Astragalus Glycyphyllos (Powder)

Astragalus Glycyphyllos (Wild Liquorice / Sweet Milkvetch)

Product Name: Астрагал солодколистный, Astragalus glycyphyllos, Süßwurz-Tragant, astrágalo dulce, astragale à feuilles de réglisse, أستراغالوس جلايسيفيلوس, อัสดรากาลัส ไกลซิฟิลลอส, shirin ildizli astragal, ширин мияли астрагал, глицирризин жалбырактуу астрагал, şirin meyan yarpaqlı astraqal, астрагали ширинбарг, saldus astragalas, saldais astragals, астрагал солодколистий, מתוק אסטרגלוס

Synonyms: астрагал сладколистный, козлятник солодколистный, сладколистный астрагал, wild licorice, milkvetch, liquorice vetch, Süß-Tragant, Spanischer Süßklee, regaliz salvaje, astrágalo de hoja dulce, astragale réglissé, réglisse sauvage, الأستراجالوس الحلو الأوراق, ต้นหวานป่า

Used Parts: herb, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, root, root.

Main Indications for Use of Astragalus glycyphyllos: Liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis B, chronic bronchitis, early-stage heart failure, orthostatic hypotension, tubulointerstitial nephritis, iron deficiency anemia, post-influenza asthenia, secondary immunodeficiency state, cerebral atherosclerosis.

Use of Astragalus glycyphyllos in Mixtures and Complexes: Prostate hyperplasia, myasthenic syndrome, demyelinating diseases of the CNS, chronic pyelonephritis, knee osteoarthritis, pulmonary tuberculosis, vascular dementia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, persistent viral infection, systemic lupus erythematosus.

Pharmacological Properties of Astragalus glycyphyllos: immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, hypotensive, cardiotonic, antioxidant, nephroprotective, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, antiviral, anti-anemic, vasodilating, anti-stress, anti-asthenic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Powder — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Indications (Powder): Liver fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, iron deficiency anemia, orthostatic hypotension, post-influenza asthenia, secondary immunodeficiency state, cerebral atherosclerosis.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 3 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, with warm water. Course — 21 days, followed by a 7-day break.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1.5 grams of powder 3 times a day for viral hepatitis B, tubulointerstitial nephritis, vascular atherosclerosis. Course — 30 days, with mandatory laboratory monitoring.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Maximum permissible daily dose — 6 grams of powder. Used for severe secondary immunodeficiency, post-infectious asthenization, and early-stage heart failure. Duration not more than 14 days under specialist supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder 2 times a day — in the morning and afternoon. Recommended for chronic stress, autonomic dysfunction, elderly persons with weakened vascular tone, and workers in hazardous industries. Take in 14-day cycles with a 14-day break.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): Use is permitted in children over 8 years of age with a body weight of at least 30 kg. Single dose — 250 mg, twice daily. Only as prescribed by a physician.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance, severe hypotension, pregnancy and lactation — no safety data registered. Not recommended for children under 8 years due to lack of clinical testing.

Side Effects (Powder): In cases of overdose, cases of nausea, arterial hypotension, dizziness, and drowsiness have been recorded. Allergic skin rash was rarely observed.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kg — reduce the dose by 20%. For body weight above 90 kg — increase the dose by 15% while maintaining the frequency of administration.

Preparation Method (Powder): Dry cleaned roots are thoroughly ground to a homogeneous flour-like state. To prepare 100 grams of powder, 110 grams of dried root are required. Grinding is carried out on an herb mill, temperature regime — not higher than 35 degrees Celsius. Sifted through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.5 millimeters. Packaged in airtight containers made of dark glass or dense multi-layer parchment.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a dry, light-protected place at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to electromagnetic radiation and heat. Use within 60 days after opening the package. Keep container tightly closed.

