Synopsis

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

Rhaponticum carthamoides (also known as Leuzea or Maral root) is an herb traditionally used in Russia and Eastern Europe as a tonic and performance enhancer. Its purported benefits for testosterone support are derived primarily from its content of ecdysteroids, especially 20-hydroxyecdysone. Some animal studies and limited human research suggest that ecdysteroids may have anabolic effects, potentially supporting muscle growth and recovery. However, the direct link between Rhaponticum supplementation and increased testosterone levels in humans is weak.

One small human trial found no significant increase in serum testosterone in athletes taking ecdysteroids, though some improvements in muscle mass were noted. Animal studies have shown more promising trends, but these results have not translated robustly to human physiology. Most scientific reviews conclude that while Rhaponticum may have adaptogenic and possible anabolic properties, evidence for its ability to directly raise testosterone in humans is limited and not conclusive. Thus, the use of Rhaponticum to support or treat low testosterone is based on some scientific investigation, but the overall quality and quantity of evidence is low, meriting a rating of 2 out of 5.

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