Li S, Lv M. Astragalus injection as the assisted treatment for 30 cases with pulmonary heart failure. Astragalus is used to protect and support the immune system, preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, lowering blood pressure, treating diabetes, and protecting the liver. Adaptogens are a class of natural substances that are believed to stimulate the body's resistance to physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. Astragalus - The Lost Herbs Some astragalus species, usually not found in dietary supplements, can be toxic to livestock. Harbin Med 1997;17(3):50-52. Astragalus (Astragalus . Journal of Shaanxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2000;23(4):46-47. While human trials may be needed to confirm these results, the research points toward a potential increase in performance and stamina during exercise.Another study found that astragalus when combined with other supplements may reduce symptoms of fatigue in those with chronic fatigue syndrome., While there are few risks of astragalus use, some side effects have been reported, including:. 11 Popular Natural Remedies for the Common Cold - Verywell Health Your lithium dose might need to be changed. 2006;26(6):504-507. Li, S. M., Yan, J. X., and Yang, L. [Effects of Astragalus injection on renal tubular function in patients with IgA nephropathy]. You can connect with Sara on LinkedIn. For most people, astragalus is well tolerated. Application of Astragalus injection on 68 patients with diabetic nephropathy. 1992;12(10):579, 588-592. The following drug interactions can occur with astragalus: Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar): This drug is used to suppress the immune system. 2004;42(7):490-494. Zhongguo Dang.Dai Er.Ke.Za Zhi. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. Make sure you purchase astragalus supplements from a reputable herbal supplier. View abstract. Treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy with the herb Astragalus membranaceus. Nutrients. View abstract. Am J Kidney Dis 2007;50(6):1028-1032. Life Sci 8-15-2006;79(12):1186-1193. 2010;25(2):420-426. 1998;21(5):287-288. Common gastrointestinal side effects of ashwagandha are diarrhea and nausea. Astragalus may cause rash, itchy skin, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort. View abstract. In the United States, astragalus, an immune stimulant, is taken to prevent the common cold and upper respiratory infections. Guo H, Liu L Yuan W Miao Z. Z., Qi, X. L., Zhang, M. X., and Li, Y. P. [Clinical and experimental study of treatment of nanmiqing capsule for chronic prostatitis]. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1991;11(8):468-70, 452. Guilin Medicine 2001;3:19-20. 9-9-2009;57(17):7666-7672. The University of Texas has shown it to be an adaptogenic herb which enables viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells to be "picked up" on the immune system's radar. Its been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and along with its immune-boosting properties, its touted as a treatment for colds, seasonal allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, kidney disease, and wound healing, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). A phase II study of an herbal decoction that includes Astragali radix for cancer-associated anorexia in patients with advanced cancer. Liu Y, Wang H. Curative effect observation of traditional Chinese and western medicine for the treatment of congestive heart failure. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. View abstract. Liu, W. J., Liu, B., Guo, Q. L., Zhang, Y. C., Yuan, Y. J., Fu, X. D., Deng, Z. H., and Lin, J. Cancer. J Ethnopharmacol. J Clin Oncol 2006;24:419-30. Chinese Journal of Information on Traditional Chinese Medicine 1998;5(12):51. Chin J Integr.Med 2009;15(3):233-235. View abstract.