Evidence supporting the use of: Cistanche (unspecified)
For the health condition: Testosterone (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cistanche is a traditional herb widely used in Chinese medicine, particularly in formulas intended to support male vitality and sexual function, which are often associated with testosterone or androgenic activity. Historically, species like Cistanche tubulosa and Cistanche deserticola have been labeled as “Yang-tonic” herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and prescribed for symptoms consistent with low testosterone, such as fatigue, reduced libido, and weakness. However, robust scientific evidence directly linking Cistanche supplementation to significant increases in testosterone levels in humans is lacking. Some animal studies have shown increases in testosterone or improved reproductive parameters following Cistanche extract administration, but these results are preliminary and not yet confirmed in well-controlled human trials. A handful of small clinical studies suggest possible improvements in sexual function or fatigue, but do not consistently measure or report changes in testosterone levels specifically. Thus, while traditional use for male reproductive health is strong, scientific support for a direct effect on testosterone is limited and mostly preclinical.
More about Cistanche (unspecified)
More about Testosterone (low)
Other ingredients used for Testosterone (low)
acetyl l-carnitineashwagandha
boron
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
maca
magnesium
muira puama
tongkat ali
tribulus
vitamin D3
zinc
cistanche
yohimbe
19-NorAndrost-4ene-3b-ol,17-one
Antler
Anti-aromatase
Bulbine natalensis
Ba Ji Tian
Butea superba
DHEA
D-Aspartic Acid
yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Cistanche (unspecified)
Aging (prevention)Alzheimer's Disease
Anemia
Appetite (deficient)
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cardiovascular Disease
Concentration (poor)
Depression
Diabetes
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Free Radical Damage
Hypertension
Inflammation
Kidney Stones
Liver Detoxification
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Nervous Exhaustion
Osteoporosis
Pain (general remedies for)
Sex Drive (low)
Stress
Testosterone (low)
Wasting
Wounds and Sores