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Astragalus: an ancient medicinal plant with diverse health properties

Astragalus: an ancient medicinal plant with diverse health properties
Telomeres are cap-like structures that protect the ends of chromosomes.
Their length shortens with each cell division, and this shortening is closely related to aging and age-related diseases.
Breakthrough research suggests that astragalus may positively affect telomere health in several ways:

1. Telomere lengthening:

Astragalus may activate the enzyme telomerase, which is responsible for the regeneration of telomeres.
Laboratory studies showed that astragalus extract increased telomerase activity in human cells, thus extending their life.

2. Protection against oxidative damage:

Telomeres are very sensitive to oxidative damage, which causes them to shorten at an increased rate.
Astragalus is rich in strong antioxidants, which are able to protect the telomeres from these damages.
A new study from 2023 found that astragalus extract protected telomeres from free radical damage in cell culture.

3. Reducing oxidative stress:

Oxidative stress accelerates the aging process and damages the health of telomeres.
Astragalus is known for its ability to reduce oxidative stress in the body, thus protecting the telomeres from damage.

  • Astragalus extract was given to the cells at different concentrations.
  • It was found that Astragalus extract protected the telomeres against free radical damage at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml.
  • It was found that Astragalus extract increased the activity of the telomerase enzyme at a concentration of 20 micrograms/ml.
  • The study also found that astragalus protected the telomeres from shortening as a result of exposure to oxidative stress.

Active ingredients:

  • Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that support normal cell function and heart health.
  • Polysaccharides: have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, strengthen the immune system and aid in digestion.
  • Saponins: Contribute to reducing cholesterol levels, strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Health benefits:

  • Anti-inflammatory activity: Helps protect against arthritis, heart disease and more.
  • Strengthening the immune system: Helps regulate immune system reactions and protects against infections.
  • Improving cardiovascular health: Contributes to reducing blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
  • Slowing down the aging process: Protects against free radical damage and helps protect the telomeres.
  • Protection against diabetes: Helps regulate blood sugar levels.

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References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7168059/