Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Ajuga Turkestanica Extract

Also known as: Ajuga Turkestanica Extract (ATE), Turkesterone extract, Ajuga turkestanica, Turkesterone

Overview

Ajuga turkestanica is a herbaceous flowering plant native to Central Asia, traditionally used for various ailments. Its extract is rich in phytoecdysteroids, particularly turkesterone, compounds structurally similar to insect molting hormones. Turkesterone is primarily used as a natural anabolic agent to support muscle growth and enhance physical performance without androgenic side effects. It is also being explored for its adaptogenic and cardioprotective properties. The extract contains high concentrations of turkesterone and other ecdysteroids, believed to promote protein synthesis and muscle hypertrophy. Unlike anabolic steroids, it does not bind androgen receptors significantly, reducing the risk of androgenic effects. Research on Ajuga turkestanica extract is considered to be at a moderate level, with in vitro studies, animal models, and a limited number of human trials available. More high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.

Benefits

Ajuga turkestanica extract demonstrates potential benefits primarily related to muscle growth and reducing muscle catabolism. Studies suggest it can increase muscle protein synthesis and muscle mass, with some animal models showing anabolic effects comparable to certain anabolic steroids but without androgenic activity. In vitro studies indicate that the extract can significantly downregulate myostatin (a negative regulator of muscle growth) and caspase-3 (an apoptosis marker). Secondary benefits include potential cardioprotective and adaptogenic effects, though these require further study. The extract may be particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals seeking muscle hypertrophy without the side effects associated with steroids. Early human studies show promising results, but larger, well-controlled trials are necessary to confirm these findings.

How it works

Ajuga turkestanica extract primarily works by stimulating protein synthesis pathways, possibly via mTOR signaling, although the exact molecular targets are still under investigation. It also downregulates myostatin gene expression, which reduces the inhibition of muscle growth. The extract acts primarily on skeletal muscle cells to promote anabolic processes without significantly engaging androgen receptors. Additionally, it may exert antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects in muscle cells. Phytoecdysteroids like turkesterone are absorbed orally, but their bioavailability can vary depending on the extraction and formulation methods. Lyophilized extracts standardized for turkesterone content are commonly used in research.

Side effects

Ajuga turkestanica extract is generally considered safe, with no significant cytotoxicity observed in vitro at tested concentrations. No androgenic activity or typical steroid-related side effects have been reported. Common side effects are not well-documented but are likely minimal based on current evidence. Due to limited human data, potential drug interactions are not well-defined, and caution is advised. Contraindications are not yet established, but prudence is recommended in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions until more data is available. The safety of Ajuga turkestanica extract in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and patients with chronic diseases has not been established. More comprehensive research is needed to fully characterize its safety profile.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Ajuga turkestanica extract is not definitively established. Acute studies have used doses standardized for turkesterone content ranging from tens to hundreds of milligrams. Preliminary human studies suggest that doses around 250-500 mg of a standardized extract may be effective, but more research is needed to confirm this. The maximum safe dose is not yet established, but no toxicity has been reported at the doses studied. Acute dosing shows rapid effects, but chronic dosing protocols are not well-defined. Standardized lyophilized extracts with quantified turkesterone content are preferred. Formulation with bioavailability enhancers may improve efficacy. There are no identified required cofactors.

FAQs

Is Ajuga turkestanica extract safe?

Current evidence suggests it is safe at studied doses with no androgenic side effects, but long-term safety data in humans is lacking. More research is needed to fully understand its safety profile.

Does it work like anabolic steroids?

It promotes muscle growth via anabolic pathways but does not activate androgen receptors, thus avoiding typical steroid side effects associated with traditional anabolic steroids.

How soon can results be expected?

Acute studies show biochemical effects within hours to days; physical muscle mass changes likely require longer-term use and consistent training.

Can it be stacked with other supplements?

No known contraindications exist, but clinical evidence on combinations is lacking. Consult with a healthcare professional before combining it with other supplements.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11085066/ – This systematic review analyzed 227 papers on ecdysterone, turkesterone, and related plants, including Ajuga turkestanica. The review highlighted the anabolic and adaptogenic potential of turkesterone but emphasized the need for more high-quality human RCTs to validate these findings and establish optimal usage guidelines.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8066446/ – This study investigated the effects of Ajuga turkestanica extract on C2C12 mouse myotubes in vitro. The findings indicated that the extract downregulated myostatin and caspase-3 gene expression, suggesting anabolic potential without androgenic side effects. The study supports the potential of Ajuga turkestanica as a muscle-building supplement.
https://www.mdpi.com/2813-0413/3/4/31 – This human trial examined the effects of multiple acute doses of turkesterone on muscle mass markers. The results showed significant increases in muscle mass markers and total protein content, indicating anabolic activity. However, the study had a small sample size and short duration, suggesting the need for further research with larger and longer trials.
https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=26159 – This in vitro study focused on the effects of Ajuga turkestanica extract on muscle cells. The research demonstrated that the extract promoted muscle protein synthesis and reduced muscle breakdown, suggesting its potential as a natural anabolic agent. The study also highlighted the absence of androgenic activity, supporting its safety profile.
https://researchdirects.com/index.php/healthsciences/article/view/126 – This research provides an overview of the potential benefits of Ajuga turkestanica extract, focusing on its anabolic and adaptogenic properties. It highlights the need for further research to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to confirm its efficacy and safety in human populations. The study emphasizes the importance of standardized extracts to ensure consistent results.