Evidence supporting the use of: Cistanche tubulosa
For the health condition: Sex Drive (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Cistanche tubulosa has been used traditionally in Chinese medicine as a tonic herb, particularly for addressing issues related to low sex drive (libido) and sexual dysfunction. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is known as "Rou Cong Rong" and is often classified as a yang tonic, believed to nourish kidney yang energy, which is associated with sexual vitality and reproductive health. Historical texts cite its use for improving sexual performance, treating impotence, and addressing infertility.
While there are some modern animal studies suggesting that Cistanche tubulosa extracts may increase testosterone levels and improve sexual behavior in rodents, the direct scientific evidence in humans is limited. Most of the support for its use in enhancing sex drive comes from centuries of traditional use and a plausible mechanism of action inferred from preclinical studies, such as potential increases in nitric oxide production and improved blood flow. However, large-scale, high-quality clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most claims remain rooted in traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation.
In summary, the use of Cistanche tubulosa for supporting or treating low sex drive is justified primarily by traditional usage, with a moderate level of preclinical evidence but insufficient clinical research to strongly confirm effectiveness in humans.
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
Eurycomanone
Elk antler
Eurycoma Longifolia
Estrogen
Furostanols
Fadogia agrestis
yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Cistanche tubulosa
Aging (prevention)Athletic and Exercise Aids
Body Building
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Circulation (poor)
Diabetes
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Hair (loss or thinning)
Heart (weakness)
Infertility
Inflammation
Memory and Brain Function
Muscle Tone (lack of)
Osteoporosis
Sex Drive (low)
Testosterone (low)