Can Astragalus Help Treat Viral Myocarditis?

Viral myocarditis is a heart condition caused by a viral infection. It is commonly caused by the Coxsackie virus. The virus causes cell heart cell dysfunction, protein accumulation, cell death, and inflammation. Astragalus may help treat viral myocarditis. It works by itself and in combination with conventional therapy.^{(72, 176, 177)}

How Does Astragalus Work on Viral Myocarditis?

Preclinical research suggests astragalus:^(72, 178)

• Preventing the Coxsackie virus from replicating.
• Counteracts the harmful effects of the virus on infected cells.

Clinical studies suggest astragalus also improves the immune system response in patients with this condition.⁽¹⁷⁹⁾

Clinical Evidence of Benefit

A systematic review of clinical trials also supports the benefits of using astragalus. In all the studies patients were given astragalus along with conventional treatment drugs. The combination of herb and medication improved heart function significantly better than the drugs alone.⁽¹⁷⁷⁾

In infants, astragalus and vitamin C may also boost the effectiveness of conventional drug treatment. Results of a small 2-week clinical trial showed the combination significantly improved symptoms and shortened the disease by almost 20% better than drugs by themselves.⁽¹⁸⁰⁾

Astragalus may also be useful in treating viral myocarditis in pregnant women. According to a small clinical trial, astragalus made conventional treatment much more effective. However, the herb made no difference in reducing heart arrhythmia, even though results of animal studies suggested astragalus could prevent it.^(181, 182)