Dr. Mike Jansen
Dr. Mike JansenAre you curious about where to buy ecdysterone supplements?
Is the legal status of ecdysterone a topic you want to learn more about? Have you wondered if ecdysterone is a banned substance in some countries?
Then you’ve come to the right place, as we detail exactly what this over-the-counter supplement is and what you need to know about the potential performance-enhancing benefits it can bring you – while also detailing side effects and any safety concerns.
We also answer your most important questions, including:
- What is ecdysterone?
- Is ecdysterone a steroid?
- What are the benefits of ecdysterone?
…And much more!
If you’re serious about getting maximum results in the gym, then learning the benefits of this breakthrough supplement is one of the most important decisions you can make.
Now let’s get started!
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What Is Ecdysterone?
Ecdysterone belongs to a naturally-occurring group of plant hormones called phytoecdysteroids [1].
They’re found in plants such as quinoa and spinach, as well as certain fungi. Arthropod insects, such as scorpions and praying mantises, also produce phytoecdysteroids to facilitate molting – hence the prefix ‘ecdy’, which refers to ecdysis, the scientific term for molting.
Athletes and bodybuilders use ecdysterone powders and capsules, with the expectation of seeing better performance in the gym, on the court, or even in the swimming pool.
This is because, according to extensive research, ecdysterone has anabolic properties comparable to the potency of the commonly used and powerful oral steroid, dianabol [2].
Due to ecdysterone being a substance that occurs naturally, it’s been marketed as being safer than synthetic steroids. In fact, a study even showed that the performance-enhancing effects of ecdysterone were superior to those acquired from commonly used synthetic steroids [3].
Athletes who consume ecdysterone may choose it over anabolic steroids because they want to improve their athletic performance, without having to worry about harmful side effects that would result from typical steroid usage.
These benefits include increased muscle mass, greater strength, faster recovery times, and enhanced endurance and stamina [4].
Ecdysterone Benefits
A major reason why ecdysterone consumption and sales have skyrocketed recently, is due to its advantageous cost benefit ratio.
In short, ecdysterone is regarded as a powerful, all-natural anabolic agent with numerous benefits for strength, stamina, and fat loss.
What’s more, it also poses very little, if any, side effects [3].
Increased Muscle Mass And Strength
Out of all the benefits ecdysterone has, an increase in lean muscle mass and strength is often one of the most sought-after by athletes and bodybuilders alike [3].
These effects mainly happen because of the increase in protein synthesis stimulated by ecdysterone, which can sometimes occur at a rate 20% higher than usual.
In fact, the muscle gains from ecdysterone have often been compared to what one could expect from taking a cycle of dianabol, which is a commonly used oral anabolic steroid. In comparison to other anabolic substances, data from human trials involving ecdysterone has shown increases in both skeletal muscle mass and muscle protein [5].
Reduced Body Fat
Another potent benefit of consuming ecdysterone is reduced body fat.
A Russian study monitored a group of research subjects who did both resistance and endurance training for three weeks. Data showed that the effects of ecdysterone on body fat were quite pronounced, with an average reduction in body fat of up to 14% [6].
Improved Endurance
A third well-documented benefit of ecdysterone is elevated levels of stamina and endurance.
The plant Rhaponticum Carthamoides has been used for centuries in Kazakhstan and other central Asian countries as a tonic for alleviating physical and mental fatigue.
Research has shown that the ecdysterone content found in this plant has adaptogenic properties which lengthened swimming time by up to 22%, as well as improve the ability of mice to run for up to 32% longer before being fatigued.
It’s not just effective for bodybuilders or strength athletes, but for virtually any athlete that’s looking for an extra edge.
One study that illustrates this involved two groups of runners who were monitored for twenty days, with one group taking dianabol, and the other taking ecdysterone. Upon reviewing the data, researchers found that the group taking ecdysterone experienced a 10-15% increase in their overall endurance [5].
Faster Recovery Time
Reducing recovery time from intense exercises is also a potent benefit of ecdysterone.
