Evidence supporting the use of: Astragalus
For the health condition: Congestive Heart Failure

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to support cardiovascular health, including conditions such as congestive heart failure (CHF). In recent decades, its use for CHF has undergone some scientific evaluation, particularly in China. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated the effects of astragalus, often as an adjunct to conventional heart failure therapy. These studies suggest that astragalus injections or oral preparations may improve heart function, exercise capacity, and symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath in CHF patients. Proposed mechanisms include anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant properties, and improved cardiac contractility.

A 2013 meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine summarized 22 trials involving over 1,300 patients and found that astragalus, when combined with standard heart failure treatment, improved left ventricular ejection fraction and reduced symptoms more than standard therapy alone. However, the quality of the included studies was generally low, with issues such as small sample sizes, poor blinding, and limited reporting of adverse effects. Western guidelines do not currently recommend astragalus for CHF due to the lack of high-quality, large-scale trials and limited data outside of China.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence—primarily from Chinese clinical trials—that astragalus may provide benefits in CHF when used alongside conventional therapies. Nevertheless, higher-quality, larger-scale studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety before it can be recommended in mainstream clinical practice.

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