Ecdysterone is a steroid hormone found in insects and plants. It was discovered about half a century ago, and is now marketed as an anabolic supplement to bodybuilders. Most supplement extracts come from the Chinese weed Cyanotis vaga. Human research is lacking and little is known about this supplement's side effects and benefits, advises physician and medical writer Ray Sahelian. Animal studies reveal a variety of effects, but they may not apply to humans.
Anabolic Effects
Research on animals and insects suggest that ecdysterone brings about anabolic activity in muscles, leads to increased mass due to vitamin-like effects, play a structural role in cells' mitochondrial membranes and boosts immune function. However, none of these claims is supported in human research, according to a study published in the December 2006 issue of the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition." In fact, lead author Colin D. Wilborn concludes that ecdysterone does not live up to claims that it can increase muscle mass and strength during training, and that the supplement does not influence anabolic hormone status in humans.
Glucose Effects
Ecdysterone exerts a glucose-lowering effect in liver cells that are insulin-independent, but does not produce an effect on insulin release, according to a 2005 study published in the journal "Life Sciences." The study was produced in vitro, meaning in a test tube or laboratory rather than a living organism.
Sexual Function Effects
Ecdysterone may improve sexual function in males, according to a 2000 study published in the Russian pharmacology journal "Eksperimental'naia I Klinicheskaia Farmakologiia." The study concluded that ecdysterone improved sexual function in rats. The study also reported better copulative function and sperm quality among men who had infertility diagnoses, and better sexual function in patients who were recovering from heart attacks.
References
- "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition;" Effects of Methoxyisoflavone, Ecdysterone, and Sulfo-Polysaccharide Supplementation on Training Adaptations in Resistance-Trained Males; Colin D. Wilborn, et al.; December 2006
- "Life Sciences;" Effect of ecdysterone on glucose metabolism in vitro; Q. Chen, et al.; 2005
- "Eksperimental'naia I Klinicheskaia Farmakologiia;" Effect of ecdystene on parameters of the sexual function under experimental and clinical conditions; IuR. Mirzaev; 2000
- Ray Sahelian: Ecdysterone
- Nutros.com: Ecdysterone
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