Ejaculoid by Goliath Labs

There is insufficient reliable information available about the effectiveness of cnidium.

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POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Sexual desire. Oral Eurycoma longifolia seems to improve sexual desire.

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

• Athletic performance. Oral Eurycoma longifolia does not seem to improve athletic performance in healthy persons. Details: One small study in recreational male athletes shows that taking Eurycoma longifolia 150 mg daily for 7 days before, plus one hour prior to, an endurance running trial does not increase endurance when compared with placebo (49133). Furthermore, a larger study in healthy males shows that taking a specific brand of Eurycoma longifolia extract (Physta, Biotropics Malaysia Berhad) 300 mg daily for 12 weeks does not improve physical fitness when compared with placebo (93490).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Age-related testosterone deficiency. It is unclear if oral Eurycoma longifolia is beneficial for increasing testosterone levels in older males. Details: A clinical study in older adult males with testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL shows that taking a specific water extract of Eurycoma longifolia roots (Physta; Biotropics Malaysia) 100-200 mg daily with breakfast for 12 weeks modestly increases total testosterone levels and improves Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) scores when compared with placebo. Improvements in testosterone are observed at 4 and 12 weeks in the 200-mg and 100-mg groups, respectively; improvements in AMS and FSS scores are observed as early as week 2 in both groups (108451). Daily food intake, exercise frequency, and other lifestyle details were not reported, limiting the validity of these findings. Another small clinical study in adults with late-onset hypogonadism shows that taking a water-based extract of Eurycoma longifolia 200 mg daily for one month seems to increase testosterone levels by about 2.6 nmol/L and improves Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) scores when compared to baseline (17924). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of a comparator group. A meta-analysis of 5 mostly small clinical studies in healthy adult males and males with hypogonadism shows that taking Eurycoma longifolia 100-600 mg daily for 2-12 weeks modestly increases serum testosterone levels when compared with placebo (112185). However, the interpretation of this finding is limited by the heterogeneity of the included studies that utilized various dosing regimens.
• Back pain. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for back pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Cancer. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Diabetes. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for diabetes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Dyspepsia. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Erectile dysfunction (ED). It is unclear if oral Eurycoma longifolia is beneficial for ED. Details: A meta-analysis of two small clinical studies suggests that Eurycoma longifolia has no overall effect on erectile function based on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 scale (93491). However, only one of the studies in the meta-analysis included persons with known ED. This small study found that taking Eurycoma longifolia 200 mg in combination with Persicaria minor 100 mg for 12 weeks may modestly improves erectile function on Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Erection Hardness Scale (EHS) when compared with placebo. However, improvements in erectile function per the IIEF-5 scale were lacking (93496). Additionally, it is unclear if these effects were due to Eurycoma longifolia, Persicaria minor, or the combination.
• Hypertension. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Intestinal parasite infection. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for intestinal parasite infection, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this purpose.
• Malaria. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for malaria, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Male Infertility. It is unclear if oral Eurycoma longifolia is beneficial for improving male infertility. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a specific formulation of Eurycoma longifolia (Physta, Biotropics Malaysia Berhad) 200-300 mg daily for 3-9 months results in higher semen volume and sperm concentration, and also improves the percentage of normal sperm morphology and sperm motility, when compared with baseline (18138,93490). In one study, 15% of patients had a spontaneous pregnancy after treatment (18138). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
• Menopausal symptoms. Oral Eurycoma longifolia has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical study in peri-menopausal patients shows that taking a combination product (Nu-femme) containing the standardized ingredients Eurycoma longifolia (Physta, Biotropics Malaysia) 50 mg and Labisia pumila (SLP+, Biotropics Malaysia) daily for 24 weeks seems to reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms when compared to baseline. However, the improvements were no better than placebo (105085).
• Muscle strength. It is unclear if oral Eurycoma longifolia is beneficial for improving muscle strength. Details: One small study in healthy male adults shows that taking Eurycoma longifolia 100 mg daily for 5 weeks in addition to participating in an intense strength training program increases muscle mass and strength when compared with those participating in strength training alone (49134). Another small study in physically active seniors shows that taking Eurycoma longifolia extract (Physta, Biotropics Malaysia Berhad) 400 mg daily for 5 weeks increases muscular force by around 15% when compared to baseline (97312). However, not all research has been positive. One small study in young, healthy males shows that taking Eurycoma longifolia 200 mg daily for 8 weeks in addition to a resistance training program does not increase isokinetic knee muscle strength or peak power when compared with resistance training alone (103619).
• Obesity. Oral Eurycoma longifolia has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A clinical study in adults with obesity following a reduced-calorie diet and performing 30-60 minutes of daily, light-intensity exercise, shows that a specific oral product (CitruSlim; NHR Science) containing Eurycoma longifolia root extract 17% and bergamot extract 83%, taken as 200 mg or 400 mg daily as three divided doses before meals for 112 days, decreases body mass index by 3.3% and 3.2%, respectively, but does not impact lipid parameters or waist-to-hip ratio, when compared with diet and exercise alone (108452). It is unclear if this effect is due to Eurycoma longifolia, bergamot, or the combination.
• Osteoporosis. Although there is interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for osteoporosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition.
• Syphilis. Although there has been interest in using oral Eurycoma longifolia for syphilis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Eurycoma longifolia for this condition. More information is needed to rate Eurycoma longifolia for these uses.

