supplementInjectableOTC supplementNo published human clinical trial establishing a dose
CycloastragenolBenefits, Dosage & Interactions
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin derived from Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It is structurally similar to astragaloside IV, another active compound found in astragalus. Research on Cycloastragenol focuses on healthy aging and immune function. It is typically taken in the morning.
Researched by DoseRoutine Research TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSE, SO, PMPLast updated Educational reference only — not medical advice. Always confirm dosing and safety decisions with a licensed clinician.
Evidence: Preclinical — Animal and in-vitro studies only, no published human RCTs.
Evidence strengthPreclinical · 1/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
Animal and in-vitro studies only, no published human RCTs.
Plasma half-life
Not applicable
Typical timing
in the morning
Default unit
mg
What published protocols report
Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.
Reported for Cycloastragenol in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
Mixing Cycloastragenol: bacteriostatic water and syringe units
The vial arrives as dry powder. How much water you add sets the strength, and the strength sets the mark you draw to on the syringe. The table assumes a 5 mg vial and a 250 mcg example draw on a U-100 insulin syringe, where 100 units is one millilitre. If your vial is a different size, scale it — the arithmetic is the same.
| Bacteriostatic water added | Resulting strength | 250 mcg draws to |
|---|---|---|
| 1 mL | 5 mg/mL | 5 units |
| 2 mL | 2.5 mg/mL | 10 units |
| 3 mL | 1.67 mg/mL | 15 units |
Units, not millilitres. Insulin syringes are marked in units, and mixing up mcg and mg on a peptide label is the single most common error people report. Check the label twice. Run your own vial through the calculator.
Storage and stability
- Before mixing
- Sealed and still as a dry powder, Cycloastragenol vials are normally kept in the fridge at 2–8 °C, out of light. Short spells at room temperature during shipping are the norm for lyophilized peptides and are not, on their own, a sign the vial is spoiled.
- After mixing
- Once bacteriostatic water goes in, the vial belongs in the fridge and is generally treated as good for about 28 days — that is how long the benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water is relied on to hold back bacterial growth. Plain sterile water has no preservative, so a vial mixed with it is a single-session vial. Never freeze a reconstituted vial.
- When to throw it out
- A properly mixed vial is clear. Cloudiness, floating strands, a color change or powder that will not go into solution after gentle swirling all mean the vial should be discarded rather than used. Shaking a peptide vial hard is the usual cause — swirl it, or run the water down the inside wall of the vial instead of onto the powder.
Handling and shelf-life figures describe general practice for lyophilized peptides. They are not a dose and not medical advice — your prescriber or the product label sets the amount.
References & evidence
Documents the Cycloastragenol entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]Cycloastragenol exerts protective effects against UVB irradiation in human dermal fibroblasts and HaCaT keratinocytesYang MH, Hwang ST, Um JY, et al. · Journal of Dermatological Science · 2023 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 37474410
- [2]Cycloastragenol Inhibits Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm ProgressionMelin LG, Dall JH, Lindholt JS, et al. · Biomedicines · 2022 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 35203568
References & Evidence
Sources on this page that document Cycloastragenol dosing, timing and safety.
- [1]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source
Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.
What is Cycloastragenol studied for?
What is Cycloastragenol?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin derived from *Astragalus membranaceus*, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It is structurally similar to astragaloside IV, another active compound found in astragalus. CAG has garnered significant interest for its potential role in longevity and anti-aging research, primarily due to its reported ability to activate telomerase, an enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length. Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, and their shortening is associated with cellular aging and age-related diseases. While *Astragalus membranaceus* has been used for centuries, research into isolated cycloastragenol is more recent, focusing on its specific biological activities. (PubChem, DrugBank)
What does the research say about Cycloastragenol?
Tap a section to expand.
The primary proposed mechanism of action for cycloastragenol involves the activation of telomerase. Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences (telomeres) to the ends of chromosomes, counteracting telomere shortening that occurs during DNA replication. By activating telomerase, CAG is hypothesized to help maintain telomere length, thereby potentially extending the replicative lifespan of cells and ameliorating age-related cellular dysfunction. Beyond telomerase activation, some research suggests CAG may also exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. These additional mechanisms could contribute to its overall health-promoting effects. (DrugBank, PubChem)
Source for this section: Sources for How does Cycloastragenol work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Research into the benefits of Cycloastragenol is ongoing, with primary focus on its potential impact on cellular aging and longevity.
