Ecdysterone - What is it, Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects

One of the biggest dilemmas in the fitness industry, and more specifically in the sports nutrition sector, is how to achieve optimal performance and results in the safest way possible. On one side of the spectrum, we have anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), which are unparalleled in terms of effectiveness, but they also come with some serious drawbacks. On the opposite side we can find highly researched and as safe as they come supplements like creatine, which will deliver results, but may not be at the speed or magnitude as one would like.

This is where ecdysterone, or also known as beta-ecdysterone, comes in – a naturally occurring compound with promising anabolic properties and very little, if any, side effects. In this article we will look at what ecdysterone is, what benefits it can offer, what the recommended dosage is and of course what to be wary of in terms of side effects.

What is Ecdysterone?

Ecdysterone goes by several other names, including 20-hydroxyecdysone and beta-ecdysterone. It is a naturally occurring steroid hormone found in various plants and insects. It belongs to a class of compounds called ecdysteroids, which play a crucial role in the moulting and development of arthropods (a wide range of insects) [1].

The chemical structure of ecdysterone is similar to that of the human steroid hormone testosterone, which is known for its muscle-building properties. However, unlike testosterone, ecdysterone does not bind to androgen receptors, suggesting that it may have a different mechanism of action in the body [2].

Benefits of Ecdysterone

Muscle Growth and Strength – one of the most notable benefits of ecdysterone is its ability to promote muscle growth and strength. A study conducted by Gorelick-Feldman et al. (2008) found that ecdysterone supplementation led to a significant increase in muscle mass and strength in resistance-trained athletes compared to a placebo group [3]. Another study by Isenmann et al. (2019) demonstrated that ecdysterone supplementation combined with resistance training resulted in greater gains in muscle mass and strength compared to resistance training alone [4].

Fat Loss and Metabolism – in addition to its muscle-building properties, beta-ecdysterone has also been shown to promote fat loss and enhance metabolism. A study by Seidlova-Wuttke et al. (2010) demonstrated that ecdysterone supplementation led to a significant reduction in body fat and improved lipid profiles in ovariectomized rats, suggesting its potential as a fat-burning agent [5].

The mechanisms behind beta-ecdysterone's fat-loss effects are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy metabolism [6]. By stimulating AMPK, ecdysterone may enhance fat oxidation and improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better body composition and metabolic health.

Athletic Performance Enhancement – Ecdysterone has also gained attention for its potential to enhance athletic performance, particularly in terms of endurance and recovery. A study by Chermnykh et al. (1988) found that ecdysterone supplementation improved endurance and reduced fatigue, suggesting its potential as a performance-enhancing aid [7].

Moreover, ecdysterone has been reported to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and promoting faster recovery from exercise. This could be particularly beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts engaging in intense training regimens, as it may allow them to train harder and more frequently without experiencing burnout or overtraining syndrome.

Real-life examples and testimonials further support the performance-enhancing effects of ecdysterone. Many users report increased strength, endurance, and overall athletic performance after incorporating ecdysterone into their supplement regimen.

Other Health Properties - Beyond its anabolic and performance-enhancing properties, ecdysterone has been studied for other potential health benefits. Research suggests that ecdysterone may have immunomodulatory effects, helping to strengthen the immune system and protect against infections [8]. Its antioxidant properties have also been highlighted, with studies showing that ecdysterone can scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

Recommended Dosage of Ecdysterone

When it comes to the recommended dosage of ecdysterone, general guidelines suggest a range of 5-10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day [9]. For a 70 kg (154 lb) individual, this translates to a daily dosage of 350-700 mg. However, it is essential to note that optimal dosage may vary depending on factors such as age, weight, health status, and specific goals.

Ecdysterone supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders. Capsules and tablets are the most convenient and popular options, as they provide a precise and consistent dose. For example, Mass Pro Synthagen and Ecdyturk Pro are two products, which are properly dosed, provide a blend with enhanced absorption and are completely natural. So, if you want to improve your body composition and recover better from hard training, those are two products that we would recommend checking out.

When determining the appropriate dosage, it is crucial to consider individual factors. If you are older or with underlying health conditions you may require lower doses, while those of you who are younger and healthier may tolerate higher doses. Similarly, those seeking muscle gain or performance enhancement may benefit from higher doses compared to those aiming for general health benefits or fat loss.

To maximise the effects of ecdysterone, it is recommended to split the daily dosage into two or three smaller doses, taken with meals. This approach helps maintain stable blood levels of the compound throughout the day. Some users also choose to cycle ecdysterone, taking it for 8-12 weeks followed by a 4-week break to prevent the body from developing tolerance.

Combining ecdysterone with other supplements, such as protein powders, creatine, stim and non-stim pre-workouts, may provide synergistic effects and enhance overall results. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before combining supplements to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.

