Cistanche is a traditional herb with adaptogenic properties that provide many health benefits.
Cistanche has been used for centuries for supporting immune function and brain health, as well as helping with healthy aging.
The Chinese name of this plant is “Rou Cong Rong”. It’s also called desert cistanche.
In this article, we will look at the various cistanche benefits and side effects, its safety, and its history. We’ll also look at how to take cistanche supplements.
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What is Cistanche?
Cistanche is an endangered plant in the Orobanchaceae family that’s found in the arid lands and warm deserts of northwestern China.
The scientific name for this herb is Cistanches herba. There are two primary varietals of cistanche, including Cistanche tubulosa and Cistanche deserticola. Both of these types of cistanche are used interchangeably.
You can read our breakdown of the differences and similarities of Cistanche tubulosa and Cistanche deserticola here.
This herb has many different common names, including desert cistanche and desert ginseng.
As a traditional tonic in Chinese medicine, it’s said that cistanche benefits the body in a variety of different health ways, including chronic renal disease, impotence, female infertility, morbid leucorrhea, profuse menorrhagia, and senile constipation.
Modern research shows that the benefits of cistanche are tied to improved cognitive function, immune system support, healthy aging, as well as support for sexual wellness (and testosterone production).
Health Benefits of Cistanche:
Cistanche is an herb that has been traditionally used for its adaptogenic properties.
Adaptogens are herbs that help the body deal with external stressors such as toxins, physical and emotional stress, and harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses.
Below we’ll review the top research-backed health benefits of cistanche.
1. May Improve Brain Function
Research shows that Cistanches herba may help to improve brain function and memory retention.
There are three aspects of memory ability that you can impact when it comes to improving cognition:
- The capacity to learn, especially as it applies to long-term memory storage.
- The capacity to remember facts and knowledge, often known as consolidation.
- The ability to recall information stored in long-term memory.
Test tube studies have confirmed that Cistanche tubulosa extract can significa