Studies have shown that an improvement in appetite, sleep, and the general physical and mental state of human subjects have been recorded, without adverse side effects [2, 3, 5].
Ecdysterone Side Effects
While ecdysterone has been shown in numerous human trials to provide potent benefits for athletic abilities, skeptics may be wondering – what are the side effects of ecdysterone?
Fortunately, based on the several studies that our team has been able to review, no adverse side effects stemming from ecdysterone consumption have been reported.
In particular, we can look at two studies that corroborate this claim.
Researchers in a 2006 study selected 45 male volunteers to follow a specific training protocol consisting of three days of exercise per week. They were then separated into three groups, with each group taking a substance on a daily basis.
One of the groups was tasked with taking a daily 0.03 gram dose of ecdysterone.
Once the study had concluded, not only was there data showing that the men were stronger on two lifts – the bench press, and the leg press, but there were also no adverse side effects reported in any of them [4].
In addition, a study on a group of adults in their 50s also showed 0 adverse effects from using ecdysterone. This trial was also longer than the one mentioned above, lasting twelve weeks in total.
The participants took a daily ecdysterone dose split in two – one serving of 1000 milligrams in the morning with breakfast, and the next serving of 1000 milligrams with lunch.
Upon analyzing their data, the researchers concluded that the participants in the group taking ecdysterone showed a significant increase in strength and muscle mass, without any harmful side effects [7].
Is Ecdysterone Legal?
In light of the public scrutiny regarding ecdysterone’s efficacy, and being marketed as a ‘legal steroid alternative’, there are still folks scratching their heads and asking – is ecdysterone legal?
While supplements are occasionally banned and deemed unlawful to possess and purchase, as of early 2023, when this article was written, ecdysterone is completely legal and available to buy as an over-the-counter supplement.
A key difference to consider between ecdysterone and traditional anabolic and androgenic steroids is that ecdysterone is freely available for purchase.
On the other hand, steroids are classified as an illegal or controlled substance in most countries.
It is perfectly legal to own and consume ecdysterone.
However, things are a little trickier in the world of professional sports. Although not banned outright, ecdysterone has actually been added to the monitoring list of WADA, or the World Anti-Doping Agency.
The WADA is responsible for ensuring that participants in professional sports competitions like the Olympics and the IFBB are not using prohibited substances to gain an unfair advantage over their competition.
If ecdysterone is added to the WADA’s list of banned substances, the result would be that only athletes competing in professional sports would be prohibited from using ecdysterone or beta-ecdysterone.
If used for any other purpose, arrest or legal prosecution would not be warranted if someone is found selling, buying, possessing, or consuming ecdysterone, since WADA’s ruling would not directly result in ecdysterone being added to the list of controlled substances in the United States [8].
Of course, several bodybuilding supplements have eventually been deemed illegal, especially when they see a surge in popular use.
One instance of this would be Superdrol, a pro-hormone which was being marketed in various forums and supplement stores as a ‘legal steroid.’
Superdrol was made illegal according to both the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004 and Designer Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2012 [9].
Ecdysterone is perfectly safe and is unlikely to be made illegal in the United States or most other countries. However, we will be monitoring any changes made by the WADA and other organizations.
Ecdysterone Pharmacology
Ecdysterone is also known by several other terms, such as 20-hydroxyecdysone, beta-ecdysone, and beta-ecdysterone. It belongs to a class of natural substances called phytoecdysteroids (i.e., plant-based steroids).
In fact, more than 200 different ecdysteroids have been isolated from animal and plant sources [2].
Phytoecdysteroids are distributed in a large number of land plants, but the main ones tend to be quinoa and spinach. Many studies point to plant ecdysteroids being able to exert deterrent or antifeedant effects on predators or develop interfering effects in molting.
Structurally, ecdysterone is almost the same as testosterone [3].
In addition to the chromophore in the B ring and hydroxyl groups at 3β and 14α, they typically show a high degree of oxidation.
