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Is Astragalus Safe for Cats and Dogs?

Herbs For Pets 3 min read
Bamboo basket filled with astragalus root. teapot and green plant framing the image. is astragalus safe for cats and dogs

Humans have been using the astragalus plant since ancient times, dating back thousands of years. But is astragalus safe for cats and dogs? The NHV team is here to answer this question and to tell you all about it! 

What is Astragalus?

Astragalus membranaceus, also known as milkvetch, is a member of the pea family. It has finely divided leaves, small yellow flowers, and sprawling vine-like structures. A. membranaceus is one of about 2000 different species of astragalus. Humans have been cultivating this particular variety since ancient times due in large part to its immune-balancing and anti-inflammatory properties

History of Astragalus

In Chinese, astragalus is called huáng qí because it is said to improve the body’s lifeforce energy or qí (chee). It may also help protect the body from illness and infection. A. membranaceus is one of Chinese medicine’s best-known and most widely used herbs due to its many health benefits. Because of its versatility, the astragalus plant has undoubtedly found its way into Western herbalism. Historically, humans used the roots in tinctures and infusions to help fight infections, aid digestion and support the immune system.

Medicinal Properties of Astragalus membranaceus

The astragalus plant contains a range of beneficial compounds including saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides. Studies in China indicate that astragalus is beneficial for improving urinary health, helping to lower blood pressure and promoting overall vitality. In Western medical research, astragalus is being studied for its ability to help restore immune function in cancer patients. Clinical evidence is showing that cancer patients receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments recover faster and live longer when given astragalus concurrently.

How To Use Astragalus Safely For Pets

Astragalus is known for its immune-balancing and anti-inflammatory properties.

To answer the question: ‘is astragalus safe for cats and dogs?’ It is! Astragalus membranaceus is a non-toxic plant to have in your backyard and may offer many health benefits for your furry friends! But like anything in life, too much of a good thing can still be too much. This herb is safe for pets as long as it is formulated to be at a safe dosage. Don’t forget that you can always consult your vet for proper supervision and dosage.

close up of astragalus plant.. clusters of small yellow flowers on vine-like stems.

Astragalus in NHV Products

Overall, astragalus is a great herb for helping to improve the body’s defenses against colds and infections and to support immune function. We use astragalus in many of our supplements, including Old Timer, Mellit, Stimmune, Suplaglan, and Thyro-Up.

Old Timer is our leading supplement for joint support and arthritis. Astragalus contains free-radical scavenging properties to help reduce inflammation and encourage overall vitality.

Mellit is specifically for pets that are coping with pancreatitis and diabetes. It uses astragalus along with other herbs to help regulate blood sugar levels, and promote healthy pancreatic function.

Stimmune utilizes a blend of plant extracts, including astragalus to help balance immune function. It is especially helpful for pets with autoimmune diseases, allergies, and infections in the respiratory tract like kennel cough.

Supraglan is helpful for pets with adrenal hormone imbalances and pituitary gland disorders. Astragalus helps the body deal with stress, helps to regulate fluid levels, and helps alleviate inflammation.

Thyro-Up is our main supplement for pets with hypothyroidism. Astragalus in combination with other herbs helps support the thyroid gland, adds immune support, and promotes circulation.

For any questions about herbs for pets or anything else, our team of Pet Experts is here for you! Tap the button below to start chatting with us.

NHV Pet Experts

NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.

Published: May 21, 2022

2 replies

  1. Angele says:

    My 3 year old shetland dog was diagnosed with discoid lupus…only symptoms is the irritation on her nose. I was wondering if astragale is safe for her to take and would it help her immune system…if so …how much would i give her and for how long…Thanks

    1. Team NHV says:

      Hi Angele,

      Thank you so much for reaching out to us.

      We’re so sorry to hear that your pup is dealing with discoid lupus. We know that this condition can be really tough for both furparents and furkids to go through, please know that we’re here for you any time you need us.

      Astragalus is known for its immune-balancing and anti-inflammatory properties, however, we always recommend administering astragalus in pet-safe doses.

      For your little one, we suggest our Stimmune as it contains astragalus and can help balance immune function. Stimmune can also help to reduce uncomfortable symptoms like itchiness and irritation.

      Here’s more information on Stimmune for you: https://www.nhvnaturalpetproducts.com/stimmune-dog-allergy-relief-dog-immune-system-booster

      We also suggest our Natures Immuno. This is our medicinal mushroom blend that can also help to balance the immune system but can also help to support vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart.

      More information on Natures Immuno for you: https://www.nhvnaturalpetproducts.com/natures-immuno-medicinal-mushroom-blend-dogs

      We hope this information helps, please feel free to reach out to us any time you need. We’re sending lots of love to you and your sweet girl.

      Yours in wellness,
      Team NHV

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