Astragalus Side Effects

The Astragalus herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine since ancient times for its numerous health benefits. Nowadays, it is commonly used as a dietary supplement. Let us get to know more about the Astragalus herb.

Astragalus Herb
Astragalus is the largest genus in the family Leguminosae. These are perennial shrubs found in temperate regions and commonly in China and Korea. Astragalus membranaceus, also known as milk vetch, is non-toxic and has a bitter as well as sweet taste. Astragalus membranaceus root is said to be effective in treating bacterial and viral infections and also efficient in improving the immune system of our body. Astragalus increases energy and also has a diuretic effect.

Astragalus is available and used in several forms, for e.g., in the form of extract, tea or even tinctures. There are also various other medicines that contain Astragalus as an ingredient. Ointments containing Astragalus are also used to soothe and treat wounds. There are several other health benefits of Astragalus herb. But you must be wondering are there any known side effects of Astragalus? Let us have a look.

Astragalus Side Effects
It is a general misunderstanding that all natural products are safe for consumption as well as for external purposes. However, this is not the case. Several herbal medicines can give rise to negative effects or allergic reactions in people. Similar is the case with Astragalus. It should not be assumed that Astragalus herb is safe and can be consumed by everyone.

Although Astragalus is said to be relatively safe for most of the people, several cases of Astragalus side effects have been observed. Similar to the side effects of other medications, Astragalus side effects can be minor as well as severe. Minor side effects of Astragalus include:

• Rash
• Hives
• Itching
• Tightness in the chest
• Difficulty breathing
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Gas

It is also believed that Astragalus makes the human immune system more active. This might worsen the symptoms in case a person is already suffering from auto immune diseases like the multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, they should keep away from Astragalus if any of these symptoms are observed. Similarly, it is not advisable for children to have Astragalus in any form.

Astragalus and Pregnancy
One may come across mixed information about the effects of Astragalus during pregnancy. Although there are no known benefits or ill effects related to the intake of Astragalus in pregnancy or during breast feeding, it is better to keep away from it. As there is no evidence to prove either of the hypotheses, it is advisable not to take any unnecessary risk. Woman should also remember not to take Astragalus or other herbal products without consulting their gynecologist. Only a gynecologist will be able to tell whether a certain product is good or harmful to your as well as the baby's health.

Astragalus Interactions
One of the major Astragalus side effects is its interaction with other drugs. Astragalus is said to increase the effects of other medications if taken along with them. If Astragalus is taken along with prescription medications, one can observe symptoms like heart palpitation and frequent urination. Astragalus may also interact with over-the-counter medications and result in toxicity. On the other hand, higher doses of Astragalus can also make the immune system less active.

It is always advisable not to take any dietary supplements and medications without consulting your doctor. Astragalus side effects are however lesser in number as compared to its health benefits. Astragalus is comparatively safer to use only if your doctor advises you to do so!