They are natural polyhydroxylated compounds that have a four-ringed skeleton, usually composed of either 27 carbon atoms or 28–29 carbon atoms, which are biosynthetically derived from cholesterol or other plant sterols.
They influence the cholesterol metabolism by a competition with cholesterol during the process of binding to the membrane sites [4].
As mentioned briefly before, they do not determine hormonal side effects because they do not bind the vertebrate estrogenic, glucocorticoid, and androgenic steroid receptors.
20-Hydroxyecdysone (ecdysterone) is actually the most commonly found and extensively studied phytoecdysteroid.
Animal research has shown that phytoecdysteroids are active in protein biosynthesis (anabolism). It does this by increasing the activity of polyribosomes – the cytoplasmic compartments within cells where actual protein synthesis takes place.
The result is an increase in body mass. This phytoecdysteroid-stimulated protein synthesis works differently than anabolic steroids, and is independent of testosterone.
Ecdysterone Dosage
Ecdysterone is regarded by athletes and bodybuilders at as a convenient alternative to traditional anabolic steroids, pro-hormones, or SARMS, mainly because of its low risk profile and accessibility.
The fact that it’s ingested orally in both capsule and powder form rules out the need for syringes, which are typical for anabolic steroids, thus making ecdysterone a less invasive option for athletes.
In regards to how ecdysterone should be dosed, the ideal amount to see visible progress in athletic endeavors will depend on an individual’s physicality, as well as how the body processes anabolic effects.
Studies referenced in this article have mainly focused on ecdysterone cycles between 8-12 weeks, with no adverse effects being noticed.
Based on the data our team has examined, we recommend users keep their cycles within this range, and to not exceed two cycles per year. The studies referenced here also have analyzed the effects of daily ecdysterone dosages ranging from 30 milligrams per day, to 2 grams per day [3, 8].
Since most ecdysterone supplements for bodybuilding are dosed at 500 milligrams per capsule, we would suggest not exceeding a dose of 2 grams per day, since it’s possible that effects may plateau past that point.
The generally established dosage guideline is as follows:
- Starter Dose: 250mg/day
- Intermediate Dose: 500mg/day
- Advanced Dose: 1,000mg/day
Ecdysterone tends to be rapidly eliminated by the body, as shown in one study conducted in 1989.
A male participant took 0.2 milligrams of ecdysterone per kilogram of bodyweight. Upon observation, it was determined that ecdysterone can take between 8 and 18 hours to be fully eliminated from the system.
Hence why relatively high amounts are suggested for use, in order to maintain the level of ecdysterone circulating through the bloodstream above what’s required to activate gene switches systems [10].
Where to Buy Ecdysterone
The huge selection of ecdysterone supplements on the market can make determining which vendor to trust an overwhelming and exhausting experience when it comes to making a purchase.
That’s why our team decided to dig into all the ecdysterone supplements available online and the companies behind them. We discovered two online vendors with high-quality ecdysterone capsules, according to some strict criteria.
You might be wondering – how’s their shipping? What is their manufacturing process like? Do their products have positive reviews?
We’ve answered all these questions and more.
Our top recommendation for a legitimate and reputable source to buy ecdysterone from, would be Huge Supplements.
Here is exactly why Huge Supplements is our favorite vendor:
- Superior quality. Their products are made in an FDA-approved facility in the United States, as opposed to in a location overseas, where laws regarding manufacturing and producing supplements are often ‘overlooked’.
- World-class shipping. Their shipping is also world class, as they can send your purchase to any country – apart from those in the European Union, such as Germany and Portugal. If you place a domestic order for Huge Ecdysterone within the United States, you can even enjoy free shipping if your order exceeds $100.
- Great customer service. Should you need to speak to someone at Huge Supplements, you’ll be happy to hear that their customer service is top-notch. Wait times are minimal, and their customer service representatives are knowledgeable and helpful.
- Better ingredients. An added benefit of Huge Supplements Ecdysterone, is that it includes cyclodextrin – a polysaccharide that quickens absorption of ecdysterone into the body.