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INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Anxiety. Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for anxiety, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this condition.
• Athletic performance. Although there has been interest in using sublingual GABA for athletic performance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this purpose.
• Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for ADHD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this condition.
• Cerebral palsy. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for cerebral palsy in children. Details: Preliminary clinical research in children with cerebral palsy shows that taking a specific product containing GABA (Gammalon) one to four tablets daily (depending on age) for 2 months, in addition to standard therapy for cerebral palsy, improves mental development, learning, vocabulary, physical function, motor strength and activity, and motor hyperactivity in a greater percentage of children when compared with standard therapy alone (19362). These findings are limited by poor study design.
• Chronic bronchitis. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for chronic bronchitis. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with chronic bronchitis shows that taking a specific GABA product (Aminalon) 1.5-3 grams daily for 18-20 days, along with conventional treatment for acute exacerbations of bronchitis, increases the duration of subsequent remission by about 3 months when compared with conventional treatment alone (19361).
• Cushing syndrome. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for Cushing syndrome. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a specific GABA product (Aminalon) 1-3 grams daily for one month decreases plasma levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) 60 minutes after administration, as well as cortisol and ACTH levels up to 2 days after GABA discontinuation, when compared with baseline (19363). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
• Depression. Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for depression, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this condition.
• Epilepsy. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for epilepsy. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a combination of GABA 2.5-3 grams and phosphatidylserine 500 mg daily for 3-8 months reduces seizure frequency when compared with placebo in patients with absence seizures, but not in those with focal aware or focal impaired awareness seizures (19364). Other preliminary clinical research suggests that taking GABA 3 grams with phosphatidylserine 600-1200 mg daily for 2 days does not affect the seizure photosensitivity range in people with photoconvulsive responses (5113).
• Hypertension. Preliminary clinical research suggests that oral GABA may modestly reduce blood pressure in patients with mild or borderline hypertension. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with hypertension shows that drinking 100 mL of fermented milk containing GABA 10-12 mg daily at breakfast for 12 weeks reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure by about 17 mmHg and 7 mmHg, respectively, when compared with baseline. Compared with patients treated with a placebo milk, these reductions were significant. However, it is unclear if the placebo milk also differed from the fermented milk in other ways (19367). Other preliminary clinical research in patients with borderline hypertension shows that taking a chlorella supplement containing GABA 20 mg twice daily for 12 weeks reduces systolic blood pressure when compared with placebo (19368). However, these findings are limited by poor study design.
• Insomnia. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for insomnia. Details: Two small clinical studies in adults with insomnia show that taking fermented rice germ extract, standardized to provide GABA 75 mg or 300 mg, one hour before bedtime for 4 weeks modestly decreases sleep latency when compared with placebo, but does not improve sleep efficacy or reduce episodes of waking after sleep onset (110134,110135). As these doses were evaluated in separate studies, no direct comparison between GABA 75 mg and 300 mg has been conducted.
• Meningitis. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for meningitis. Details: Preliminary clinical research in children aged 7 months to 16 years with meningitis shows that taking a specific GABA product (Aminalon) 0.5-1.5 grams daily, starting within 2-4 weeks of illness and continuing for one month thereafter, decreases the incidence of residual disease manifestations and prevents the development of cerebrospinal syndrome when compared with control (19369). However, this study was conducted prior to the development of current treatment guidelines for meningitis; it is unclear if GABA is beneficial when used in conjunction with current standard care.
• Menopausal symptoms. Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for menopausal symptoms, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this purpose.
• Motion sickness. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for motion sickness. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a specific GABA product (Aminalon) 0.5 grams as a single dose 40-50 minutes before induced motion sickness or three times daily for 4 days significantly delays onset of motion sickness when compared with placebo. GABA also decreases the occurrence of motion sickness symptoms including chills, cold sweats, and pallor when compared with placebo (19370).
• Obesity. Although there has been interest in using oral and sublingual GABA for weight loss, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this purpose.
• Pain (acute). Although there has been interest in using oral and sublingual GABA for acute pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this purpose.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for PTSD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this condition.
• Prediabetes. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for prediabetes. Details: A small clinical study in adults with prediabetes and overweight or obesity shows that taking GABA 500 mg (GABA, Swanson Health) 3 times daily for 95 days does not improve postprandial glucose response to oral glucose tolerance testing, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), or glycemic variability when compared with placebo (112830).
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Although there has been interest in using oral GABA for PMS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this condition.
• Psychological well-being. Although there has been interest in using oral and sublingual GABA to improve well-being, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of GABA for this purpose.
• Stress. It is unclear if oral GABA is beneficial for stress. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a single dose of GABA 100-200 mg by mouth 10-70 minutes prior to completing a mentally stressful task does not appear to reduce subjective measure of stress when compared with placebo (90568). However, it does attenuate alpha wave reduction and reduces beta wave upsurge on the EEG during testing when compared with placebo (19373,90568). More evidence is needed to rate GABA for these uses.

