Achyranthes bidentata

Botanical

What is it

Achyranthes bidentata (niu xi, ox knee) is a Chinese herb whose root is used in TCM to invigorate blood, support joints (especially lower body), and act as a diuretic.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Joint and lower-back complaints (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional use; single-herb modern clinical evidence is sparse.

How it works

The root contains triterpenoid saponins, phytoecdysteroids (ecdysterone), and polysaccharides. Animal studies show anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and possible chondroprotective effects. Ecdysterone has separate literature for protein synthesis effects. Human clinical evidence for the single herb is limited; in TCM it is typically combined with other herbs for lower-back or knee complaints.

Dosage

No RDA. Traditional doses are 6-15 g of dried root in decoction per day.

When and how to take it

Traditional decoctions are taken twice daily.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root decoction

TCM standard.

Traditional preparation.

Standardized extract

Modern form.

May be standardized to ecdysterone.

Safety

Generally well tolerated traditionally. Modern long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Pregnancy: traditionally contraindicated. Lactation: insufficient data.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with anticoagulants. Not well characterized clinically.

Frequently asked questions

Is A. bidentata the same as 'achyranthes'?⌄

It is the most commonly meant species when 'achyranthes' or 'niu xi' is listed on a TCM-style label.

Will it build muscle?⌄

The ecdysterone content has independent literature for muscle effects, but the amount in typical traditional doses is modest.

References

Achyranthes bidentata on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Achyranthes bidentata on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Achyranthes bidentata (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.