Does Turkesterone Lower Myostatin? An Investigation into the Scientific Evidence

November 6, 2025 •

3 min read

According to preclinical studies, an extract from the Ajuga turkestanica plant, which contains turkesterone, has shown potential for inhibiting myostatin activity in muscle cells. This has fueled widespread interest among bodybuilders and athletes. However, the definitive answer to the question, does turkesterone lower myostatin? in humans requires a critical look at the available research, including the limited clinical trials and underlying mechanisms.

Quick Summary

This article examines the scientific basis for turkesterone's effect on myostatin. It covers preclinical findings, proposed mechanisms, and the current, limited human trial data, contrasting lab results with anecdotal claims.

Key Points

Preclinical evidence suggests myostatin inhibition: In laboratory settings and animal models, extracts containing turkesterone have been shown to reduce myostatin activity, a protein that limits muscle growth.
Human trial results are currently lacking: Limited and recent human studies have not been able to replicate the profound muscle growth or body composition effects seen in animal models.
Turkesterone is not an androgenic steroid: It works through non-hormonal pathways, avoiding the side effects and hormonal suppression associated with synthetic steroids.
Mechanism involves multiple pathways: Turkesterone is believed to act on muscle protein synthesis through pathways like PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and possibly estrogen receptor beta, in addition to potential myostatin effects.
Expectations should be managed: The evidence base for human efficacy is weak, and any benefits experienced may be subtle or influenced by the placebo effect.
Generally well-tolerated with mild side effects: Reported side effects are typically limited to mild gastrointestinal issues, especially if taken on an empty stomach.
Dosage recommendations exist but are not clinically standardized: Common dosages are often suggested by supplement companies, though research-backed human data is sparse.

Understanding the Turkesterone and Myostatin Connection

Turkesterone is a phytoecdysteroid, a plant-based compound with a structure similar to steroid hormones found in insects. Unlike anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), it is not androgenic and is not thought to bind to androgen receptors. It is believed to promote anabolic effects by increasing muscle protein synthesis (MPS).

Myostatin is a protein that regulates muscle growth by inhibiting myogenesis. Limiting myostatin activity could theoretically lead to greater muscle growth.

Preclinical Evidence: What the Labs Show

Research on turkesterone and myostatin largely stems from in vitro (cell culture) and animal studies. One study indicated that an Ajuga turkestanica extract reduced myostatin activity. While promising, these findings from cell cultures or animal models do not always directly translate to humans.

The Mechanism of Action: More Than Just Myostatin

Turkesterone is thought to work through several pathways to promote muscle growth, not solely through myostatin inhibition. Proposed mechanisms include activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, which is important for muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy, and potentially acting on the estrogen receptor beta, involved in muscle growth. Some research also suggests enhanced leucine uptake and improved glycogen replenishment, which could support protein synthesis, endurance, and reduce fatigue. Additionally, as an adaptogen, turkesterone may help the body manage stress and recovery.

The Lack of Robust Human Clinical Data

Human clinical trials on turkesterone are limited and have not consistently shown significant results. A recent trial found no significant impact on body composition in active individuals taking the supplement for four weeks. A preliminary investigation into acute dosing also did not find statistically significant effects on IGF-1 levels. This highlights a gap between animal data and human results, and there is a lack of human studies showing a direct link between turkesterone supplementation and reduced myostatin levels in real-world settings.

Turkesterone vs. Anabolic Steroids and Placebo

Comparing turkesterone to proven anabolics and a placebo helps clarify its potential role. Turkesterone's key distinction is its non-androgenic nature, which contributes to a more favorable safety profile compared to anabolic steroids.


