Turkesterone for Testosterone?

Being in the fitness industry for as long as I have, there's one recurring theme that always stands out: the desire to "boost testosterone." Testosterone is an important hormone for both men and women, playing key roles in the development and maintenance of reproductive tissues and characteristics, bone and muscle health, mood regulation, and libido. It's produced primarily in the testes in males and the ovaries in females, with small amounts also produced in the adrenal glands.

Why People Chase Higher Testosterone

Symptoms of low testosterone, like decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased energy and strength, depression, and loss of muscle mass, lead many people to suspect low levels and look for ways to raise them. Others are drawn to testosterone's role in muscle growth and athletic performance, hoping supplements will help them build more muscle and perform better. And because testosterone naturally declines with age, some believe boosting it will help maintain energy, muscle mass, and sex drive as they get older.

What Is Turkesterone?

Turkesterone is a compound found in plants such as Ajuga turkestanica, often marketed as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. Claims include increased muscle mass, improved athletic performance, and enhanced fat loss, along with testosterone-boosting effects. But the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and the safety and efficacy of turkesterone in humans hasn't been thoroughly studied.

What the Research Shows

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that turkesterone increased the growth of rat muscle cells in vitro. Another study conducted on rats found it increased endurance and reduced fatigue, suggesting potential performance-enhancing benefits. However, when it comes to the testosterone claims specifically, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that turkesterone did not significantly affect testosterone levels in male rats. Some studies have even suggested the opposite: a study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that turkesterone reduced testosterone levels in male rats.

As with any supplement, there are potential risks. The safety and efficacy of turkesterone in humans haven't been thoroughly studied, and there may be adverse effects that are yet to be discovered.

The Bottom Line

While turkesterone has shown some potential benefits in animal studies, the evidence is limited and it is not an effective testosterone booster. Some studies have even suggested it may reduce testosterone levels. The safety and long-term effects in humans remain unknown, and the biggest red flag is the lack of human research, rat data doesn't necessarily translate to human efficacy.

My take has always been this: if a supplement actually works like a steroid, it's probably banned in sport. If it's not banned, it likely doesn't work. As always, consult a physician before starting any new supplement or drug.