(Read more about GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID (GABA))

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Bronchitis. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for bronchitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Coronary heart disease (CHD). Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for CHD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Erectile dysfunction (ED). Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for ED, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Fatigue. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for fatigue, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Gulf war syndrome. It is unclear if oral horny goat weed is beneficial in patients with Gulf war syndrome. Details: A small clinical study in males with Gulf war syndrome shows that taking horny goat weed extract 250 mg or 500 mg twice daily, standardized to contain 50 mg or 100 mg of icariin per dose, respectively, for 30 days does not improve symptoms of Gulf war syndrome when compared with placebo (108311).
• Hepatitis. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for hepatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• HIV/AIDS. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for HIV/AIDS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Hypertension. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Male infertility. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for male infertility, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Memory. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for memory, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this purpose.
• Myocarditis. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for myocarditis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Osteoarthritis. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition.
• Osteoporosis. Several small, low-quality clinical studies suggest that horny goat weed may modestly improve bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with osteoporosis. Details: A meta-analysis of 12 small, low-quality clinical studies in patients with osteoporosis shows that taking horny goat weed alone or in combination with conventional therapy improves BMD when compared with a control group. When added to conventional therapy, horny goat weed appears to have a large effect on BMD, while its effect is more modest when used alone. The most common formulations and doses used include granules 1 gram twice daily for 6 months, an extract 600 mg taken in divided doses daily for 6 months, and a decoction 50 mL taken 2-3 times daily for 3-6 months. The pooled analysis suggests that horny goat weed decoctions are more effective than other formulations (109578). Additionally, a small clinical study in postmenopausal patients not included in the analysis above shows that taking a specific extract of horny goat weed containing 60 mg icariin, 15 mg daidzein, and 3 mg genistein (Xianling Gubao; Tong Ji Tang Pharmacal Company) daily, in addition to calcium 300 mg daily, for 24 months attenuates loss of BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck when compared with placebo plus calcium. BMD increased by 1.6% and 1.3% at each site, respectively, compared with decreases of 1.8% and 2.4%, respectively, with placebo (14900).
• Postmenopausal conditions. It is unclear if oral horny goat weed is beneficial in patients with postmenopausal conditions. Details: Preliminary clinical research in postmenopausal patients shows that taking horny goat weed water extract 300 mL daily for 6 months slightly decreases triglyceride and total cholesterol levels and can increase estradiol levels when compared with placebo (55452). The clinical significance of these effects is unclear.
• Sexual dysfunction. Although there is interest in using oral horny goat weed for sexual dysfunction, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of horny goat weed for this condition. More evidence is needed to rate horny goat weed for these uses.

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INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Age-related testosterone deficiency. It is unclear if oral maca is beneficial for age-related testosterone deficiency. Details: A moderate-size clinical study in eugonadal males age 65 years on average with symptoms related to late-onset hypogonadism shows that taking maca 1.66 grams three times daily for 12 weeks improves physical, sexual, and psychological symptom scores when compared with placebo. However, maca did not lead to a significant difference in testosterone levels between groups (112012). The interpretation of these findings is limited by the use of patient-reported outcomes.
• Amenorrhea. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for amenorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Anemia of chronic disease. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for anemia of chronic disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. It is unclear if oral maca is beneficial in patients with sexual dysfunction due to antidepressants. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking maca 1.5 grams twice daily for 12 weeks modestly increases remission rates in females experiencing antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction (90278).
• Athletic performance. It is unclear if oral maca is beneficial for athletic performance. Details: A small clinical study in male elite athletes shows that taking maca 2500 mg twice daily for 8 weeks may improve some measures of physical performance, including grip strength, power, or agility, when compared to baseline (112014). However, the interpretation of this study is limited by the lack of a control group, inconsistent results among the various types of athletes included in the study, and unreported habitual activities, such as diet, that may confound results.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Although there has been interest in using oral maca for CFS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Depression. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for depression, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Fatigue. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for fatigue, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Leukemia. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for leukemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Male infertility. It is unclear if oral maca is beneficial for male infertility. Details: Clinical research shows that taking a specific maca product (Maca Gelatinizada La Molina, Laboratorios Hersil) 1.5-3 grams daily for 4 months increases semen volume, sperm count, and sperm motility in healthy males aged 22-44 years (18289). Conversely, a meta-analysis of 2 small clinical studies in males with infertility shows that taking 2-2.8 grams of maca daily for 12-16 weeks does not improve the concentration of semen when compared with placebo (112011). However, the interpretation of this finding is limited by the heterogeneity of the included studies.
• Memory. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for memory, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Osteoporosis. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for osteoporosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose.
• Postmenopausal conditions. It is unclear if oral maca is beneficial for postmenopausal conditions. Details: Two small clinical trials show that taking powdered maca (Maca Power, Incan Food, Healthychoices) 3.3 or 3.5 grams daily as a single dose or in two divided doses for 6 weeks modestly reduces anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction when compared with placebo (90606,99792). However, these changes are generally small and of questionable clinical significance (90606).
• Sexual desire. It is unclear if oral maca improves male sexual desire; it has not been evaluated for female sexual desire. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a specific maca product (Maca Gelatinizada La Molina, Laboratorios Hersil), 1.5-3 grams daily in three divided doses for 12 weeks can increase subjective feelings of sexual desire in healthy males aged 21 to 57 years (9928).
• Tuberculosis. Although there has been interest in using oral maca for tuberculosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of maca for this purpose. More evidence is needed to rate maca for these uses.

