Cistanche Benefits for Men | The Scientific Evidence & Mechanisms*
Cistanche, a desert plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, supports healthy testosterone levels by boosting key enzymes (StAR, CYP11A1, CYP17A1) involved in its production, potentially increasing strength, energy, and reproductive function, with its main active compounds being echinacosides and acteosides; studies suggest it improves sperm health and athletic recovery, making it a safer alternative to Fadogia agrestis for natural testosterone support.*
Cistanche according to TCM:
- Yang Jing
- Kidney Herb
- Large Intestine Herb
- Promotes Blood*
- Warming and Moistening
- Sweet and Salty
- Directs Blood Flow to Pelvic and Genital Area*
- Most revitalizing when used continuously for some time
The different species of Cistanche are used interchangeably, having been found to contain mostly the same compounds and actions. This includes Cistanche tubulosa, Cistanche deserticola, Cistanche salsa and Cistanche sinensis. Our powder extract is made exclusively of Cistanche tubulosa. Meanwhile, our spagyric tincture uses Cistanche deserticola.
How Cistanche Supports Testosterone
- Enzyme Activation: Active compounds, especially echinacosides, enhance testicular enzymes (like StAR, CYP11A1, CYP17A1) crucial for converting cholesterol into testosterone.*
- Hormonal Balance: May help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, restoring sex hormone levels, notes a study.*
- Ghrelin Receptor Activation: May activate ghrelin receptors, potentially aiding muscle growth.*
Key Bioactive Compounds
- Echinacosides & Acteosides: The primary compounds responsible for its effects, standardized in high-quality extracts.*
- Phenylethanoid Glycosides(PHGs): Provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, notes a study.*
Cistanche Benefits & Uses
- Energy & Vitality: Traditionally used to enhance strength, stamina, and overall vitality.*
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Improved Erectile Function: Increased nitric oxide production.*
- Athletic Performance: Improve muscle strength, endurance, and post-exercise recovery by modulating hormones and reducing inflammation, according to a study on PubMed.*
- Reproductive Health: Studies show increased sperm count and motility in animal models, notes a study on ScienceDirect.*
Safety & Considerations
- Safer Alternative: Seen as a safer choice than Fadogia agrestis, which carries risks of testicular inflammation, notes Switch Nutrition.*
- Consumers who buy cistanche supplements should ensure purchase is from a reliable source. Cistanche supplements offered by Vital Path Naturals™ are lab-tested for purity, safety and potency.
- Dosage: Typically 500mg to 1000mg daily, but always consult a healthcare provider before starting, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.*
