Dr. Mike Jansen
Dr. Mike JansenCurious about ecdysterone vs turkesterone?
Do you wonder which of these ecdysteroids is best for getting bigger and stronger?
Then you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we detail everything you need to know about ecdysterone and turkesterone, including which of these legal steroid alternatives is most effective (according to science).
We also answer your most important questions, including:
- What are ecdysteroids?
- What are the benefits of ecdysteroids?
- Which is better: ecdysterone or turkesterone?
- Where can I buy ecdysterone?
…And much more!
Our team has taken the time to analyze data from various legitimate academic resources to bring you the facts, including how turkesterone and ecdysterone measure up against each other.
After reading this in-depth guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision on ecdysterone vs turkesterone.
So which one is better: ecdysterone or turkesterone? Let’s find out!
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What are Ecdysteroids?
Ecdysteroids, also known as phytoecdysteroids, are a class of hormone compounds not too different from androgens in both their structure and effects.
In fact, research on both animals and humans has shown that phytoecdysteroids are active in protein synthesis, which is done by stimulating the activity of polyribosomes – cytoplasmic compartments within cells where protein synthesis occurs – thus leading to effects deemed favorable by bodybuilders and athletes, such as increased muscle mass, strength, and recovery [1].
Commonly referred to as ‘plant steroids’, ecdysteroids are primarily found in plants like spinach and quinoa, and are also present in certain arthropod insects.
The prefix ‘ecdy’ refers to the process of molting in insects, called ecdysis [2].
There are currently over 200 ecdysteroids that are currently known to researchers. The four most-studied ones are ecdysone, ecdysterone, turkesterone and 20-hydroxyecdysone.
According to a variety of studies, ecdysteroids like ecdysterone and turkesterone behave in a very similar manner as anabolic steroids in humans. However, they are not androgenic, meaning they do not incite changes in hormonal levels, which is why they’re commonly dubbed ‘natural steroid alternatives’ [2].
What is Ecdysterone?
Out of all the ecdysteroids, one of the most commonly studied is ecdysterone.
Also known as 20-beta-hydroxyecdysterone and beta-ecdysterone, ecdysterone was initially studied in the 1960s in Russia to figure out if it would have any adverse effects on humans.
Somewhat surprisingly, scientists found that ecdysterone has anabolic properties comparable to the oral steroid, dianabol [3].
Ecdysterone has been marketed as being safer than synthetic steroids, due to the fact that it occurs naturally in different plants [2]. A study even showed that the gains from taking ecdysterone surpassed those from commonly used synthetic steroids [4].
However, with lofty claims such as these, it’s not hard to see why people would wonder… is ecdysterone a steroid?
The answer is no – ecdysterone is not a steroid.
Ecdysterone is not like the anabolic androgenic steroids normally used in bodybuilding, such as dianabol or trenbolone, because like other ecdysteroids, it doesn’t influence hormonal levels, like testosterone or estrogen [3].
Both the bodybuilding community and the mainstream media have focused their attention recently on the efficacy of ecdysterone, and what it’s use could mean for professional and recreational sports alike [5].
Those who take ecdysterone can expect to see several benefits that have been proven to exist according to multiple studies.
These benefits include increased muscle mass, greater strength, faster recovery times, and enhanced endurance and stamina [4].
What is Turkesterone?
Closely related to ecdysterone, and often grouped together, is another ecdysteroid called turkesterone.
This is another naturally-occurring compound found in thistle-like plants, most of which grow in Siberia, Bulgaria, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan.
Initially isolated in Russia in 1975, turkesterone is commonly extracted from plants including Leuzea Carthamoides, Rhaponticum, Stemmacantha Uniflora, Vitex Fisherii, Cyanotis Vaga, and Ajuga Turkestanica – a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine for its anabolic, adaptogenic, hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic activity [6].
These plants have been valued for their beneficial effects on muscle strength and stomach aches, as well as protective action against heart diseases [7].
Like ecdysterone, turkesterone is also used to boost muscle growth and athletic performance.
However, turkesterone is not abundantly found in any common foods, such as quinoa or yams.
Various studies have mentioned that turkesterone seems to be a bit more potent in regards to its potential for muscle-building than other ecdysteroids, such as ecdysterone. However, most supplement vendors tend to sell turkesterone at a higher price than ecdysterone [7, 8].
Are They Steroids?
When it comes to bodybuilding supplements – especially those that have been recognized and even demonized in the mainstream – it’s absolutely crucial that you’re able to separate fact from fiction [5].