(Read more about MACA)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Sexual dysfunction. Oral tribulus seems to improve sexual experience in females with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) or sexual dysfunction. Some research also shows that oral tribulus improves sexual function in males. Details: Clinical research in premenopausal and postmenopausal patients with HSDD shows that taking tribulus 250 mg three times daily (Androsten, Herbarium) for 3 months improves overall satisfaction and lubrication, as well as pain, desire, sexual arousal, and ability to reach orgasm, when compared with placebo (92027,97331,97332). Other preliminary clinical research in females with HSDD shows that taking tribulus extract 7.5 mg daily for 4 weeks improves sexual desire, arousal, satisfaction, orgasm, pain, and lubrication when compared with placebo (92022). A nonblinded clinical study comparing tribulus dosing regimens shows that taking oral tribulus 280 mg, either once daily or in three divided daily doses, for 90 days results in similar improvements in sexual dysfunction, regardless of menopausal status. However, neither dosing schedule increases clitoral blood flow when compared with baseline (108551). Tribulus has also been studied in males. One clinical study in males with erectile dysfunction, with or without HSDD, shows that taking tribulus (Tribestan, Sopharma AD) 500 mg three times daily for 3 months improves sexual desire and intercourse satisfaction when compared with placebo (97330).

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

• Athletic performance. Oral tribulus does not seem to improve athletic performance. Details: Small clinical studies in athletes show that taking tribulus orally, alone or in combination with other ingredients such as androstenedione, most often as 450-770 mg daily for 5-8 weeks, does not seem to enhance body composition or exercise performance when compared with placebo or a control group (7514,13255,92029,108552).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Angina. It is unclear if oral tribulus is beneficial for angina. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a tribulus extract orally might reduce symptoms of angina when compared with a control (3931).
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema). Oral tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Some preliminary clinical research shows that taking tribulus orally in combination with 9 other herbs (Zemaphyte) daily for 8 weeks reduces redness and skin lesions in adults and children with nonexudative atopic dermatitis (12627,12628). However, other research shows no effect (12630). It is unclear if these effects are due to tribulus, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Bacterial vaginosis. Topical tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with bacterial vaginosis shows that using a specific vaginal suppository (Forzajeh) containing tribulus, myrtle, fennel, and tamarind daily for 1 week is as effective as metronidazole vaginal suppository for improving vaginal discharge volume and odor, pelvic pain, cervical inflammation, and vaginal pH (100339). It is unclear if these effects are due to tribulus, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Oral tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with BPH shows that taking a combination supplement (Prostalyn, East India Pharmaceutical Works Ltd.) containing tribulus 600 mg and curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) 600 mg twice daily for 12 weeks improves prostate symptoms when compared to baseline, with no difference when compared to tamsulosin 400 mcg daily. This supplement also seems to reduce prostate volume by around 2 mL (92033).
• Cancer. Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this condition.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for CFS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this condition.
• Diabetes. It is unclear if oral tribulus is beneficial for diabetes. Details: Preliminary clinical research in females with type 2 diabetes who are taking oral hypoglycemic agents shows that taking tribulus extract powder 500 mg twice daily for 3 months modestly reduces fasting glucose and postprandial glucose levels, but not glycated hemoglobin, when compared with placebo. However, the validity of these findings is limited by the difference in diabetes severity between groups at baseline (97327).
• Erectile dysfunction (ED). It is unclear if oral tribulus is beneficial for ED. Research is conflicting. Details: Clinical research in patients with ED shows that taking tribulus (Tribestan, Sopharma AD) 500 mg three times daily for 3 months does not provide a clinically beneficial improvement in erectile function when compared with placebo (97330). Other clinical research shows that taking tribulus 400 mg twice daily for 30 days does not improve erectile function when compared with placebo (92031). However, one preliminary clinical study in patients with partial androgen deficiency shows that taking tribulus 250 mg three times daily for 3 months improves erectile function when compared to baseline (92028). Tribulus has also been studied in combination with other ingredients. Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a combination supplement (Tradamix TX1000, Tradapharma Sagl) containing tribulus 450 mg, brown algae 300 mg, and chitosan 250 mg twice daily for 3 months improves sexual satisfaction, desire, ejaculation function, and sexual quality of life when compared with placebo in patients with mild-to-moderate ED (92030). It is unclear if these effects are due to tribulus, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Exercise-induced muscle damage. It is unclear if oral tribulus is beneficial for exercise-induced muscle damage. Details: Clinical research in a small number of healthy, untrained males shows that taking tribulus 500 mg daily for 2 weeks prior to performing resistance exercise reduces markers of muscle damage, including creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), but does not reduce levels of the inflammatory markers interleukin-6 (IL-6) or C-reactive protein (CRP), when compared with placebo (103236). However, another small clinical study in male CrossFit athletes shows that taking tribulus 770 mg capsules (Quamtrax Pharmaceuticals) daily for 42 days does not reduce CPK but does improve CRP and oxidant status when compared with placebo (111747). However, it is unclear whether any improvements are clinically significant. A very small crossover clinical study in trained male athletes shows that taking 20 mg/kg/day of tribulus in 3 divided doses 30 minutes before meals with 500 mL of water for 4 weeks does not reduce muscle soreness after intensive aerobic exercise when compared with placebo (111746).
• Gonorrhea. Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for gonorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this condition.
• Hypercholesterolemia. Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for hypercholesterolemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this condition.
• Hypertension. It is unclear if oral tribulus can lower blood pressure. Details: In patients with pre-hypertension, clinical research shows that taking powdered tribulus fruit 2 grams three times daily for 2 months reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 6 and 5 mmHg, respectively, when compared with placebo (105245). It is unclear what effect Tribulus may have in patients with diagnosed hypertension.
• Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis). Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for kidney stones, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this purpose.
• Male infertility. It is unclear if oral tribulus is beneficial for male infertility; the available research is conflicting. Details: Case series suggest that taking a specific tribulus product (Tribestan, Sopharma) 250 mg three times daily for 30 days improves ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, and sperm motility in patients with infertility due to oligoasthenozoospermia (78865), and improves libido and erections in patients with primary hypogonadism (78868). Conversely, a small clinical study in patients with oligozoospermia shows that taking tribulus granules 6 grams daily for 60 days does not improve sperm count when compared with placebo (92032). In patients with idiopathic infertility, taking tribulus 250 mg three times daily for 3 months does not increase sperm concentration, sperm motility, serum testosterone levels, or luteinizing hormone levels (97328). The difference in these findings might be due to the small study sizes, as well as the variable etiology of infertility.
• Menopausal symptoms. Oral tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research shows that taking a combination product containing tribulus 40 mg, ginger, saffron, and Ceylon cinnamon (Aphrodit, Goldaru Company) twice daily for 4 weeks improves mental and physical symptoms during menopause, but not genitourinary symptoms, when compared with placebo (97326). It is not clear if this effect is due to tribulus, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Osteoporosis. Although there is interest in using oral tribulus for osteoporosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of tribulus for this condition.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Oral tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: One clinical study shows that taking tribulus extract (Tribulus forte, Mediherb, Integra Healthcare Ltd) 245 mg daily along with other ingredients and lifestyle modification during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle for 3 months improves some symptoms of PCOS, including a 33% reduction in oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea and a 43-day reduction in the duration between menstrual cycles, when compared with lifestyle modification alone. Taking tribulus with other ingredients also improves quality of life by about 30% and reduces body mass index by 1 kg/m2 when compared with placebo. Although the conception rate increased 4-fold in patients taking the combination product, the live birth rate was similar to those taking placebo. (97216). It is unclear if these effects are due to tribulus, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Premature ejaculation. Oral tribulus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking a combination product containing tribulus, 5-HTP, winter savory, and chanca piedra (EiacuMev, Farmaceutica Mev) daily for 3 months improves time to ejaculation by 30 seconds and reduces symptoms related to premature ejaculation when compared to control (97016). More evidence is needed to rate tribulus for these uses.

