Evidence supporting the use of: Dendrobium
For the health condition: Sex Drive (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Dendrobium, a genus of orchids, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Shihu." Traditionally, Dendrobium has been used to nourish "yin," support overall vitality, and as a general tonic for health and longevity. In some TCM texts and folk practices, it is sometimes included in herbal formulas intended to address issues of low sex drive or sexual fatigue, usually as part of a broader approach to strengthen kidney function and restore energy. However, the direct historical association of Dendrobium specifically with increased libido is less pronounced compared to herbs like Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed).
Regarding scientific evidence, research on Dendrobium has focused largely on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and potential neuroprotective effects, rather than on libido or sexual function. There is a lack of robust clinical research demonstrating that Dendrobium directly enhances sex drive in humans. Animal studies exploring testosterone levels or sexual behavior after Dendrobium supplementation are extremely limited or absent. Therefore, while its traditional use may include supporting sexual health as part of overall vitality, the scientific validation for its effectiveness in treating low sex drive is currently weak.
In summary, the use of Dendrobium for low sex drive is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal direct scientific support available at this time.
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 orchioides
Cnidium
catuaba
D-Aspartic Acid
Dendrobium
eurycomanone
elk antler
Eurycoma Longifolia
estrogen
furostanols
Fadogia agrestis
horny goat weed
icariin
Labisia pumila
macamides
maral root
Massularia acuminata
Miroestrol
macaenes
Protodioscin
Safed musli
Tribuloside
Vitex Agnus-Castus
Yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Dendrobium
Appetite (deficient)Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Memory and Brain Function
Sex Drive (low)