Cistanche extract showed strength gains during resistance training
A small trial reported strength improvements in men, but missing effect sizes and inconsistent dosing descriptions limit the practical interpretation.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
In men following a resistance training program, the extract group showed greater bench press and squat strength gains than placebo among participants without prior training experience. Other strength and blood-marker changes were also reported. The abstract does not quantify the extra strength gained or establish that changes in blood markers meant faster functional recovery.
The methods and conclusion give conflicting dosing descriptions. The abstract reports statistical significance without effect sizes or safety results, so benefit size and tolerability remain unclear.
What researchers found
Maximum bench press and squat strength
Untrained men receiving extract versus placebo after 8 weeks; statistically significant differences were reported, but effect sizes were not provided.
What the trial tested
Men were grouped by previous training experience before random assignment. Both supplement and placebo groups followed the same exercise program, allowing the study to examine the extract alongside training rather than as a stand-alone approach.
Strength and recovery differ
The study measured lifting strength, sustained muscle effort and blood markers. Changes in hormones or inflammation-related markers do not by themselves show that participants felt less sore, recovered sooner or returned faster to exercise.
The original publication
Effects of Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Tao B, Lian W, Min R et al.
Nutrients · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41010491
- Record checked
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