Dry Extract — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Indications (Dry Extract): Liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis B, chronic bronchitis, tubulointerstitial nephritis, cerebral atherosclerosis, secondary immunodeficiency state, post-influenza asthenia.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 mg of dry extract 2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals. Course duration — 21 days. Repeat course — after 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 mg of dry extract 2 times a day for tubulointerstitial nephritis, vascular atherosclerosis, viral hepatitis B, and early-stage heart failure. Course duration — 30 days with subsequent laboratory monitoring.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Maximum permissible daily dose — 1200 mg. Used for severe immune suppression, chronic fatigue after severe infections, and secondary anemias. Duration — not more than 10 days under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 mg once a day. Prevention is recommended for chronic fatigue, vegetative-vascular dystonia, and increased susceptibility to respiratory viral infections. Take in 14-day cycles with breaks of 14–21 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Recommended for children from 10 years of age with a body weight from 35 kg. Single dose — 100 mg, no more than twice a day. Only as prescribed by a physician. No data on use in children under 10 years.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Individual intolerance. Do not use in severe hypotension. In pregnancy, lactation, and children under 10 years, no safety data have been registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Isolated cases of arterial hypotension, dyspepsia, and allergic urticaria have been recorded when exceeding the daily dosage.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Patients with body weight less than 60 kg are recommended to reduce the dosage by 25%. Patients with body weight more than 90 kg — increase the dosage by 20%.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): To prepare 100 grams of dry extract, 500 grams of dried crushed roots are used. The raw material is filled with 70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:10, extracted at a temperature of 40–45 degrees Celsius for 6 hours. The solution is filtered, evaporated in a water bath to a moisture content of less than 15%, then dried in a vacuum dryer at 40 degrees to a powdery state.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in tightly closed containers in a dark, cool, and dry place at a temperature not exceeding 20 degrees Celsius. Shelf life — up to 18 months. Use within 30 days after opening the package.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Indications (Tincture): Chronic bronchitis, liver fibrosis, post-influenza asthenia, viral hepatitis B, orthostatic hypotension, vascular dementia, secondary immunodeficiency state.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops of tincture 2 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of water, 20–30 minutes before meals. Course duration — 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 25 drops 3 times a day for severe asthenization after viral infection, chronic cardiovascular insufficiency, and demyelinating CNS lesions. Course duration — up to 30 days.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Maximum daily dose — 90 drops per day. Used for severe immune suppression, orthostatic hypotension, and vascular parkinsonism. No more than 10 days under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once a day in the morning. Recommended for elderly patients with early signs of vascular insufficiency, during seasonal changes in atmospheric pressure, and during prolonged intellectual exertion. Take in 10-day courses with 20-day breaks.

Pediatric Dosage  (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 14 years due to ethanol content. No clinical safety data have been registered.

Contraindications (Tincture): Individual intolerance, pregnancy, lactation, childhood under 14 years, epilepsy, alcoholism, liver damage in the decompensation stage. Contraindicated in severe arterial hypotension.

Side Effects (Tincture): Cases of dizziness, nausea, lowering of blood pressure, and allergic reactions in the form of urticaria have been recorded. Coordination disorders are possible when exceeding doses.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kg — dose is reduced by 25%. For body weight more than 90 kg — dose is increased by 15%, without exceeding permissible limits.

Preparation Method (Tincture): To prepare 100 ml of tincture, 20 grams of crushed dry root and 100 ml of 70% ethanol are used. The raw material is infused in a dark glass container at a temperature of 20–25 degrees Celsius for 10 days, with periodic shaking. Then the liquid is filtered through gauze and dispensed into dark glass vials.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in tightly closed dark glass containers at a temperature of 5 to 25 degrees Celsius, away from direct light and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 2 years. Use within 60 days after opening.

Ointment — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Indications (Ointment): Chronic neurodermatitis, trophic leg ulcer, reticular form of varicose disease, localized cutaneous vasculitis, tuberculoid form of lupus erythematosus of the skin, superficial phlebitis, diabetic angiopathy.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2 times a day, morning and evening, to pre-cleaned skin. Course — from 10 to 21 days depending on the severity of the condition.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply 3 times a day for chronic trophic ulcers, varicose dermatitis, and erythema nodosum. Can be used under a bandage. Course — up to 30 days under specialist supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): No more than 4 applications per day. Used for acute inflammatory and ischemic skin changes, diabetic necrotic areas, and severe venous insufficiency. Duration — no more than 10 days consecutively.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply once a day in the evening to the forearms and shins. Recommended for patients with chronic venous insufficiency, predisposition to vasculitis, and elderly patients with fragile vessels. Course — 14 days, break 14 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): Use is permitted from 12 years of age with a weight of more than 35 kg. Once a day for 5–7 days. Only externally, on limited skin areas, in the absence of epidermal damage.

