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)
antlerashwagandha
ba ji tian
barrenwort
Bulbine natalensis
Butea superba
catuaba
chaste tree
cistanche
Cnidium
Curculigo orchioides
D-Aspartic Acid
damiana
Dendrobium
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
elk antler
estrogen
Eurycoma Longifolia
eurycomanone
Fadogia agrestis
fenugreek
furostanols
ginseng
horny goat weed
icariin
L-arginine
Labisia pumila
maca
macaenes
macamides
maral root
Massularia acuminata
Miroestrol
Muira puama
Protodioscin
Safed musli
Tongkat ali
Tribuloside
tribulus
velvet bean
Vitex Agnus-Castus
Yohimbe
Yohimbine
Zinc
Other health conditions supported by Dendrobium
Appetite (deficient)Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Memory and Brain Function
Sex Drive (low)
