Evidence supporting the use of: Astragalus
For the body system: Adrenal Glands

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a traditional herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for its purported immune-boosting and adaptogenic properties. In TCM, astragalus is believed to strengthen qi (vital energy) and support bodily resilience, which includes effects on fatigue and stress, sometimes interpreted in Western herbalism as “adrenal support.” However, the traditional use of astragalus does not specifically mention the adrenal glands as understood in modern anatomy and physiology; rather, it is seen as supporting overall vitality and resistance to stress.

Scientific studies on astragalus have focused mainly on its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. There is limited direct scientific research examining astragalus’s impact on adrenal gland function, cortisol regulation, or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis modulation. Most claims about adrenal support are extrapolated from its general adaptogenic effects. Thus, while there is a rich tradition of using astragalus for fatigue and stress—which may indirectly relate to adrenal health—there is little direct scientific evidence validating its use specifically for supporting the adrenal glands.

In summary, astragalus’s use for adrenal support is based on traditional herbalism concepts rather than robust scientific research. Evidence for its direct effect on the adrenal glands or adrenal function rates low, as the connection is largely inferred rather than demonstrated in clinical studies.

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