(Read more about TRIBULUS)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Aging skin. Although there has been interest in using topical zizyphus for aging skin, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Anemia of chronic disease. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for anemia of chronic disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Anxiety. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for anxiety, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Asthma. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Athletic performance. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus to improve athletic performance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Cancer. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Constipation. It is unclear if oral zizyphus fruit extract is beneficial in patients with constipation. Details: A small clinical study in patients with idiopathic constipation shows that taking zizyphus fruit extract 20-40 drops daily for 12 weeks improves bloating, abdominal pain, difficult evacuation, and quality of life when compared to baseline. Significant improvements in constipation-related symptoms were lacking in patient taking placebo drops (93316). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of statistical comparison between groups.
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Oral zizyphus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical study in adults hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 shows that taking a combination product containing zizyphus, barley, and Assyrian plum 200 mL twice daily for 5 days in addition to standard therapy improves oxygen saturation levels and fatigue but does not improve cough severity or frequency, respiratory rate, or temperature when compared with control (112818). It is unclear if these effects are due to zizyphus, other ingredients, or the combination. It is also unclear if these changes are due to the product or the natural resolution of the condition.
• Diabetes. It is unclear if oral zizyphus fruit powder is beneficial in patients with type 2 diabetes. Details: A small clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes shows that taking zizyphus fruit powder 30 grams daily for 12 weeks reduces measures of insulin resistance and improves measures of insulin sensitivity, but does not affect fasting blood glucose levels or glycated hemoglobin, when compared with placebo (104507).
• Diarrhea. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for diarrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Epilepsy. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for epilepsy, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Hyperlipidemia. It is unclear if oral zizyphus fruit powder is beneficial in patients with hyperlipidemia. Details: A small clinical study in obese adolescents with hyperlipidemia shows that taking zizyphus fruit powder 5 grams three times daily for one month modestly lowers total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, but does not improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, when compared with placebo (93317). However, a small clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes shows that taking zizyphus fruit powder 30 grams daily for 12 weeks does not improve lipid levels when compared with placebo (104507).
• Hypertension. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Insomnia. It is unclear if oral zizyphus seed extract is beneficial in patients with insomnia. Details: A very small crossover trial in patients with chronic insomnia shows that taking zizyphus seed extract 2 grams one hour before bedtime for 4 weeks improves sleep quality as measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, but not when assessed on the Insomnia Severity Index, when compared with placebo. While patients self-reported significant improvements in total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and sleep onset latency with zizyphus, these findings were not consistent with data gathered from actigraphy wrist watches worn during the study (107921). Zizyphus has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. A clinical trial in healthy adults with mild insomnia shows that taking a specific product (LZ Complex3, Sanofi) containing zizyphus 4.5 grams, hops 500 mg, lactium 75 mg, magnesium oxide 52.5 mg, and vitamin B6 10 mg daily for 2 weeks does not improve sleep quality, daytime functioning, or physical fatigue when compared with placebo (95971). Liver disease. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for liver disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Melasma. Oral zizyphus has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical study in adults with hyperpigmentation of facial skin shows that taking a syrup containing extracts of zizyphus and several other herbal plants 7.5 mL twice daily for 8 weeks reduces the number of pigments, total area of pigmentation, and percentage area of pigmentation when compared with baseline and placebo (112816). However, it is unclear if these changes are clinically significant. In addition, it is unclear if these effects are due to zizyphus, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Neonatal jaundice. It is unclear if oral zizyphus fruit extract is beneficial for neonatal jaundice. Details: A small clinical study in hospitalized infants with jaundice who are also being treated with phototherapy shows that giving zizyphus fruit extract 1 mL/kg orally three times daily does not significantly reduce levels of bilirubin, but modestly reduces the duration of hospitalization by 0.2 days, when compared with placebo (93306).
• Peptic ulcers. Although there has been interest in using oral zizyphus for peptic ulcers, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose.
• Wound healing. Although there has been interest in using topical zizyphus for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of zizyphus for this purpose. More evidence is needed to rate zizyphus for these uses.

