Evidence supporting the use of: Cistanche (unspecified)
For the body system: Glandular System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Cistanche is a traditional herb widely used in Chinese medicine, primarily for its purported benefits to the kidney and reproductive systems, which are associated with the "glandular system" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory. The herb, often derived from Cistanche deserticola or Cistanche tubulosa, is traditionally believed to tonify kidney yang, enhance sexual function, and improve vitality. Historically, it has been employed to address fatigue, impotence, infertility, and symptoms associated with aging, all of which TCM links to glandular or endocrine system imbalances.

Scientific validation for these uses remains limited, though some in vitro and animal studies suggest Cistanche extracts may influence hormone levels (such as testosterone) and exhibit adaptogenic or anti-fatigue effects. However, robust, large-scale human clinical trials are lacking. The bulk of Cistanche’s reputation for supporting the glandular system is grounded in its extensive ethnobotanical history and inclusion in classical Chinese medicinal texts, rather than rigorous modern evidence. Thus, while Cistanche is traditionally used to support the glandular system, and there is some preliminary pharmacological interest, the strength of scientific evidence is moderate at best.

More about Cistanche (unspecified)
More about Glandular System

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Products containing Cistanche (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.