Astragalus may help enhance the immune system to prevent and fight bacterial and viral infections, including the common cold. It may help improve heart function in patients with heart failure and reduce symptoms of myocarditis.
When given intravenously in a hospital setting, astragalus may help alleviate nausea and vomiting in those undergoing chemotherapy.
Some studies suggest that astragalus may help improve kidney function in those with kidney disease. It may also prevent infections in those with reduced kidney function.
Also it may help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 . However, more research is needed.
Preliminary research has found that astragalus may be beneficial at reducing symptoms of chronic fatigue and seasonal allergies. Test-tube studies suggest that it may also have anticancer effects.