Turkesterone is a natural compound found in the Ajuga turkestanica plant that has gained popularity in the health and fitness community for its purported benefits in promoting muscle growth and reducing inflammation.
But what are the side effects of turkesterone? Like any supplement or medication, it may have potential risks. In this article, we’ll explore what turkesterone is, its potential benefits, and the potential side effects associated with its use. Let’s begin.
Table of Contents
What is Turkesterone?
Turkesterone is found in the Ajuga turkestanica plant, native to Central Asia. It’s believed that it helps the plant adapt to environmental stressors, such as drought and extreme temperatures.
Additionally, turkesterone is a type of ecdysteroid, a group of naturally occurring compounds structurally similar to the hormone ecdysone found in insects.
While ecdysteroids are commonly used as insecticides, research has shown that they may also have potential benefits in humans, such as promoting muscle growth and reducing inflammation.
Potential Benefits of Turkesterone
Before we talk about the side effects of turkesterone, let’s talk about its benefits.
However, further study is needed to confirm these claims, preliminary findings show turkesterone may have positive health effects. These are some of them.
1. Muscle Growth
Several people use turkesterone because of its supposed ability to speed up muscle-building. Evidence from animal research shows that it may aid in gaining muscle mass and strength by increasing protein synthesis and decreasing muscle breakdown. [1]
Some animal research suggests it may also help reduce weight gain and speed up the metabolism. [2]
2. Reduced Inflammation
Although inflammation is a healthy reaction to injury or infection, long-term inflammation has been linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
Turkesterone has also been shown to help with inflammation. It may also aid in post-workout recovery by lowering inflammatory response and aiding lactic acid removal from the body.
3. Improved Endurance
There is anecdotal evidence that turkesterone improves performance in long-distance sports like marathons and triathlons by increasing endurance and decreasing fatigue. It also boosts your strength and endurance.
Because of this, you may exercise for extended periods without becoming tired easily. As a result, you’ll be able to push yourself farther in your strength training and handle greater loads for longer.
Side Effects of Turkesterone
Possible side effects include nausea, upset stomach, dizziness, and other digestive problems. Take it with food to lessen the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset, and never exceed the recommended dose.
Some people might not be able to take turkesterone because they have other health problems. In rare cases, some people may experience allergic reactions to turkesterone.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms after taking turkesterone, seek immediate medical attention.
Does Turkesterone Have Side Effects?
Although turkesterone may have adverse effects, not everyone who takes the supplement will experience them.
Some individuals may be able to use turkesterone without experiencing any negative effects, while others may have mild to severe reactions.
Bottom Line: What Are the Side Effects of Turkesterone?
Turkesterone may potentially promote muscle growth, reduce inflammation, and improve endurance. And while turkesterone may come with its own set of potential side effects, it’s important to understand that it’s not necessarily “bad” for you.
If you are thinking about taking turkesterone, it is important that you consult with your doctor first. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks and can monitor you for any potential side effects while you’re taking the supplement.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Parr MK, Botrè F, Naß A, Hengevoss J, Diel P, Wolber G. Ecdysteroids: A novel class of anabolic agents? Biol Sport. 2015 Jun;32(2):169-73. doi: 10.5604/20831862.1144420. Epub 2015 Mar 15. PMID: 26060342; PMCID: PMC4447764.
- Foucault AS, Even P, Lafont R, Dioh W, Veillet S, Tomé D, Huneau JF, Hermier D, Quignard-Boulangé A. Quinoa extract enriched in 20-hydroxyecdysone affects energy homeostasis and intestinal fat absorption in mice fed a high-fat diet. Physiol Behav. 2014 Apr 10;128:226-31. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.02.002. Epub 2014 Feb 15. PMID: 24534167.