Synopsis

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

Maral Root (Rhaponticum carthamoides), also known as Leuzea or Russian Leuzea, has been traditionally used in Russian and Eastern European herbal medicine to enhance physical strength, stamina, and recovery. Its primary active compounds are ecdysteroids, particularly 20-hydroxyecdysone. Animal studies and a small number of human studies have investigated Maral Root’s effects on muscle growth and physical performance. Results have shown that ecdysteroids may promote protein synthesis in muscle cells, leading to increased muscle mass and improved recovery after exercise in animal models.

Some limited human research and sports nutrition trials suggest a potential anabolic effect, but the evidence is not robust and is often confounded by methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes or lack of controls. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has taken interest in ecdysteroids due to their potential performance-enhancing effects, but they are not currently banned substances. Overall, while there is some scientific basis for Maral Root's use in supporting muscle function, the evidence in humans is preliminary and not yet definitive. Traditional use and preclinical data provide a rationale, but high-quality clinical trials are lacking.

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