The Rise of Natural Anabolic Compounds
In the world of sports nutrition and pharmacology, athletes and fitness enthusiasts are constantly searching for a competitive edge. This has led to a surge in popularity for a class of compounds known as phytoecdysteroids, particularly ecdysterone and turkesterone. These are naturally occurring steroids found in plants and insects that are purported to have anabolic (muscle-building) effects without the harsh side effects associated with synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Unlike AAS, they do not bind to androgen receptors, meaning they don't suppress the body's natural testosterone production or cause hormonal imbalances that require post-cycle therapy (PCT).
What is Ecdysterone (20-Hydroxyecdysone)?
Ecdysterone, also known as 20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E), is the most studied ecdysteroid. It is found in plants like spinach, quinoa, and Rhaponticum carthamoides. Its primary mechanism of action is believed to be through binding with estrogen receptor-beta (ERβ), which is involved in skeletal muscle growth. This interaction helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis (MPS) via signaling pathways like PI3K/Akt, a key process for muscle repair and hypertrophy.
A landmark 2019 study funded by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) provided significant evidence for its effects in humans. In this 10-week, double-blind study, resistance-trained men who took an ecdysterone supplement experienced significantly greater increases in lean muscle mass and one-rep bench press strength compared to the placebo group. These results were so pronounced that the researchers recommended adding ecdysterone to the list of prohibited substances in sports.
What is Turkesterone?
Turkesterone is another potent phytoecdysteroid, primarily extracted from the Ajuga turkestanica plant, which is native to Central Asia. Structurally, it is an analog of ecdysterone but is often considered to be more anabolic. This increased potency is anecdotally attributed to a structural variation, specifically an 11α-hydroxyl group, which may enhance its biological activity. Like ecdysterone, it is non-hormonal and does not bind to androgen receptors.
The challenge with turkesterone is the significant lack of human clinical trials. While some animal studies have shown promising results—one suggesting it was more anabolic in rats than both ecdysterone and the anabolic steroid Dianabol—these findings have not been replicated in human studies. Recent investigations into turkesterone's effects on humans have failed to find significant impacts on muscle growth, body composition, or key anabolic markers like IGF-1. Furthermore, the supplement market for turkesterone has faced controversy, with analyses revealing that many products contain little to no actual turkesterone, raising questions about the validity of anecdotal reports.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Ecdysterone vs. Turkesterone
When deciding between these two compounds, the primary difference comes down to the level and quality of scientific evidence.
| Feature | Ecdysterone | Turkesterone |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source | Rhaponticum carthamoides, Spinach, Quinoa | Ajuga turkestanica |
| Human Studies | Yes, multiple studies, including a significant 2019 WADA-funded trial showing muscle and strength gains. | Very limited to none. Recent studies show no significant effect on muscle growth or body composition in humans. |
| Anabolic Potency | Proven anabolic effects in human trials. | Considered more potent in some animal studies and anecdotally, but this is unconfirmed in humans. |
| Mechanism | Activates muscle protein synthesis via ERβ and PI3K/Akt pathways. | Believed to work through similar pathways, but the mechanism in humans is largely theoretical. |
| Safety & Side Effects | Generally considered safe with no reported hormonal disruption, liver/kidney toxicity, or need for PCT. | Appears to have a good safety profile with no hormonal side effects reported. Some users report mild nausea, especially on an empty stomach. |
| Market Availability | Widely available, often in standardized, high-purity extracts. | Availability is high, but product quality and purity have been shown to be a significant issue. |
Safety and Usage
Both ecdysterone and turkesterone are regarded as safe with minimal side effects because they do not disrupt the endocrine system. The main reported side effect for turkesterone is mild gastrointestinal upset, which can often be mitigated by taking it with food.
Determining the appropriate intake of these supplements can vary depending on individual needs and the specific product. Following the instructions provided by the manufacturer or consulting with a healthcare professional is generally recommended. Since these compounds are non-hormonal, a strict 'cycle' like those for AAS is not necessary. Many users opt for periods of use followed by a break.
Conclusion: Which Supplement is Better?
Based on the current scientific evidence, ecdysterone is the superior choice. Its effectiveness for increasing muscle mass and strength is supported by human clinical trials, most notably the 2019 study that prompted WADA to monitor the substance. While turkesterone has strong anecdotal backing and is theorized to be more potent, the lack of human studies and issues with product purity make it a far more speculative option. An individual may respond differently to each compound, but for a decision guided by science, ecdysterone has the clear advantage.
For those interested in further reading, a prominent study on ecdysterone was published in the peer-reviewed journal Archives of Toxicology and is available on the National Institutes of Health's website. Link
