Evidence supporting the use of: Cistanche deserticola
For the body system: Kidneys
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Cistanche deserticola is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support kidney health, particularly in the context of what is termed "Kidney Yang Deficiency." Historical texts, including the Shennong Bencao Jing and later pharmacopeias, frequently list Cistanche as a key tonic for the kidneys, used to address symptoms such as fatigue, weakness in the lower back and knees, impotence, and infertility. The concept of "kidney" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) encompasses not only the anatomical kidneys but also a broader set of physiological functions related to energy, sexual health, and aging.
Modern scientific studies have begun to investigate the pharmacological effects of Cistanche deserticola. Some animal and in vitro experiments indicate that its active compounds, such as echinacoside and acteoside, may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Research also suggests potential benefits for male sexual function and fatigue, which align with its TCM uses. However, direct scientific evidence supporting its use specifically for kidney disease or renal function in the biomedical sense is limited. Most studies focus on traditional indications or broad health-promoting effects rather than clinical endpoints in kidney disease.
In summary, while Cistanche deserticola is deeply rooted in traditional use for supporting the "kidneys" in TCM, robust scientific validation for its efficacy in supporting kidney health in the Western medical context is still emerging and remains incomplete.
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green tea
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horseradish
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lophatherum leaf
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oleanolic acid
parsley
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phellodendron amurense
plantain
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rhizome
rhubarb root
scrophularia root
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vitamin B
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vitamin D3
seaweed
water
watercress
watermelon
mulberry
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punarnava
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rubia cordifolia
swertia
chaff flower
lingzhi
goldenrod
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sodium salt
root tuber
juniper berries
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eucommia
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gravel root
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bergenin
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Blepharis
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Barleria
Baicalein
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Begonia fimbristipula
boldo
Black Gram
Bur-Reed
Ba Ji Tian
Bee products
Bombax
Borassus aethiopum
Baicalin
Bassia scoparia
Bergenia
Boerhavia diffusa
Bottle gourd
Curculigo orchicides
Cowpea
Chinese Mountain Ant
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Cucurbita
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Clerodendrum phlomidis
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Eucommia ulmoides
Emodin
Flavonoids
Garlic
Lotus
Lily
Mallow
Orchid
Rhubarb
Other body systems supported by Cistanche deserticola
Adrenal GlandsBlood
Brain
Circulatory System
Digestive System
Glandular System
Immune System
Intestinal System
Kidneys
Liver
Male Reproductive System
Reproductive System
Skeletal System (Bones)
Urinary System