17-HD is one of many sports nutrition supplements claiming to improve muscle building, without any clear explanation of how it works. Beware of herbal supplements with names that sound chemical or steroidal in nature. "17-Halo-Methyl-Diandrone" is really just a blend of common herbs that may have more of an estrogenic effect than a muscle-building one. To quote Jeff Anderson, the "Muscle Nerd," from his review of 17-HD in the e-book "Homemade Supplement Secrets"--"I can't see how this product CAN work. Unfortunately, it appears that this is another product that is almost exclusively comprised of all but 'imaginary' ingredients and some herbs that have actually been known to DECREASE testosterone levels."
17-Halo-Methyl-Diandrone
Given that the name of the product is derived from this "powerful" compound, it is surprising to find out that it is really just a combination of kudzu root and smilax officianalis, which also goes by the name sarsprarilla root. Smilax officinalis has a natural saponin content, which is a plant sterol that resembles testosterone. It is often used by women for hormonal balance. The only reported side effect is upset stomach. Kudzu, or Ge Gan, is a Chinese herb traditionally used to treat alcoholism and angina. Some reports indicate that it may also help to improve insulin resistance. No side effects have been reported.
Beta Ecdysterone
Ecdysterone is an insect steroid that has no hormonal effect in humans. Potential benefits include increased muscle mass, decreased body fat, and better endurance. One study by S. Simikin, published in the Scientific Sports Bulletin in 1988, showed a 10 percent decrease in body fat and a 7 percent increase in lean mass in only 10 days of supplementation. However, the 100 milligrams in this product is probably not enough, considering that the quoted study used 300 to 600 milligrams per day. There are no known side effects of Ecdysterone. Toxicity occurs at huge doses of over 4,000 times those recommended.
Other Ingredients
"Glabra" is a clever nickname for licorice, a common herb that contains isoflavones. Licorice may actually lower testosterone and increase cortisol, which is the total opposite effect that you want when trying to build muscle and burn fat. Drugs.com indicates that licorice is toxic to the liver at high doses and can cause several side effects, including increased sodium and decreased potassium levels, high blood pressure, weakness, and water retention.
Wild yam contains natural DHEA and progesterone precursors, but it is unclear whether they can convert into these hormones in the human body. Many women use wild yam extract to balance hormones during menopause. According to Drugs.com, there are no reported side effects besides allergic reaction.
Phosphatidyl choline is a naturally occurring substance in soy lecithin. Side effects can include increased symptoms of depression, allergy, reduced appetite, upset stomach, gas and diarrhea.
The last ingredient is citric acid, which has no reported side effects, outside of potential stomach upset from the natural acidity.
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