Potential Side Effects of Ecdysterone

One of the most appealing aspects of ecdysterone is its favourable safety profile compared to other anabolic substances. Most users report mild and transient side effects, if any, when taking ecdysterone at recommended doses. Common side effects may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, which typically subside as the body adapts to the supplement. Some users may also experience increased appetite or changes in sleep patterns, although these effects are generally not severe or long-lasting.

Rare and severe side effects are uncommon with ecdysterone use, as with any supplement, individual responses may vary, and some people may be more sensitive to the effects of ecdysterone than others. The long-term safety of ecdysterone supplementation has not been extensively studied, but current evidence suggests that it is well-tolerated and does not pose significant health risks when used responsibly. Unlike synthetic anabolic steroids, ecdysterone does not appear to have detrimental effects on liver, kidney, or cardiovascular function [10].

Compared to other anabolic substances, such as testosterone or anabolic-androgenic steroids, ecdysterone exhibits a more favourable safety profile. It does not cause the androgenic side effects associated with these compounds, such as hair loss, acne, or prostate enlargement. As with all other supplements, certain individuals should avoid ecdysterone or use it with caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take ecdysterone due to the lack of safety data in these populations. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, particularly hormone-sensitive cancers or cardiovascular disorders, you should consult your healthcare provider before using ecdysterone. Additionally, you are taking prescription medications you should be aware of potential interactions and discuss the use of ecdysterone with your doctor.

Ecdysterone vs Turkesterone vs Laxogenin

Like its more well-known counterpart, ecdysterone, turkesterone has also gained quite a bit of attention in the fitness and bodybuilding communities for its potential anabolic effects. Both compounds are structurally similar to insect moulting hormones and are believed to interact with estrogen receptors in the human body, albeit without the feminising effects typically associated with estrogen. With that being said, there’s also another compound, which despite having different origins and mechanisms of action, shares similarities in the benefits and applications to those two above. Laxogenin, which is a plant-based steroid-like compound, primarily derived from Smilax sieboldii, is known for its anabolic effects and potential as a natural alternative to synthetic anabolic steroids.

Both ecdysterone and laxogenin are marketed as legal, natural supplements that can potentially enhance muscle growth, strength, and athletic performance without the harsh side effects associated with traditional anabolic steroids. The primary connection between these compounds is their ability to increase protein synthesis and nitrogen retention, which are crucial factors in muscle growth and recovery. However, the mechanisms by which they achieve these effects are different. Ecdysterone is believed to work primarily through estrogen-related receptors, while laxogenin is thought to influence the body's natural production of plant-based anabolic compounds.

When considering alternatives to ecdysterone, both turkesterone and laxogenin have gained attention as potentially superior options. Turkesterone is often considered as a more potent version of ecdysterone. Reports and limited research suggest that turkesterone may have a higher anabolic-to-androgenic ratio, potentially leading to greater muscle-building effects with fewer side effects. This is something that our customers have also reported after using Turkesterone Elite, noticing significant gains in muscle mass and strength without any side effects.

Laxogenin, while structurally different from ecdysteroids, is also considered by some to be a better alternative to ecdysterone. Proponents of laxogenin argue that it may have a more pronounced effect on protein synthesis and may be more effective at reducing cortisol levels, which could lead to improved muscle growth and recovery. Additionally, laxogenin is believed to have potential anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial for athletes and bodybuilders in terms of recovery and overall health. Again, this largely overlaps with the customer feedback we have been receiving for some of our best-selling muscle-builders Adamantine, as well as Adamantine Pro. 

Summary of Ecdysterone

As we have examined in this article, ecdysterone is a natural anabolic compound with a wide range of potential benefits for those of you seeking to enhance your physical performance, build muscle, and improve your overall health. Its efficacy, safety, and versatility make it an attractive option for athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts. 

It is also a compound that can easily be added to any muscle-building stack for even greater and faster results. For example, it would go great with Hydrapharm Adamantine, which is a product that can significantly increase muscle mass and strength, while also being non-hormonal. It is a great choice for body recomposition. Another great all-natural supplement that can help with increasing muscle mass as a result of more intense workouts is Myogenesis, which significantly boosts protein synthesis. Alternatively, if you want to focus more on performance, rather than muscle building, then you can stack beta-ecdysterone with some state-of-the-art pre-workouts like Doomsday Hardcore or Excelsior (but certainly not both at the same time, as they are quite potent!).

Finally, we shouldn’t forget about recovery. Intense workouts and increased protein synthesis will do wonders for you, but if you also throw in a supplement for superior recovery, then the results can be comparable to those from mild prohoromones. Our recommendation here is Unbreakable, which contains the novel compound BPC-157.