Contraindications (Ointment): Hypersensitivity, weeping eczema, infected ulcers, deep purulent skin lesions. No safety data have been registered during pregnancy and lactation. Do not use in children under 12 years.

Side Effects (Ointment): Local allergic reactions are possible: itching, hyperemia, burning. With prolonged use — dry skin, contact dermatitis.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required; however, in patients with a body weight of less than 50 kg, it is recommended to limit the application area to 100 cm² per day.

Preparation Method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment: dry root extract — 10 grams, unrefined coconut oil — 70 grams, beeswax — 20 grams. Melt the coconut oil and wax in a water bath, add the extract and mix until homogeneous at a temperature not exceeding 60 degrees Celsius. Pour into sterile glass jars and cool.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a tightly closed dark glass jar at a temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. Avoid direct sunlight and exposure to EMI. Use within 30 days after opening. Total shelf life — up to 6 months.

Cosmetic Serum — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): Facial photoaging, couperose, dull complexion, atopic dermatitis in remission, decreased skin elasticity, hyperpigmentation, post-acne.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 2–3 drops to clean facial and neck skin once a day, in the evening. Course — 28 days. May be repeated after a 14-day break.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 2 times a day — morning and evening, for pronounced vascular mesh, skin dehydration, and decreased tone after illness. Course — up to 42 days with mandatory monitoring of skin sensitivity.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Up to 5 drops 2 times a day. Used short-term (up to 7 days) for severe skin dehydration, after chemical peels, and in aggressive climatic conditions (wind, sun, frost).

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 1–2 drops on damp facial skin once a day. Recommended for women from 35 years of age with a tendency to couperose, for the prevention of age-related changes, and when living in polluted air conditions. Course — 21 days, repeat every 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Not used in children. Safety and appropriateness of use in persons under 18 years have not been established.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): Individual intolerance to components. Do not use with active rashes, herpetic infection in the acute stage, or weeping forms of dermatitis. No safety data are available for pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): Local allergic reactions: itching, redness, peeling. When exceeding doses — burning sensation, skin irritation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. Consumption is determined only by the area of skin treatment, not by body weight.

Preparation Method (Cosmetic Serum): To prepare 100 grams: dry extract of astragalus root — 2 grams, rose hydrolate — 70 grams, vegetable glycerin — 15 grams, cold-pressed rosehip seed oil — 8 grams, guar gum — 0.5 grams, preservative based on benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid — 0.5 grams, purified water — up to 100 grams. All components are mixed under sterile conditions at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, homogenized for 15 minutes, and dispensed into bottles with a dispenser.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to sunlight and EMI. Use within 45 days after opening. Total shelf life — up to 6 months in a tightly closed bottle.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Astragalus glycyphyllos

Astragalus glycyphyllos belongs to plants with low toxicity and a high biosafety profile. To date, there are no registered acute poisonings when using roots and extracts of this taxon in therapeutic dosages.

In experimental studies on laboratory animals, it was found that aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the plant have extremely low acute toxicity. According to the study results, the median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of the aqueous root extract when administered orally to rats exceeds 5000 mg/kg of body weight, which qualifies it as a practically non-toxic substance according to the WHO classification.

Repeated administration of extracts in doses up to 1000 mg/kg for 14 days did not cause pathological changes in internal organs, deviations in animal behavior, nor did it have a carcinogenic or mutagenic effect.

With external use (in the form of ointments or serums), no skin reactions were detected at standard concentrations, except for individual hypersensitivity. The product is recognized as safe for short-term and long-term use as part of pharmacological and cosmetic forms.

Reference: https://www.researchgate.net/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Astragalus glycyphyllos demonstrates a wide range of pharmacodynamic activity, due to its rich content of biologically active substances, including flavonoids, triterpene saponins, isoflavones, polysaccharides, and coumarins. At the systemic level, the plant exhibits predominantly modulating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic effects, influencing the functions of the immune, cardiovascular, nervous, and endocrine systems.

The immunomodulating effect is realized primarily through polysaccharide fractions, which have the ability to enhance macrophage activity, modulate interleukin production, and stimulate the T-cell arm of immunity. It has been established that flavonoids and saponins of this taxon can enhance phagocytosis and antibody production. The effect on innate immunity is manifested in the normalization of neutrophil granulocyte function and modulation of the complement system response.

