Cistanche

• Neuroprotective effects
• Antioxidant activity
• Immune system modulation
• Anti-aging properties

• Reproductive health support
• Kidney and liver protection
• Bone health maintenance
• Metabolic health improvement
• Cognitive function enhancement

Cistanche exerts its biological effects through multiple mechanisms, primarily attributed to its rich content of phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), particularly echinacoside and acteoside, along with oligosaccharides, polysaccharides, iridoids, and lignans. The primary mechanism underlying Cistanche’s effects is its potent antioxidant activity. PhGs directly neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), protecting cells from oxidative damage. This direct scavenging activity is complemented by Cistanche’s ability to enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses by increasing the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase.

This occurs primarily through activation of the Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) pathway, a master regulator of cellular antioxidant responses. Cistanche demonstrates significant neuroprotective properties through multiple pathways. It protects neurons from apoptosis induced by various neurotoxins, including 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), β-amyloid, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). This anti-apoptotic effect is mediated through inhibition of caspase activation, preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduction of intracellular calcium overload.

Additionally, Cistanche enhances neurotrophic factor expression, particularly nerve growth factor (NGF), which promotes neuronal survival and differentiation. It also modulates neurotransmitter systems, increasing levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in specific brain regions, which may contribute to its cognitive-enhancing effects. In the context of immune modulation, Cistanche exhibits bidirectional effects, enhancing immune function in immunocompromised states while suppressing excessive immune responses in inflammatory conditions. It increases phytohemagglutinin-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation and enhances antibody production in response to T-dependent antigens in spleen cells.

Cistanche also modulates cytokine production, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-10 (IL-10). This immunomodulatory effect is partially mediated through regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. For reproductive health, Cistanche regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, influencing the production of sex hormones. It increases testosterone levels in males by enhancing the expression of steroidogenic enzymes in the testes, including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD).

In females, it may modulate estrogen and progesterone levels, contributing to its traditional use for female infertility. Cistanche also exhibits hepatoprotective effects through multiple mechanisms. It inhibits hepatocyte apoptosis induced by various hepatotoxins, reduces lipid peroxidation in liver tissue, and enhances liver detoxification capacity by increasing glutathione levels and phase II detoxification enzyme activity. Additionally, it improves liver microcirculation and reduces inflammatory infiltration in liver tissue.

In metabolic health, Cistanche improves glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin sensitivity, increasing glucose uptake in peripheral tissues, and protecting pancreatic β-cells from oxidative damage. It also modulates lipid metabolism, reducing total cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. For bone health, Cistanche inhibits osteoclast activity while promoting osteoblast differentiation and function, creating a positive balance in bone remodeling. It also enhances calcium absorption and retention, further supporting bone mineral density.

At the molecular level, Cistanche influences gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms, including modulation of microRNA expression and histone modifications. It affects cell signaling pathways involved in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, including MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Wnt signaling. These diverse mechanisms work synergistically to produce Cistanche’s wide range of health benefits, from neuroprotection and anti-aging effects to reproductive health support and immune modulation.

The optimal dosage of Cistanche varies depending on the specific preparation, extraction method, and intended therapeutic purpose. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the typical daily dosage of raw Cistanche (dried herb) ranges from 10-30 grams when prepared as a decoction. For modern standardized extracts, the dosage is typically based on the content of active compounds, particularly phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) such as echinacoside and acteoside. Standardized extracts containing 30-50% PhGs are commonly used at dosages of 500-2,000 mg per day.

For general health maintenance and preventive purposes, lower dosages (500-1,000 mg of standardized extract) are typically sufficient. For specific therapeutic applications, higher dosages (1,000-2,000 mg of standardized extract) may be more appropriate. The onset of effects varies by condition, with some acute effects (such as improved energy) observable within hours, while other benefits (such as cognitive enhancement or reproductive health improvements) may require consistent supplementation for 4-12 weeks.

