Evidence supporting the use of: Cnidium
For the health condition: Sex Drive (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cnidium (Cnidium monnieri) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for addressing sexual health concerns, particularly low libido and erectile dysfunction. The seeds, known as "She Chuang Zi," are traditionally believed to enhance sexual function in both men and women. Historical texts and herbal pharmacopeias consistently mention Cnidium as a tonic for sexual health, often used in combination with other herbs to treat impotence and increase sexual desire.
Scientific research on Cnidium’s efficacy for low sex drive is limited and mostly preclinical. Some animal studies suggest that osthole, a primary active compound in Cnidium, may have aphrodisiac-like effects, possibly by enhancing nitric oxide production and improving blood flow to genital tissues. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the evidence base is not strong enough to confirm effectiveness.
Overall, the use of Cnidium for supporting sex drive is primarily justified by traditional use, with some preliminary pharmacological rationale but insufficient human data to establish clinical efficacy. As with many herbal remedies, its use for this purpose should be approached with caution and ideally discussed with a healthcare professional.
Other ingredients used for Sex Drive (low)
ashwagandhachaste tree
damiana
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
fenugreek
ginseng
l-arginine
maca
muira puama
tongkat ali
tribulus
velvet bean
zinc
cistanche
barrenwort
yohimbe
Antler
Bulbine natalensis
Ba Ji Tian
Butea superba
Curculigo orchicides
Cnidium
Catuaba
D-Aspartic Acid
Dendrobium
Elk antler
Estrogen
yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Cnidium
AmenorrheaArthritis
Asthma
Bedwetting
Bladder Infection
Bruises (healing)
Cough (spastic)
Cramps (menstrual)
Digestion (poor)
Erectile Dysfunction
Infertility
Inflammation
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Neuralgia and Neuritis
Night Sweating
Pain (general remedies for)
PMS (general)
Premature Ejaculation
Prostatitis
Psoriasis
Sex Drive (low)
Wounds and Sores