Common Names: Shi Hu, Dendrobium Orchid
Scientific Names: Dendrobium
Dendrobium, a diverse family of plants with over 200 commonly used species, holds a rich history of medicinal usage in East Asia, particularly in Traditional Chinese medicine. These orchids, native to regions such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Thailand, and Vietnam, have demonstrated various bioactivities, with many species being associated with anti-inflammatory properties and digestive aid. Despite its traditional medicinal applications, Dendrobium has garnered attention in contemporary contexts, notably in pre-workout supplements aimed at enhancing physical and athletic performance. However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is lacking, and caution is warranted.