Beta-Ecdysterone (20-Hydroxyecdysone)
Phytoecdysteroid that activates PI3K/Akt pathway to enhance muscle protein synthesis and strength — no hormonal side effects.
Beta-Ecdysterone (20-Hydroxyecdysone) is a phytoecdysteroid found in spinach and other plants. Despite its hormonal name, it doesn't affect testosterone or other human hormones. Research suggests it may enhance muscle protein synthesis by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway and binding to estrogen receptor beta. A notable 2019 study showed significant strength gains, leading to calls for WADA review. Effects appear to be dose-dependent with higher doses showing better results.
Activates muscle-building pathways
Binds to ER-beta for anabolic effects
Improves nitrogen balance
How Beta-Ecdysterone works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
200-500mg daily (or higher based on studies)
Loading: Not established; consistent daily dosing used in studies
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (typically from Cyanotis arachnoidea or spinach) | Recommended |
Look for products standardized to specific ecdysterone content. Quality varies significantly between brands.
Minimum: 8 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Note: Divide dose throughout day with meals. The 2019 study used ~800mg/day in divided doses.
Increased strength in resistance training
Potential lean mass increases
More research needed on long-term effects
Check WADA status; may be reviewed for ban
Theoretical interaction due to estrogen receptor beta binding; consult healthcare provider
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Discontinue if rash or itching occurs
Top studies from 26+ peer-reviewed papers
Zádor E • Cells (2025)
“The similarities with agents mimicking calorie restriction and anti-aging effects are also elucidated and discussed.”
Todorova V et al. • Nutrients (2024)
“However, the therapeutic potential of phytoecdysteroid-rich extracts extends beyond sports nutrition, with promising applications in treating chronic fatigue, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.”
Gáliková M et al. • Seminars in cell & developmental biology (2023)
“In this review, we focus on a selection of the most important catabolic regulators from the group of peptide hormones (Adipokinetic hormone, Corazonin), catecholamines (octopamine), steroid hormone...”
Arif Y et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2022)
“In humans, PEs display biological, pharmacological, and medicinal properties, such as anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and tissue differentiation activity.”
Zhao XF • Cell communication and signaling : CCS (2020)
“This systematic-review examined the effects of Beta-Ecdysterone.”
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