Evidence supporting the use of: Astragalus
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine, primarily for strengthening the immune system and enhancing vitality. Its use for respiratory conditions, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is rooted in traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), astragalus is considered a "Qi tonic" and is often prescribed to individuals with chronic respiratory weakness, fatigue, and susceptibility to infections, which overlaps with some symptoms experienced by COPD patients.

Modern scientific studies on astragalus in the context of COPD are limited. Some small clinical trials and animal studies suggest potential benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects, immune modulation, and improved lung function markers when astragalus is used as an adjunct to conventional therapies. For example, a few randomized controlled trials in China have reported improvements in quality of life and reduced frequency of exacerbations in COPD patients taking astragalus-containing formulas. However, these studies often have methodological weaknesses, such as small sample sizes, unclear blinding, and lack of replication outside of China.

In summary, while there is some preliminary scientific interest, the use of astragalus for COPD is mainly justified by traditional practices rather than high-quality scientific evidence. More rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm any benefits and to establish safety profiles for long-term use in COPD management.

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