How does Astragalus Help Support your Kidney?
Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.
For centuries, Astragalus has been a medicinal herb utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to support kidney health. Astragalus contains a variety of active compounds, including polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which work together to provide its therapeutic effects.
The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and toxins from the body, maintaining fluid balance, and regulating blood pressure. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of health problems, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and diabetic nephropathy. Supporting kidney health is therefore essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Health Astragalus has been shown to have a number of potential benefits for kidney health, including reducing inflammation, improving kidney function, and protecting against kidney damage caused by oxidative stress. It may also help to prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease and improve symptoms of diabetic nephropathy. Additionally, astragalus has been shown to have a low risk of adverse effects, making it a safe option for kidney support.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- How Astragalus Works
- Uses of Astragalus for Kidney Support
- How to Take Astragalus
- Other Natural Kidney Support Supplements
- Conclusion
How Astragalus Works
Active Compounds in Astragalus Astragalus contains a number of active compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Polysaccharides, for example, have been shown to have immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties. Saponins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, while flavonoids have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Triterpenoids have been shown to have a protective effect on the kidneys.
Astragalus works through a variety of mechanisms to support kidney health. It has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce damage to the kidneys caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. It may also help to improve blood flow to the kidneys and enhance the function of kidney cells. Additionally, astragalus has been shown to have immune-modulating effects, which can help to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.
Several studies have been conducted on the potential benefits of astragalus for kidney health. A 2014 review of 28 studies found that astragalus may have a protective effect on the kidneys and may help to prevent or slow the progression of chronic kidney disease. Another study found that astragalus supplementation improved kidney function and reduced inflammation in patients with diabetic nephropathy. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of astragalus on kidney health, the existing evidence suggests that it may be a promising natural option for kidney support.
Uses of Astragalus for Kidney Support
Astragalus may be beneficial for individuals with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) as it has been shown to have a protective effect on the kidneys and may help to slow the progression of the disease. It may also help to improve kidney function and reduce inflammation, which can help to prevent further damage to the kidneys.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden and severe decrease in kidney function that can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, infections, and medications. Astragalus may be helpful for individuals with AKI as it has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce damage to the kidneys caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
Diabetic nephropathy is a complication of diabetes that can lead to kidney damage and eventually kidney failure. Astragalus may be beneficial for individuals with diabetic nephropathy as it has been shown to improve kidney function and reduce inflammation in these patients. Additionally, it may help to prevent the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of complications.
Astragalus may also be beneficial for individuals with other kidney-related conditions, such as kidney stones and urinary tract infections. Its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects may help to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation in the kidneys, while its antioxidant effects may help to prevent damage caused by oxidative stress.
How to Take Astragalus
Astragalus is available in a variety of forms, including capsules, powders, and teas. It can also be found in some combination herbal supplements. When choosing an astragalus supplement, it is important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable brand.
The recommended dosage of astragalus can vary depending on the form and strength of the supplement. Following the dosage instructions provided on the product label or as directed by a healthcare professional is imperative. In general, the typical recommended dosage is 500-1,500 mg per day.
Astragalus is generally considered safe for most people when taken as directed. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and bloating. It may also interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants and blood thinners. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking astragalus, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid taking astragalus.
Other Natural Kidney Support Supplements
In addition to astragalus, there are several other natural supplements that may be beneficial for kidney health.
Milk thistle is a herb that has been traditionally used for liver health, but it may also have benefits for kidney health. It contains a compound called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help to protect the kidneys from damage. Milk thistle may also help to improve kidney function and reduce inflammation in individuals with kidney disease.
Dandelion root is another herb that has traditionally been used for liver and kidney health. It has diuretic properties, which means it may help to increase urine output and promote the excretion of waste products from the body. This can be beneficial for individuals with kidney disease who may have impaired kidney function.
Nettle leaf is a herb that has been used traditionally for a variety of health conditions, including kidney problems. It has diuretic properties and may help to increase urine output and improve kidney function. Additionally, it may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the kidneys.
There are several other supplements that may be beneficial for kidney health, including vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. These supplements have various mechanisms of action that may help to improve kidney function and reduce the risk of kidney disease.
Astragalus is a natural supplement that has potential benefits for kidney health. It may help to protect the kidneys from damage, improve kidney function, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Astragalus has been studied in several kidney-related conditions, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and diabetic nephropathy.
Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of astragalus for kidney health. Future studies should explore its efficacy and safety in different populations and dosages. Additionally, more research is needed on the potential interactions of astragalus with other medications and supplements. Finally, more studies are needed to explore the potential benefits of other natural supplements for kidney health, and how they can be used in conjunction with astragalus to support kidney health.
Here you can check out Vorst’s Astragalus 6000 mg Vegan Capsules.
References and Resources
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/astragalus
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8921640/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD008369.pub2/full
https://www.rxlist.com/astragalus/supplements.htm
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-know-about-supplements-and-your-kidneys
https://www.verywellhealth.com/astragalus-what-should-i-know-about-it-89410