The antioxidant properties of the plant are explained by the high content of flavonols and isoflavones, capable of binding free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Such effects have been confirmed in vitro and in vivo in experimental models. Stimulation of the activity of enzymatic antioxidant defense (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase) is noted with systemic administration of extracts. These mechanisms contribute to maintaining redox balance and stabilizing cell membranes.

The anti-inflammatory effect is realized through inhibition of the expression of inflammatory mediators — primarily tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1, and prostaglandins. The plant inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity and reduces the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These effects have been confirmed in cell lines and in animal models of chronic inflammation. Local application is accompanied by a reduction in neutrophil infiltration and a decrease in the severity of tissue edema.

The tonic and cardiomodulating effect is associated with triterpene saponins, which in a number of publications are considered as substances that influence the regulation of calcium channels and electrolyte metabolism in the myocardium. A moderate positive chrono- and inotropic effect of extracts has been found, as well as mediated vasodilation through the release of endothelial nitric oxide (NO). This contributes to improved peripheral circulation and reduced vascular resistance.

The sedative effect of Astragalus glycyphyllos is more pronounced when using alcohol tinctures. It is realized through central inhibition of the activity of neurons in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, influencing dopamine and GABAergic receptors. A decrease in spontaneous motor activity in laboratory animals and a prolongation of the latent period of sleep onset are noted.

At the skin level, high antioxidant and trophotropic activity has been proven, especially with local application. Plant extracts stimulate reparative processes, enhance fibroblast proliferation and type I collagen synthesis, and reduce the intensity of the inflammatory response in epidermal damage. The compounds present in the composition, including coumarins and isoflavones, demonstrate photoprotective and anti-glycation properties.

The endocrine potential of Astragalus glycyphyllos is realized indirectly, through the normalization of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function and potentiation of the adaptive response to stress. Some publications confirm its ability to enhance the expression of corticosteroid receptors and increase resistance to chronic hypoxia and overwork.

The level of pharmacological action depends on the form of application. Systemic action is characteristic of dry extracts, alcohol tinctures, and powder. Local effect is realized when used in the form of ointments and serums. Bio-pharmacological targets are innate immunity cellular receptors (TLR4), inflammatory enzymes (COX-2, iNOS), antioxidant enzyme systems (SOD, CAT), as well as elements of synaptic transmission (GABA, dopamine, acetylcholine).

References:
https://www.researchgate.net/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27923802
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-019-09634-8
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874123000314
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Pharmacokinetics — Astragalus glycyphyllos

The pharmacokinetic properties of Astragalus glycyphyllos have been partially studied, and their description is based on the kinetics of its biologically active groups of compounds — flavonoids, triterpene saponins, coumarins, and polysaccharides. With oral administration in the form of powder, dry extract, or alcohol tincture, the main routes of absorption are the small intestine and the gastric mucosa. Lipophilic components, such as flavonoid aglycones and saponins, are predominantly absorbed by passive diffusion, while water-soluble polysaccharides undergo partial fermentation with the participation of the intestinal microbiota.

Polysaccharides and complex glycosides demonstrate low initial absorption; however, their metabolites, formed under the action of microbial enzymes, can penetrate enterocytes and exert a systemic effect. The pharmacokinetic profile is also influenced by the form of administration: alcohol tinctures provide faster absorption of lipophilic components, while powder and dry extract provide prolonged release of active substances.

After absorption, the active components of Astragalus glycyphyllos are distributed to highly perfused organs: the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, spleen, and myocardium. They partially bind to plasma albumin, especially flavonoids and saponins. With transdermal use (in the form of ointment or serum), predominantly local action is observed; however, with prolonged use, partial systemic absorption through the lymphatic system and microvascular bed of the skin is possible.

Metabolism of the main substances occurs primarily in the liver. Flavonoids undergo phase I biotransformation involving cytochrome P450, then conjugate with glucuronic and sulfuric acids. Coumarins can be metabolized through hydroxylation and converted into hydrophilic metabolites. Polysaccharides and glycosides are broken down by the intestinal microbial flora and then enter enterohepatic circulation. Some metabolites exhibit pharmacological activity.

Excretion pathways depend on the chemical nature of the compounds. Flavonoid conjugates and their metabolites are predominantly excreted in the urine, and partially in the bile. Saponins and their derivatives can be excreted through the intestines and kidneys. Coumarins are excreted by the kidneys, both in free form and as metabolites. Polysaccharides and residual glycoside complexes not absorbed in the intestine are eliminated in the feces. With intensified transdermal use, partial excretion of substances through the skin and with sweat is possible.

