Astragalus for Allergic Rhinitis
CA clinical trial found astragalus at 160 mg twice daily may help reduce sneezing and runny nose symptoms in seasonal allergy sufferers. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a preventive immune tonic for over 2,000 years.
The Bottom Line
A clinical trial found astragalus at 160 mg twice daily may help reduce sneezing and runny nose symptoms in seasonal allergy sufferers. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a preventive immune tonic for over 2,000 years.
Key Study Findings
Population: patients with allergic rhinitis (preclinical and some human data)
Population: patients with allergic rhinitis (human and animal models)
Population: OVA-induced allergic rhinitis mouse model
Population: Allergic rhinitis mouse model
Population: Allergic rhinitis mouse model
Population: None
Key Statistics
3
Studies
200
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 250-500 mg standardized extract/day
- traditional:
- 9-30 g dried root decoction/day
Upper limit: No established UL
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
Best taken: With meals; traditionally used as a preventive tonic (not during acute illness)
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Generally well tolerated
- ⚠ Mild gastrointestinal effects (bloating, diarrhea) at high doses
- ⚠ Possible interaction with autoimmune conditions (immunostimulatory)
Known Interactions
- ● Immunosuppressant medications (may counteract immunosuppression)
- ● Lithium (may reduce lithium excretion)
- ● Cyclophosphamide (may enhance or interfere with effects)
Tolerable upper intake: No established UL
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Astragalus help with Allergic Rhinitis?
How much Astragalus should I take for Allergic Rhinitis?
Are there side effects of Astragalus?
How strong is the evidence for Astragalus and Allergic Rhinitis?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Allergic Rhinitis
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.