As you can see, there are several reasons why Huge Supplements is our #1 recommended source for buying a superior ecdysterone supplement. You can learn more and buy 98% Huge Ecdysterone capsules here:
Our second recommendation for a reputable vendor with phenomenal products is Intelligent Elephant.
Not only do they have competitive prices for their products, but they also provide the option to pay for your order with various cryptocurrencies, such as Dash, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum.
At the time this article was written, Intelligent Ecdysterone already had amassed more than 20 positive reviews from verified customers, which is a stark indication that their product works as advertised.
You can learn more about Intelligent Ecdysterone and make your purchase here:
The History Of Ecdysterone
In terms of its history, ecdysterone has actually been around for quite a while.
The first pharmacological tests related to it were done on rats and mice in the 1960s, with the intention of monitoring possible adverse effects of ecdysteroids on vertebrate organisms.
Studies such as these have led to more and more research into how ecdysterone and other ecdysteroids, like turkesterone, could be used to enhance athletic performance [3].
Several cultures in central Asia have traditionally used plants containing ecdysterone and other ecdysteroids like turkesterone to obtain certain health benefits. These plants include Rhaponticum Carthamoides, Maral Root, Cordyceps Sinensis, Achyranthes Bidentata, and Serratula [11].
Despite the fact that ecdysterone is the most-studied ecdysteroid, more studies need to be conducted involving human trials in order to determine how to consume the substance optimally.
Ecdysterone Frequently Asked Questions
Ecdysterone Before and After
Our team found a detailed anecdotal account of ecdysterone’s effects.
Here is the individual, in his own words:
“I took anywhere from 15mg to about 100mg Ecdysterone a day…
A little about me, I’m about 6’2 225lbs and still in my 20s. I’m a former sponsored bodybuilder who was featured on BB.com for losing over 100lbs in my teens.
I’ve been lucky enough to be able to put on muscle easily as my parents both come from extremely labor intensive families, but that doesn’t mean that a little help doesn’t help when wanting to build as much muscle as possible naturally.
What I noticed first was an extreme boost in the gym with energy.
After about a week and a half is when I noticed strength increases. By week three my bench had raised significantly with adding on about 45-50lbs depending on the day.
While this was great to see, what shocked me most was the add ons to my squat and bicep curls. My squat went up about 60lbs and I can now hammer curl 70lb dumbbells with ease. The curls were most shocking to me.
I don’t think ecdysterone will have a direct outcome on body changes, but the increase in power output will cause the body changes.
I overload a body part a day and it always gave me great gains, but I’d say ecdysterone was about 70% of the help” [12].
Ecdysterone vs. Turkesterone
Turkesterone is an ecdysteroid which is closely related to ecdysterone. Turkesterone is also a naturally-occurring compound found in thistle-like plants in central Asia.
Like ecdysterone, it’s also used to boost muscle growth and athletic performance. However, turkesterone is not abundantly found in foods such as quinoa and spinach.
The main difference between turkesterone and ecdysterone is that ecdysterone has successful human studies, while turkesterone studies have only involved rodents or in-vitro observation [13].
Turkesterone is supposedly much more anabolic than ecdysterone.
One of the most recognized turkesterone studies involved administering different substances to rats in a range of ages and hormonal states.
Data showed that turkesterone led to the largest amount of weight gain in the test group – greater than ecdysterone, and even dianabol. Turkesterone led to a 63.5% increase in weight for puberal rats, while ecdysterone led to a 51.9% increase in weight [13]
Is Ecdysterone a Steroid?
While marketers may exaggerate certain claims, it needs to be pointed out that ecdysterone isn’t legally considered an anabolic steroid, although it’s typically marketed as a ‘legal steroid alternative’ or ‘natural steroid’.
The confusion is understandable, considering that several studies have proven that ecdysterone induces anabolic effects in human subjects, such as improved strength, increases in muscle mass, heightened stamina, and rapid recovery.
These benefits come about because of increasing the activity of polyribosomes – the cytoplasmic parts in cells where protein synthesis occurs [5].
Also, unlike steroids, ecdysterone is not toxic to the liver [3, 8].
