Evidence supporting the use of: Rhaponticum carthamoides
For the health condition: Body Building

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Rhaponticum carthamoides (also known as Leuzea or Maral root) has a history of use in Eastern European and Russian traditional medicine, particularly as an adaptogen and tonic. Its use in bodybuilding is based on preliminary scientific research, primarily conducted in Russia during the Soviet era and a limited number of modern studies. The plant contains ecdysteroids, notably 20-hydroxyecdysone, which are structurally similar to androgens but function differently in the human body.

Some animal studies and small-scale human trials suggest that ecdysteroids may promote protein synthesis, improve muscle mass, and enhance physical performance without the androgenic side effects associated with anabolic steroids. For example, a 2006 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found modest increases in muscle mass and performance metrics in athletes supplementing with ecdysteroids. However, these studies tend to have small sample sizes, short durations, or methodological limitations.

While the evidence base is growing, the overall quality and quantity of data supporting Rhaponticum carthamoides for bodybuilding are limited. Most mainstream clinical guidelines and sports nutrition organizations do not endorse its use due to insufficient robust evidence. Thus, current support for its use is primarily scientific but weak, meriting a low to moderate evidence rating.

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