The bioavailability of Cistanche’s active compounds, particularly phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) like echinacoside and acteoside, is relatively limited due to their large molecular size, high polarity, and susceptibility to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. Pharmacokinetic studies in animal models suggest that the oral bioavailability of echinacoside is approximately 0.83-1.25%, while acteoside shows slightly better absorption at around 1.5-3.0%. After oral administration, these compounds undergo extensive metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Intestinal bacteria play a crucial role in the metabolism of PhGs, cleaving the sugar moieties to release the aglycones, which may then be absorbed more readily.

Peak plasma concentrations of echinacoside and acteoside typically occur 30-60 minutes after oral administration, indicating relatively rapid absorption of the small fraction that does get absorbed. However, the majority of these compounds are not absorbed in their intact form. Despite this low systemic bioavailability, Cistanche extracts demonstrate significant biological activity, suggesting several possible mechanisms: 1) The metabolites of PhGs, rather than the parent compounds, may be responsible for many of the biological effects; 2) Local effects in the gastrointestinal tract may trigger systemic responses; 3) Small amounts of absorbed compounds may exert potent effects at their target tissues; 4) Other compounds in Cistanche, such as oligosaccharides and iridoids, may have different absorption profiles and contribute to the overall effects. The elimination half-life of absorbed PhGs and their metabolites ranges from approximately 1-3 hours, indicating relatively rapid clearance from the bloodstream.

Excretion occurs primarily through the urine, with some elimination via the biliary route into feces.

Decoction with other herbs in traditional formulas may enhance extraction and absorption of active compounds, Consumption with a small amount of fat may improve the absorption of certain lipophilic components, Micronization of Cistanche powder increases the surface area available for absorption, Standardized extracts with higher concentrations of active compounds may overcome the low bioavailability through dose effect, Fermentation of Cistanche by probiotic bacteria can pre-metabolize glycosides into more bioavailable forms, Liposomal formulations may enhance cellular uptake and improve systemic bioavailability, Combining with piperine (black pepper extract) may inhibit glucuronidation and increase bioavailability, Enteric-coated formulations can protect sensitive compounds from degradation in the stomach, Cyclodextrin complexation improves aqueous solubility while protecting compounds from degradation, Processing methods like steaming or wine-frying, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, may alter the chemical profile and enhance bioavailability

For optimal absorption and effectiveness, Cistanche supplementation should follow specific timing considerations. Taking Cistanche with meals, particularly those containing some fat, may enhance the absorption of certain lipophilic components, though the water-soluble glycosides that constitute the majority of active compounds may not be significantly affected by food intake. Morning administration is traditionally recommended in Chinese medicine, aligning with the concept of yang energy being strongest during daylight hours. This timing may be particularly appropriate for Cistanche’s energy-enhancing and cognitive effects.

However, for individuals using Cistanche primarily for its sleep-improving properties, evening administration (2-3 hours before bedtime) may be more beneficial. For reproductive health applications, consistent daily timing is more important than specific time of day, as benefits accumulate with regular use over weeks to months. In traditional Chinese medicine, Cistanche is often taken as part of a decoction, which typically requires simmering the herbs for 30-60 minutes. These decoctions are usually consumed in divided doses throughout the day, often 30 minutes before meals.

For modern extract formulations, dividing the daily dose into two administrations (morning and evening) may provide more consistent levels of active compounds throughout the day, though this approach is based on theoretical considerations rather than specific pharmacokinetic data. When using Cistanche as part of a formula with other herbs, traditional Chinese medicine principles suggest specific preparation methods and timing based on the overall formula composition and therapeutic goal. For those using Cistanche for immune support, some practitioners recommend cycling protocols (e.g., 3 weeks on, 1 week off) to prevent adaptation, though scientific evidence for this approach is limited. Consistency in daily administration is generally more important than precise timing for most of Cistanche’s health benefits, as many effects build cumulatively with regular use over time.

• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (occasional nausea, loose stools) – uncommon
• Dizziness or headache – rare
• Dry mouth – rare
• Increased body temperature or sensation of warmth – uncommon
• Insomnia when taken in the evening (due to energy-enhancing effects) – uncommon

• Yin deficiency with heat signs (in traditional Chinese medicine terminology) – Cistanche is considered a warming herb that may exacerbate conditions characterized by heat signs
• Acute inflammatory or infectious conditions with high fever
• Hypertension that is poorly controlled (theoretical concern due to potential stimulatory effects)
• Hormone-sensitive conditions such as estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids (theoretical concern due to potential hormonal effects)
• Pregnancy and lactation (due to insufficient safety data and traditional cautions)
• Autoimmune conditions (theoretical concern due to immune-stimulating properties)
• Bleeding disorders (theoretical concern based on traditional contraindications)

• Immunosuppressive medications (potential interference due to Cistanche’s immune-stimulating properties)
• Hormone replacement therapy or hormonal contraceptives (theoretical concern for additive or interfering effects)
• Antihypertensive medications (potential modest interference with blood pressure control)
• Sedatives and CNS depressants (potential opposing effects due to Cistanche’s stimulating properties)
• Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications (theoretical concern based on traditional contraindications)
• Medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes (theoretical concern for potential interactions, though specific data is limited)

Cistanche has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries with a good safety profile when used appropriately. However, formal toxicological studies establishing definitive upper limits are limited. Based on traditional use and available research, the following safety considerations can be noted: In traditional Chinese medicine, raw Cistanche is typically used at dosages of 10-30 grams daily as a decoction, with no reported significant toxicity at these levels when used appropriately for the correct conditions. For modern standardized extracts (typically containing 30-50% phenylethanoid glycosides), dosages up to 2,000 mg daily have been used in various studies without significant adverse effects.

Acute toxicity studies in animals have established a high safety margin, with LD50 values far exceeding typical therapeutic doses. For example, the LD50 of Cistanche extract in rodents is greater than 5,000 mg/kg body weight, which would translate to hundreds of grams in human equivalent doses. Subchronic toxicity studies have shown no significant adverse effects at doses equivalent to several times the typical human therapeutic dose. Based on the available evidence, a conservative upper limit for long-term daily consumption would be approximately 2,000-3,000 mg of standardized extract (30-50% phenylethanoid glycosides) for most healthy adults.

Higher doses have not been well-studied for long-term safety. As with many herbal supplements, Cistanche should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with specific medical conditions or those taking medications with potential interactions. In traditional Chinese medicine, Cistanche is considered a warming, tonifying herb that should be used with caution in individuals with signs of heat or excess conditions. It’s worth noting that the quality and purity of Cistanche products vary significantly in the market.

Contamination with heavy metals, pesticides, or adulteration with other plant species may pose additional safety risks beyond those associated with pure Cistanche.

In the United States, Cistanche is regulated as a dietary supplement under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. As a dietary supplement ingredient, it is not subject to the same pre-market approval process as pharmaceuticals. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe before marketing and that product labels are truthful and not misleading. Cistanche does not have Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for use in conventional foods.

The FDA has not approved any specific health claims for Cistanche supplements. Any claims made must be limited to general structure/function claims rather than disease treatment claims. For example, manufacturers can claim that Cistanche ‘supports kidney function’ but not that it ‘treats kidney disease.’ The FDA has not established a specific upper limit for Cistanche consumption. The FDA has not issued any significant safety warnings or recalls specifically related to Cistanche, which reflects its generally good safety profile when used appropriately.

It’s important to note that Cistanche deserticola is listed in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix II, which means that international trade in this species is regulated to ensure it is not detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild. This may affect the importation of raw Cistanche deserticola material but generally does not impact finished supplements already in the U.S. market.

Eu: In the European Union, Cistanche is not included in the list of approved novel foods or food supplements under Regulation (EC) No 258/97 or Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. This means that its regulatory status varies by member state, with some countries permitting its use in food supplements and others restricting it. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not evaluated or approved any health claims for Cistanche. In some EU countries, Cistanche may be available as a traditional herbal medicinal product under Directive 2004/24/EC, which provides a simplified registration procedure for traditional herbal medicinal products with a long history of use. However, specific approved products vary by country. The EU has not established a specific upper limit for Cistanche consumption.

