Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, used for over 2,000 years to support immune function, cardiovascular health, and overall vitality. Modern research has identified its key active compounds — astragalosides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids — which support T-cell activation, healthy inflammation response, and cellular longevity. The best astragalus supplements deliver standardized extracts with verified potency for consistent results.
Quick Comparison
Product
Dose/Strength
Form
Best For
Rating
Zazzee 8-in-1 Immune Support
1400mg Multi-Ingredient
Capsules
Best Overall
9.5/10
Vitamatic Astragalus 10:1
500mg (5000mg equiv.)
Capsules
Best Value
9.3/10
NOW Foods Astragalus 500mg
500mg Root Powder
Capsules
Best Trusted Brand
9.2/10
NOW Foods Astragalus Extract
500mg (70% Polysaccharides)
Capsules
Best Standardized Extract
9.1/10
Double Wood Astragalus 500mg
500mg Root Extract
Capsules
Best Third-Party Tested
9.0/10
Nature’s Way Astragalus Root
1410mg per 3 capsules
Capsules
Best Whole Root
8.9/10
Gaia Herbs Astragalus Supreme
Liquid Phyto-Caps
Liquid Capsules
Best Premium
8.8/10
1. Zazzee Extra Strength 8-in-1 Immune Support – Best Overall
No products found.
A comprehensive immune support complex that features astragalus alongside vitamin C, zinc, elderberry, and four other immune-boosting ingredients for multi-pathway defense.
This 8-in-1 formula delivers 1,400 mg per capsule with astragalus as a cornerstone ingredient alongside 1,000 mg vitamin C, zinc, elderberry, echinacea, garlic, turmeric, and probiotics. The multi-ingredient approach activates immune defenses through several complementary mechanisms — astragalus for T-cell activation, zinc for immune cell function, and vitamin C for antioxidant protection. 180 vegan capsules provide a generous supply.
Pros:
8 clinically recognized immune support ingredients in one formula
180 vegan capsules per bottle for extended supply
Synergistic combination targets multiple immune pathways
Cons:
Individual astragalus dose lower than standalone products
Multi-ingredient formula not ideal for those wanting astragalus only
Best for: Anyone seeking comprehensive immune support with astragalus as a key component
2. Vitamatic Astragalus Capsules 10:1 Extract – Best Value
Vitamatic Astragalus Capsules 200 Veg Capsules – 10:1 Astragalus Extract 500mg – Non-GMO, Gluten-Free
Promotes Helthy Immune Function*
Promotes Cardiovascular Health*
Non-GMO & Gluten Free
Free of sugar, starch, soy, yeast, corn, wheat, egg, artificial color, flavor, & preservatives.
Made in the USA with strict GMP Standards
A concentrated 10:1 astragalus extract delivering 5,000 mg equivalent strength from 500 mg per capsule, with 200 vegetarian capsules per bottle for outstanding value.
Vitamatic’s 10:1 extraction ratio concentrates the active polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins found in astragalus root into a potent, easy-to-swallow capsule. Each serving provides the equivalent of 5,000 mg of raw astragalus root. The 200-capsule bottle delivers over 6 months of daily use at the recommended dose. Non-GMO, gluten-free, and made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility.
Pros:
10:1 extract delivers 5,000 mg equivalent per capsule
200-capsule bottle provides 6+ months of supply
Excellent cost per serving
Cons:
Not standardized to specific polysaccharide percentage
Less established brand than legacy supplement companies
Best for: Value-conscious buyers who want a high-potency astragalus extract at the best price
3. NOW Foods Astragalus 500mg – Best Trusted Brand
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NOW Foods Supplements, Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) 500 mg, Immune System Support*, 100 Capsules
IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT*: NOW Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb* and known active components include flavonoids, free amino acids, trace minerals, and polyphenols
HISTORY: Astragalus root (Huang qi) has been used as a popular herbal tonic in China for many centuries
CLASSIFICATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS: Non-GMO, Quality GMP Assured, Soy Free
GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation)
Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968
From one of the most trusted names in natural supplementation, NOW Foods delivers pure astragalus root at 500 mg per capsule with their signature GMP quality assurance.
NOW Foods has been a family-owned supplement company since 1968, earning NPA A-rated GMP certification for manufacturing excellence. Their astragalus delivers 500 mg of Astragalus membranaceus root per capsule with active components including flavonoids, free amino acids, trace minerals, and polyphenols. Each 100-capsule bottle provides a 25-day supply at the recommended 4 capsules daily, or longer at lower maintenance doses. Non-GMO and soy-free.
Pros:
Trusted brand with NPA A-rated GMP certification since 1968
Pure astragalus root without unnecessary additives
Widely available and consistently reviewed
Cons:
500 mg per capsule requires multiple capsules for higher doses
Whole root powder rather than concentrated extract
Best for: Those who prioritize brand trust and consistent quality from a legacy supplement maker
4. NOW Foods Astragalus Extract 500mg (70% Polysaccharides) – Best Standardized Extract
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A standardized astragalus extract delivering 500 mg per capsule with a guaranteed 70% polysaccharide content — the highest standardization level commonly available and the key compounds behind astragalus’s immune benefits.
