signaling pathway, which is linked to renal fibrosis and dysfunction . Additionally, it may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart function in individuals with severe heart disease, though more clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects .
Diverse Applications of Astragalus Extract
Thanks to its multifunctional properties and excellent safety profile, Astragalus extract has been widely adopted across multiple industries. From health supplements to cosmetics, its applications continue to expand with technological innovation:
1. Health Supplements: The Mainstream Application
The health supplement sector is the largest market for Astragalus extract. Formulated into capsules, tablets, powders, and gummies, it mainly targets immune support, anti-fatigue, and joint health. For instance, a renowned health brand’s immune-modulating supplement with Astragalus extract as the key ingredient achieves annual sales exceeding 1 billion yuan. Market forecasts show the global demand for Astragalus extract in health supplements will grow at an annual compound growth rate of over 8%.
2. Pharmaceuticals: A Traditional Herb Goes Modern
In pharmaceuticals, Astragalus extract is used in antiviral, antibacterial, and liver-protective formulations, and is a common component in TCM prescriptions for upper respiratory infections, hepatitis, and heart failure. A Chinese pharmaceutical company produces an antiviral TCM with Astragalus extract as the main ingredient, with an annual output of 10 million boxes, ensuring safety and efficacy through strict quality control standards.
3. Cosmetics: Harnessing Antioxidant for Youthful Skin
The cosmetics industry adopts Astragalus extract for its antioxidant and anti-aging properties, as it scavenges free radicals and protects skin cells from environmental damage, making it ideal for anti-wrinkle creams, serums, and masks. Its market share in China’s cosmetics industry continues to rise as consumers prefer natural skincare ingredients.
4. Food Additives: Natural and Safe Enhancements
Astragalus extract is also used as a natural food additive, leveraging its safety and mild flavor. It serves as a natural pigment or flavor enhancer in beverages, snacks, and functional foods . Its natural origin aligns with the growing consumer demand for clean-label products, making it a viable alternative to synthetic additives in the food industry.
5. Animal Feed: Natural Growth Promoter and Immunity Booster
Driven by the global trend of reducing antibiotic use in livestock farming, Astragalus extract has become a promising natural feed additive. Its bioactive components (especially polysaccharides and flavonoids) enhance livestock and poultry immunity, reduce disease incidence, and improve growth performance (e.g., weight gain and feed conversion rate). Adding it to broiler and pig feed improves intestinal health and nutrient absorption, and reduces stress responses during transportation or environmental changes. As a safer, residue-free alternative to synthetic growth promoters, it has been widely promoted in China, Europe, and other regions.
Safety Considerations and Future Outlook
Notably, its application in animal feed is expected to expand further with stricter global antibiotic restriction policies, as its natural, residue-free features make it a core candidate for sustainable livestock farming.
Looking ahead, Astragalus extract has promising market prospects. Driven by growing consumer awareness of natural health products and the global popularity of TCM, its applications will expand further. Technological advancements in extraction and purification will improve product quality, and ongoing research will unlock new applications, bridging traditional herbal wisdom and modern health innovation.
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References
1. Mariano, A., et al. (2025). Astragalus membranaceus Extract Attenuates Inflammatory Cytokines in Human Chondrocytes. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47, 731. 2. 2025 China Astragalus Extract Industry Market Research Report. (2025). Originality Documents.
3. Zheng, W., et al. (2021). Astragalus Polysaccharide Reduces Blood Pressure Through the TGF-β1-ILK Pathway. PMC, 8527034.
4. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). LiverTox: Astragalus Section.
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