A research-based look at astragalus, ginkgo, reishi, gotu kola, Schisandra and He Shou Wu.
This LongevityTortoise guide reviews the latest peer-reviewed evidence to help you understand Traditional Chinese Herbs for Longevity and decide whether it fits into a healthy-ageing routine. We prioritise human trials, disclose limitations and never replace professional medical advice.
Several herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are being studied for telomere support, immune modulation, cognitive protection and stress resilience. The best-evidence candidates are astragalus (ta-65), ginkgo biloba, reishi mushroom, gotu kola and Schisandra. Human evidence is promising but not definitive, and quality control matters because herbal products vary widely.
Astragalus root contains cycloastragenol and astragaloside IV, compounds studied for telomerase activation and immune support. A small randomised trial reported increased telomerase activity in immune cells, but the sample was tiny and the effect on healthspan or lifespan is unknown.
Read more: Fauce et al., 2008 — Journal of Immunology.
Ginkgo is one of the most studied herbal extracts for cognitive ageing. The GEM randomised trial found no overall reduction in dementia incidence in older adults, but subgroup analyses suggested possible benefit in people with better medication adherence. It is more convincingly a vascular/cognitive supplement than a lifespan extender.
Read more: DeKosky et al., 2008 — JAMA.
Reishi is studied for immune modulation, beta-glucan content and possible anti-inflammatory effects. Preclinical studies show antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity, but robust human longevity trials are lacking. It is generally well tolerated but can interact with blood-thinning medication.
Gotu kola has been studied for cognitive function and wound healing. Small human trials suggest improvements in mood and memory in older adults, but the evidence is preliminary.
Schisandra is an adaptogen used for stress, liver support and endurance. Animal studies show antioxidant and anti-fatigue effects, but human longevity data are minimal.
Also known as fo-ti, this herb has a long history of use but also a notable risk of liver injury. Regulatory agencies in several countries have issued safety warnings. We do not recommend it without medical supervision.
Active compounds: Evidence strength
Evidence strength: Main risks
Active compounds: Preliminary human data
Evidence strength: Immune interactions; variable extracts
Active compounds: Moderate for cognition; weak for lifespan
Evidence strength: Bleeding risk with anticoagulants
Active compounds: Preclinical + limited human immune data
Evidence strength: Blood-thinning interactions
Active compounds: Preliminary
Evidence strength: Liver concerns at high doses
Active compounds: Preclinical + small human trials
Evidence strength: GI upset, liver enzyme effects
Active compounds: Historical use only; hepatotoxicity reported
Evidence strength: Hepatotoxicity — avoid without supervision
Herbal supplements vary in quality. Look for standardised extracts, third-party testing (USP, NSF, Informed Sport or equivalent), and clear labels. Avoid proprietary blends that hide doses.
The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you take prescription medication.
Chinese Herbs for Longevity is an evidence-based LongevityTortoise resource for readers interested in healthy ageing. Independent research summaries; consult a healthcare professional before changing supplements or health regimen.
No. Independent research summaries; consult a healthcare professional before changing supplements or health regimen.
We focus on peer-reviewed papers, human trials, preprints and regulatory updates relevant to UK readers. We disclose affiliate links and conflicts of interest.
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Last updated: 2026-08-18 by LongevityTortoise.