Fitoekdysony

Fitoekdysony, or phytoecdysteroids, are a class of plant-derived steroid compounds that resemble the insect molting hormone ecdysone. They occur in a wide range of plant species and are believed to function in plants as deterrents against herbivores or as signaling molecules. The most studied member is 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-HE); other notable examples include ecdysterone and turkesterone.

Common dietary sources include spinach, quinoa, and certain herbs and roots such as Rhaponticum carthamoides (maral root) and Ajuga species. In plants, these compounds can accumulate in leaves, seeds, or roots depending on species.

Research on phytoecdysteroids in humans has focused on potential effects on muscle mass and strength in the context of resistance training. Some small studies reported modest improvements, but evidence is limited and methods vary; overall, no phytoecdysteroid product is approved as a treatment for any medical condition, and results are not consistently replicated.

Safety and regulation vary by country. As dietary supplements, phytoecdysteroids are sold widely, but product content and purity are not uniformly controlled. Potential side effects are not well characterized, and long-term safety data are limited. Users should consult healthcare professionals before use, particularly in pregnancy, with medications, or in chronic illness.