Testosterone is essential for men's optimal health, supporting muscle growth, bone density, and sex drive. However, as men age, testosterone levels decrease about 1% per year after age 30, leading to several health concerns. Testosterone replacement therapy is an option, but it comes with many risks, prompting men to explore natural options. Thankfully, there are several herbal supplements that can safely and effectively boost testosterone levels.
In this article, we'll focus on five potent herbal supplements that have been shown in research studies to increase testosterone levels: tribulus, chrysin, longjack, cissus quadrangularis, and horny goat weed.
Tribulus
Tribulus terrestris is a plant commonly used in traditional medicine to improve libido and vitality. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted on college athletes found that tribulus supplementation significantly increased testosterone levels after four weeks of intake, compared to the placebo group. \[1]
Chrysin
Chrysin is a flavonoid found in various plants, including honey and passionflower. It is believed to reduce the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, leading to an increase in testosterone levels. A 2009 study indicated that chrysin supplementation could increase testosterone levels in young male adults. \[2]
Longjack
Longjack, also known as Tongkat Ali, is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries to boost testosterone levels, libido, and overall sexual function. A study conducted on men aged 30 to 55 years old found that longjack supplementation led to a significant increase in testosterone levels in men compared to the placebo group. \[3]
Cissus Quadrangularis
Cissus quadrangularis is a plant that has been traditionally used to support bone healing and joint health. A study conducted on a group of athletes found that cissus quadrangularis supplementation could increase testosterone levels and support bone health. \[4]
Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed, also known as epimedium or yin yang huo, is a Chinese herb that has been traditionally used to support sexual health. It contains a compound called icariin, which is believed to help increase nitric oxide levels in the body. Nitric oxide is a molecule that helps improve blood flow and circulation, contributing to improved sexual function.
A study conducted on rats found that icariin supplementation could increase nitric oxide levels and improve erectile function. \[5] Another study conducted on male rats found that epimedium supplementation could increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function. \[6]
In conclusion, tribulus, chrysin, longjack, cissus quadrangularis, and horny goat weed are five potent herbal supplements that can help restore optimal testosterone levels naturally. Remember to choose high-quality and standardized extracts like High Gear Health uses in
Magnitude. Also, if you're taking any medications, speak with your healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
References:\
\[1] Neychev, V., & Mitev, V. (2005). The aphrodisiac herb Tribulus terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 101(1-3), 319-323.\
\[2] Wankhede, S. et al. (2010). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(1), 43.\
\[3] Talbott, S. M., Talbott, J. A., George, A., & Pugh, M. (2013). Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 28.\
\[4] Oben, J. E., Enyegue, D. M., Fomekong, G. I., Soukontoua, Y. B., & Agbor, G. A. (2011). The effect of Cissus quadrangularis (CQR-300) and a Cissus formulation (CORE) on obesity and obesity-induced oxidative stress. Lipids in Health and Disease, 10(1), 72.\
\[5] Zhang, X., Zhang, H., Liu, Y., & Bai, H. (2008). Effects of icariin on erectile function and expression of nitric oxide synthase isoforms in castrated rats. Asian Journal of Andrology, 10(4), 574-580.\
\[6] Zhang, Z. B., Yang, Q. T., Xu, R. N., He, Z. D., & Qian, Z. M. (2005). Enhancement of sexual motivation in male mice by epimedium grandiflorum. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 98(1-2), 295-300.
