Undaria pinnatifida vs Astragalus mongholicus

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Undaria pinnatifida

Immune Support

Immune Support

Undaria pinnatifida

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Astragalus mongholicus

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

East Asian brown seaweed; one of most nutritious seaweeds; fucoidan extensively studied for anti-cancer.

Northern China variety of Astragalus used for immune support and qi tonification.

Active Compounds

fucoidan, fucoxanthin, alginic acid, EPA, iodine, calcium, magnesium

astragalosides, cycloastragenol, polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins

Traditional Uses

thyroid support, cardiovascular, anti-cancer, bone health, weight management

immune deficiency, fatigue, spleen qi deficiency, cardiovascular, lung deficiency

Modern Uses

anti-tumor, antioxidant, thyroid support, anti-inflammatory

immunomodulant, adaptogen, antioxidant, cardiovascular

Adult Dosage

3-10g dried wakame or 300mg fucoidan extract daily

9-30g dried root or 500mg extract daily

Contraindications

hyperthyroidism, blood thinners, iodine allergy

autoimmune disease, immunosuppressants, pregnancy

Side Effects

iodine excess with large amounts, GI upset

generally very safe, mild GI effects

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E