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Types of Astragalus: Forms & Bioavailability

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Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Standardized Root ExtractModerate-HighGeneral use — standardized to astragalosides and polysaccharides
Astragalus Polysaccharide (APS) ExtractModerateImmune support — concentrated polysaccharide fraction
Cycloastragenol (TA-65)HighAnti-aging — isolated telomerase activator, expensive
Dried Root Slices/PowderLow-ModerateTraditional decoctions and soups — classic TCM preparation

Standardized Root Extract

Bioavailability: Moderate-High. Best for: General use — standardized to astragalosides and polysaccharides.

Astragalus Polysaccharide (APS) Extract

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: Immune support — concentrated polysaccharide fraction.

Cycloastragenol (TA-65)

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Anti-aging — isolated telomerase activator, expensive.

Dried Root Slices/Powder

Bioavailability: Low-Moderate. Best for: Traditional decoctions and soups — classic TCM preparation.

References

  1. (). Astragalus-based Chinese herbs and platinum-based chemotherapy for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Oncology. DOI
  2. (). A natural product telomerase activator as part of a health maintenance program. Rejuvenation Research. DOI