Evidence supporting the use of: Astragalus
For the health condition: Stress

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Synopsis

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

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a prominent herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), commonly used for its purported ability to strengthen "qi" (vital energy) and support the body's resilience against various stresses, including physical and mental stress. In TCM, astragalus is believed to act as an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to external stressors and maintain balance. Traditionally, practitioners have used astragalus root in herbal formulas designed to counteract fatigue, boost vitality, and enhance the immune system, all of which are considered important for managing stress.

However, when examining the scientific literature, evidence supporting the use of astragalus specifically for stress (especially psychological stress) is limited. Most studies on astragalus focus on its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Some preclinical research suggests that astragalus may help reduce the impact of oxidative stress and improve resistance to physical stress in animal models, but robust clinical trials in humans targeting psychological or generalized stress are lacking. Therefore, the use of astragalus for stress is primarily justified by centuries of traditional use rather than strong scientific validation. The evidence rating is a 2, reflecting weak human evidence and the predominance of historical rather than modern scientific support.

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