Turkesterone belongs to the group of ecdysteroids, natural steroid hormones present in both plants and insects.
In terms of molecular structure, turkesterone bears a striking resemblance to testosterone, although its mode of action is notably different.
While testosterone fosters anabolism by elevating testosterone levels in the bloodstream, turkesterone achieves the same effect by activating the estrogen receptor-beta (ERβ). Moreover, it enhances protein synthesis while suppressing myostatin and cortisol in the body (1).
Notably, turkesterone does not adversely impact the HPTA (hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis), hinting at significant potential for this supplement with vastly reduced side effects compared to anabolic steroids.
Insights from Turkesterone Studies
In 1978, Russian scientists conducted the first research on turkesterone, exploring its impact on protein synthesis in mouse livers. The findings suggested potential physiological benefits associated with this insect hormone (2).
Dianabol vs. Turkesterone: A Surprising Outcome
In a 2000 study by Syrov, V. N., the anabolic effects of various phytoecdysteroids and steranabols were compared in male rodents, including ecdysterone, turkesterone, and nerobol (also known as dianabol).
Despite dianabol’s reputation as one of the most potent anabolic steroids, male rodents actually experienced greater weight gain when exposed to turkesterone in two of the three groups. Ecdysterone also led to substantial weight gain, though less than dianabol and turkesterone.
It’s worth noting that the only group where dianabol outperformed turkesterone comprised castrated rats. This outcome aligns with turkesterone’s role as an estrogen receptor beta agonist. Hence, the deficient estrogen levels in the castrated group limited their growth potential, contrasting with dianabol’s ability to enhance testosterone and estrogen levels.
These results are noteworthy considering that a significant portion of weight gain from dianabol includes water retention due to aromatization. In contrast, turkesterone promotes lean muscle gains by inhibiting estrogen. The study also indicates that turkesterone may be notably more anabolic than ecdysterone.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that these findings are limited to rodent models and may not necessarily translate to humans.
Mixed Findings in Human Studies
The initial human study on ecdysterone in 2006 failed to reveal significant differences among groups in terms of free testosterone, total testosterone, fat-free mass, or 1RM strength (3).
A more promising second human study in 2019 showed that participants who received ecdysterone experienced greater muscle mass gains, with the high-dose group displaying notably more hypertrophy than the standard-dosed group (4). However, subsequent lab analysis found that the ecdysterone dosages were notably lower than indicated on the labels.
The true cause of these exceptional results remains uncertain, prompting speculation about product discrepancies, potential doping, or false positives in the study. Consequently, there are ongoing calls to ban ecdysterone due to its positive effects in sports.
While the effects of turkesterone in humans remain largely unknown due to limited literature, its animal studies have been nothing short of extraordinary. Until further scientific research is conducted, the true effects of turkesterone will remain a subject of interest and speculation.
Benefits of Turkesterone
- Enhances muscle gain
- Promotes fat loss
- Increases strength and endurance
- Derived from natural sources
- Completely legal
- Minimal to no known side effects
The degree of muscle gain and fat loss achievable with turkesterone has not been definitively established, as scientific research has produced inconclusive results.
However, anecdotal evidence suggests that positive responders to turkesterone may experience a noticeable increase in lean mass of approximately 8-12 lbs over a 2-month cycle. Furthermore, it has been observed that the supplement can lead to significant improvements in one-repetition bench press performance.
The variability in research outcomes may be linked to the quality of specific turkesterone supplements, as some products have been found to contain less of the active ingredient than stated on the label.
Turkesterone is a natural and legal supplement, and its use for aesthetic purposes is currently not associated with any known adverse effects. It has been widely regarded as safe, even when taken in high doses, aligning with the consensus in the bodybuilding community.
Side Effects of Turkesterone
Based on our observations and some clinical research, there are no known side effects associated with turkesterone.
Turkesterone does not significantly impact testosterone levels or bind to the androgen receptor, thus minimizing the risk of many side effects commonly associated with anabolic steroids. As a result, it does not induce notable fluctuations in blood pressure or lead to issues such as prostate hypertrophy or virilization in women.
Furthermore, scientific studies have indicated that turkesterone does not elevate liver or kidney biomarkers, meaning it is not hepatotoxic or nephrotoxic and can be used safely for extended periods.
Although some users have reported mild interactions, such as dizziness or mild cognitive decline, these effects are generally temporary and linked to the neuroprotective properties of turkesterone.
Natural Origin of Turkesterone
As a plant-derived compound, turkesterone is classified as a natural supplement. In contrast, anabolic steroids are synthetic exogenous hormones produced in a laboratory and are not derived from natural sources.
Plant-derived compounds like turkesterone have demonstrated significant therapeutic effects on various health conditions due to their rich content of flavonoids, triterpenes, tannins, and anthraquinones.
In contrast, while anabolic steroids have been used in medical treatments, they are known to come with a range of adverse effects.