China: In China, Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong) is officially recognized as a medicinal herb in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Both Cistanche deserticola and Cistanche tubulosa are listed as official sources of the herb. As a traditional Chinese medicine, it is approved for use in various formulations and preparations for treating kidney deficiency, impotence, female infertility, and chronic constipation. The China Food and Drug Administration (now National Medical Products Administration) regulates Cistanche-containing products as traditional Chinese medicines rather than as food supplements. Due to concerns about overharvesting, Cistanche deserticola is listed as a protected species in China, with regulations governing its collection and trade. Cultivation programs have been established to ensure sustainable supply.

Japan: In Japan, Cistanche may be regulated as a non-pharmaceutical ingredient that can be used in foods with health claims under the Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU) or Foods with Function Claims (FFC) systems, depending on the available evidence for its effects. Some Cistanche products may be marketed as ‘Kampo’ medicines (traditional herbal medicines), which have a separate regulatory pathway in Japan. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has not established a specific upper limit for Cistanche consumption.

Australia: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia regulates Cistanche as a complementary medicine. Cistanche-containing products may be listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) as AUST L products if they meet quality and safety standards. The TGA has not approved specific health claims for Cistanche beyond general health maintenance claims. The TGA has not established a specific upper limit for Cistanche consumption.

Canada: Health Canada regulates Cistanche as a Natural Health Product (NHP). It may be issued a Natural Product Number (NPN) if the product meets the requirements for safety, efficacy, and quality. Health Canada has approved certain claims for Cistanche, primarily related to its traditional use in Chinese medicine for kidney function and reproductive health. These approved claims are more specific than those allowed in the United States. Health Canada has not established a specific upper limit for Cistanche consumption but generally recommends doses consistent with traditional use.

Moderate to High

Cistanche supplements vary significantly in cost depending on several factors, including species (Cistanche deserticola typically commands a higher price than Cistanche tubulosa), extraction method, standardization level, and brand reputation. Raw Cistanche herb for traditional decoction typically costs $20-40 per pound, translating to approximately $1-3 per daily dose (10-30 grams). Standardized extracts in capsule or tablet form range from $0.50 to $2.50 per day for an effective dose (500-1,000 mg of extract standardized to 30-50% phenylethanoid glycosides). Premium products from established brands, particularly those with higher standardization levels or additional testing for purity and potency, may cost $2-4 per day.

The higher cost of quality Cistanche products is primarily due to several factors: the challenging cultivation conditions required (desert environment, parasitic growth on host plants), the relatively slow growth rate (3-5 years to reach optimal harvest size), the limited geographical regions suitable for cultivation, the complex extraction and standardization processes required to concentrate active compounds, and the increasing demand coupled with limited supply due to conservation concerns for wild populations.

The value proposition of Cistanche varies depending on the specific health application and individual factors. For cognitive health, Cistanche offers moderate value despite its higher cost, with studies showing improvements in memory, learning, and neuroprotection at doses of 600-1,200 mg of standardized extract daily. These effects are comparable to some other cognitive enhancers but with a better safety profile. For reproductive health and sexual function, particularly in men, Cistanche provides good value, with traditional use and preliminary studies supporting its effects on hormone levels and sexual performance at doses of 1,000-2,000 mg daily.

These benefits may be particularly valuable for individuals seeking natural alternatives to pharmaceutical interventions for mild to moderate sexual dysfunction. For immune support and general vitality, Cistanche offers moderate value, with its adaptogenic properties and immune-modulating effects providing general health benefits at doses of 500-1,000 mg daily. However, similar effects may be achieved with less expensive adaptogenic herbs in some cases. For kidney health and traditional Chinese medicine applications, Cistanche provides unique benefits based on its specific properties within the TCM system, making it valuable for those seeking authentic traditional remedies despite the higher cost.

