Ecdysteroids are a class of natural steroid hormones found primarily in insects and plants, where they regulate growth and development. In recent years, specific phytoecdysteroids have gained immense popularity in the fitness world as potential natural alternatives to traditional anabolic steroids due to their purported ability to increase muscle mass and strength without androgenic side effects.
Understanding Ecdysteroids and Their Types
Phytoecdysteroids are plant-derived compounds structurally similar to androgens but operate through a different mechanism, primarily by binding to estrogen receptor beta (ER-beta). Over 500 different ecdysteroid analogues have been identified, but only a few are commonly available as dietary supplements.
The two most prominent ecdysteroids in the supplement market are:
- Ecdysterone (also known as 20-Hydroxyecdysone or 20E): The most common and widely available phytoecdysteroid, found in plants like spinach and Rhaponticum carthamoides.
- Turkesterone: Found primarily in the plant Ajuga turkestanica, Turkesterone has gained attention as potentially more potent than Ecdysterone.
The Debate: What is the Strongest Ecdysteroid?
The question of what is the strongest ecdysteroid does not have a simple, universally accepted answer, as the "strength" can be measured by anabolic effects in studies, bioavailability, or anecdotal results.
Turkesterone: The Anecdotal Champion
Many in the fitness community consider Turkesterone to be the strongest ecdysteroid. Some older animal studies, such as one conducted by Syrov in 2000, suggested that turkesterone produced greater weight gain in rodents compared to ecdysterone. Proponents argue that its molecular structure makes it more resistant to metabolism, potentially leading to higher concentrations in the body to exert anabolic effects. However, it is crucial to note that high-quality human clinical trials on turkesterone are currently limited, making it difficult to definitively confirm its superior potency over Ecdysterone in humans.
Ecdysterone: The Research-Backed Contender
Ecdysterone (20-hydroxyecdysone) is arguably the most scientifically studied ecdysteroid in terms of human performance. A widely cited 2019 human intervention study found that participants supplementing with ecdysterone showed significantly greater increases in muscle mass and one-repetition bench press performance compared to a placebo group. This led the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to add ecdysterone to its monitoring program in 2020 due to its potent hypertrophic effects.
Ecdysteroid Comparison Table
| Feature | Ecdysterone (20-Hydroxyecdysone) | Turkesterone |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source Plant | Rhaponticum carthamoides, Spinach, Quinoa | Ajuga turkestanica |
| Human Studies | Several, including positive performance studies. | Limited or none. |
| Anabolic Potency (Claimed/Anecdotal) | High (demonstrated in some human and rat studies). | Very High (often claimed superior to Ecdysterone). |
| Mechanism of Action | Primarily Estrogen Receptor Beta (ER-beta) binding. | Primarily Estrogen Receptor Beta (ER-beta) binding. |
| WADA Status | Monitored since 2020. | Not explicitly monitored or banned (as of current knowledge). |
| Bioavailability Issue | Poor oral bioavailability unless cyclodextrin-complexed. | Poor oral bioavailability in raw form. |
Factors Affecting Ecdysteroid Strength
The effective strength of any ecdysteroid supplement is not just about the molecule itself but also its bioavailability. Ecdysteroids generally have poor absorption rates in the gut. Advanced supplement formulations often complex ecdysterone with hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin to significantly enhance its absorption and, consequently, its practical potency.
Furthermore, product quality is critical, as many supplements may not contain the advertised amounts of active ecdysteroids.
Conclusion: Which Ecdysteroid Reigns Strongest?
While Turkesterone is often cited in fitness circles and some animal research as having the highest anabolic effect, Ecdysterone (20-hydroxyecdysone) is the strongest ecdysteroid with supporting evidence from human clinical trials that show significant increases in muscle strength and mass. Therefore, for users prioritizing evidence-backed results, Ecdysterone may be considered "stronger" in a practical human context, provided it is a high-quality, bioavailable formulation. Both compounds show promise as natural performance enhancers mediated by ER-beta binding rather than androgen receptors, avoiding typical steroidal side effects. More human research on Turkesterone is needed to definitively settle the debate.