Turkesterone Before and After Results
An individual using turkesterone experienced an 8 lbs increase in lean mass over a 2-month period while consuming 400mg/day to 800mg/day. No significant changes in hormone levels were noted through blood tests. Visually, the user displayed improved muscularity and reduced subcutaneous fat after using turkesterone.
Turkesterone User Reviews
Positive Reviews
“I’ve gained 10lbs since starting turkesterone, which is remarkable considering I wasn’t attempting to gain weight. My eating habits remained unchanged, and I noticed increased muscle mass after a few weeks. I didn’t experience any notable strength gains. All my lifts went up by 10 pounds, and I maintained the strength gains even after discontinuation.”
Neutral Reviews
“In my opinion, turkesterone is as effective as creatine. It works, but having realistic expectations is important. It may be beneficial for natural athletes but may not be cost-effective for steroid users. I experienced decent fullness and pumps, but found it to be a bit pricey at 8 capsules a day. One side effect I encountered was feeling lethargic after dosing, but this may be specific to my reaction to ecdysteroid products.”
Negative Feedback on Turkesterone
Users have reported disappointing experiences with turkesterone, citing minimal short-term effects and diminishing returns over time. Despite trying multiple brands at increasing dosages, many have not seen the desired results, leading them to consider it a waste of money. It has also been suggested that those who perceive benefits from turkesterone might be influenced by a placebo effect.
Recommended Turkesterone Dosage
There is no universally agreed-upon turkesterone dosage due to limited human research. Although trials have demonstrated men taking up to 800mg/day of ecdysterone without adverse effects, anecdotal evidence suggests some male weight trainers have taken significantly higher dosages of 2000-3000mg/day without noticeable side effects.
Turkesterone Cycle Guidance
While there is no necessity to cycle turkesterone as it does not negatively impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis or shut down endogenous testosterone levels, results commonly taper off after 2-3 months. Therefore, some individuals still utilize cycle protocols to prevent the body from developing tolerance.
Effectiveness of Turkesterone
The true effectiveness of turkesterone in humans remains inconclusive, with both hyper-responders and hypo-responders observed. Natural weight trainers are more likely to experience positive results from turkesterone compared to steroid users who have previously taken potent anabolic compounds. It is crucial to use a high-quality turkesterone product to ensure the active amount specified on the label. Anecdotally, users report only mild results, typically less than a 10lb weight gain, when using expensive brands of turkesterone.
Turkesterone Classification and Legality
Turkesterone is not classified as an anabolic steroid but rather as an ecdysteroid, a natural hormone found in plants and insects. It is considered a natural supplement due to its natural extraction process. At present, turkesterone is not prohibited by WADA or any other sporting organizations, but a potential future ban could occur if significant enhancements in athletic performance were found through human studies.
Safety and Potential Side Effects of Turkesterone
While no health authority has confirmed turkesterone as 100% safe due to limited human research, the available evidence suggests it can be safely taken, even in high dosages. Although theoretically turkesterone does not cause androgenic side effects, such as hair loss, anecdotal reports indicate that some individuals have experienced hair loss and acne while using turkesterone, particularly in genetically susceptible individuals.
Timing of Turkesterone Consumption
The standard protocol advises taking turkesterone in the morning with food to avoid potential stomach upset. However, the dosage can be split throughout the day, and users may choose to take it either before or after a workout depending on how it affects their energy levels.
Turkesterone for Women
Turkesterone is a suitable supplement for women because it has minimal impact on testosterone levels, unlike anabolic steroids which can lead to masculinization. As a result, women may opt for small dosages of anavar to prevent virilization effects. If turkesterone is ultimately shown to have mild effects on muscular strength and hypertrophy, it may be more preferable for women since most do not aim to develop large muscle mass.
Turkesterone vs SARMs
Turkesterone is a natural substance, while SARMs are not. Unlike SARMs, turkesterone does not bind to the androgen receptor. Additionally, turkesterone does not induce harsh side effects in users, in contrast to SARMs which have been linked to fluctuations in HDL, liver toxicity, and suppressed endogenous testosterone levels. Although SARMs are theoretically expected to be safe due to their tissue selectivity, they have been found to replicate or even exceed the toxicity of certain anabolic steroids in practice, causing health problems.
Turkesterone Pros and Cons
Pros
- There are promising studies, primarily in animal models
- It is a natural supplement
- Most users experience no side effects
- Some positive reviews report gains of approximately 10lbs
Cons
- Its scientific validation is still pending
- It can be costly depending on the manufacturer
- Some users report no noticeable results.
REFERENCES
(1) https://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=US201301859691
(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/685188/
(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18500969/
(4) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31123801/
(6) https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/np068054v
Dr. Grant Fourie, a specialist in male hormones, is based in Cape Town, South Africa. He provides comprehensive treatments for conditions related to low testosterone, such as erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and mood changes. His methods include hormone replacement therapy and other modern treatment options.
Contact me via email or phone to book personal appointment in my clinic: The Village Square, Cape Town - South Africa