* **Telomere Maintenance:** The most significant proposed benefit is its ability to activate telomerase, which may help maintain telomere length. Telomere shortening is a hallmark of cellular aging, and maintaining their length is hypothesized to contribute to cellular health and function over time. (PubChem)
* **Cellular Rejuvenation:** By potentially slowing or reversing telomere shortening, CAG may contribute to the rejuvenation of aged cells, improving their function and vitality. This has been explored in various cell types in laboratory settings.
* **Antioxidant Properties:** Some studies suggest that CAG possesses antioxidant activity, which helps to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to aging and various chronic diseases. (PubChem)
* **Immunomodulation:** Emerging research indicates that CAG might also have effects on the immune system, potentially enhancing immune function, which is known to decline with age. (DrugBank)
* **Cardiovascular Health:** Provisional studies suggest potential positive effects on cardiovascular markers, though more extensive research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
It is important to note that much of the evidence for these benefits comes from in vitro (cell culture) and animal studies. Human clinical trials are necessary to fully establish the efficacy and safety of cycloastragenol for these applications. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
The evidence supporting the benefits of Cycloastragenol primarily stems from in vitro studies, animal models, and a limited number of human observational studies or small-scale trials.
* **In Vitro Evidence:** Numerous cell culture studies have demonstrated that cycloastragenol can activate telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and promote telomere elongation in various human cell types, including fibroblasts and immune cells. These studies provide foundational understanding of its mechanism. (PubChem)
* **Animal Studies:** Research in animal models, particularly mice, has shown that cycloastragenol administration can lead to improvements in age-related physiological parameters, such as cognitive function, skin elasticity, and immune responses. Some studies have also observed increased telomere length in certain tissues of treated animals. (DrugBank)
* **Human Data:** While large-scale, placebo-controlled human clinical trials specifically on cycloastragenol are scarce, some commercially available supplements containing cycloastragenol or astragaloside IV have been associated with reports of subjective improvements in well-being and health markers. However, these are often limited by study design (small sample sizes, lack of control groups, short duration) and potential confounders. The efficacy and safety in humans requires more robust clinical investigation. (Cochrane reports on *Astragalus* generally recognize its traditional use but call for more rigorous modern trials for specific isolated compounds).
Overall, while the biological plausibility for cycloastragenol's role in longevity and anti-aging is compelling based on preliminary data, much of the evidence remains preclinical. More rigorous human trials are needed to confirm these effects and establish appropriate dosing and safety profiles. (PubChem, DrugBank)
Cycloastragenol is generally considered to be well-tolerated in animal studies and anecdotal human use, though comprehensive safety data from large-scale human clinical trials are lacking. Potential side effects, if they occur, are generally mild and may include:
* **Gastrointestinal discomfort:** Upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea have been reported with high doses of *Astragalus* extracts, which cycloastragenol is derived from.
* **Allergic reactions:** As with any natural product, there is a possibility of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, manifesting as rash, itching, or hives.
* **Interactions with immune system:** Given its potential immunomodulating effects, there is a theoretical concern for interactions with individuals with autoimmune diseases or those on immunosuppressant medications. (NIH ODS)
As research is still emerging, the full spectrum of potential side effects, particularly with long-term use, has not been fully established. It is advisable to start with a low dose and monitor for any adverse reactions. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Several warnings and precautions should be considered before using cycloastragenol:
* **Lack of Long-Term Safety Data:** Extensive long-term safety data in humans are not yet available. The effects of prolonged telomerase activation are still being investigated and understood, with theoretical concerns regarding potential promotion of uncontrolled cell growth (e.g., in dormant cancers).
* **Autoimmune Conditions:** Due to its potential to enhance immune function, individuals with autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis) should use cycloastragenol with extreme caution and under medical supervision, as it could theoretically exacerbate their condition. (NIH ODS)
* **Immunosuppressants:** Individuals undergoing immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., post-organ transplant patients) should avoid cycloastragenol, as it might counteract the effects of their medication. (NIH ODS)
* **Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:** There is insufficient reliable information about the safety of cycloastragenol during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid its use in these populations. (NIH ODS)
* **Children:** The safety and efficacy of cycloastragenol in children have not been established, and its use is not recommended.
