Cistanche deserticola, known as “desert Ginseng” or “Rou Cong Rong” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a thick-stemmed parasitic herb that grows up to four feet tall. It requires a host tree (typically a Saxual) to supply water and nutrients in its native arid environment. It has a wide variety of uses in TCM, which range from helping to support healthy digestion to improving libido. The primary active components are a mix of bioactive phenylethanoid glycosides, some of which are found elsewhere and others that are unique to the Cistanche genus. Of these phenylethanoid glycosides, Echinacoside and Acetoside are among the most researched. Our extract is standardized to ≥22% Echinacoside and ≥6% Acetoside.
While the mechanisms are poorly understood, studies indicate the phenylethanoid glycosides found in Cistanche exert a wide range of effects that align with its widespread traditional use throughout China, Northern Africa and Mongolia. The glycosides such as Acetoside and Echinacoside are both thought to enhance learning in healthy animals, and an intriguing line of ongoing research has also explored these compound’s potential relevant bioactivities in the context of animal models of neurodegenerative diseases.
On top of its potential use as a cognitive enhancer, Cistanche is traditionally used to slow down the progression of physical symptoms of aging. It is thought to modulate the immune system by reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines, acting as a strong antioxidant, and supporting healthy hormone production in the face of the aging process. Its use as a tonic for sexual function in males and females, which has been supported by animal studies. More research is still required to fully understand the significance of its effects in humans.
This product is 50 grams [1.76 oz] of pure Cistanche deserticola extract, standardized to contain ≥22% Echinacoside and ≥6% Acetoside in a transparent, reclosable plastic jar with an integrated Safety Seal and Shrinkband.
Also included are the certificate of analysis for the individual Cistanche deserticola extract batch and a 0.15cc measuring scoop which measures approximately 100mg of Cistanche deserticola extract. One serving is two scoops, or 200mg.
More information on Cistanche deserticola can be found at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cistanche_deserticola
For further information, the following reviews and studies contain detailed information:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4771771/
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2015.1050114
https://applications.emro.who.int/imemrf/Pak_J_Pharm_Sci/Pak_J_Pharm_Sci_2016_29_2_557_562.pdf