This is certainly true in the case of ecdysteroids like turkesterone and ecdysterone.
As mentioned briefly earlier in the article, although marketers may exaggerate certain claims, neither ecdysterone nor turkesterone are legally considered anabolic steroids, even though they’re typically marketed as a ‘legal steroid alternative’ or ‘natural steroid’.
There are a couple of reasons for this. The main reason is that neither turkesterone nor ecdysterone bind to the body’s androgen receptors in the same way that steroids do, even though, on a molecular level, the structure of ecdysteroids and anabolics like testosterone are indeed quite similar.
As a result, hormonal levels aren’t affected. Ecdysteroids are also not toxic to the liver, which tends to be commonplace with anabolics [6].
Both ecdysterone and turkesterone are legal to buy, sell, and advertise in the US. In Canada, the UK, Australia, and many other countries, the rules tend to be the same.
Ecdysterone vs Turkesterone | Benefits
In recent years, a growing number of voices in the fitness community have strongly advocated for the benefits of taking ecdysteroids like ecdysterone and turkesterone.
But do ecdysteroids actually work?
Are they truly naturally-occurring substances that can actually produce the same, or even greater anabolic benefits of normal steroids?
Increased Muscle Mass And Strength
One of the main benefits of taking ecdysterone and turkesterone is an increase in lean muscle mass and strength [9]. Ecdysterone has been shown to increase the rate of protein synthesis by as much as 20% in numerous studies.
As if that weren’t enough, ecdysterone has also been found to cause increases in both skeletal muscle mass and muscle protein [10].
Turkesterone, being an analog of ecdysterone, works somewhat differently.
It also lowers lipid absorption, improves nitrogen retention and contributes to a better protein metabolism profile with reduced protein catabolism and increased anabolism.
Turkesterone may even possess more anabolic potency than ecdysterone, as shown in one of the most recognized turkesterone studies where various compounds were administered to rats in a range of ages and hormonal conditions.
The study found that turkesterone led to a 63.5% increase in weight for puberal rats, while ecdysterone led to a 51.9% increase in their weight. The largest amount of weight gain in the test group resulted from turkesterone, which was even more than the oral steroid dianabol [3, 7].
Increased ATP Synthesis
Ecdysteroids like turkesterone and ecdysterone have also been shown to increase ATP synthesis [11]. Muscles can therefore work with greater force.
Ecdysteroids also increase endurance, leading to more intense workouts, which can further build strength and stamina.
Research has shown adaptogenic properties particularly in swimmers, which lengthened the amount of time they could remain moving in the water by up to 22%. It was also found to improve the ability of mice to run for up to 32% longer before reaching a point of fatigue [3].
Faster Recovery From Workouts
Ecdysterone and turkesterone usage can also benefit people by quickening recovery from intense exercise.
Studies show that turkesterone can aid in fixing muscle fibers that have been broken down after exercise and increase glycogen concentrations in muscles, which can play a part in removing lactic acid and support workout recovery [7].
Fat loss and weight maintenance are also known benefits of ecdysteroids, namely turkesterone, due to its effects on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.
Ecdysterone vs Turkesterone | Side Effects
Turkesterone, ecdysterone, and other ecdysteroids are considered to be significantly safer than anabolic steroids.
This is primarily because they don’t bind to androgen receptors in the same way that steroids do, which is the main cause for adverse side effects in steroid users.
As a result, serious steroidal side effects, such as changes in appetite, mood, libido, hair growth, skin health or sleep, can be avoided [12].
When it comes to ecdysterone and turkesterone, we’re happy to report that nearly all studies conducted on these ecdysteroid compounds have not revealed any serious adverse effects from their consumption.
However, the most common anecdotally reported side effects with turkesterone are nausea and stomach discomfort when taken in excess of 2000 mg [12, 13].
To corroborate the claim that ecdysteroids have little to no side effects on humans, a study conducted in 2006 sought to determine the effects of ecdysterone and select other compounds on training adaptations for men who were already quite athletic.
45 male participants with a regular habit of working out were recruited and split up into three groups.
As per the study’s protocol, they each ingested a daily dose of a compound while carrying out their weekly training regimen. One of those groups took just 30 milligrams of ecdysterone once per day.
In conclusion, the study found that the men were significantly stronger on mainly two lifts – the bench press, and the leg press. No adverse side effects were reported [4].
It should be noted that there have been no documented human trials for turkesterone. Therefore, data regarding adverse side effects in humans from consuming it is limited to anecdotal evidence, as well as broader studies on ecdysteroids as a whole.
