Cycloastragenol: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Family or group:
Phytochemicals
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Immune support ✪✪✪✪✪
A randomized study of 117 subjects aged 53 to 87 years, positive for cytomegalovirus, confirmed that cycloastragenol significantly increases telomere length. This reduces the effects of immunosenescence, a key factor in age-related immune decline, and could improve resilience to infections and chronic diseases.
Posologie
Oral use
10 - 50 mg
standardized extract
Healthy aging ✪✪✪✪✪
Cycloastragenol mainly acts by lengthening short telomeres, which slows cellular aging. The Patton Protocol-1 study showed that taking cycloastragenol for 12 months improves the telomeres of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-positive subjects, restoring a "younger" leukocyte profile. This action is associated with benefits for bone density and cardiovascular health, although the lack of a control group limits some conclusions.
Posologie
Oral use
25 - 50 mg
standardized extract
Properties
Anti-aging
Cycloastragenol is best known for its anti-aging effect, mainly due to its action on telomeres, the protective caps located at the ends of chromosomes. Each cell division leads to progressive shortening of telomeres, a phenomenon associated with cellular aging and age-related diseases. By activating telomerase, an enzyme capable of maintaining or lengthening telomeres, cycloastragenol helps slow this process. Studies have shown that cycloastragenol particularly targets critical telomeres, those whose length is dangerously reduced, thereby preventing cells from entering senescence or apoptosis. This mechanism promotes improved cellular regeneration, essential for preserving the health of tissues and organs.
Usages associés
Immune stimulant
Cycloastragenol has a notable effect on the immune system. One of cycloastragenol’s main actions is its role in activating key immune cells, notably T lymphocytes and macrophages. It stimulates the production of cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2), which is essential for activating and coordinating immune responses. Laboratory research shows that cycloastragenol promotes an increase in natural killer (NK) cell activity, improves the CD4/CD8 ratio—an indicator of a balanced immune response—and raises levels of IgA and IgG, key antibodies in defending against infections. In immunocompromised patients, such as those with cancer or undergoing chemotherapy, it can restore immune functions by reactivating T cells and increasing macrophage activity. Clinical trials also suggest that cycloastragenol attenuates the immunosuppressive effects associated with physical stress conditions, such as intense exercise, by maintaining stable cytokine levels and protecting dendritic cell functions. Through these mechanisms, it is being studied as a potential supplement to strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infections, particularly in older or immunodeficient individuals.
Usages associés
Metabolic
Studies have reported significant improvements in metabolic markers, notably blood glucose, insulin, cholesterol, and blood pressure. In addition, preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated an increase in bone mineral density in older subjects, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Safe dosage
Adult: 10 mg - 50 mg (standardized extract)
Dosages range from 10 to 50 mg/day for a duration of 3 to 6 months.
Precautions
Autoimmune diseases: use with caution
Theoretically, astragalus could exacerbate certain autoimmune diseases by stimulating disease activity; it should be used with caution in patients with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, or others.
Contraindications
Children up to 12 years old: prohibited
Contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.
Pregnant women: prohibited
According to studies, astragaloside, which is a constituent of astragalus, has a toxic effect on the mother and her fetus. Do not consume during pregnancy.