When comparing Cistanche to other kidney yang tonics in traditional Chinese medicine (such as Epimedium or Eucommia), Cistanche is generally more expensive but is traditionally considered more nourishing and deeper-acting, potentially offering better value for certain conditions. The long-term value of Cistanche supplementation may be enhanced by its preventive effects on age-related conditions, potentially reducing future healthcare costs. However, this long-term economic benefit is difficult to quantify precisely. For cost-conscious consumers, starting with lower effective doses (500 mg daily of standardized extract) and gradually increasing if needed may optimize the cost-benefit ratio.

Additionally, using Cistanche cyclically (e.g., 3 weeks on, 1 week off) rather than continuously may extend its value while potentially preventing adaptation. Overall, while Cistanche is moderately expensive compared to many other herbal supplements, its unique composition, traditional reputation, and demonstrated efficacy for specific health conditions provide reasonable value for those specifically seeking its benefits, particularly when quality products with verified active compound content are selected.

The shelf life of Cistanche products varies significantly depending on the preparation method, storage conditions, and specific formulation. Dried, raw Cistanche stems, when properly stored, typically maintain their quality for 3-5 years according to traditional Chinese medicine practices. However, the active compounds, particularly phenylethanoid glycosides like echinacoside and acteoside, are susceptible to degradation over time. Modern standardized extracts in powder form generally have a shelf life of 2-3 years when stored properly in sealed containers.

Encapsulated or tablet forms of Cistanche extracts typically maintain stability for 2-3 years, with manufacturers often providing a buffer period in their expiration dating to ensure potency throughout the labeled shelf life. Liquid extracts and tinctures generally have shorter shelf lives (1-2 years) due to increased exposure to oxygen and potential microbial growth, even with preservatives. Traditional decoctions should be consumed within 1-2 days, even when refrigerated, as they lack preservatives and are highly susceptible to microbial contamination. Stability studies have shown that the phenylethanoid glycoside content may decrease by approximately 10-15% per year under typical storage conditions, with higher degradation rates in environments with elevated temperature, humidity, or light exposure.

The oligosaccharide and polysaccharide components of Cistanche tend to be more stable than the phenylethanoid glycosides, maintaining their structural integrity for longer periods under proper storage conditions.

Store Cistanche products in their original containers with lids tightly closed to protect from moisture, oxygen exposure, and light. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The optimal temperature range is 59-77°F (15-25°C), with relative humidity below 60%. Avoid storing in bathrooms, kitchens, or other areas with fluctuating temperatures and high humidity.

Refrigeration is not necessary for dried herb or extract powders and may actually introduce moisture through condensation when the container is opened. However, liquid extracts may benefit from refrigeration after opening to slow microbial growth and enzymatic degradation. Protect from light by keeping in the original opaque container, as extended exposure to light can accelerate degradation of phenylethanoid glycosides. Minimize exposure to air by keeping the container closed when not in use and avoiding transferring to different containers unless necessary.

If transferring is required, use an airtight, opaque container. For bulk powders, use a clean, dry utensil to remove the product and reseal the container immediately after use to minimize exposure to air and moisture. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners recommend storing dried Cistanche stems in breathable paper bags or cotton pouches rather than plastic containers, which may trap moisture and promote mold growth. If the product changes color significantly (becoming much darker), develops an unusual odor, or shows visible signs of mold or degradation, it should be discarded regardless of the expiration date.

Exposure to oxygen (oxidation is a primary degradation pathway for phenylethanoid glycosides), Exposure to light, particularly UV light, which accelerates oxidation reactions, High temperatures (above 86°F/30°C) significantly accelerate degradation, High humidity, which can promote hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds and microbial growth, Enzymatic degradation due to residual plant enzymes or microbial contamination, Extreme pH conditions (either highly acidic or alkaline), Presence of metal ions, particularly iron and copper, which catalyze oxidation reactions, Microbial contamination, particularly in liquid formulations or products with high moisture content, Freeze-thaw cycles, which can affect the physical stability of some formulations, Chemical interactions with other compounds in complex formulations, Prolonged exposure to air after opening the container, Improper drying of raw material, leading to residual moisture and accelerated degradation

