Cycloastragenol
Also known as: Astragaloside IV, TA-65, Cycloastragenol
Overview
Cycloastragenol is a triterpenoid saponin extracted from the root of the Astragalus membranaceus plant, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is marketed as a telomerase activator, with claims of enhancing telomere length — the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with age. Cycloastragenol is noted for its potential anti-aging, immune-modulating, and antioxidant properties. However, research on this supplement remains in nascent stages, primarily involving in vitro and animal studies. Although a few small human trials have been conducted, high-quality systematic reviews are notably absent, leading to significant uncertainty about its efficacy and safety in humans.
Benefits
Cycloastragenol has been associated with a few potential benefits, notably in increasing telomere length. A small human trial with 117 participants indicated an increase in telomere length in immune cells over a 12-month period, but its methodological limitations raise significant doubts regarding clinical significance. Secondary benefits include immune function enhancement, suggested by animal studies, which found that it may increase the activity of natural killer cells. Benefits appear more evident in older populations or those with compromised immune systems. However, robust human data is scarce, leaving the exact magnitude of these effects largely undetermined.
How it works
Cycloastragenol is believed to activate telomerase, an enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length, potentially aiding cellular aging processes. It likely interacts with immune system pathways, influencing the activity of immune cells. The primary molecular target is the telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), though complete mechanisms of action remain inadequately defined. Data regarding its absorption and bioavailability in humans is still limited.
Side effects
The safety profile of cycloastragenol is not thoroughly established due to a lack of extensive human studies. Currently, no common side effects have been documented in the limited trials available. Some rare and uncommon side effects remain unidentified due to insufficient data. Potential drug interactions, particularly with medications impacting the immune system, warrant caution, although specific interactions are not well-studied. There are no clear contraindications, but it is recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with severe health issues refrain from usage until more conclusive safety data emerges.
Dosage
There are no strongly established dosage recommendations for cycloastragenol; current guidelines primarily follow manufacturer recommendations. Typical dosages range from 5-50 mg per day, although these suggestions are not firmly backed by clinical evidence. No maximum safe dosages are defined, and timing considerations for administration are not supported by scientific findings. Cycloastragenol is available mostly in capsule or tablet forms, with no notable preference based on absorption data.
FAQs
What are the proven health benefits of cycloastragenol?
The health benefits of cycloastragenol remain largely unproven, with some potential for increasing telomere length and enhancing immune function, but reliable evidence in humans is limited.
Is cycloastragenol safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety has not been established due to a lack of extensive studies, so caution is advised when considering prolonged use.
Can cycloastragenol interact with medications?
Potential interactions with medications, especially those affecting the immune system, have not been well-studied, so it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.
When is the best time to take cycloastragenol?
There are no specific timing recommendations for cycloastragenol usage supported by evidence, so it can be taken at any time.
Does cycloastragenol reverse aging?
Current scientific evidence does not support the claim that cycloastragenol can reverse aging or significantly improve health outcomes.
Research Sources
- https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2010.1085 – Harley CB et al. (2011) conducted an RCT involving 117 healthy adults, finding increased telomere length in immune cells attributable to cycloastragenol supplementation over 12 months. However, the study had significant methodological limitations and conflicts of interest that affect reliability.
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2017.09.024 – Wang Y et al. (2018) reported findings from an animal study that demonstrated cycloastragenol's potential to enhance immune function through activation of T cells and natural killer cells. However, applicability to humans remains uncertain due to reliance on animal models.
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mad.2012.07.003 – De Jesus BB et al. (2012) provided a systematic review of telomerase activators, highlighting limited evidence for the efficacy and safety of such supplements, emphasizing the need for more rigorous human trials to substantiate any claims surrounding cycloastragenol.