Pharmacokinetic characteristics may vary depending on the composition of the gastrointestinal flora, the state of the liver and kidneys, as well as the form of the preparation. Inhalation and sublingual use are not typical for this taxon and have not been scientifically described. The liver and kidneys play a leading role in the metabolism and excretion of most active substances.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874123000314
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-019-09634-8
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale

The pharmacological activity of Astragalus glycyphyllos is formed through the combined action of flavonoids, triterpene saponins, coumarins, and polysaccharides. These compounds affect key links in intercellular signaling, including cytokine cascades, inflammatory enzyme systems, redox pathways, and the regulation of neurohumoral activity. One of the most studied effects is the suppression of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. This effect is realized through inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and a decrease in the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), leading to a reduction in prostaglandin production in macrophages and endothelial cells.

Astragalus glycyphyllos flavonoids modulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes — superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. This enhances cellular protection against oxidative stress, reducing lipid peroxidation of membranes and restoring mitochondrial potential. The biological effects of this group of compounds have been confirmed in vitro and in vivo on cultures of epithelial and immunocompetent cells.

Polysaccharide complexes have pronounced immunomodulatory activity. They activate macrophages, increasing the production of interleukins IL-2 and IL-12, and also promote the activation of natural killer (NK) cells through JAK/STAT signaling cascades. Simultaneously, stimulation of antigen presentation and enhancement of the T-cell response, including proliferation of CD4⁺ lymphocytes, is observed. Some studies have shown the ability of polysaccharides to influence the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR4), through which the primary activation of innate immunity is realized.

Saponins present in the roots of Astragalus glycyphyllos exhibit membrane-tropic action, increasing the permeability of cell membranes and modulating the activity of calcium channels. They can also reduce platelet aggregation and enhance the release of nitric oxide in the vascular endothelium, mediating a vasodilatory effect. Their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity has also been established, which potentially affects the neurotransmitter balance in the central nervous system.

Coumarins in Astragalus glycyphyllos have mild vasodilating and anti-inflammatory effects, due to the inhibition of lipoxygenase pathway enzymes (LOX), as well as the modulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. This activity contributes to the normalization of microcirculation and stabilization of capillary blood flow.

At the skin level, Astragalus glycyphyllos extracts stimulate fibroblast proliferation, enhance the synthesis of type I and III collagen, promote the expression of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), and reduce the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-9). This contributes to the improvement of reparative processes, restoration of the extracellular matrix structure, and enhancement of the skin barrier potential.

Summarized data on systemic activity confirm participation in the regulation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, stabilization of cortisol levels, and increased stress resistance. The effects are realized through direct modulation of glucocorticoid receptors and an indirect influence on ACTH secretion. An effect on serotonin and dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex has also been noted, which may explain the moderate anxiolytic effect of the alcohol forms of the extract.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874123000314
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-019-09634-8
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Synergy — Astragalus glycyphyllos

The pharmacological synergy of Astragalus glycyphyllos with other substances and plant components has been confirmed in a number of in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the modulation of inflammatory processes, immune response, antioxidant defense, and tissue regeneration. The most pronounced potentiating effect is observed when combining Astragalus glycyphyllos extracts with other sources of flavonoids and saponins, as well as with substances possessing antioxidant and antimicrobial activity.

It has been established that when used together with licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), the modulating effect on the production of cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α is enhanced, due to the similar direction of action of saponins and flavonoids from both taxa. This interaction has an additive nature and is realized through the coupled suppression of the NF-κB cascade. Simultaneously, stabilization of superoxide dismutase and catalase activity occurs, leading to a more pronounced reduction of oxidative stress in immunocompetent cells.

When combined with eleutherococcus root (Eleutherococcus senticosus), potentiation of adaptogenic and immunomodulating effects is observed, expressed in enhanced proliferation of T-lymphocytes and activation of NK cells. Studies have shown that both taxa synergistically enhance the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and activate the expression of TLR4 receptors, enhancing the innate immune response while maintaining homeostatic regulation.

The combination of Astragalus glycyphyllos with purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) demonstrates a potentiating effect on the humoral immunity, especially in terms of increasing the levels of IgA and IgG. The combined effect occurs through modulation of antigen-presenting cell activity and enhancement of IL-12 production. These effects have been confirmed in experimental models of systemic immune stimulation.

