The Genus Astragalus Species as an Emerging Source of Bioactive Phytochemicals: A Review of Dermatological and Cosmetic Applications

April 2026 in “ Cosmetics ”

Saba Shahrivari-Baviloliaei, Ilkay Erdogan Orhan, Alina Plenis, Agnieszka Viapiana

Astragalus membranaceus bioactive phytochemicals saponins flavonoids polysaccharides skin rejuvenating photoprotective antimicrobial wound-healing alopecia atopic dermatitis anti-aging cosmeceuticals Astragalus skin brightening skin moisture skin elasticity collagen

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Studysummary In this review, several studies on Astragalus species, particularly Astragalus membranaceus, highlight their skin rejuvenating, photoprotective, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, though the authors note limitations due to reliance on non-human studies and short trial durations.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

Astragalus species, particularly Astragalus membranaceus, are emerging as valuable sources of bioactive phytochemicals for dermatological and cosmetic applications. These plants contain secondary metabolites like saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which offer skin rejuvenating, photoprotective, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Despite promising preliminary data, most studies are in vitro or on animal models, with limited human clinical trials. A study with 150 healthy adults showed that a saponin-based formulation improved skin brightness, moisture, elasticity, and collagen content. Astragalus extracts also show potential in treating conditions like alopecia and atopic dermatitis, supporting their use in anti-aging cosmeceuticals. However, further research and large-scale human trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

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4 / 4 results

Microneedles Self-Implanting Astragalus Polysaccharides-Hybridized Composite Hydrogel Combined With Minoxidil To Enhance In Situ Anti-Androgenetic Alopecia

research Microneedles Self-Implanting Astragalus Polysaccharides-Hybridized Composite Hydrogel Combined With Minoxidil To Enhance In Situ Anti-Androgenetic Alopecia

February 2026 in “PubMed”

This study reported that polysaccharides from Astragalus roots could promote hair regeneration and optimize drug delivery when combined in innovative microneedles, effectively improving hair growth in mice with androgenetic alopecia.

research Hair Growth-Promoting Effects of Astragalus Sinicus Extracts in Human Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells

January 2025 in “Cosmetics”

In this study, the researchers found that Astragalus sinicus extracts improved wound healing, reduced oxidative stress, and activated crucial signaling pathways in dermal papilla cells damaged by dihydrotestosterone, suggesting it may be a promising ingredient for hair loss treatment.

research Alopecia Types, Current and Future Treatment

3 citations , January 2021 in “Journal of dermatology & cosmetology”

This review explores different types of alopecia, the effects on hair appearance and growth, and the conventional treatments available, including minoxidil and finasteride, along with their side effects and the need for future drug development and potential therapies.

research Beneficial Effects of Astragaloside IV for Hair Loss via Inhibition of Fas/FasL-Mediated Apoptotic Signaling

29 citations , March 2014 in “PloS one”

In this study, Astragaloside IV was found to inhibit apoptosis-related pathways in hair follicles of mice, suggesting it may serve as an alternative therapy for hair loss.