Cistanche tubulosa – 20:1 concentrate
Cistanche tubulosa, sometimes called the “ginseng of the desert,” is a powerful adaptogenic herb with a wide range of health benefits. Traditionally valued in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, it has earned a reputation for promoting natural energy, reducing fatigue, and supporting healthy aging. Modern research highlights its role in men’s and women’s health, digestion, cardiovascular function, and brain health, making it a versatile herbal extract for anyone seeking vitality, balance, and long-term wellness.
Cistanche is also sold as one of five herbal extracts in CardiAce Heart Health Support Kits. (The other extracts are Astragalus, Aralia eleta, Dan Shen, and Hawthorn.)
In addition, Cistanche is included as one of five herbal extracts in BrainStorm Brain Health Support Kits. (The other extracts are Bilberry, Haritaki, Polygala, and Semen cuscutae.)
Further, Cistanche is included as one of four herbal extracts in GUTSY Digestive Health Support Kits. (The other extracts are Haritaki, Phyllanthus niruri, and Rosa rugosa.)
For a broad overview of its health benefits, check out the Cistanche FAQ.
Cistanche Health Benefits
Energy & Anti-Fatigue
Cistanche supports mitochondrial health—the body’s cellular “power plants”—helping increase ATP production for natural, sustained energy. It reduces fatigue, improves stamina, and aids faster recovery without the crash associated with stimulants.
Anti-Aging & Longevity
Rich in antioxidants, Cistanche is 15 times stronger than resveratrol and five times stronger than vitamin C in neutralizing free radicals. These properties protect tissues from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support healthy aging.
Men’s & Women’s Health
Traditionally used as a reproductive tonic, Cistanche supports hormonal balance, stamina, and sexual vitality. Studies suggest it may help enhance testosterone levels in men while promoting overall vitality and resilience for both men and women.
Nootropic Brain Health
Cistanche has neuroprotective properties that safeguard brain cells from oxidative damage and improve blood flow to the brain. It has been shown to support memory, learning, and mental clarity, while also demonstrating mood-regulating and antidepressant-like effects.
A study in Frontiers in Pharmacology suggests Cistanche extract demonstrates antidepressant-like effects on chronic stress. The study addresses the health benefits of the extract, including its antidepressant-like effects through its ability to restore gut microbiota homeostasis.
Digestive Health
With prebiotic properties that nurture healthy gut bacteria, Cistanche promotes optimal digestion and helps restore microbiota balance. Its mild laxative effect can ease constipation and support bowel regularity.
Heart Health
Cistanche contributes to cardiovascular wellness by helping regulate blood pressure, improving circulation, and protecting heart tissues from oxidative stress. By reducing inflammation, it supports long-term heart and vascular health.
Why Choose Cistanche from Linden Botanicals
At Linden Botanicals, we select only the highest-quality Cistanche tubulosa extract, backed by science and sourced with care. Our extract is standardized for potency to ensure consistent, effective results with every serving. We never add fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary ingredients—just pure, concentrated Cistanche.
Owner Michael Van der Linden personally researches and vets every supplier to ensure sustainability, ethical practices, and authenticity. The result is a trusted, premium herbal extract that supports natural energy, cognitive clarity, healthy aging, and whole-body vitality.
With its broad range of benefits—from brain and heart health to digestion and resilience—Cistanche tubulosa is one of the world’s most powerful adaptogens. We’re proud to offer it as part of our carefully curated collection of plant-based wellness solutions.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Cistanche tubulosa is a parasitic flower that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It’s also known as Desert Hyacinth, Ginseng of the Desert, and Rou Cong Rong. We call it Methuselah’s Breakfast.
Traditional Chinese medicine and other traditional medicine systems suggest Cistanche tubulosa may support:
- Good brain health
- Good metabolic function
- Healthy bones
- Practiced learning
- Good stamina
- Healthy aging
Serving Suggestion
Instructions: Add 1/2 teaspoon of extract to 8 oz of hot water or a cup of juice. Stir until dissolved. Drink 2 glasses a day.
Additional Information
The information herein is intended for educational purposes only. This information should not substitute for seeking responsible, professional medical care. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency. Not intended to be used for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or curing of any medical condition. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.
Cistanche tubulosa is traditionally used to fight aging and increase longevity, as well as to improve brain health, reduce constipation, and improve sexual health by boosting testosterone.
In addition, it is used to prevent fatigue and increase energy. It may improve memory power and increase immunity, and it also shows promising effects on lowering blood pressure.
Cistanche Deserticola, Cistanche Deserticola Stem, Cistanche Extract, Cistanches Caulis, Desert Hyacinth, Desert Living Cistanche, Desert-Broomrape, Deserticolae, Fleshy Stem of Broomrape,Ginseng of the Desert, Herba Cistanche, Herba Cistanches, Methuselah’s Breakfast, Rou Cong Rong, Suosuo Dayun
The chemical constituents of Cistanche tubulosa mainly consist of volatile oils, non-volatile phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), iridoids, lignans, alditols, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.
Phenylethanoid Glycosides: bcistanoside A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H; cistantubloside A, B1, B2; cistansineside; decaffeoykacetoside; echinacoside; isoacetoside; acteoside; tubuloside A, B, C, D, E; lionoside; salsaside D, E, F
Alkaloids: betanine, N,N-dimethyl glycine
Lignans: pinoresinol, linriodendrin, syringaresinol
Polysaccharides: cistan A, mannoglucan, glucans, SPA, CDA-1A, RG-1, linear glucan
There are no documented side effects or negative interactions associated with the consumption of Cistanche tubulosa. If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your physician before using any herbal supplement.







