A metabolomics approach reveals the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of Cistanche tubulosa stems and its combination with fluoxetine on depression in comorbid with sexual dysfunction

The dried succulent stems of Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) Wight are utilized in traditional medicine for tonifying kidney yang, which have shown to be effective in alleviating depression-like behavior or male sexual dysfunction, respectively. However, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of C. tubulosa and its combinations in the treatment of depression in comorbid with sexual dysfunction remain unclear.