What are Astragalosides?
Astragalosides are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in the roots of Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional herb widely used in Chinese medicine. These saponins are the primary bioactive ingredients responsible for many plant health-promoting effects. Astragalosides are renowned for their potential to support immune health, protect cardiovascular function, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These benefits make Astragalosides a popular ingredient in various health products, including dietary supplements, personal care items, and functional foods.
Astragalosides are often sought after in health formulations because they stimulate the body’s immune response and aid in combating oxidative stress. By helping to support cellular integrity and reduce inflammation, Astragalosides offers a range of applications in modern wellness solutions.
Active Ingredients
Astragalosides contain multiple bioactive compounds, the most significant of which are Astragaloside I, II, III, and IV. Astragaloside IV is the most well-researched and commonly cited as the primary therapeutic component. It possesses various medicinal properties, such as boosting the immune system, enhancing cardiovascular health, and protecting against oxidative damage.
Astragaloside IV is often isolated and used in supplements due to its high potency in promoting cellular repair and immune function.
Polysaccharides and other saponins are also present, contributing to the extract’s overall efficacy by exhibiting adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Common Sources
Astragalosides are primarily sourced from the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus, a perennial plant native to China and Mongolia. The plant thrives in dry, sandy soils and is traditionally harvested in autumn after growing for several years to ensure a high concentration of active compounds. The root is then processed into various forms, including powders and extracts, which can be used in different applications, such as capsules, tablets, or tinctures.
Astragalus membranaceus – The main plant species from which Astragalosides are extracted. Known for its strong adaptability, this plant is extensively cultivated in East Asia for medicinal purposes.
How Does It Work?
Astragalosides work through a combination of mechanisms, primarily due to their function in modulating the immune system and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Astragaloside IV, in particular, helps to stimulate the creation of immune cells, such as macrophages and T-lymphocytes, enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and illnesses. Additionally, the saponins in Astragalosides improve the body’s natural anti-inflammatory responses, making them beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions.
Astragalosides also support cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. They exert protective effects on the vascular endothelium, which helps maintain healthy blood vessels. Furthermore, Astragalosides may have anti-aging properties due to their ability to stimulate the production of telomerase. This enzyme repairs and extends the telomeres of chromosomes, thereby protecting cells from aging and damage.
Production Process
The production of Astragalosides involves a series of precise steps to ensure the preservation and concentration of its active compounds. A rigorous process is followed, from harvesting the raw material to packaging the final product.
Harvesting: Astragalus membranaceus roots are carefully harvested during their peak season to ensure the highest yield of active compounds. These roots are typically sourced from organically cultivated plants to avoid pesticide contamination or other chemicals.
Cleaning and Sorting: The roots are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt and foreign matter. Only healthy, mature roots with optimal potency are selected for processing.
Drying: The cleaned roots are dried under controlled conditions, either naturally or using low-temperature drying methods, to preserve the quality of active ingredients, especially Astragaloside IV.
Grinding: Once thoroughly dried, the roots are ground into a fine powder to maximize the surface area for the extraction process. The powder is then sieved to ensure a uniform particle size.
Extraction: The powdered root material is extracted using a suitable solvent, such as ethanol or water. This step isolates the bioactive compounds, including Astragalosides, from the plant matter.
Concentration: After extraction, the solution is concentrated to remove excess solvent. A rotary evaporator or vacuum distillation system is typically used to achieve the desired extract potency.
Purification and Standardization: Advanced purification techniques, such as chromatography, are employed to isolate specific compounds, like Astragaloside IV. The extract is then standardized to ensure consistent quality and potency across batches.
Final Processing: The purified extract is kept in powdered form or processed into tablets, capsules, or liquid extracts. The final product is packaged under strict quality control conditions to ensure stability and shelf life.
Quality Control: Each batch undergoes thorough quality testing, including checks for purity, active ingredient concentration, and absence of contaminants. Certificates such as Halal and Kosher may also be obtained.
Bulk Astragalosides Specifications
Type | Plant Extract |
Appearance | Fine, brownish-yellow powder |
Purity | 5% Astragaloside IV |
Certifications | Halal, Kosher, etc. |
Active Ingredient | Astragaloside IV, etc. |
Test Methods | HPLC, GC, etc. |
MOQ (minimum order quantity) | 1kg |
Sample | Available (10-20g/bag) |
OEM Service | Available, such as capsules, tablets, pills, etc. |
ODM Service | Available |
Private Label | Available |
Contract Manufacturing | Available |
Astragalosides: Benefits, Side Effects, And More
Immune System Support
Astragalosides, particularly Astragaloside IV, enhance immune function by elevating the activity of immune cells. They often prevent and treat colds, flu, and other infections.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Astragalosides possess potent anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce inflammation in various body parts, making them suitable for managing chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Cardiovascular Health
Astragalosides are known to support cardiovascular function by improving blood flow, reducing cholesterol, and protecting the vascular endothelium from damage, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidant Effects
These compounds have potent antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative damage, slow the aging process, and protect against various diseases, including cancer.
Anti-Aging
Astragalosides may slow the aging process at the cellular level by promoting the production of telomerase, enhancing overall longevity and vitality.
Industry Applications and Uses
Astragalosides have a broad range of applications across multiple industries:
Dietary Supplements
Astragalosides are widely used in immune-boosting supplements, cardiovascular health products, and anti-aging formulations. They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and powders.
Personal Care Products
Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Astragalosides are incorporated into skin products such as serums, creams, and lotions to shield the skin from damages caused by the surroundings and facilitate skin elasticity and hydration.
Functional Foods
Astragalosides are sometimes added to functional foods and beverages to support immune health and provide anti-aging benefits.
Animal Nutrition
Astragalosides are also used in veterinary medicine and animal supplements to support immune health and overall vitality in livestock and pets.
Standard Dosage and Usage
The typical dosage of Astragalosides, particularly Astragaloside IV, varies depending on the intended use. 50 to 200 milligrams of Astragaloside IV is commonly recommended for general immune support, divided into two or three daily doses. Astragalosides are available in various forms, including:
Capsules/Tablets: 50-100 mg of Astragaloside IV per serving.
Powders: 1-2 grams of extract powder per serving.
Tinctures: A liquid form providing 10-30 mg of Astragaloside IV.
It is generally advised to take Astragalosides with food to enhance absorption.
Safety and Side Effects
Astragalosides are generally considered safe for most individuals when taken at recommended dosages. However, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or diarrhea, especially when starting supplementation.
Potential side effects may include:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- Drug interactions (consult a healthcare provider if taking prescription medications)
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Astragalosides unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Astragalosides VS Ginseng Extract
Astragalosides and Ginseng Extract are used for their adaptogenic properties and immune-boosting effects. However, while Astragalosides are primarily known for their immune modulation and cardiovascular benefits, Ginseng is often associated with enhanced energy levels and cognitive function.
Astragalosides VS Echinacea Extract
Echinacea is another popular herb used to support immune health. Astragalosides tend to have a more systemic effect on immune modulation, while Echinacea is often used for short-term immune stimulation, especially during colds and infections.
How Should This Ingredient Be Stored?
Astragalosides should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. The ingredients should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigeration is strongly recommended for long-term storage to maintain the potency and the effectivity of the active compounds.
Where Can I Find Wholesale Astragalosides Supplier?
Nutri Avenue is a trusted supplier of high-quality Astragalosides for various applications. We source our products from the best raw materials and offer stringent quality control to ensure their purity and potency. We provide competitive pricing, fast shipping, and customizable packaging options. In addition, we provide diverse customizations, like OEM/ODM services, for our clients’ convenience. Visit our website for inquiries or quotations.