Black ant extract (Polyrhachis)

Tier 3 — weak evidence · TCM tonic · Zinc source · Traditional

Used in TCM as a kidney-tonifying and Qi-strengthening food medicine for over 2,000 years. Polyrhachis ants are naturally high in zinc, protein, and ecdysteroids. No human clinical trials exist. Traditional claims include increased strength, immunity, and vitality. Quality control and species identification are significant concerns in commercial products. Novel food status is unclear in most Western countries.

Dose: No established clinical dose; traditional use: 1–3 g/day powdered or extracted; no human trial data