This is because, while the structure of Ecdysterone is similar to other anabolic compounds, it does not bind to vertebrate steroid receptors.
Is Ecdysterone a Banned Substance?
Although ecdysterone isn’t an illegal substance in most countries, it’s classification in the world of professional sports is a little bit different.
WADA – the World Anti-Doping Agency – sponsored a German study in 2019 on how ecdysterone affects athletic performance.
The researchers concluded that ecdysterone was far too potent to be used freely by athletes, and should to be placed on the list of prohibited substances [7]. If that were to happen ecdysterone would be grouped with a number of other banned substances, like beta-blockers, narcotics, stimulants, diuretics, and of course, anabolic steroids.
While that hasn’t yet become a reality, they did, however, decide to put it on their watchlist of monitored substances.
Whether they’ll actually ban it or not remains to be seen.
In the meantime, ecdysterone is completely legal. We’d recommend taking advantage of the opportunity to conduct your own research while you can.
Is Ecdysterone Legal?
As of early 2023, when this article was written, ecdysterone is completely legal and available to buy as an over-the-counter supplement.
This is a crucial difference to consider between ecdysterone and traditional anabolic and androgenic steroids.
As mentioned in this guide, ecdysterone is not classified as an anabolic steroid, and is therefore completely legal to purchase, possess, or consume in the United States and most other countries [8].
Should ecdysterone be added to the list of banned substances by WADA, the result would be that only athletes competing in professional sports would be prohibited from using ecdysterone or beta-ecdysterone.
If someone is found selling, buying, possessing, or consuming ecdysterone outside of a professional sports competition, they wouldn’t be subject to fines, penalties, or imprisonment, since WADA’s decree wouldn’t necessarily mean that ecdysterone would be added to the list of controlled substances in the United States.
Is Ecdysterone Safe?
Safety should always be a priority when considering whether or not to consume certain supplements.
On the one hand, powerful drugs like steroids tend to cause side effects like skin rashes, shrinking of the gonads, high blood pressure, and excessive organ growth.
On the other hand, the majority of studies have reported data showing that ecdysterone is not toxic to humans, and is generally safe to use [3].
For instance, one study on the effects of Rhaponticum (a plant containing ecdysterone) conducted on 60 cadets at the end of their academic year saw an improvement in appetite, sleep, and their general physical and mental state, without any adverse side effects being noted.
How to Take Ecdysterone?
Ecdysterone is ingested orally in both capsule and powder form, so there’s no need to worry about using a syringe, which is typical for anabolic steroids.
The limited data available doesn’t indicate a recommended standard for dosing ecdysterone.
Cycles are typically run between 8-12 weeks, with no adverse effects being noticed. We also recommend cycles be kept within this range, and to not exceed two cycles per year.
The studies referenced here also have analyzed the effects of daily Ecdysterone dosages ranging from 30 mg per day, to 2 g per day [3, 8].
Since most Ecdysterone supplements for bodybuilding are dosed at 500 mg per capsule, we would suggest not exceeding 1000 mg per day.
Ecdysterone. Just. Works.
In conclusion…
Ecdysterone is one of the most powerful “legal steroid alternatives” in the world today. Studies show that it can increase muscle protein synthesis by as much as 20%, and that it works as well as many anabolic steroids, such as dianabol.
Of course, ecdysterone is not a steroid. It has no impact on your hormone levels, and it has virtually zero side effects – especially when taken at the recommended dosage of 500 mg per day.
Most studies on ecdysterone have lasted 8-12 weeks, so it’s probably a good idea to “cycle off” ecdysterone after using it for 2-3 months.
However, more research is needed to determine if cycling off ecdysterone is really necessary.
If you are ready to get started with ecdysterone, then we strongly recommend the online vendor Huge Supplements. They make their ecdysterone using a special cyclodextrin ingredient which maximizes the absorption and effectiveness of their product.
So what are you waiting for?
Get a bottle of Huge Supplements ecdysterone today and watch your gains shoot through the roof!