(Read more about ZIZYPHUS)

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of cnidium.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about CNIDIUM)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts. Eurycoma longifolia has been safely used in doses of 400 mg daily for up to 3 months and in doses of 200 mg daily for up to 9 months (17924,18138,93490,97312).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally in excessive amounts, long-term. There are some concerns about the safety of Eurycoma longifolia due to contamination with mercury and lead or adulteration with sildenafil (17925,17926,17927,18137,49087,93494). Some research shows that 36% and 17% of Eurycoma longifolia preparations from Malaysia contain high levels of mercury and lead, respectively (17925,17926,17927,49087). While safety issues related to these contaminants have not been reported in humans, taking high doses of Eurycoma longifolia long-term might cause symptoms of heavy metal poisoning or sildenafil-related adverse effects.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using. Animal research suggests that there are no negative effects of Eurycoma longifolia on the offspring (93493). However, research in humans is lacking.

(Read more about EURYCOMA LONGIFOLIA)

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally in medicinal amounts, short-term. GABA has been used with apparent safety in doses of 75 mg to 1.5 grams daily for up to one month in small clinical studies (19361,19363,19369,110134,110135). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of GABA when used orally for longer than one month or when used sublingually or intravenously.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID (GABA))

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when horny goat weed extract is used orally and appropriately, short-term. A specific extract of horny goat weed containing 60 mg icariin, 15 mg daidzein, and 3 mg genistein (Xianling Gubao; Tong Ji Tang Pharmacal Company) has been used daily with apparent safety for up to 24 months (14900,97268). Another aqueous extract of horny goat weed containing up to 25.36% icariin has been used in a dose of 300 mL daily with apparent safety for up to 6 months (55452). Another horny goat weed extract has been used with apparent safety at doses up to 1000 mg daily (providing 200 mg icariin) for up to 30 days (108311).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally long-term or in high doses. Long-term use, or taking high doses of some species of horny goat weed, has been linked to serious adverse effects including respiratory arrest (10346).

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally. Horny goat weed might have androgenic activity (10346). Theoretically, it might harm a developing fetus; avoid using.

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about HORNY GOAT WEED)

LIKELY SAFE ...when maca is consumed in food amounts (9926).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short term. Maca appears to be safe in doses up to 3 grams daily for 4 months (9928,10218,18289,90278,108603).

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about MACA)

LIKELY UNSAFE ...when the spine-covered fruit is used orally. There have been reports of bilateral pneumothorax and bronchial polyp after oral consumption of the spine-covered fruit (818).

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally. Animal research suggests that tribulus might adversely affect fetal development (12674); avoid using.

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about TRIBULUS)

LIKELY SAFE ...when zizyphus fruit is consumed in the amounts typically found in foods.

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when zizyphus fruit or seed is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Zizyphus fruit powder has been used with apparent safety at doses up to 30 grams daily for up to 12 weeks (93317,104507). Zizyphus fruit extract has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 20-40 drops daily for up to 12 weeks (93316). Zizyphus seed extract has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 2 grams daily for 4 weeks (107921). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of zizyphus when used topically.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when zizyphus fruit is consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of zizyphus fruit in amounts greater than those found in foods; avoid using.

(Read more about ZIZYPHUS)

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Laboratory research shows that osthol, a constituent of cnidium, inhibits blood clotting and the activity of platelets (103851). Theoretically, cnidium might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.  Details Some anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

(Read more about CNIDIUM)

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Insignificant •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels CYP1A2 substrates.  Details In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP1A2 enzymes (93489). This effect has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2A6 (CYP2A6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Insignificant •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels of CYP2A6 substrates.  Details In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP2A6 enzymes (93489). This effect has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Insignificant •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels of CYP2C19 substrates.  Details In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP2C19 enzymes (93489). This effect has not been reported in humans.

