Bioactive Components, Pharmacological Properties, and Applications of Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma: A Comprehensive...

Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma (C. deserticola), a holoparasitic desert plant traditionally revered as "desert ginseng", has emerged as a versatile resource with significant applications in both medicinal and dietary contexts. This comprehensive review systematically explores its bioactive constituents, including phenylethanol glycosides (PhGs), iridoids, lignans, and polysaccharides, and elucidates their multifaceted pharmacological properties. Contemporary research substantiates the therapeutic potential of C. deserticola, demonstrating its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. Mechanism analysis elucidated its anti-fatigue and immune-enhancing activities, primarily through the modulation of pivotal signaling pathways, including NF-κB, AMPK, and TLR4. The review also highlights recent regulatory advancements in China, which have approved C. deserticola as a functional food ingredient, complementing its traditional uses in kidney yang tonification and promoting intestinal health. Despite its promising attributes, challenges related to sustainable cultivation and clinical application remain. By integrating ethnopharmacological wisdom with modern scientific evidence, this work lays a robust foundation for advancing the applications of C. deserticola in nutraceuticals and therapeutics.