Cycloastragenol: benefits, dosage, contraindications
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Phytosubstances
Indications
Rating methodology
EFSA approval.
Immune strengthening ✪✪✪✪✪
A randomized study of 117 subjects aged 53 to 87 years, positive for cytomegalovirus, confirmed that cycloastragenol significantly increases telomere length. This reduces the effects of immunosenescence, a key factor in age-related immune decline, and could improve resilience to infections and chronic diseases.
Posologie
Oral
10 - 50 mg
standardized extract
Healthy aging ✪✪✪✪✪
Cycloastragenol primarily acts by elongating short telomeres, which slows down cellular aging. The Patton Protocol-1 study showed that taking cycloastragenol for 12 months improves telomeres in subjects positive for cytomegalovirus (CMV), restoring a "younger" leukocyte profile. This action is associated with benefits on bone density and cardiovascular health, although a lack of a control group limits some conclusions.
Posologie
Oral
25 - 50 mg
standardized extract
Properties
Anti-aging
Cycloastragenol is mainly known for its anti-aging effects, primarily due to its action on telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Each cell division causes progressive shortening of telomeres, a phenomenon associated with cellular aging and age-related diseases. By activating telomerase, an enzyme capable of maintaining or elongating telomeres, cycloastragenol helps to slow down this process. Studies have shown that cycloastragenol particularly targets critical telomeres, those whose length is dangerously reduced, thus preventing cells from entering senescence or apoptosis. This mechanism promotes better cell regeneration, essential for preserving tissue and organ health.
Usages associés
Immunostimulant
Cycloastragenol has a notable effect on the immune system. One of the main actions of cycloastragenol is its role in activating key immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes and macrophages. It stimulates cytokine production, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2), essential for activating and coordinating immune responses. Laboratory research shows that cycloastragenol promotes an increase in natural killer (NK) cell activity, improves the CD4/CD8 ratio, an indicator of a balanced immune response, and increases levels of IgA and IgG, key antibodies in defending against infections. In immunocompromised patients, such as those with cancer or undergoing chemotherapy, it can restore immune functions by reactivating T cells and increasing macrophage activity. Clinical trials also suggest that cycloastragenol mitigates the immunosuppressive effects associated with physical stress conditions, such as intense exercise, by maintaining stable cytokine levels and protecting dendritic cell functions. Thanks to these mechanisms, it is studied as a potential supplement to strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infections, especially in elderly or immunodeficient individuals.
Usages associés
Metabolic
Studies have reported significant improvements in metabolic markers, including blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Additionally, preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated an increase in bone mineral density in older subjects, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Safety dosage
Adult: 10 mg - 50 mg (standardized extract)
Dosages range from 10 to 50 mg/day for a duration of 3 to 6 months.
Precautions
Autoimmune diseases: use with caution
Theoretically, astragalus could exacerbate certain autoimmune diseases by stimulating disease activity; consume with caution in patients with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, or others.
Contraindications
Child up to 12 years: prohibited
Contraindicated in children under 12 years.
Pregnant woman: prohibited
According to studies, astragaloside, a constituent of astragalus, has a toxic effect on the mother and fetus. Do not consume during pregnancy.