This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Cycloastragenol is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to *Astragalus membranaceus* or any of its components. Due to its potential immunomodulatory effects, it is also contraindicated in individuals with active autoimmune diseases or those currently taking immunosuppressant medications, unless specifically advised by a licensed clinician. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of safety data. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Based on its proposed mechanism of action and traditional uses of *Astragalus*, cycloastragenol may interact with certain medications and other compounds:
* **Immunosuppressants:** Cycloastragenol might stimulate immune activity, potentially interfering with medications designed to suppress the immune system (e.g., corticosteroids, cyclosporine, azathioprine). This could reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs. (NIH ODS)
* **Medications for Autoimmune Diseases:** Given its potential to modulate immune function, it could theoretically worsen symptoms or interfere with medications for conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis. (NIH ODS)
* **Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets (Blood Thinners):** Although not definitively established for cycloastragenol specifically, other *Astragalus* compounds have shown mild antiplatelet effects in some studies. Combining with blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel might theoretically increase the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring is advised if combined. (NIH ODS)
Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining cycloastragenol with any medications or other supplements. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Cycloastragenol has a reported half-life of approximately 12 hours. For consistent exposure, it is typically recommended for administration in the **morning**. It can be taken **with or without food**, as there is no strong evidence suggesting that food significantly impacts its absorption or efficacy. However, some individuals may find taking it with food helps mitigate any potential mild gastrointestinal discomfort. For specific dosing instructions, users should follow the detailed guidance provided by a licensed clinician or the product manufacturer. This is educational information, not medical advice - consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for When should you take Cycloastragenol?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Put it into practice
Reading about Cycloastragenol is the first step — DoseRoutine helps you act on it. These free tools turn what you just learned into a routine.
What interacts with Cycloastragenol?
| Interacts with | Severity | Type | What happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Any glp1 + supplement | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.Source pending | Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider. |
| Any supplement + medication | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).Source pending | Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist. |
Frequently asked questions about Cycloastragenol
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a natural compound extracted from the *Astragalus membranaceus* plant, traditionally used in Chinese medicine. It is primarily researched for its potential to activate telomerase, an enzyme that helps maintain the length of telomeres, which are protective caps on DNA chromosomes that shorten with age.
CAG is believed to work by activating telomerase. By doing so, it may help to prevent or slow the shortening of telomeres, which is a key factor in cellular aging. This action aims to preserve cellular function and potentially extend the lifespan of cells.
While generally considered well-tolerated, potential side effects are typically mild and may include gastrointestinal discomfort. Due to its potential immunomodulating effects, individuals with autoimmune conditions or those on immunosuppressants should exercise caution. More long-term safety data are needed.
Yes, Cycloastragenol may interact with immunosuppressant drugs by potentially stimulating the immune system. There's also a theoretical concern for interactions with blood thinners. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining CAG with any medications.
Given its half-life, Cycloastragenol is typically recommended for morning administration. It can be taken with or without food, though some may prefer taking it with food to avoid potential mild stomach upset.
Cycloastragenol is typically taken in the morning. Amounts for this supplement vary by protocol, formulation and individual response, so follow the dose your clinician or the product label specifies.
Whether Cycloastragenol fits alongside testosterone replacement therapy depends on the protocol — dose, ester and ancillaries such as HCG or anastrozole — and on current bloodwork. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions
"Peptides" is not one category — healing peptides, GLP-1 agonists, growth-hormone secretagogues and melanocortins each behave differently next to Cycloastragenol. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
Published frequency for Cycloastragenol varies by protocol and formulation, so the label or prescription is what sets it. It is typically taken in the morning. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps
The effect of a missed dose of Cycloastragenol depends on the protocol and formulation you are on. Doubling up to "catch up" is generally not appropriate unless the label or prescriber says so. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.
For Cycloastragenol the useful record is the dose, the time it was actually taken, and what else was taken in the same window. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- PubChem CID 13943286(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/13943286
Verify at
Publisher search links for Cycloastragenol. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- DrugBank(publisher search, opens in a new tab)DrugBank Online · publisher search
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Institutes of Health · publisher search
- Cochrane Library(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Cochrane · publisher search
- PubMed literature search(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- DailyMed labeling archive(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Wikipedia entry(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · publisher search
DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.
What is the short answer on Cycloastragenol?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin derived from Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It is structurally similar to astragaloside IV, another active compound found in astragalus. Research on Cycloastragenol focuses on healthy aging and immune function. It is typically taken in the morning.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/cycloastragenol
Cycloastragenol cheat sheet
DoseRoutine cheat sheet · Supplement
Cycloastragenol
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin derived from Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It is structurally similar to astragaloside IV, another active compound found in astragalus.
Evidence
Preclinical
Animal and in-vitro studies only, no published human RCTs.
Route
In vitro human cell culture and oral/injected dosing in mouse models; no published human dosing trial
Timing
in the morning
OTC supplementNo published human clinical trial establishing a doseLongevityImmune
Studied ranges, not dosing advice. Not medical advice — talk to a clinician. doseroutine.com/library/cycloastragenol
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). Cycloastragenol — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/cycloastragenol
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