Unlike whole root powder, this extract is standardized to contain 70% polysaccharides — the primary bioactive compounds responsible for astragalus’s immune-modulating effects. This means each capsule delivers a consistent, verified amount of active compounds regardless of batch variation. The 90 vegan capsules provide a 1-3 month supply depending on dosing. Backed by NOW’s comprehensive quality testing protocols.
Pros:
Standardized to 70% polysaccharides for guaranteed potency
Extract format concentrates active compounds
Vegan capsules with NOW’s quality guarantee
Cons:
Higher price per capsule than non-standardized options
90-capsule count provides shorter supply than competitors
Best for: Users who want guaranteed, standardized polysaccharide content in every capsule
5. Double Wood Astragalus 500mg – Best Third-Party Tested
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Double Wood Supplements Immune Boosting Astragalus 500mg 180 Capsules – Rich in Flavonoids and Polysaccharides – Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Third Party Tested
T-CELL ACTIVATOR: Research shows Astragalus may activate T Cells to support immune system health
HEALTHY AGING SUPPORT FLAVONOID: Astragalus is rich in Flavonoids and Polysaccharides which may support immune system health
OVERALL HEALTH: Astragalus root extract may help support heart health
Five Month Supply: Double Wood Supplements’ includes 300 capsules (2 capsule servings) to last you nearly half a year
WE BOTTLE WELLNESS: At Double Wood we provide pure, potent supplements that deliver exceptional value, all backed by careful sourcing and rigorous third-party testing
A rigorously third-party tested astragalus supplement delivering 500 mg per capsule with 180 capsules per bottle — providing nearly 5 months of immune support from a quality-focused brand.
Double Wood Supplements is known for its commitment to third-party testing, ensuring every batch meets label claims for purity and potency. Their astragalus extract is rich in flavonoids and polysaccharides — the compounds responsible for T-cell activation and immune system modulation. The 180-capsule bottle at 2 capsules per serving provides approximately 3 months of daily use. Non-GMO and gluten-free.
Pros:
Rigorous third-party testing for purity and potency
180-capsule bottle provides extended supply
Rich in flavonoids and polysaccharides
Cons:
Not standardized to specific active compound percentages
Capsules may be large for some users
Best for: Quality-focused buyers who prioritize independent third-party testing verification
6. Nature’s Way Astragalus Root 1410mg – Best Whole Root
Sale
Nature’s Way Astragalus Root, Traditional Immune Support*, 1,410 mg per 3-Capsule Serving, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan 180 Capsules (Packaging May Vary)
Nature’s Way Astragalus Root provides traditional immune support.*
Astragalus root has been used in traditional Chinese wellness practices for centuries
Adults take 3 capsules twice daily
Gluten-free and vegan. No salt, wheat, corn, soy, dairy, gelatin, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Non-GMO Project Verified
At Nature’s Way, we believe nature is the ultimate problem solver. For over 50 years, we have looked to the natural world for inspiration. Our quality vitamins and supplements are formulated to help you find your way to wellness
Delivering 1,410 mg of pure astragalus root per 3-capsule serving, Nature’s Way provides a high-dose whole root option from a Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan formula.
Nature’s Way has been a trusted herbal supplement brand for over 50 years, and their astragalus delivers whole root in its most natural form. The 1,410 mg dose across 3 capsules provides a substantial daily serving of unmodified astragalus root, preserving the full spectrum of naturally occurring compounds. Non-GMO Project Verified and vegan. The 180-capsule bottle provides a 30-day supply at the recommended dose.
Pros:
Full-spectrum whole root preserves all natural compounds
Non-GMO Project Verified with 50+ year brand heritage
High 1,410 mg dose per serving
Cons:
Requires 3 capsules per serving (6 per day at full dose)
Whole root is less concentrated than extract formulas
Best for: Those who prefer whole-root astragalus in its most natural, unextracted form
7. Gaia Herbs Astragalus Supreme – Best Premium
No products found.
A premium liquid phyto-cap formula combining astragalus root with schisandra berry and ligustrum for enhanced immune and antioxidant support from one of the most respected herbal supplement brands.
Gaia Herbs uses liquid extraction technology in their Phyto-Caps, delivering astragalus in a concentrated liquid form sealed inside a capsule for optimal absorption. The formula adds schisandra berry (an adaptogen that supports liver function and stress response) and ligustrum (a traditional Chinese immune tonic). This synergistic combination reflects traditional herbal formulation principles. Each bottle is traceable via Gaia’s MeetYourHerbs platform for full supply chain transparency.
