Ecdysterone is a legal plant-based “steroid” that is popular among professional athletes due to its effectiveness and lack of side effects. Research shows that ecdysterone promotes a significant increase in muscle mass and physical performance without harming one’s health.
On the market, you can often find products claiming to contain 300 mg, 400 mg, or even 500 mg of ecdysterone per capsule at a very low price. However, it is crucial to pay attention to the quality of the raw materials and the concentration of the extract. Low-priced products often contain a very low concentration of the active substance—sometimes as little as 5%. In MST Nutrition products, the concentration of ecdysterone ranges from 70% in Ecdysterone HPLC to 95% in MUSCLE Build. Therefore, when choosing ecdysterone, it is vital to carefully read the ingredient list and verify the origin of the raw materials.
Ecdysterone itself does not affect the body’s natural production of testosterone. However, MST Nutrition products (such as Ecdysterone Booster and Muscle Build) contain additional components like Tribulus and Maca, which can help increase testosterone production and enhance the overall anabolic effect.
Ecdysterone is produced from various plant sources, such as spinach, Leuzea (Maral root), Sage, Ajuga Turkestanica, Cyanotis, and others. Here are several popular types of ecdysterone:
Ecdysterone and Beta-Ecdysterone — The market leaders.
Turkesterone (Ajuga Turkestanica) — Known for its unique impact on the body.
20-hydroxyecdysone and other types such as Ecdyson and Integristerone A.
In an experiment conducted under the auspices of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), it was established that ecdysterone contributes to significant muscle mass growth and increased strength. Athletes taking ecdysterone showed better results in the bench press and increased muscle mass by 1.58 kg and 2.03 kg, respectively, across groups with different dosages.
Studies have found no side effects when recommended doses of ecdysterone are followed. This makes it a safe and effective choice for both male and female athletes. Ecdysterone and its analogs, such as turkesterone, belong to the class of phytoecdysteroids and do not cause undesirable hormonal imbalances.
Recommended Cycle: 2 to 3 months.
Dosage: Do not exceed 100 mg of pure active substance per day.
Dietary Synergy: Consume alongside a high-protein diet (e.g., with protein shakes).
Vitamin Synergy: Recommended to be taken with B-complex vitamins.
Professional Consultation: It is recommended to consult a physician or a coach before starting the cycle.
Weight up to 75 kg: 2-3 capsules per day, after breakfast.
Weight 75–100 kg: 3 capsules per day.
Weight over 100 kg: 4 capsules per day.
2 capsules per day, after breakfast.
Protein: Combine with increased protein intake for maximum anabolic effect.
Creatine: Adding creatine will help further increase muscle mass and power.
Tribulus: Helps boost testosterone levels and amplify anabolism.
At this time, ecdysterone is not included in the list of prohibited substances (WADA Prohibited List), but research is ongoing, and its status may be reviewed in the future.
Not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers, or individuals under the age of 18. Take ecdysterone only after consulting with a medical professional and strictly adhere to the recommended dosages.
Targeting the Administration of Ecdysterone in Doping Control Samples
Ecdysteroids as a non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans
The isolation of ecdysterone inducible genes by hybridization subtraction chromatography
Ecdysteroids as a non-conventional anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans