What is ecdysterone?
Ecdysterone, a natural steroid, or more precisely an ecdysteroid, is found as a secondary metabolite in numerous plants and as a hormone in insects, spiders, and crabs. Although its role in plants is not yet fully understood, it influences molting and reproduction in crustaceans.
Variations of ecdysterone
Although approximately 200 different ecdysteroids are known, most have no effect on vertebrates and humans because no ecdysteroid receptors exist in their bodies. However, turkesterone and ecdysterone play a role in humans and, according to studies, promote protein biosynthesis, i.e., muscle building.
History of Ecdysterone
Ecdysteroids were discovered in the 1980s, and their effects on human metabolism have been studied ever since. Ecdysterone gained attention as a performance enhancer among athletes, particularly in the former Soviet Union. New extraction methods led to more cost-effective extraction of ecdysterone and increased research starting in the 2010s.
Effect of ecdysterone
Ecdysterone has been shown to increase strength and promote muscle building, post-workout recovery, fat loss, and immune function. However, the strength of these effects is controversial and varies from athlete to athlete.
Doubts about ecdysterone
Despite scientific evidence, some bodybuilders doubt the effectiveness of ecdysterone, as the human body does not have specific ecdysteroid receptors. The exact mechanisms of action in the human organism are not clearly understood.
Side effects of ecdysterone
Unlike known anabolic steroids, ecdysteroids have no known side effects on hormone balance or health, neither in men nor in women.
Differences between ecdysterone and turkesterone
Ecdysterone (also known as 20-hydroxyecdysone or beta-ecdysterone) and turkesterone are biologically active phyto-ecdysteroid variants with different origins and presumably slightly different potencies.
Foods with ecdysterone
Spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, quinoa, and yam also contain ecdysterone, but in amounts that are difficult to absorb through food. Supplements in capsule or powder form provide concentrated amounts of ecdysterone.
Intake and dosage
For noticeable effects on muscle building and strength development, studies have used dosages between 80 and 120 mg per day. Manufacturer recommendations vary; some products offer higher dosages.
Buying ecdysterone: What to look out for?
When purchasing ecdysterone products, the active ingredient content per capsule is crucial, which depends not only on the amount of extract but also on the standardization.
FAQs
Some common questions about ecdysterone and their answers:
Is ecdysterone legal? Yes, it is available over the counter and is not a doping agent.
How long should you use ecdysterone? Experience shows that it is taken in phases for 6 to 8 weeks.
Which is better – ecdysterone or turkesterone? This varies from individual to individual, as they are similar active ingredients.
Can you combine ecdysterone with creatine? There's nothing wrong with combining the two, but the dosages should be adjusted individually.
How much muscle gain can I expect from ecdysterone? The expected gain varies and depends on various factors. Compared to other products, however, ecdysterone is less powerful, but also less hazardous to health.
