A long-used herb with genuine biological activity but thin human evidence for longevity. Its strongest support is modest bone-strength help in older adults, from small, lower-quality trials. Sexual and broader heart, brain, and anti-inflammatory claims rest mainly on lab and animal work. Product quality is inconsistent, and absorption varies widely between people. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Liver enzymes (ALT, AST) | ALT ~10–26 U/L; AST ~10–26 U/L | Screen for herbal liver stress |
| Blood pressure | <120/80 mmHg | Herb dilates vessels; watch for lows |
| Resting heart rate | ~50–70 bpm | High doses linked to palpitations |
| Creatine kinase (CK) | ~30–150 U/L | Detect rare muscle injury |
| Estradiol | Men ~10–30 pg/mL; women per menopausal status | Reflects phytoestrogen activity |
| Testosterone (total) | Men ~500–900 ng/dL | Tracks reproductive/sexual-health goal |
| Bone mineral density (DEXA T-score) | T-score > −1.0 | Primary endpoint for bone-health use |
| High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) | <1.0 mg/L | Tracks systemic inflammation |
Cadence: Blood pressure & heart rate at 2–4 weeks; liver enzymes ~3 months if continuous; bone density every 1–2 years; sex-hormone/symptom review at 3–6 months