Cistanche deserticola

Tier 3 — weak evidence · Cognition · Testosterone · Anti-aging

A traditional Chinese herb showing early promise for brain health. A 2024 trial found 450 mg per day improved cognitive test scores in elderly adults over 12 weeks. Animal studies also support testosterone and cellular energy benefits, but human evidence is still limited. Generally well tolerated in the studies conducted so far. More research is needed.

Dose: 450–1,000 mg/day standardised extract; human evidence still limited