PROPRANOLOL (Inderal) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = A Eurycoma longifolia can reduce the levels and clinical effects of propranolol.  Details A small clinical study in healthy persons shows that taking a single dose of a water-based Eurycoma longifolia extract 200 mg, in combination with a single dose of propranolol 80 mg, reduces the propranolol area under the curve (AUC) by 29%, reduces the peak concentration by 42%, and increases time to peak concentration by 86% when compared with control. Since the elimination half-life of propranolol did not change, it seems that Eurycoma longifolia alters the kinetics of propranolol by decreasing its absorption in the gut, and not by altering its metabolism (17923). It is not known if separating administration will prevent this interaction.

TESTOSTERONE Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia may further increase levels of testosterone.  Details A clinical study in aging males with testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL shows that taking a specific water extract of Eurycoma longifolia roots (Physta; Biotropics Malaysia) 100-200 mg daily with breakfast for 12 weeks increases total testosterone levels by 8% to 11% when compared with placebo (108451). It is unclear whether this increase would occur in individuals with normal testosterone levels.

(Read more about EURYCOMA LONGIFOLIA)

ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, taking GABA with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.  Details Some clinical research shows that GABA can decrease blood pressure in patients with hypertension (19367).

CNS DEPRESSANTS Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Unlikely •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, GABA might have additive sedative effects when used in conjunction with CNS depressants. However, it is unclear if this concern is clinically relevant.  Details Endogenous GABA has well-established relaxant effects (51152) and GABA(A) receptors have an established physiological role in sleep (51143). However, the effects of GABA supplements are unclear, as it is unknown whether exogenous GABA crosses the blood-brain barrier (51120,51153,90570). Although there have been limited reports of drowsiness or tiredness with GABA supplements (5115,19364), these effects have not been widely reported in clinical studies. Additionally, intravenous GABA 0.1-1 mg/kg has been shown to induce anxiety in a dose-dependent manner (5116).

(Read more about GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID (GABA))

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the risk of bleeding.  Details In vitro research and animal research shows that horny goat weed can inhibit platelet aggregation and thrombus formation (105832). This effect has not been reported in humans.

ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the risk of hypotension.  Details Laboratory research suggests that horny goat weed might have hypotensive effects (10346). This effect has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP1A2 substrates.  Details In vitro, horny goat weed leaf extract inhibits CYP1A2 (97267). This effect has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP2B6 substrates.  Details In vitro, horny goat weed leaf extract inhibits CYP2B6 (97267). This effect has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro, horny goat weed extract inhibits CYP3A4 and suppresses CYP3A4 mRNA expression (112708). This effect has not been reported in humans.

ESTROGENS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, concomitant use of horny goat weed with estrogens might increase their therapeutic and adverse effects.  Details In vitro evidence suggests that horny goat weed has estrogenic activity. In clinical research, horny goat weed has been shown to increase blood levels of estrogen in some females (16061,16063,16060,55452).

(Read more about HORNY GOAT WEED)

(Read more about MACA)

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Taking tribulus with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.  Details Clinical research shows that Tribulus can lower blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes who are taking antidiabetes medications (97327).

ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, taking tribulus with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.  Details Animal research shows that tribulus can lower blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) (12673). Tribulus has also demonstrated hypotensive effects in pre-hypertensive adults (105245).

LITHIUM Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, tribulus might increase the levels and clinical effects of lithium.  Details Tribulus is thought to have diuretic properties (12681). Due to these potential diuretic effects, tribulus might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

(Read more about TRIBULUS)

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, zizyphus might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.  Details Animal research shows that zizyphus has hypoglycemic activity (87589,87591,87617,87637,87659,87671). However, a small clinical study shows that zizyphus fruit powder does not reduce fasting blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (104507).

CNS DEPRESSANTS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, zizyphus might cause additive sedative effects when taken with CNS depressants.  Details Some animal research has found that various parts of zizyphus have sedative effects (87572,87644,87646,87658). However, other animal research shows that zizyphus plant extract does not alter sleep parameters when used in combination with pentobarbital (93308).

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, zizyphus might decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.  Details Animal research shows that zizyphus induces CYP1A2 enzymes (93311). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

(Read more about ZIZYPHUS)

General ...Orally, cnidium has been reported to cause mild symptoms of bitter mouth, drowsiness, and stomach discomfort (103851).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, cnidium has been reported to cause bitter mouth and stomach discomfort (103851).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, cnidium has been reported to cause drowsiness (103851).

(Read more about CNIDIUM)

General ...Orally, Eurycoma longifolia seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: None reported.

Endocrine ...Some research in both humans and animals suggests that Eurycoma longifolia might increase testosterone levels (17924). If testosterone levels are increased beyond the normal range, there is risk of testosterone-related side effects which could include acne, insulin resistance, hepatotoxicity, and others.

(Read more about EURYCOMA LONGIFOLIA)

General ...Orally, GABA seems to be generally well tolerated. Sublingually, no adverse effects have been reported. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Drowsiness, gastric upset, minor throat burning, muscle weakness, and nausea.

Cardiovascular ...Intravenously, GABA can cause dose-related increases in blood pressure and pulse (5116).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, minor throat burning has been associated with GABA in one study (5115). In another study in which GABA was administered with phosphatidylserine, one patient experienced severe gastric distress, two patients reported moderate nausea, and one reported constipation (19364). Children with cerebral palsy taking GABA experienced nausea and decreased appetite (19362).

