Curculigo orchicides

Botanical

What is it

Curculigo orchioides (golden eye grass, also written orchicides) is a plant whose rhizome is used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, often called xian mao or musli kali. It is marketed for male sexual health and vitality.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Male sexual function

Mixed Evidence

Animal data suggest pro-erectile and pro-libido effects, but well-controlled human trials are essentially absent.

How it works

The rhizome contains curculigosides (phenolic glycosides), saponins, and triterpenes. Preclinical studies suggest adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and pro-erectile activity in animal models. Some reports describe pro-testosterone-like effects in rodents. Human clinical evidence is limited; most product claims rest on extrapolation from animal data and traditional use.

Dosage

Traditional doses use 3 to 9 g of dried rhizome. Modern extract capsules typically deliver 250 to 500 mg.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken once or twice daily.

1 commercial form

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

Rhizome extract

Powdered rhizome or standardized extract, often in multi-herb men's health blends.

Not well characterized.

Safety

Generally considered safe at traditional doses with limited reports of adverse effects. Long-term safety data are sparse.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation due to lack of safety data and possible hormonal activity. Caution in hormone-sensitive conditions.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with hormone-modulating medications and immunomodulators based on preclinical data. Clinical relevance is uncertain.

Frequently asked questions

Does Curculigo orchioides raise testosterone?⌄

Animal studies are suggestive; human evidence is essentially absent.

Is Curculigo orchioides safe for daily use?⌄

Short-term traditional use appears safe. Long-term data are limited.

References

Curculigo orchicides on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Curculigo orchicides (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.