Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong)
Cistanche deserticola
A desert 'yang tonic' studied preliminarily for vitality and cognition in aging.
Traditional use (tcm): A desert 'yang tonic' studied preliminarily for vitality and cognition in aging.
A desert 'yang tonic' studied preliminarily for vitality and cognition in aging.
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
- A desert 'yang tonic' studied preliminarily for vitality and cognition in aging.
Evidence strength: limited human.
- See the evidence level above
- Generally well tolerated; can be mildly laxative.
- Pregnant/breastfeeding people without medical advice
Generally well tolerated; can be mildly laxative.
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.