Synergy with flavonoid extracts of Ginkgo biloba has also been established, manifested in the enhancement of antioxidant activity, reduction of reactive oxygen species production, and protection of the vascular endothelium. The combined suppression of MAPK and NF-κB cascades provides a protective effect at the cellular level, especially under conditions of oxidative tissue damage.

In combination with ascorbic acid, enhancement of antioxidant activity through the mechanism of regeneration of oxidized forms of flavonoids and stabilization of the glutathione pool is observed. This interaction has a protective nature and contributes to the preservation of the biological activity of phenolic compounds of Astragalus glycyphyllos.

Furthermore, additive anti-inflammatory action is noted when combined with curcumin. The combined inhibition of COX-2 activity and iNOS expression causes a sustained reduction in the level of pro-inflammatory mediators. These effects have been confirmed in the RAW264.7 cell culture and in an animal model of chronic inflammation.

Thus, Astragalus glycyphyllos demonstrates mainly potentiating and modulating synergy when combined with plant adaptogens, antioxidants, and immunomodulators. The mechanisms of interaction vary from joint inhibition of signaling cascades to stabilization of structural components of cellular defense.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874117304009
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-019-09634-8
https://www.semanticscholar.or...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Astragalus glycyphyllos

Astragalus glycyphyllos was traditionally used in the folk medicine of Eastern and Central Europe, mainly in Slavic and Balkan healing systems. The main areas of ethnomedical use cover the territories of modern Poland, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and the southern regions of Russia. In these regions, it was included in decoctions and water infusions, which were used internally and externally. Traditions of preparing steam inhalations using dried leaves and stems of the plant are also known, which were widely practiced in rural healing practices of the southern Slavs.

In Russian and Ukrainian folk medicine, the plant was classified as a "blood herb" — one that strengthens the heart, cleanses blood vessels, and relieves "internal languor." It was believed that its root has a "nourishing force," strengthening the body during the period of spring exhaustion. In some areas of the Chernozem region and the Volga region, infants were bathed in a decoction of Astragalus glycyphyllos to strengthen health, and the decoction was also used as part of healing wraps practiced in a sauna or on a bed during winter colds.

In Hungarian and Slovak traditions, Astragalus glycyphyllos was part of multi-component mixtures known as "chest mixtures" and "herbs for melancholy." It was used as a tonic during spring weakness, and also to maintain male strength. In Transylvanian folklore, the plant was considered a "fire root" that strengthens the "life flame" and can "drive away fatigue."

Balkan herbalists used Astragalus glycyphyllos in the form of water infusions combined with linden and thyme for night washes and compresses. In some villages in Serbia and Bosnia, the infusion was rubbed on the back and lower back during prolonged physical exertion and "heavy lifting."

In the German herbal tradition, it was known as Süßwurz-Tragant or "licorice milkvetch." In old German handwritten herbal books, it was mentioned as a component of "heart wines" and strengthening syrups. In some regions of Bavaria, its dried twigs were placed in bedrooms for "nerve calming," reflecting the syncretism of phytotherapy and folk magic.

On the North Caucasian plains, the plant was used in the folk healing practices of Ossetians, Ingush, and Circassians as a cleansing and restorative remedy after winter. Rituals of fumigating dwellings with dry herbs with the addition of Astragalus glycyphyllos are known, to which was attributed the property of "dispersing diseases" and "driving away winter."

In some ethnic groups of the Volga and Ural regions, there was a belief that the root of Astragalus glycyphyllos could be worn as a protective amulet against exhaustion and "loss of strength." The roots were dried, tied with threads, and sewn into fabric bags, which were hung around the neck or hidden under a child's pillow.

In the Balkans and the Carpathians, the plant was attributed with properties that cleanse the mind and strengthen the will. In the ritual practice of some mountain communities, it was used as part of purification rites — in the form of burning twigs or mixing tincture into bath decoctions. It was believed that steam with the addition of Astragalus glycyphyllos expels "heavy thoughts" and "clears the head."

Thus, Astragalus glycyphyllos occupies a significant place in the Eastern European, Slavic, and Balkan ethnobotanical systems, where its use combines physiological and symbolic meaning, covering both medical and ritual practices.