Strength & Power
Turkesterone
A plant-derived ecdysteroid generating significant hype, but human evidence is essentially non-existent. Animal and in-vitro data are promising but not practice-changing.
Effective Dose
500–1000mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Insufficient
Strength & Power
Mechanism
Ecdysteroid receptor / PI3K-Akt pathway (proposed)
primary action
Best For
Muscle gain
Recovery
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Turkesterone?
Turkesterone is an ecdysteroid (plant steroid) found in Ajuga turkestanica. In insects, ecdysteroids regulate moulting. In mammals, they interact with oestrogen receptor beta and possibly other receptors. Rodent studies show muscle-building effects; human trials are largely absent from peer-reviewed literature.
How It Works: The Science
Proposed mechanisms include ecdysteroid receptor binding, stimulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway (similar to insulin signalling), and leucine transport upregulation. In vitro studies show increased protein synthesis in C2C12 muscle cells. The receptor responsible for anabolic effects in humans has not been definitively identified.
Primary Mechanism
Ecdysteroid receptor / PI3K-Akt pathway (proposed)
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
500–1000mg / day
500–1000mg/day is commonly marketed. Without human pharmacokinetic studies, optimal dosing is unknown. Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complex (often labelled as '10% cyclodextrin') may improve bioavailability.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
No human safety trials published. Short-term use appears benign based on anecdotal reports, but long-term effects are unknown. Not a hormone and does not suppress endogenous testosterone production.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Not yet evidenced for general recommendation. Experienced athletes who have exhausted proven supplements and wish to experiment may try it, understanding the evidence gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →