What Are the Benefits of DHEA?

OVERVIEW
DHEA (Dihydroepiandosterone) is a hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands and is sometimes referred to as the "Mother Hormone," as it is the precursor to the other reproductive and adrenal hormones.

SIGNIFICANCE
DHEA is essential to basic hormonal and adrenal function, and is known to decline with age. Some common symptoms of aging--such as loss of energy and stamina, loss of muscle mass and bone density, and low levels of reproductive hormones, including testosterone and progesterone--may be improved via DHEA supplements.

TYPES
DHEA is available as non-prescription hormone im health-food stores. Many herbal supplements may help the adrenal gland produce more DHEA without actually containing the hormone themselves. Herbs that may increase DHEA levels include Panax ginseng (Ginseng), Eleutherococcus (Siberian Ginseng), Rhodiola rosea (Rhodiola) and Lepidium (Maca).

BENEFITS
DHEA, or the herbs that help promote it, may help the adrenal glands recover following a period of prolonged stress, which can decrease all adrenal hormones. DHEA may improve energy in cases of chronic fatigue syndrome and other conditions associated with chronic exhaustion. DHEA may help elevate testosterone levels in men with low sperm counts, or progesterone levels in women with hormone imbalances, as will the herbs that support the adrenal gland's ability to synthesize the hormone.

WARNING
Because DHEA raises testosterone levels, some people develop mild acne as a side effect, and some women may sprout a few facial hairs. This does not occur with the use of the adrenal supporting herbs.

EXPERT INSIGHT
It is always better to support your organs, such as the adrenal glands, in doing their own work than to facilitate that process by providing hormones from the outside. If DHEA levels are not drastically low, the use of adrenal supportive herbs is best. Doctors, especially alternative-minded practitioners, can run a blood test to check DHEA levels.