Ecdysterone and Turkesterone:
Which one to choose?
Do you know how Ecdysterone and Turkesterone can naturally enhance your athletic performance and health? Is one of them more effective, or should you combine their benefits?
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What are ecdysterone and turkesterone, and where do they come from?
Ecdysterone and turkesterone are two natural phytoecdysteroids, primarily extracted from plants, that are gaining increasing interest in the world of sports and nutrition. These compounds, structurally similar to insect molting hormones, are being studied for their potential anabolic and adaptogenic effects in humans.
Ecdysterone: the rising star of supplements
Ecdysterone is somewhat the star of the moment. It is mainly found in the plant Cyanotis arachnoidea. Its extraction is carried out with precision thanks to advanced technology.
What is fascinating is that researchers discovered this molecule in insects in the 1960s. They thought it was just for making the little creatures molt. But in the 1980s, surprise! It was realized that it could have interesting effects on humans. Since then, it has been gaining more and more followers in the sports world.
Turkesterone: the rising newcomer
Turkesterone is somewhat the little sister of ecdysterone. It is less known, but believe me, it has potential! It is mainly found in a plant from Central Asia, Ajuga turkestanica. Its extraction is similar to that of ecdysterone.
It was discovered a bit later, in the 1970s, but it is only since the 2000s that it has really started to gain interest. And between us, we think we will hear more and more about it. Some studies suggest it might even be more effective than ecdysterone for certain things!
How do the molecular structures of ecdysterone and turkesterone differ?
Although ecdysterone and turkesterone are cousins, their molecular structures have subtle but significant differences. These structural variations are the basis of their distinct biological effects and unique therapeutic potential.
Ecdysterone
Ecdysterone, or 20-hydroxyecdysone, has a characteristic steroid structure with a 27-carbon atom skeleton. Its uniqueness lies in the presence of six strategically positioned hydroxyl groups (OH), notably at positions 2, 3, 14, 20, 22, and 25. This configuration gives it surprising water solubility for a “steroid,” facilitating its absorption by the body. (yes, we do put the term in quotes because they are not the same steroids you think of)
Turkesterone
Turkesterone, on the other hand, is distinguished by the presence of an additional hydroxyl group at position 11, bringing the total to seven OH groups. This seemingly minor difference has major implications for its biological activity.
The presence of this additional OH group could explain why some studies suggest that turkesterone might be more potent than ecdysterone for certain anabolic effects.
These structural differences, although subtle, significantly influence how these molecules interact with our bodies.
How do these variations translate into biological effects?

Ecdysterone: a revolution in the sports world?
If you want to delve deeper into the subject (and believe me, it’s worth it), we highly recommend our dedicated article: Ecdysterone: a muscle secret from the east?. You will discover all the ins and outs of this fascinating molecule. (Get ready to be surprised!)
What are the different effects of Turkesterone and Ecdysterone on the body?
So, are you ready to dive into the heart of the matter? Let’s see how these little molecules can potentially boost your body. Hold on tight, it might just surprise you!
Ecdysterone
Ecdysterone could help you gain muscle mass. How? By stimulating protein synthesis in your muscles.
To do this, it will do the following:
Ecdysterone exerts several significant physiological actions:
- Muscle anabolism: It stimulates protein synthesis in muscle cells, potentially via the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thus allowing a better anabolic response.
- Estrogen receptor activator: It allows a better ratio between testosterone and estrogen.
- Energy metabolism: Studies suggest an increase in mitochondrial ATP production (the fuel of your cells), potentially improving endurance.
- Glucose homeostasis: Ecdysterone could improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood sugar, allowing better sugar control in your body.
- Lipid metabolism: Research indicates a possible reduction in LDL cholesterol and serum triglycerides, commonly known as “bad cholesterol.”
It’s impressive for a single molecule. But wait until you see its little sister…
Turkesterone
Turkesterone, although less studied, presents potentially more pronounced effects:
Here’s what we know about turkesterone:
- Increased anabolic effect: Some in vitro studies suggest a superior ability to stimulate protein synthesis compared to ecdysterone.
- Estrogen receptor activator: It allows a better ratio between testosterone and estrogen.
- Immune modulation: Preliminary research indicates a possible immunostimulant effect.
- Glycemic regulation: Like ecdysterone, it could improve insulin sensitivity, but potentially with greater efficacy.
- Neuroprotection: Some studies suggest neuroprotective properties, although the exact mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
Turkesterone seems even more promising, but it is important to keep in mind that there is even less research on it than on ecdysterone.
So, are you tempted to try? Before rushing in, let’s see if these effects really translate into concrete results for your health and fitness.
Do these molecules deliver on their promises in terms of health and athletic performance?
You are probably wondering if these substances really make a difference when it comes to your health and gym performance? Let’s find out together!
Ecdysterone
Here’s what studies tell us:
- Muscle gain: A 2019 study showed that athletes taking ecdysterone gained more muscle mass than those taking a placebo.
- Increased strength: The same study noted a significant improvement in strength, particularly in bench press.
- Endurance: Some users report better endurance, although scientific evidence is still limited.
- Metabolic health: Animal studies suggest benefits for blood sugar control, cholesterol, and bone health. Yet to be confirmed in humans!
Turkesterone
Turkesterone is the mysterious side of ecdysteroids. We know less about it, but what we do know is intriguing:
- Anabolic potential: Some studies suggest it could be even more effective than ecdysterone for muscle growth.
- Recovery: Users report better recovery after training. Handy for increasing training volume.
- Stress and immunity: It could help better manage stress and boost the immune system. Ideal for athletes pushing their limits!

Should we worry about the side effects of ecdysterone and turkesterone?
Good news: ecdysterone and turkesterone seem to behave quite well in our bodies. Available studies have not reported major side effects.
Positive point: unlike traditional anabolic steroids, these molecules do not seem to disrupt your hormonal balance. Your testosterone can rest easy!
However, let’s remain cautious. Some users have reported minor effects such as mild nausea or headaches, but it’s rather rare. And for turkesterone, we have even less hindsight, so caution is advised.
Comparative table Ecdysterone VS Turkesterone
Do you want a quick summary to compare these two molecules? No problem, I’ve got what you need! Here’s a table that summarizes the main differences between ecdysterone and turkesterone. It’s a bit like a quick revision sheet, but for super-molecules!
| Characteristic | Ecdysterone | Turkesterone |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular structure | 6 hydroxyl groups | 7 hydroxyl groups |
| Main source | Cyanotis arachnoideas | Ajuga turkestanica |
| Anabolic effect | Moderate to strong | Potentially stronger |
| Available research | Numerous | Limited |
| Known side effects | Minimal | Little known, probably minimal |

The power of DIX ecdysteroids: Turkesterone and Ecdysterone
At DIX, we are proud to offer you two of the most promising ecdysteroids to enhance your performance and muscle development: Turkesterone and Ecdysterone.
Our Turkesterone, standardized at 25%, and our Ecdysterone at 98%, are the result of cutting-edge extraction and filtration processes.
To maximize their absorption, we have combined them with Hydroxypropyl-Cyclodextrin Complex and black pepper extract, doubling their bioavailability.
With 700 mg per capsule, you benefit from an optimal concentration to stimulate protein synthesis, increase muscle fiber density, and improve your adaptation to metabolic stress.
Whether you choose Turkesterone, Ecdysterone, or combine them for even more impressive results, you can count on the superior quality and effectiveness of our products, lab-tested for your peace of mind.