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Cnidium monnieri

A pro-erectile herb from traditional chinese medicine, Cnidium monnieri and its main bioactive known as osthole appear to have mechanisms similar to Viagra in penile tissue and the hippocampus; the influence of cnidium monnieri on testosterone and cognition remains unexplored.

Our evidence-based analysis on cnidium monnieri features 61 unique references to scientific papers.

Kamal Patel
Research analysis led by .
Reviewed by
Examine.com Team
Last Updated:

How to Take

Recommended dosage, active amounts, other details

Since there is no information on Osthole consumption in isolation, the best lead currently is the dose of Cnidium fruits or seeds used in Traditional Medicine; which is 6-15g of either fruit or seed

Things to Note

Is a Form Of

Primary Function:

Also Known As

Shechuangzi, Osthole, Jashoshi, Cnidii Fructus (Fruits of Cnidium)

Do Not Confuse With

Bacopa Monneri, Cnidium Officinale (both similar but different plants)

  • Osthole, the main bioactive of Cnidium Monnieri, is not water soluble; ethanolic extracts of Cnidii Fructus or at least taking this compound with food is advised

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Research Breakdown on Cnidium monnieri

1Sources and Composition

1.1Sources

1.2Composition and Structure

1.3Related herbs

2Pharmacology

2.1Absorption and Serum

2.2Metabolism

2.3Clearance

3Liver Interactions

3.1Fatty Liver

3.2Protection

3.3Diabetes

4Cancer Interactions

4.1General

4.2Breast Cancer

5Interactions with Neurology

5.1Glutaminergic Signalling

5.2Sedation and GABAergic signalling

5.3Protective Effects

6Interactions with Glucose Metabolism

6.1Skeletal Muscle

6.2Adipose

6.3Hepatic

7Interactions with Obesity

7.1PPARa/y

8Interactions with Sexuality

8.1Erections

9Interactions with Hormones

9.1Testosterone

9.2Estrogen

9.3Progesterone

10Allergies

10.1Airway

10.2Skin

11Interactions with Heart and Blood Health

11.1Cardiac Tissue
Click here to see all 61 references.

This page is regularly updated, to include the most recently available clinical trial evidence.

Each member of our research team is required to have no conflicts of interest, including with supplement manufacturers, food companies, and industry funders. The team includes nutrition researchers, registered dietitians, physicians, and pharmacists. We have a strict editorial process.

This page features 61 references. All factual claims are followed by specifically-applicable references. Click here to see the full set of research information and references for Cnidium monnieri.

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