Cistanche (desert-broomrape stem)
Basics
- Latin name：Cistanche deserticola
- Common names：Roucongrong; “desert ginseng” in trade
- Nature：Sweet, salty; warm
- Part used：Fleshy stem
Uses
- Tonifies kidney yang, nourishes essence and blood, moistens intestines
- Kidney yang and essence-blood deficiency patterns (avoid if yin deficiency with heat or loose stools)
Harvest & storage
Dig in spring or autumn and dry. Decoct first when used in porridge.
How to identify
Flat cylindrical stem, hard texture. Do not confuse with suoyang (Cynomorium).