泽生源

Millennia of Reverence: A Health Treasure Through History

Cistanche has held a prestigious status since ancient times. From its first recording in the Shen Nong's Materia Medica, it was documented to "treat five consumptions and seven injuries, nourish the five viscera, strengthen the yin, augment the essence and qi, and long-term consumption lightens the body". By the Tang Dynasty, the Bencao Shiyifurther praised its efficacy in consolidating the foundation and reinforcing vitality. It was not only the "life treasure" used by nomadic peoples in Western Regions to restore their physical strength in harsh environments but also key to the famous physician Chunyu Yi's successful treatment of an elderly man suffering from dual deficiency of qi and blood.

Scientific Interpretation: Validating Ancient Wisdom

Modern science has revealed the biological basis of this ancient wisdom:

Core Essence: Its signature components, phenylethanoid glycosides (such as Echinacoside and Verbascoside), possess remarkable antioxidant and anti-aging capabilities, effectively protecting cells and delaying physical decline.
Holistic Nourishment: Rich in polysaccharides, amino acids, and various trace elements, these components work synergistically to provide comprehensive benefits: tonifying kidney yang, augmenting essence and blood, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, and combating fatigue. This aligns highly with the ancient records of "nourishing the five viscera" and "augmenting essence and qi".
Synergistic Philosophy: Its nature as a dual-purpose food and medicine embodies the supreme principles of "preventive treatment of disease" and "gentle regulation" in Traditional Chinese Medicine health preservation.
【Basic Nourishment】Cistanche Honey Drink

Formula: Take approximately 5 grams of Cistanche slices. Steep in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once the water temperature drops below 60°C (140°F), add honey to taste.

【Special Formula for Women】Cistanche, Astragalus, and Angelica Tonic Soup

Formula: Simmer 15g Cistanche slices, 10g Astragalus (Huang Qi), 5g Chinese Angelica (Dang Gui), and 3 slices of ginger with 500g of black-bone chicken or pork ribs over low heat for about 2 hours. Add salt to season.

【Family Tonic】Cistanche and Goji Berry with Lamb Bone Congee

Formula: Blanch 500g of lamb shank bones or pork spine bones, then boil for about 1 hour to make a broth. Use this broth to cook 100g of rice, along with 10g of Cistanche powder (or 15g of Cistanche slices in a cloth bag) and 20g of Goji berries (Gouqizi) into congee.

Important Note: Although Cistanche is warm and moistening, it is advisable to pause consumption during episodes of yin deficiency with fire effulgence (e.g., hot flashes, night sweats), excess-heat constipation, or feverish cold/flu. Pregnant women and individuals with special constitutions should consult a professional healthcare provider before use.