Sarah EatonCistanche extract (also known as Ginseng of the Desert) comes from a yellow desert hyacinth flower with powerful health benefits. It’s a parasite plant that grows on roots and shrubs in Africa, China, Iran, Mongolia, and India, as well as other regions of the East. While it can be hard to find, its medicinal uses are many, including sexual vitality and optimal kidney function. To learn more about what this rare, powerful plant can do, read its various uses listed below. (1)
Here are 10 health benefits of cistanche:
1. Helps Correct Sexual and Reproductive Issues
Cistanche extract contains acteoside and echinacoside, both of which awaken and promote sexual health in men as well as women. Furthermore, this plant promotes the release of nitric oxide, which can help immensely with erectile dysfunction. It can also help with premature ejaculation.
An added bonus? This product has also been shown to help with excessive uterine bleeding, infertility, and urinary incontinence. (2)
2. Helps Fight Disease
According to a study done by Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, mice that were treated with cistanche extract experienced a significant increase in the natural killer cells within the body. So this may help the body fight disease, including viral infections and cancer. (3)
3. Improves Cognitive Function
Scientific research indicates cistanche extract can improve cognitive function, including the abilities to store and recall memory. One study on the neuroprotective traits of cistanche found that it could improve the cognitive function and independent living ability of those with moderate Alzheimer’s disease. (4)
4. Improves Chronic Renal Disease
Researchers have been interested in the medicinal effects of “Ginseng of the Desert” since the 1980s. And cistanche extract is considered pharmacologically active with a range of functions, one of them being improving chronic renal disease. (5)
5. Strong Antioxidant
Cistanche extract contains powerful antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and may also help prevent a variety of ailments and diseases, such as possibly heart disease and cancer. (6)
6. Slows the Aging Process
Research shows that cistanche extract helps extend life span, likely through promoting immune function. And a study done by Doshisha Univeristy found that this herb can help reduce fatigue in elderly persons. The test results showed in subjects an improvement in quality of life by decreasing fatigue, activating immune function, and supporting the vascular system. Furthermore, no severe adverse effects were found during the course of the study. (7)
7. Helps Builds Muscular Strength
If you’re looking for a product to help you strengthen your muscles, cistanche extract may be your solution. According to TCM, this miracle plant can help build strength in many aspects. For example, it builds up glycogen stores in the muscles and reduces breakdown of muscle fibers during exercise. Furthermore, it powers the mitochondria for faster recovery as well as better contractions. (8)
8. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Cistanche extract is also said to be an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. This helps with a variety of ailments, such as arthritis, joint pain, and in particular, inflammation in the brain. (9)
9. Helps Improve Cardiovascular System
Cistanche extract may also be beneficial in lowering blood pressure, in normalizing heart rate, and in preventing heart attacks. (10)
10. Relieves Constipation
Another fantastic known benefit of cistanche extract is its ability to relieve constipation. This occurs by means of adding moisture to the intestines. (11)
Side Effects of Cistanche:
If taken correctly (normal dosing), cistanche extract does not have any negative side effects. However, you should avoid using it if you’re pregnant or nursing. Additionally, do not give this product to young children. And those with a weak spleen should also not take this product. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns due to a medical condition that may conflict with usage of this product.