Feature	Turkesterone (Ajuga Turkestanica)	Anabolic Steroids (Synthetic Androgens)	Placebo (Inactive Compound)
Mechanism	Non-androgenic; promotes protein synthesis via pathways like PI3K/Akt/mTOR and possibly myostatin downregulation (in vitro).	Androgenic; binds to androgen receptors to dramatically increase muscle protein synthesis.	Inactive; relies on psychological belief to produce perceived effects.
Myostatin Effects	Lab studies show downregulation or inhibition in cells/animals. No confirmed human effect.	Known to suppress myostatin expression, contributing significantly to muscle growth.	No direct effect on myostatin.
Hormonal Impact	Non-hormonal; does not suppress natural testosterone or require PCT.	Suppresses natural hormone production; requires PCT to restore levels.	No hormonal impact.
Side Effects	Generally mild; may cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.	Wide range of potentially severe side effects, including hormonal, cardiovascular, and liver issues.	Minimal to no side effects.
Human Evidence	Limited; recent studies show no significant effect on body composition in humans.	Robust, well-documented evidence for significant muscle growth and performance gains.	Effects based entirely on perception and psychological factors.

Practical Implications and Nutritional Strategy

For those considering turkesterone, prioritize proven fundamentals first:

Prioritize Your Training: Consistent, progressively overloaded resistance training is crucial for muscle hypertrophy.
Dial-in Your Diet: A diet with sufficient high-quality protein is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Consider Supplementation: If training and diet are optimized, turkesterone is a relatively safe option with potential benefits, particularly for recovery.
Manage Expectations: Given the limited human research, dramatic results are unlikely. Be mindful of the potential influence of the placebo effect.

Conclusion

Preclinical research suggests turkesterone may lower myostatin in cell and animal models, but this effect has not been confirmed in humans. Unlike anabolic steroids, turkesterone is non-androgenic and generally well-tolerated, offering a potential advantage for those seeking muscle support without hormonal side effects. However, recent human trials have not demonstrated significant benefits related to body composition or myostatin suppression. Turkesterone is a supplement with theoretical potential but currently lacks strong human evidence. It is best approached as a supportive supplement after optimizing training and diet.

For more detailed information on anabolic compounds and their effects, resources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) can provide valuable context on cellular pathways like the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascade.

Can Turkesterone help with aging muscle loss (sarcopenia)?

Some animal studies suggest potential protective effects against sarcopenia, but human research is needed for confirmation. Resistance training remains the most effective strategy for combating sarcopenia.

Frequently Asked Questions

While promising preclinical research in animal and cell models has shown that turkesterone can inhibit myostatin, robust human trials demonstrating this effect have not been conducted. The current evidence does not confirm a significant myostatin-lowering effect in humans.

No, turkesterone does not increase testosterone levels. It is a non-androgenic compound that operates through different cellular signaling pathways, so it does not affect your body's natural hormone production.

Turkesterone is believed to promote muscle growth by stimulating muscle protein synthesis through alternative pathways, such as the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade, and potentially enhancing the efficiency of mRNA translation.

Turkesterone is a phytoecdysteroid, which is a type of plant-based compound. It is structurally similar to insect steroids but is not an anabolic-androgenic steroid and does not act on the same receptors as testosterone.

Turkesterone is generally considered safe with a good side-effect profile. The most commonly reported mild side effect is nausea, which can often be mitigated by taking the supplement with food.

Since turkesterone does not cause hormonal suppression, it does not require a Post Cycle Therapy (PCT), unlike traditional anabolic steroids.

As of late 2024, turkesterone is not currently banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). However, WADA keeps ecdysteroids under monitoring, so competitive athletes should stay updated on the latest regulations.

Both are phytoecdysteroids, but turkesterone is considered potentially more potent. Turkesterone is derived from the Ajuga turkestanica plant, while ecdysterone is found in various plants. Ecdysterone has a broader base of (though still limited) human research.

While standardized clinical dosages in humans are lacking, many supplement companies recommend a daily dosage, often split into two doses, for an 8-12 week cycle.

Yes, turkesterone is often stacked with other non-hormonal supplements like creatine, glutamine, or protein powder to support muscle growth, recovery, and performance.