Cistanche tubulosa has been investigated for its potential effects on osteoporosis, primarily in preclinical (animal and cellular) studies. The plant is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine used for various health concerns, particularly as a tonic for kidney health and vitality, but its use specifically for osteoporosis is not historically prominent. Scientific interest in Cistanche tubulosa for osteoporosis stems from its rich content of phenylethanoid glycosides, such as echinacoside and acteoside, which have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Several animal studies have suggested that extracts of Cistanche tubulosa may promote bone formation and inhibit bone resorption. For example, research published in Phytotherapy Research (2014) and Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2018) demonstrated that Cistanche tubulosa extract improved bone mineral density and bone microarchitecture in ovariectomized rats, a common model for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Proposed mechanisms include upregulation of osteogenic markers (such as Runx2 and osteocalcin) and suppression of osteoclast differentiation.

However, clinical evidence in humans is lacking, and most data are limited to animal models or in vitro experiments. Therefore, while there is preliminary scientific validation for its potential benefit in osteoporosis, the overall evidence remains weak (rated as 2/5), and further clinical research is necessary to establish efficacy and safety in humans.