Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ajuga turkestanica is an herb traditionally used in Central Asian medicine, but its contemporary use to support exercise and muscle performance is based on the presence of ecdysteroids, particularly turkesterone. Ecdysteroids are a class of compounds structurally similar to androgens, and they have been investigated for their potential anabolic effects. Some preliminary animal and in vitro studies suggest that ecdysteroids can increase protein synthesis and muscle mass, leading supplement manufacturers to promote Ajuga turkestanica as a "natural anabolic" for athletes and bodybuilders.

However, human clinical evidence remains limited. A few small studies on ecdysteroids, including turkesterone, have indicated possible benefits for muscle growth and athletic performance, but these studies often use purified compounds rather than whole plant extracts, and sample sizes are generally small. There is currently no large-scale, well-controlled clinical trial specifically on Ajuga turkestanica extract in humans for exercise performance or muscle gain. Most of the available scientific evidence is preclinical, and while promising, it does not robustly support its efficacy in humans at this time.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some experimental evidence for Ajuga turkestanica or its constituents in the context of exercise support, the overall strength of evidence is weak to moderate and primarily preclinical. More rigorous human studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for this purpose.

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