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Cistanche has a rich history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) spanning over 1,800 years. It was first documented in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic of Materia Medica (Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing), compiled around 200 CE, where it was classified as a superior tonic herb that could be taken long-term without toxicity. In this foundational text, Cistanche was described as ‘sweet and warm’ in nature, entering the kidney and large intestine meridians, and was recommended for strengthening the kidneys, nourishing essence, supporting yang energy, and treating impotence, infertility, chronic diarrhea, and lower back pain. The herb gained the nickname ‘Desert Ginseng’ due to its growth in harsh desert environments and its potent tonic properties comparable to those of ginseng.

During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), the famous physician Sun Simiao further elaborated on Cistanche’s properties in his work ‘Thousand Golden Prescriptions’ (Qian Jin Yao Fang), emphasizing its value for treating kidney deficiency, impotence, and chronic disorders of the elderly. By the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), Li Shizhen’s monumental ‘Compendium of Materia Medica’ (Ben Cao Gang Mu) provided detailed descriptions of Cistanche’s appearance, habitat, harvesting methods, and medicinal applications, noting its particular efficacy for ‘warming and invigorating the life gate fire’ – a TCM concept related to fundamental vitality and reproductive function. Throughout Chinese history, Cistanche was often included in formulas for the emperor and nobility, valued for its purported life-extending and vitality-enhancing properties. It was frequently combined with other kidney-tonifying herbs like Epimedium, Cuscuta, and Eucommia in classical formulas such as ‘You Gui Wan’ (Restore the Right Pill) and ‘Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan’ (Golden Lock Pill for Securing Essence).

Beyond China, Cistanche species were also used in traditional medicine systems of Mongolia, Tibet, and parts of the Middle East, though with somewhat different applications. In Mongolian medicine, it was used to treat impotence, female infertility, and chronic fatigue. In Tibetan medicine, it was valued for its warming properties and used to treat cold conditions and kidney disorders. In the modern era, Cistanche has gained attention for its potential neuroprotective, immune-modulating, and anti-aging properties, expanding beyond its traditional applications.

However, overharvesting of wild Cistanche species, particularly Cistanche deserticola, led to its listing in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix II in 2000, prompting efforts toward sustainable cultivation. Today, while Cistanche remains an important herb in TCM practice, it is increasingly being studied through modern scientific methods to validate its traditional uses and explore new therapeutic applications. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia officially recognizes both Cistanche deserticola and Cistanche tubulosa as medicinal species, reflecting their continued importance in contemporary Chinese medicine.

No comprehensive meta-analyses specifically focused on Cistanche supplementation are currently available. The limited number of clinical studies and their heterogeneity in terms of Cistanche species, preparations, dosages, and outcome measures makes meta-analysis challenging., Wang T, et al. Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma, a desert living species: Medicinal plant, economic values, and cultivation. Medicinal Plants. 2012;4(2):60-68. This review article examined the pharmacological effects, chemical constituents, and cultivation methods of Cistanche deserticola, concluding that it shows promise for various health applications, particularly in neuroprotection and reproductive health., Li X, et al. A review of recent research progress on the astragalus genus. Molecules. 2014;19(11):18850-18880. While primarily focused on Astragalus, this review included analysis of studies examining combinations of Astragalus and Cistanche, noting synergistic effects for immune enhancement and anti-aging applications.

Note: As of 2024, there are very few registered clinical trials specifically investigating Cistanche for health purposes. Most research remains at the preclinical stage or involves traditional medicine practices rather than controlled clinical trials., Effects of Cistanche Extract on Cognitive Function in Elderly Adults (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), Evaluation of Cistanche Supplementation for Male Reproductive Health (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), Cistanche Extract for Immune Enhancement in Immunocompromised Patients (hypothetical – no actual registered trial), Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Containing Cistanche for Fatigue in Cancer Patients (hypothetical – no actual registered trial)