Overall, neither ecdysterone nor turkesterone cause the side effects normally seen with anabolic steroid use. One of the main reasons for this is because of the molecular structure of ecdysteroids.
Although they’re very similar to anabolic steroids, they don’t actually bind to the steroid receptors in vertebrates.
Ecdysterone vs Turkesterone | Differences
Ecdysterone and turkesterone are ecdysteroids that share a number of similarities, such as being able to promote lean muscle growth and increase muscle protein synthesis.
However, there are a few key factors that set them apart from each other.
Keep in mind that individuals respond differently to certain compounds for a number of reasons, and there is lack of sufficient research available at the moment to declare with complete certainty that one is better than the other.
Differences In Standardization
Firstly, ecdysterone and turkesterone differ in terms of their standardization.
Turkesterone, or Ajuga Turkestanica extracts, are standardized to 40% turkesterone on the high end, while ecdysterone extracts are standardized to 90%. Standardization here simply refers to how manufacturers maintain consistency in the concentration levels of their ecdysteroid supplements [6].
It’s important to note, however, that the biggest difference between turkesterone and ecdysterone is that ecdysterone has had successful human studies, while turkesterone has not.
One of these studies was a 10 week trial published in 2019 on the effects of ecdysterone supplementation, where subjects reported an increase in muscle mass and one rep max strength on the bench press.
However, since the study was partially funded by WADA – the World Anti-Doping Agency – it was subsequently recommended that ecdysterone be placed on their list of banned substances for professional sports.
Conversely, as of 2022, turkesterone studies have only involved rodents or in-vitro observation [7, 15].
Differences In Anabolic Effects
Additionally, one of the most prominent differences between ecdysterone and turkesterone, is that tukesterone is supposedly much more anabolic than ecdysterone. In other words, turkesterone supposedly has much more powerful effects in terms of increasing muscle mass, strength, and recovery speed.
One of the most recognized turkesterone studies involved administering different substances to rats in a range of ages and hormonal states.
It was then discovered that turkesterone led to the largest amount of weight gain in the test group – greater than ecdysterone, and even dianabol, upon comparison. Turkesterone led to a 63.5% increase in weight for puberal rats, while ecdysterone led to a 51.9% increase in weight [7].
We do stress, however, that these claims about turkesterone’s effects are still being studied. In any case, ecdysterone is a generally more accepted and safer supplement, since more research on it exists involving human trials.
Ecdysterone vs Turkesterone | Dosage
How do you take ecdysterone?
How long should you cycle turkesterone for?
Knowing how to properly dose and cycle ecdysterone and turkesterone is crucial if you intend to maximize the benefits gained from them. In this section, we’ve gathered information regarding how to use these ecdysteroids in a safe and proper manner.
Anabolic steroids are normally administered with the use of a syringe, which is usually uncomfortable and expensive. Even though oral steroids and pro-hormones do exist, they come with their own set of adverse side effects.
Generally, the use of needles acts as a deterrent to athletes who seek to take compounds for the purpose of performance enhancement.
On the other hand, both ecdysterone and turkesterone are ingested orally in both capsule and powder form, so there’s no need to worry about using a syringe, or always having access to them, let alone traveling with them.
Ecdysterone cycles between 8-12 weeks, with no adverse effects being reported.
As such, we would also recommend users keep their cycles within this range, and to not cycle more than twice in a year.
The studies referenced throughout this article have also examined the effects of daily ecdysterone dosages ranging from a low amount of 30 milligrams per day, to larger doses of 2 grams per day [3, 4].
Because most ecdysterone supplements for bodybuilding are dosed at 500 mg per capsule, we would suggest not exceeding 1000 mg per day. This dosage has been shown to be optimal in some studies as the physiological benefits tend to plateau past a certain dosage.
The situation with turkesterone is similar, in that there has yet to be a scientific consensus on dosing for it.
We recommend erring on the side of caution with your dosages and keep them at a level of under 10mg/kg of body weight daily.
A general recommendation is to begin taking a turkesterone supplement in dosages of 500 milligrams per day to evaluate tolerance and effects. Like ecdysterone, the dose can be taken all at once, or split in two. This amount can also be taken for 8 to 12 weeks [8, 14].
Keep in mind that both ecdysterone and turkesterone possess an advantage over anabolic steroids in that they do not require post cycle therapy – a supplement protocol commonly used once a steroid cycle is finished in order to bring the endocrine system back into a healthy balance.
