Are Testosterone Boosters Worth It? A Science-Backed Analysis

ByGavin Larsen Updated on
A gauge-style dial with a needle pointing to the red zone, indicating high testosterone levels and addressing the question: are testosterone boosters worth it?

Strength & Muscle Building

Testosterone boosters are widely marketed as supplements that claim to enhance testosterone levels, muscle growth, and overall vitality. However, the effectiveness of these supplements is often debated, with limited scientific backing for many ingredients. This article examines key compounds commonly found in testosterone boosters—Boron, Tongkat Ali, Shilajit, and Forskohlii Root—through an evidence-based approach to determine their true efficacy.

With over a decade of experience in sports acupuncture and strength training, I have seen firsthand the impact of hormonal balance on athletic performance and muscle development. Let’s break down the research on these popular testosterone-boosting supplements.

Boron: A Natural Testosterone Enhancer?

Boron has been investigated for its role in regulating steroid hormones. A study published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology found that daily boron supplementation significantly increased free testosterone levels while decreasing estrogen and inflammatory markers [1]. Another review highlighted that boron enhances the conversion of total testosterone to its bioavailable form, making it potentially beneficial for those looking to optimize hormone levels [2].

Tongkat Ali: A Traditional Remedy for Testosterone

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has been traditionally used for its purported testosterone-enhancing and aphrodisiac properties. A pilot study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that daily supplementation with 400 mg of Tongkat Ali for five weeks led to significant increases in free and total testosterone levels in both men and women [3]. Another randomized controlled trial found that combining Tongkat Ali with resistance training improved testosterone levels and erectile function in aging males [4].

Shilajit: The Ayurvedic Solution for Hormonal Support

Shilajit, a mineral-rich compound commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, has shown promise in supporting testosterone levels. A clinical study published in Andrologia reported that healthy men who took purified Shilajit for 90 days experienced a significant increase in total and free testosterone [5]. Another study highlighted its benefits in reducing fatigue-induced declines in muscle strength, suggesting its potential role in athletic performance [6].

Forskohlii Root: A Testosterone and Body Composition Modulator

Forskohlii Root (Coleus forskohlii) is often included in fat-burning and testosterone-boosting supplements. A systematic review in Advances in Nutrition identified forskohlii root extract as one of the few herbs that positively impact testosterone levels [7]. A 12-week randomized controlled trial found that forskohlii supplementation increased free testosterone and promoted favorable changes in body composition among overweight and obese men [8].

Are Testosterone Boosters Worth It?

While many over-the-counter testosterone boosters fail to live up to their claims, research suggests that some natural compounds like Boron, Tongkat Ali, Shilajit, and Forskohlii Root may provide measurable benefits. However, results vary based on individual physiology, dosage, and supplement quality. Those considering testosterone boosters should prioritize clinically studied ingredients and consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.

References

  1. Naghii, M. R., Mofid, M., Asgari, A. R., Hedayati, M., & Daneshpour, M. S. (2011). Comparative effects of daily and weekly boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and proinflammatory cytokines. J Trace Elem Med Biol, 25(1), 54-58. PubMed
  2. Pizzorno, L. (2015). Nothing Boring About Boron. Integr Med (Encinitas), 14(4), 35-48. PubMed
  3. Henkel, R. R., Wang, R., Bassett, S. H., Chen, T., Liu, N., Zhu, Y., & Tambi, M. I. (2014). Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors—a pilot study. Phytother Res, 28(4), 544-50. PubMed
  4. Leitão, A. E., de Souza Vieira, M. C., Pelegrini, A., da Silva, E. L., & de Azevedo Guimarães, A. C. (2021). A 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial to evaluate the effect of Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) and concurrent training on erectile function and testosterone levels in androgen deficiency of aging males (ADAM). Maturitas, 145, 78-85. PubMed
  5. Pandit, S., Biswas, S., Jana, U., De, R. K., Mukhopadhyay, S. C., & Biswas, T. K. (2016). Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Andrologia, 48(5), 570-575. PubMed
  6. Keller, J. L., Housh, T. J., Hill, E. C., Smith, C. M., Schmidt, R. J., & Johnson, G. O. (2019). The effects of Shilajit supplementation on fatigue-induced decreases in muscular strength and serum hydroxyproline levels. J Int Soc Sports Nutr, 16, 3. PubMed
  7. Smith, S. J., Lopresti, A. L., Teo, S. Y. M., & Fairchild, T. J. (2021). Examining the effects of herbs on testosterone concentrations in men: A systematic review. Adv Nutr, 12(3), 744-765. PubMed
  8. Godard, M. P., Johnson, B. A., & Richmond, S. R. (2005). Body composition and hormonal adaptations associated with forskolin consumption in overweight and obese men. Obes Res, 13(8), 1335-1343. PubMed

Based in Vancouver, BC, I bring over 20 years of strength training experience and a decade of expertise in sports acupuncture. Combining fitness knowledge with techniques like electro-acupuncture, cupping, and gua sha, I help clients relieve pain, improve mobility, and achieve their health and performance goals.

Related Posts