Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceMen's health

Polyrhachis Ant Extract

A traditional Chinese tonic made from mountain ants, marketed for vitality, stamina and libido. There is a real preclinical literature on the extract, but it concerns depression, bone and cancer models in rodents and cells, and there are no human trials of any kind for the uses it is sold for.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • No human trials for vitality or libido Limited evidence

    PubMed contains no randomized or controlled human study of Polyrhachis extract for energy, stamina, testosterone or sexual function. Marketing claims rest entirely on traditional use.

  • Anti-inflammatory activity in animal and cell models Limited evidence

    The active fraction of Polyrhachis vicina reduced inflammatory signalling in a rodent depression model, and a separate study found it inhibited osteoclast formation in cell culture and mouse bone-loss models. These are mechanistic findings in animals, several steps removed from any human benefit.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo studied human dose exists. Labels typically suggest 500–1000 mg of extract daily, stated as a traditional rather than an evidence-based amount.
SafetyHuman safety data are essentially absent. Insect-derived products can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in people with shellfish or dust-mite allergy, which cross-react with arthropod proteins. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in anyone with a history of insect-protein allergy.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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