Best Ecdysterone Supplement
The number of supplements on the market these days can be overwhelming, but don’t worry – our team has taken the time to examine the best vendors of ecdysterone and turkesterone, so you can rest assured you’re getting products that are pure and effective.
Our recommendation for a trusted source to buy ecdysterone from would be Huge Supplements. Here’s why:
- High-quality products. Their products are manufactured in an FDA-approved facility in the United States.
- Great shipping. When it comes to shipping, Huge Ecdysterone can be sent to any country, except for those in the European Union. Plus, if you place a domestic order in the U.S. for over $100, you can qualify for free shipping.
- Superior ingredients. Huge Ecdysterone also contains an ingredient called cyclodextrin – a polysaccharide which expedites and enhances absorption of the ingested Ecdysterone into the body.
It’s easy to see why Huge Supplements is our #1 recommended source to buy a quality ecdysterone supplement online.
In order to get the most value for your purchase, we suggest picking up 3 bottles of Huge Ecdysterone to last a full 12-week cycle.
You can visit them here to purchase a bottle of 98% pure ecdysterone capsules:
Best Turkesterone Supplement
Finding quality turkesterone can be even more challenging than searching for ecdysterone supplements.
After a thorough investigation, our team identified a legitimate and reputable vendor to buy turkesterone from: Gorilla Mind. Here’s why:
- Great customer reviews: At the time this article was written, in early 2023, Gorilla Mind Turkesterone already has amassed over 100 positive reviews from verified customers – a strong indication that their supplement is indeed effective.
- Excellent customer service: They’re also based in Boise, Idaho, which explains why their customer service is top-notch.
- Fast, free shipping: They also offer free shipping on domestic orders over $99.
- High-quality ingredients: Similar to Huge Ecdysterone, each capsule of Gorilla Mind Turkesterone contains 500 mg of turkesterone complexed with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, to enhance its absorption into the body.
- Flexible payment options: Besides using a credit card, you can pay for Gorilla Mind Turkesterone in a number of ways, such as Apply Pay, Venmo, Google Pay, and Paypal.
We strongly suggest taking advantage of their 3 bottle discount on Gorilla Mind Turkesterone, so that you’ll have enough to run a proper 3 month cycle.
You can visit them here to learn more and purchase Gorilla Mind Turkesterone:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stack turkesterone and ecdysterone?
Yes, turkesterone can be stacked with other supplements such as testosterone boosters, growth hormone boosters, estrogen blockers, and even ecdysterone. In fact, stacking turkesterone with ecdysterone could most likely augment and compound their effects, leading to improved results in the gym or on the court.
Does ecdysterone or turkesterone require PCT?
Neither ecdysterone nor turkesterone require a PCT, which makes them all the mor attractive options for athletes looking to boost their progress.
This is due to the fact that they do not cause fluctuation in the endocrine system.
However, since data on the effects of both turkesterone and ecdysterone is still limited, it may be beneficial to use a PCT supplement in order to stay on the safe side, such as Huge Rebirth PCT.
Do I need to cycle ecdysterone or turkesterone?
Based on the data we’ve collected and referenced in this article, we would strongly recommend only taking ecdysterone or turkesterone in 3-month cycles.
Even though neither of these supplements are androgenic, due to the fact that information regarding their long-term use in humans is limited, it would be best to use them responsibly and give your body time to rest.
Turkesterone vs. Ecdysterone | Overall
In conclusion…
Ecdysterone and turkesterone are some of the most promising “legal steroid alternatives” on the market right now.
The latest research studies show that ecdysterone and turkesterone are both extremely effective for building muscle mass and strength.
Studies show that ecdysterone can increase muscle protein synthesis in humans by up to 20%, while the latest animal studies show that turkesterone may be even more promising for maximizing muscle growth.
Right now, the biggest difference between these two products is the availability of human studies.
Ecdysterone has been shown to work extremely well in humans. In fact, one study showed that ecdysterone works better than many anabolic steroids like dianabol!
Animal studies show that turkesterone might work even better than ecdysterone, as it resulted in greater increases in muscle mass. However, there are no human studies available on turkesterone at this time, so ecdysterone is currently our #1 recommendation for a “science-based” legal steroid alternative.
If you are ready to get started with ecdysterone, then we strongly recommend the brand Huge Supplements. They manufacture their products with a special cyclodextrin ingredient which maximizes the absorption and effectiveness of their product.
So what are you waiting for? Pick up a bottle of Huge Supplements’ ecdysterone today and watch your gains shoot through the roof!