Evidence supporting the use of: DHEA
For the body system: Estrogen
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to both androgens and estrogens, including estradiol. Its use to support the estrogen system is based on its biochemical role in the endogenous synthesis of estrogen. Several studies have investigated DHEA supplementation, particularly in postmenopausal women and women with diminished ovarian reserve, as a means to potentially increase estrogen levels and improve related symptoms or reproductive outcomes. Some randomized controlled trials and observational studies have shown that DHEA supplementation can modestly raise serum estrogen levels and may improve fertility outcomes in certain subgroups, such as women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, the overall quality and consistency of evidence are variable, with some studies showing minimal benefit and others raising concerns about adverse effects or lack of long-term safety data. Major clinical guidelines do not currently recommend DHEA as a standard therapy for estrogen deficiency or menopause, citing insufficient evidence. In summary, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some supportive clinical data, the evidence base is limited and inconsistent, justifying a moderate rating.
Other ingredients that support Estrogen
7-hydroxymatairesinol (HMR)black cohosh
chaste tree
d-glucarate
daidzin
dandelion
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
DIM (diindolylmethane)
dong quai root
fennel
flaxseed
genistein
genistin
ginseng
HMR lignan
hops
indole-3-carbinol
licorice root
lignans
maca
sage
secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
soybean
spearmint leaf
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
red clover
anise
yarrow
dioscorea
Equol (proprietary)
soy isoflavones
27-deoxyactein
4-Hydroxyandrostenedione
8-Prenylnaringenin
Agnuside
Anti-aromatase
Brassica
Bugbane
biochanin
Barbasco
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cruciferous
Casticin
Coumesterol
DHEA
Daidzein
Dong Quai
Diosgenin
Isoflavones
Soy Protein