Ròu Cōng Róng (肉苁蓉) — Cistanche

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Modern research
5. Cautions and contraindications
6. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Ròu Cōng Róng (肉苁蓉), the “fleshy stalk” or “ginseng of the desert”, is the parasitic stem of Cistanche deserticola. It belongs to the category of Yang-tonifying herbs in the Chinese Materia Medica and is one of the gentler, moistening Yang tonics in Chinese herbal medicine. It is well suited to the elderly because it tonifies Yang without being drying or harsh.

I prescribe Ròu Cōng Róng as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Tonifies Kidney Yang and nourishes Jing-essence and Blood
2. Moistens the Intestines and unblocks the bowels

Indications

1. Kidney Yang deficiency with impotence, premature ejaculation, low libido and male infertility
2. Infertility from cold womb in women, with cold pain and irregular menstruation
3. Sore weak lower back and knees, especially in the elderly
4. Habitual constipation in the elderly and post-partum, particularly with Blood and Fluid deficiency

4. Modern research

Cistanche contains phenylethanoid glycosides (echinacoside, acteoside, cistanoside), iridoids and polysaccharides. Studies report neuroprotective, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective and laxative effects. Cistanche extracts are studied in age-related cognitive decline. The herb is listed as vulnerable to over-harvesting in the wild; modern Sun Ten supply uses cultivated material.

5. Cautions and contraindications

Contraindicated in patients with Yin-deficient heat, loose stools from Spleen deficiency, or known excess heat patterns.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM).

6. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Ròu Cōng Róng as part of tailored herbal formulas for male sexual function and fertility, cold-womb subfertility, weak low back in the elderly and habitual constipation in older patients with deficient Yang. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available.

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