Genitourinary ...In one study, one patient treated with oral GABA and phosphatidylserine reported transient amenorrhea (19364).

Musculoskeletal ...Orally, minor adverse effects associated with GABA included muscle weakness (5115).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, GABA may cause drowsiness, headache, or tiredness (5115,19364,112830). Four children with cerebral palsy taking GABA had convulsions, and an unspecified number experienced motor restlessness. However, causality of these adverse effects was not clear, and the dose of GABA was not specified (19362). Intravenously, GABA 50 mg has been associated with a "lack of alertness" in healthy female volunteers (51159).

Psychiatric ...Intravenously, GABA 0. 1-1.0 mg/kg has been shown to induce anxiety, dysphoria, and mood disturbances in a dose-dependent manner (5116).

Other ...In one study, patients taking GABA experienced a slight warming of the body (19370).

(Read more about GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID (GABA))

General ...Orally, horny goat weed seems to be well tolerated when used short-term.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Dizziness, dry mouth, nosebleed, thirst, and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Respiratory arrest.

Cardiovascular ...A 66-year-old male with a history of cardiovascular disease developed tachyarrhythmia after taking horny goat weed for 2 weeks (13006). It is not clear if this product contained only horny goat weed or a combination of ingredients; therefore, assigning causality is not possible.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, long-term use of horny goat weed has been associated with reports of vomiting, dry mouth, thirst, and nosebleed (10346).

Hepatic ...A case of hepatotoxicity characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever has been reported in a 40-year-old male patient with hepatitis C, after a month of taking one tablet daily of a combination product containing horny goat weed and multiple other ingredients (Enzyte, Vianda). Symptoms improved following cessation of the product, but it is not clear if they were due to horny goat weed, another ingredients, or hepatitis C (91590). An observational study over 24 years found 26 cases of drug-induced hepatoxicity associated with horny goat weed (112707).

Musculoskeletal ...Orally, large doses of horny goat weed may cause exaggeration of tendon reflexes to the point of spasm (10346).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, long-term use of horny goat weed has been associated with reports of dizziness (10346).

Psychiatric ...There is a case report of hypomania in a 66-year-old male who took horny goat weed for 2 weeks (13006). It is not clear if this product contained only horny goat weed or a combination of ingredients; therefore, assigning causality is not possible.

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, large doses of horny goat weed may cause respiratory arrest (10346).

(Read more about HORNY GOAT WEED)

General ...Orally, no adverse effects have been reported with the medicinal use of maca. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.

Gastrointestinal ...Consumption of fresh, uncooked maca may cause stomach pain (40231).

(Read more about MACA)

General ...Orally, tribulus seems to be well tolerated.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Cases of liver and kidney injury, seizures, and chronic painful erection with impaired sexual function have been reported. Pneumothorax and bronchial polyp after consuming the spine-covered tribulus fruit have been reported.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, tribulus can cause abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation (92022,92027). However, in one study, the rates of these gastrointestinal complaints were similar for patients taking tribulus and those receiving placebo (92022).

Genitourinary ...In one case report, a patient taking two tribulus tablets (unknown dose) daily for 15 days presented to the local emergency department with a painful erection lasting 72 hours. The priapism was resolved with medical management; however, post-episode sexual function was impaired (92023).

Hepatic ...In one case report, a patient drinking tribulus water 2 liters daily for two days presented with lower limb weakness, seizures, hepatitis, and acute kidney injury. The patient's condition improved after hemodialysis and discontinuation of tribulus water (92069).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, tribulus has been reported to cause general excitation and insomnia. These symptoms were reversed upon discontinuation of the drug or decreasing the dose (78867). In one case report, a patient drinking tribulus water 2 liters daily for two days presented with lower limb weakness, seizures, hepatitis, and acute kidney injury. The patient's condition improved after hemodialysis and discontinuation of tribulus water (92069).

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...In one case report, a patient developed a bilateral pneumothorax after consuming the spine-covered fruit of tribulus (818). In another case report, a patient developed a polyp in the lobar bronchus of the right interior lobe due to the presence of a tribulus fruit spine (78852).

Renal ...In one case report, a patient drinking tribulus water 2 liters daily for two days presented with lower limb weakness, seizures, hepatitis, and acute kidney injury. The patient's condition improved after hemodialysis and discontinuation of the tribulus water (92069). In another case report, a healthy male taking one tribulus tablet (unknown dose) daily for a few months for bodybuilding purposes developed hyperbilirubinemia followed by acute kidney failure 2-3 weeks later. The patient was managed with intravenous fluids and a low-salt, low-protein diet (92025).

Other ...In one case report, gynecomastia was observed in a male weightlifter taking an herbal combination product containing tribulus. However, it is not clear if this adverse effect can be attributed to tribulus alone (78859).

(Read more about TRIBULUS)

General ...Orally, zizyphus fruit extract and powder seem to be well tolerated.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, zizyphus fruit extract was associated with three cases of mild diarrhea in newborn infants (93306). Zizyphus seed extract was associated with one case of dry mouth and one case of increased bowel movements in a small clinical study (107921).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, zizyphus seed extract was associated with two cases of headache in a small clinical study (107921).

(Read more about ZIZYPHUS)