Ecdysterone FAQs

Is Ecdysterone and Beta-Ecdysterone the same?
Yes, Ecdysterone and Beta-Ecdysterone are essentially the same compound. The terms are often used interchangeably in scientific literature & the supplement industry. Ecdysterone is the common name for the compound, while Beta-Ecdysterone (β-Ecdysterone) is a more specific name that indicates the particular isomer of the molecule. Similarly, 20-Hydroxyecdysone is another name for the same compound, which describes its chemical structure. 

When you see these terms in scientific papers, supplement labels, or discussions about fitness and bodybuilding, they are typically referring to the same substance. The slight variations in naming are more about scientific precision or marketing preferences rather than indicating different compounds.

Is Ecdysterone a steroid?
Ecdysterone is technically classified as a steroid, but despite being a steroid, ecdysterone is not an anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) like testosterone or synthetic derivatives used in traditional bodybuilding. It doesn't bind to androgen receptors and doesn't cause the typical side effects associated with AAS. Also, unlike anabolic steroids that primarily work through androgen receptors, ecdysterone is believed to work through different pathways, possibly involving estrogen-related receptors, without causing estrogenic effects.

Finally, ecdysterone is not classified as a controlled substance or banned by most sports organisations, unlike anabolic steroids. However, its status is under review in some jurisdictions due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.

Is Ecdysterone found in natural food sources?
Yes, ecdysterone is found in various natural food sources, primarily in plants and some insects. Common sources include spinach, quinoa, suma root (Brazilian ginseng) and some species of wild yams. However, the concentrations of ecdysterone in these foods are generally much lower than in concentrated supplements, so consuming these foods as part of a normal diet is unlikely to provide the same levels of ecdysterone as those used in research studies or found in supplements.

References:

[1] Lafont R, Dinan L. Practical uses for ecdysteroids in mammals including humans: an update. J Insect Sci. 2003;3:7. doi: 10.1093/jis/3.1.7. PMID: 15844229; PMCID: PMC524647.

[2] Parr MK, Botrè F, Naß A, Hengevoss J, Diel P, Wolber G. Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents? Biol Sport. 2015 Jun;32(2):169-73. doi: 10.5604/20831862.1144420. Epub 2015 Mar 15. PMID: 26060342; PMCID: PMC4447764.

[3] Gorelick-Feldman J, Maclean D, Ilic N, Poulev A, Lila MA, Cheng D, Raskin I. Phytoecdysteroids increase protein synthesis in skeletal muscle cells. J Agric Food Chem. 2008 May 28;56(10):3532-7. doi: 10.1021/jf073059z. Epub 2008 Apr 30. PMID: 18444661.

[4] Isenmann E, Ambrosio G, Joseph JF, Mazzarino M, de la Torre X, Zimmer P, Kazlauskas R, Goebel C, Botrè F, Diel P, Parr MK. Ecdysteroids as non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans. Arch Toxicol. 2019 Jul;93(7):1807-1816. doi: 10.1007/s00204-019-02490-x. Epub 2019 May 23. PMID: 31123801.

[5] Seidlova-Wuttke D, Ehrhardt C, Wuttke W. Metabolic effects of 20-OH-ecdysone in ovariectomized rats. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2010 Apr;119(3-5):121-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2010.01.006. Epub 2010 Jan 25. PMID: 20097286.

[6] Chen Q, Xia Y, Qiu Z. Effect of ecdysterone on glucose metabolism in vitro. Life Sci. 2006 Feb 2;78(10):1108-13. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.06.031. Epub 2005 Oct 24. PMID: 16246375.

[7] Chermnykh NS, Shimanovskiĭ NL, Shutko GV, Syrov VN. Deĭstvie metandrostenolona i ékdisterona na fizicheskuiu vynoslivost' zhivotnykh i obmen belkov v skeletnykh myshtsakh [The action of methandrostenolone and ecdysterone on the physical endurance of animals and on protein metabolism in the skeletal muscles]. Farmakol Toksikol. 1988 Nov-Dec;51(6):57-60. Russian. PMID: 3234543.

[8] Osinskaia LF, Saad LM, Kholodova IuD. Antiradikal'nye svoĭstva i antiokislitel'naia aktivnost' ékdisterona [Antiradical properties and antioxidant activity of ecdysterone]. Ukr Biokhim Zh (1978). 1992 Jan-Feb;64(1):114-7. Russian. PMID: 1519340.

[9] Wilborn CD, Taylor LW, Campbell BI, Kerksick C, Rasmussen CJ, Greenwood M, Kreider RB. Effects of methoxyisoflavone, ecdysterone, and sulfo-polysaccharide supplementation on training adaptations in resistance-trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2006 Dec 13;3(2):19-27. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-3-2-19. PMID: 18500969; PMCID: PMC2129166.

[10] Báthori M, Tóth N, Hunyadi A, Márki A, Zádor E. Phytoecdysteroids and anabolic-androgenic steroids--structure and effects on humans. Curr Med Chem. 2008;15(1):75-91. doi: 10.2174/092986708783330674. PMID: 18220764.