Pros:
Liquid phyto-cap format for superior absorption
Synergistic formula with schisandra and ligustrum
Full supply chain transparency via MeetYourHerbs
Cons:
Premium price significantly higher than basic capsules
60-capsule count provides only a 30-day supply
Best for: Those who want a premium, multi-herb immune formula with superior absorption technology
8. Vital Nutrients Astragalus Root Extract 300mg – Best Practitioner Grade
Vital Nutrients – American Ginseng – Energy Support – Mental and Physical Endurance – 100 Vegetarian Capsules per Bottle – 250 mg
Adrenal Support Supplements: Supports adrenal gland function, relieves stress & frustration
Immune Support Supplement: Helps the body adapt to stress & supports a healthy immune system
Clean Vegan Formula. Hypoallergenic and Non-GMO. Made without artificial fillers, coatings, binders, or colors.
Quality You Can Rely on: Our rigorous quality assurance program includes third-party independent laboratory testing of raw ingredients and finished products for purity and potency to ensure what’s on the label is in the bottle.
Vital Nutrients: Committed to making high-quality supplements that support health & vitality
A practitioner-grade astragalus extract from Vital Nutrients — a brand widely recommended by naturopaths and integrative medicine practitioners for its pharmaceutical-level quality standards.
Vital Nutrients maintains some of the strictest quality standards in the supplement industry, with every batch independently tested for purity, potency, and contaminants including heavy metals, pesticides, and microbes. Their 300 mg astragalus root extract delivers concentrated active compounds in a vegan formula. The 90-capsule bottle provides a 1-3 month supply depending on dosing protocol. Trusted by healthcare practitioners nationwide.
Pros:
Practitioner-grade quality with comprehensive batch testing
Recommended by naturopaths and integrative medicine doctors
Exceeds FDA testing requirements for safety
Cons:
Premium pricing reflects practitioner-grade quality
300 mg dose requires multiple capsules for higher dosing
Best for: Those who want practitioner-recommended, pharmaceutical-quality astragalus
How to Choose the Best Astragalus Supplement
Astragalus supplements come in two main formats: whole root powder and concentrated extracts. Whole root preserves the full spectrum of naturally occurring compounds, while extracts concentrate specific active ingredients — particularly polysaccharides and astragalosides. Standardized extracts (such as those guaranteeing 70% polysaccharides) ensure consistent potency across batches, while whole root products may vary in active compound levels.
Look for extraction ratios when evaluating potency. A 10:1 or 20:1 extract delivers the equivalent of 5,000–10,000 mg of raw root in a single capsule. For whole root products, doses of 1,000–2,000 mg daily are common. For standardized extracts, 500–1,000 mg daily is typical. The polysaccharide content is the most important quality marker — higher percentages indicate more active immune-supporting compounds.
Capsules are the most popular format, though liquid tinctures and phyto-caps offer faster absorption. Consider your primary goal: immune support benefits from polysaccharides, adaptogenic benefits from the full-spectrum root, or longevity benefits from astragalosides (which may support telomere health). Different formulations emphasize different compound profiles.
Quality certifications to look for include GMP manufacturing, third-party testing, Non-GMO Project Verification, and USDA Organic (for whole root products). Reputable brands test for common contaminants including heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contamination. Astragalus from established herbal supplement companies with supply chain transparency provides the best confidence in product quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is astragalus and what does it do?
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), known as Huang Qi in Chinese medicine, is a flowering plant whose root has been used for over 2,000 years as an immune tonic and vitality booster. Modern research has identified its key active compounds — polysaccharides, astragalosides, and flavonoids — which support immune cell activation (particularly T-cells), antioxidant defense, cardiovascular function, and potentially telomere health for cellular longevity.
How much astragalus should I take daily?
For whole root powder, typical doses range from 1,000 to 2,000 mg per day. For concentrated extracts (10:1 or 20:1), 250–500 mg per day provides equivalent potency. For standardized extracts (70% polysaccharides), 500–1,000 mg daily is standard. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners sometimes recommend higher doses during acute immune challenges and lower maintenance doses for ongoing support.
When is the best time to take astragalus?
Astragalus can be taken at any time of day, though many practitioners recommend taking it with meals to improve absorption and reduce potential digestive sensitivity. For immune support, consistent daily use is more important than timing. Some users prefer morning dosing to align with the body’s natural immune rhythms, while others split doses between morning and evening.
Are there any side effects of astragalus?
Astragalus is generally well-tolerated with a long history of safe use. Some people experience mild digestive symptoms, including bloating or diarrhea, particularly at higher doses. Because astragalus modulates immune function, those with autoimmune conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use, as it may increase immune activity. Astragalus may also interact with immunosuppressive medications.
Can I take astragalus with other supplements?
Astragalus pairs well with other immune-supporting supplements like vitamin C, zinc, elderberry, and medicinal mushrooms (reishi, shiitake). In traditional Chinese medicine, it is frequently combined with other herbs like ginseng, ligustrum, and schisandra for synergistic effects. However, combining astragalus with immunosuppressive drugs or other immune-modulating supplements requires healthcare provider guidance.
How long does it take for astragalus to work?
Some users report increased energy and improved well-being within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For immune system support, 4–8 weeks of daily supplementation is typically needed to see measurable benefits. Astragalus is traditionally considered a “tonic” herb, meaning its full benefits emerge with long-term, consistent use rather than acute, one-time dosing. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners often recommend continuous use for several months.