Cnidium monnieri

Cnidium monnieri is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herb used primarily for sexual dysfunction and skin conditions. The main bioactive compound osthole has PDE5 inhibitory activity similar to sildenafil (Viagra), supporting traditional pro-erectile uses. Preclinical research shows potential for erectile function, bone health, and neuroprotection. However, human clinical trials are virtually absent. Most evidence comes from animal and in vitro studies of osthole.

Quick Answer

What it is

Key findings

Grade C: Erectile Function
Grade D: Bone Mineral Density
Grade D: Neuroprotection

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Cnidium monnieri

Quick Facts: Cnidium monnieri

Best Evidence:Grade D
Conditions Studied:1
Research Outcomes:5
Key Effect:Bone Health

Outcomes by grade:

1 conditions · 5 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

Erectile Function

In vitro studies demonstrate osthole inhibits PDE5 in corpus cavernosum tissue via the NO-cGMP pathway, a mechanism shared with sildenafil. Animal studies show improved erectile response and penile smooth muscle relaxation, though osthole is less potent than sildenafil. No human clinical trials have been conducted.

moderate↑Improves

Neuroprotection

Animal models of stroke and neurodegeneration show osthole has neuroprotective effects, with noted activity in the hippocampus and potential enhancement of learning and memory. No human cognitive studies have been performed.

small↑Improves

Inflammation

In vitro and animal studies demonstrate osthole inhibits inflammatory pathways including NF-κB signaling. Traditional use for skin inflammation and itch provides some historical support, but no human anti-inflammatory trials exist.

small↓Improves

Antifungal Activity

Cnidium monnieri has traditional topical use for dermatitis, itching, and skin infections. Limited in vitro evidence supports antifungal properties of the plant's coumarins. Modern dermatological research is very sparse with no human trials.

small↑Improves

Bone Mineral Density

In vitro studies show osthole stimulates osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. Animal models of osteoporosis suggest inhibition of osteoclast activity and improved bone density. No human data exists.

small↑Improves

Evidence by Condition

Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)

DBone Health

1 outcome · 5 studies

↑Bone Mineral DensityImproves

Research Citations (5)

Osthole: a review of its bioactivities, pharmacological properties, and potential applications

Mini Rev Med Chem (2011)

PMID: 21872647

Osthole inhibits phosphodiesterase-5 and potentiates cGMP-related relaxation in rabbit corpus cavernosum

J Agric Food Chem (2010)

PMID: 20105441

Neuroprotective effects of osthole against beta-amyloid induced toxicity

Neurosci Lett (2009)

PMID: 19100844

Osthole stimulates osteoblast differentiation and bone formation

Eur J Pharmacol (2007)

PMID: 17561369

Effects of Cnidium monnieri and its components on sexual behavior

Phytother Res (2005)

PMID: 15893428

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