Evidence snapshot: tribulus debunked; Tongkat/Shilajit mixed; AGE/ashwagandha/cacao-pom/pine pollen signals need replication
Key Questions
Does Tribulus terrestris increase testosterone levels?
Research shows Tribulus has no significant effect on testosterone levels. Multiple studies, including RCTs, have debunked claims of testosterone boosting from Tribulus supplementation.
What is the evidence for Tongkat Ali, Shilajit, and Ashwagandha on testosterone?
Tongkat Ali shows modest testosterone effects in studies. Shilajit has mixed results, with one RCT (n=96) showing significant benefits. Ashwagandha (KSM-66/Shoden) has RCT evidence for increasing testosterone and reducing cortisol.
Are there promising emerging supplements for testosterone like pine pollen or cacao?
Emerging cacao and pomegranate extracts (2023-2025) show early signals but need replication. Pine pollen has phytoandrogen claims but lacks human RCTs. Always scrutinize study methods, COAs, and await replication.
Tribulus: no T effect. Shilajit: mixed (n=96 RCT sig). Tongkat: modest. AGE (200mg/d x60d): T/sexual in >60yo (1 RCT). Ashwa (KSM-66/Shoden®): RCT T/cortisol signals. Emerging cacao/pom extracts (2023-2025); pine pollen phytoandrogen claims (no human RCTs). Scrutinize methods/COAs/replication.