Adaptogens

Fadogia Agrestis

Evidence: animal_plus_anecdotal

Mechanism of Action

Fadogia agrestis stem extract contains saponins and alkaloids that appear to increase luteinizing hormone (LH) release from the anterior pituitary, stimulating Leydig cell testosterone production. Animal studies suggest it may also have direct effects on testicular steroidogenic enzymes and may increase testicular weight. The saponin content may modulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse frequency. The aphrodisiac effects are likely mediated through increased testosterone and possibly direct effects on dopaminergic and nitrergic pathways.

Dosing Protocol

Standard: 400-600mg daily

Maintenance: 400mg/day

Administration: oral

Timing: Morning with food.

Duration: Cycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off (limited long-term safety data)

Notes

IMPORTANT CAVEAT: Fadogia agrestis has NO published human clinical trials as of 2024. All mechanistic and efficacy evidence comes from rat studies. Animal data showed testicular histological changes at high doses. The Huberman podcast popularized the Fadogia + Tongkat Ali stack, but the evidence base for Fadogia is dramatically weaker than Tongkat Ali. Cycle strictly, use conservative doses, monitor with bloodwork (testosterone, LH, FSH, liver enzymes). Clients should be informed of the limited evidence base. This is the most speculative compound on this list.

Stacking

  • Tongkat Ali
  • Ashwagandha
  • Boron
  • Zinc

Interactions

  • Testosterone replacement therapy [MEDIUM] — Additive androgenic effect — LH stimulation is counterproductive during exogenous testosterone use (pituitary suppressed)

Contraindications

  • Hormone-sensitive cancers
  • Testicular pathology
  • Pregnancy/lactation
  • Children/adolescents
  • Liver disease

Side Effects

  • Limited human safety data
  • Testicular toxicity at high doses in animal studies
  • Potential liver stress
  • GI discomfort
  • Insomnia

Key Papers

  • 10.1016/j.jep.2005.05.030
  • 10.1016/j.jep.2005.10.021
  • 10.4103/0973-7847.112843

Source Quality

Limited standardized extracts available. Most products use 10:1 or 20:1 stem extract. No patented or clinically validated extract equivalent to KSM-66 or LJ100 exists. Third-party heavy metal and contaminant testing is critical. Brands: Nootropics Depot (3rd party tested), Barlowe's Herbal, Double Wood. Quality varies enormously.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. BioAccelera Labs does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any compound.

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