Cyathula

Botanical

What is it

Cyathula (Cyathula officinalis, chuan niu xi) is a perennial herb in the amaranth family whose root is used in traditional Chinese medicine, often for joint pain, menstrual irregularity, and as an 'activating' herb in formulas for stagnant circulation.

Evidence for 2 uses

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

Joint and circulatory complaints (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Used in TCM combination formulas; no high-quality monotherapy trials support specific claims.

Sports performance (ecdysteroid claims)

Mixed Evidence

Some small trials of isolated ecdysteroids suggest modest performance or body composition effects; data on cyathula extracts in humans are minimal.

How it works

The root contains phytoecdysteroids (notably cyasterone and ecdysterone), triterpenoid saponins, and polysaccharides. Ecdysteroids have shown anabolic-like activity in animal models and are the subject of debate over sports performance enhancement, though clinical data in humans are limited. The saponin fraction has anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet activity in preclinical work. Most human evidence comes from small Chinese-language trials of combination TCM formulas. Monotherapy data are sparse.

Dosage

No established RDA. Traditional dose of dried root is 4.5-9 g per day as a decoction or part of a formula. Standardized extracts vary; follow label instructions.

When and how to take it

Typically taken in 2-3 divided daily doses, with or without food, as part of a traditional formula.

1 commercial form

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

Dried root (chuan niu xi)

Traditional form, usually combined with other herbs.

Ecdysteroid absorption is moderate but rapid clearance limits exposure.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at traditional doses. Mild GI upset is the most common side effect. Long-term safety is not well characterized.

Who should be cautious

Contraindicated in pregnancy because of traditional 'blood-moving' actions that may stimulate the uterus. Use caution if on blood thinners or scheduled for surgery (stop at least 2 weeks before).

Interactions

Possible additive effects with antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications. Theoretical interaction with hormone-sensitive treatments because of ecdysteroid content, though clinical relevance is unclear.

Frequently asked questions

Is cyathula a steroid?⌄

It contains ecdysteroids, which are insect/plant hormones structurally similar but functionally different from human steroid hormones. They do not bind human androgen receptors meaningfully.

Is it safe in pregnancy?⌄

No. Cyathula is traditionally contraindicated in pregnancy because of its uterine-stimulating effects.

References

Cyathula on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Cyathula (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.