DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) (dehydroepiandrosterone)

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Other names for DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

Micronized DHEA
Sublingual DHEA
7-Keto DHEA (a metabolite)

Synopsis of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone precursor naturally produced by the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain, and is the most abundant circulating steroid in humans. It serves as a metabolic intermediate for the synthesis of testosterone, estrogen, and other sex hormones. DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline steadily with age, often by more than 80% by the time a person reaches their 70s or 80s.

As a supplement, DHEA is typically derived from wild yam (Dioscorea spp.) or soy, though these plant sources must be chemically synthesized in a lab to match the bioidentical human hormone form. The body does not convert raw yam extracts into DHEA internally, so only the lab-modified form is biologically active.

Supplemental DHEA is used to support:

  • Hormonal balance, especially in age-related andropause (low testosterone) and menopause
  • Adrenal fatigue or insufficiency, by restoring baseline steroid levels
  • Bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women
  • Mood regulation, with potential benefits in mild depression and cognitive decline
  • Immune function, especially in aging or immunocompromised individuals
  • Sexual function and libido, primarily in older adults

DHEA has also been studied for its anti-aging potential, with some research suggesting benefits for skin elasticity, energy, insulin sensitivity, and muscle maintenance. Typical doses range from 5–50 mg/day, depending on age, gender, and health goals, but long-term use and high doses should be supervised due to its hormone-altering effects.

Historical Use
DHEA, as a bioidentical hormone, has no direct use in historical or traditional herbal medicine, since it was not isolated and studied until the 1930s and was synthesized in the 1950s. However, the concepts of hormone support, rejuvenation, and adrenal tonification have deep roots in traditional systems.

For example:

  • In Ayurveda, herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, and gokshura were used to rejuvenate reproductive vitality, strengthen adrenal energy, and restore ojas (vital life essence)
  • In Traditional Chinese Medicine, kidney-tonifying herbs such as he shou wu, eucommia, and deer antler were prescribed to nourish essence (jing), which mirrors the modern idea of supporting hormone and endocrine function

While traditional systems did not isolate DHEA, they emphasized restorative, tonifying, and longevity-enhancing remedies, many of which may influence the HPA axis and endocrine balance indirectly.

Today, DHEA is used in functional medicine, anti-aging clinics, fertility support, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—often alongside pregnenolone, bioidentical estrogens, testosterone, or adrenal adaptogens—to support a more youthful hormonal profile, particularly in older adults or those with adrenal insufficiency.

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is used for these health conditions

Addison's Disease (Scientific)
Aging (prevention) (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Hot Flashes (Scientific)
Menopause (Scientific)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Sex Drive (low) (Scientific)
Testosterone (low) (Scientific)

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is used to support these body systems

Adrenal Cortex (Scientific)
Adrenal Glands (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Cortisol (Scientific)
Estrogen (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Male Reproductive System (Scientific)
Ovaries (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Scientific)
Testosterone (Scientific)