Did you know that astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), a root with centuries of traditional use in Asia, is now studied and used in very different sectors?
In nutraceuticals, its polysaccharides (APS) are being researched for their antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity, and they are part of food supplements focused on the immune system.
In cosmetics, astragalus root extract (INCI: Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, CosIng ref. 54630) is listed as a skin conditioning agent and antioxidant, and appears in facial care formulas.
In animal nutrition, astragalus polysaccharides have been studied as a feed additive for poultry and ruminants: the literature describes improvements in immune and growth parameters in studies with broiler chickens and postpartum dairy cows.
The technical detail to check before buying: the quality of the extract is not defined by the botanical name alone. Astragaloside IV is the marker compound the main pharmacopoeias use for astragalus quality control —it is what separates a standardized extract from one that only carries the name on the label.
Same root, three sectors, one question before buying: which marker certifies the extract?
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Frequently asked questions
What is astragalus used for in each sector?
In nutraceuticals, its polysaccharides (APS) are being researched for their antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity, and they are part of food supplements focused on the immune system. In cosmetics, astragalus root extract (INCI: Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, CosIng ref. 54630) is listed as a skin conditioning agent and antioxidant, and appears in facial care formulas. In animal nutrition, astragalus polysaccharides have been studied as a feed additive for poultry and ruminants: the literature describes improvements in immune and growth parameters in studies with broiler chickens and postpartum dairy cows.
What should you check before buying an astragalus extract?
The technical detail to check before buying: the quality of the extract is not defined by the botanical name alone. Astragaloside IV is the marker compound the main pharmacopoeias use for astragalus quality control —it is what separates a standardized extract from one that only carries the name on the label.
Sources
- SpecialChem — «Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract» (INCI, función cosmética, CAS 94166-93-5, ref. CosIng 54630)
- «The Genus Astragalus Species as an Emerging Source of Bioactive Phytochemicals: A Review of Dermatological and Cosmetic Applications», Cosmetics (MDPI) 2026;13(3):100
- Polisacáridos de astrágalo como aditivo en piensos de pollos de engorde — PMC
- «Astragalus membranaceus Additive Improves Serum Biochemical Parameters and Reproductive Performance in Postpartum Dairy Cows» — PMC
- «Quality Markers for Astragali Radix and Its Products Based on Process Analysis», Front Pharmacol — PMC
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