Cistanche: the desert plant with anti-aging power
In the heart of Imperial China, Emperor Qianlong ruled for six decades and lived to the age of 89, remaining lucid, vigorous, and energetic until the end of his days. His longevity aroused such admiration that even the British royal family sent emissaries to discover his secret. According to legend, the imperial physician revealed that one of the pillars of his vitality was an ancient formula based on a desert plant: cistanche. Invigorating, revitalizing, and deeply restorative, this herb became a symbol of longevity and vital balance.
Today, modern science is beginning to uncover why cistanche has been considered a jewel of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Its benefits range from cognitive enhancement and sexual health to cellular longevity and immune well-being.
What is cistanche?
Cistanche is a very special plant that lacks chlorophyll, so it cannot photosynthesize. To survive, it attaches to the roots of other plants and draws water and nutrients from them, functioning as a parasitic plant. This adaptation allows it to survive in very harsh environments, such as the deserts of northwestern China.
In traditional herbal medicine, the dried stem of the Cistanche deserticola species, known as Rou Cong Rong in Chinese medicine, is primarily used. It is valued for helping to strengthen vital energy (qi), improve sexual function, and slow aging.
Active ingredients and notable properties
Cistanche contains a high amount of natural substances called phenylethanoid glycosides (including echinacoside) and phenylpropanoids. These substances are responsible for its beneficial effects, as they act as powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation, maintain brain health, and help slow aging.
Among its most notable benefits are:
Strengthens the immune system
Cistanche helps strengthen our natural defenses:
- It promotes the creation of new immune cells, called T and B cells. B cells produce antibodies to fight viruses, bacteria, and toxins. T cells destroy the body's own cells that have been infected by viruses or that have become cancerous.
- It activates "natural killer" cells, which are like soldiers specialized in eliminating harmful or tumor cells.
- It reduces inflammatory substances in the body, such as interleukin-6, which, if present in high amounts, can weaken the immune system.
Protects the brain and combats cognitive decline.
Cistanche protects our brain thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation, which can damage neurons. This helps prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's.
A human study showed that taking 300 mg of cistanche extract daily for one year improved their memory and thinking ability without affecting the size of the hippocampus (an area of the brain important for memory).
It also promotes the creation and connection of new nerve cells, which is essential for keeping the mind agile and adaptable.
It may help you live longer
Some studies in animal models (such as flies and worms) reveal that cistanche can increase lifespan by 14 to 19%. This is because:
- It stimulates cells to regenerate faster and better.
- It protects mitochondria (the cell's energy centers).
- It activates enzymes that fight oxidative damage.
- It promotes hormones related to youth and growth.
It improves sexual health
Traditionally, cistanche has been used to enhance sexual energy, and modern science confirms its benefits:
- It stimulates the production of hormones such as testosterone and progesterone, which are important for sexual function.
- It improves sperm count and motility, aiding in fertility.
- It increases blood flow in the body thanks to its ability to dilate blood vessels, which improves sexual function.
To take Cistanche
Taking Cistanche is safe when used in appropriate doses. However, it is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and as always, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
It is available in different forms:
- Powdered extract
- Capsules or tablets
- Infusions
- Tinctures
Conclusion
Cistanche grows in very specific environments, such as the shores of marshes, salt marshes, and sandy or slightly salty soils, where life is not easy. To survive, it connects with and feeds on plants that are well adapted to these special conditions, such as some that tend to grow in saline or sandy soils. This relationship with halophytes and other hardy plants makes cistanche part of a unique ecosystem, full of life and surprising adaptations that demonstrate the strength and wisdom of nature in challenging places.
Written by Sara Montaner. We rely on AI technology.