Cnidium

In Chinese herbal medicine the cnidium seeds have been commonly used in herbal mixtures that are formulated to “warm” the kidneys and strengthen yang energy.
The herb has a strong reputation as an aphrodisiac and it is frequently prescribed by Chinese medicine practitioners for male impotence.

In the past, the seeds were almost routinely used in herbal combinations that were specifically crafted for the Emperor.

An Aphrodisiac
Cnidium is used as an herbal remedy for erectile dysfunction (impotence) and to promote fertility in both men and women, often in combination with schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) and horny goat weed (Epimedium Sagittatum).
The main active substance in the herb is the coumarin compound osthol (osthole) which appears to have a similar effect to Viagra.

No studies have been done on the effectiveness of the herb in humans and the studies that exist have all been done using animal models, mostly on rodents (rats, rabbits).

These studies have validated some of the traditional uses of the herb and have shown that it does increase blood flow. They have shown that the osthol releases nitric oxide which is needed to relax the corpus cavernosa of the penis thereby allowing for increased blood supply to the genitals resulting in firmer and stronger erection.

Most of these studies have been somewhat inconclusive and bigger and more thorough studies are needed to fully confirm the medicinal effect of this medicinal plant.
Still, cnidium has been used traditionally for thousands of year as an aphrodisiac which might indicate that it does indeed possess the alleged therapeutic properties and therefore it could be helpful as a natural alternative to prescription drugs such as Cialis and Viagra.

External Uses of Cnidium
Cnidium monnieri
Cnidium (Cnidium monnieri) – Illustration ©The Herbal Resource
The cnidium seeds have antiseptic and disinfectant properties and are often used as an ingredient in lotions, powders or ointments for external uses as remedies for skin conditions such as eczema, ringworm and scabies.

The seeds are considered particularly valuable in diseases related to sexual organs, such as vaginal inflammation (vaginitis) and vaginal discharge.

The herb is effective against many strains of yeast (Candida), and it is often prescribed as a natural treatment for vaginal yeast infection.
Clinical studies in China indicate that the plant could be helpful as a treatment for vaginal inflammation caused by trichomoniasis a common sexually transmitted disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.