Supplements

Can Turmeric Boost Testosterone? Science Facts

Updated On

July 1, 2024

Dr. Ben Isaacson

Facts Verified By:

Dr. Ben Isaacson

This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact-checked by experts.

Can Turmeric Boost Testosterone Levels

Turmeric, a widely popular traditional Indian spice, provides innumerable benefits to your health. Recent research has suggested turmeric may have unexpected potential benefits related to testosterone. Some studies indicate that turmeric might help boost both total and free testosterone levels, directly or indirectly.

We have reviewed the scientific literature to understand better the current evidence surrounding any relationship between turmeric and testosterone levels. While intriguing, more research is still needed before concluding. Let’s objectively examine what the research has found on this topic.

Key Takeaways

  • Turmeric and curcumin are active ingredients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Curcumin affects the biomolecules that enhance the muscle-building hormone testosterone production.
  • Turmeric can help you increase your testosterone levels.
  • You should only consume turmeric in recommended amounts to avoid adversely affecting your health.

Turmeric Health Benefits

Turmeric Health Benefits

It’s quite apparent why turmeric has been actively consumed as a spice or drank with milk or water for many years. All because of its numerous potential benefits to improve your overall health.

Historically, turmeric was used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for joint pain, digestive system, and skin disorders. Nowadays, it is promoted as a dietary supplement to help cure depression, liver diseases, allergies, or respiratory infections.

Although much research has been conducted on turmeric’s effects on our health, its working mechanism is still uncertain. We know that turmeric contains a mixture of curcuminoids with diverse, interesting biological activities. Due to curcumin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it has been found to:

  • Decrease the amount of free radicals circulation in your body by scavenging ROS.
  • Regulate blood sugar and cholesterol.
  • Cure various skin conditions.
  • Reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Improve reproductive function in males.

The Relationship Between Turmeric And Testosterone

Let’s find out how turmeric aids testosterone production, whether directly or indirectly:

Turmeric Reduces Oxidative Stress In Leydig Cells

We have come across various studies showing that increased oxidative stress within Leydig cells or testicular cells can lower your testosterone levels. Scientists have also found that consuming powerful antioxidants like turmeric can reduce oxidative stress enough to support optimal testosterone production.

In one study conducted in 2014, the effects of controlling gallic acid (Gal) with or without curcumin on testosterone production, steroid level, and sperm count were examined. The results show the concentration of testosterone in the group taking curcumin was 260 per cent higher than the control group. It shows curcumin’s capacity to reduce oxidative stress induced by gallic acid while directly increasing testosterone.

Turmeric Activates Muscle-Enhancing Vitamin D Receptors

Research indicates vitamin D regulates genes involved in testosterone production. Some studies have found the active compound curcumin in turmeric may bind to vitamin D receptors and activate gene expression, potentially increasing vitamin D absorption. This raises the possibility that turmeric could modulate testosterone levels by influencing vitamin D pathways and receptors. However, definitive conclusions cannot yet be made.

More controlled studies are needed to establish whether turmeric directly activates vitamin D receptor-mediated biological pathways related to testosterone biosynthesis. Current evidence remains preliminary but merits further investigation on the physiological links between curcumin, vitamin D signalling, and testosterone.

Turmeric Uniquely Accelerates Thermogenesis

You know, fat loss boosts testosterone production, and two important requirements for promoting effective fat loss are increased oxidation of fatty acids and energy expenditure. Turmeric or its curcumin compounds stimulate both of these processes by increasing the expression of thermogenesis. Thus helping your body burn excess fat to address low testosterone simultaneously.

Side Effects Of Turmeric

Side Effects Of Turmeric

It is confirmed that turmeric has numerous health benefits and can even support optimal Testosterone levels. But you should also be aware of the adverse effects of consuming too much of this spice. Mainly, supplements having high concentrations of curcumin can cause the following side effects:

  • If you are allergic to turmeric, it may cause abdominal pain, rash, or hives.
  • It can cause digestive issues, nausea, and headache.

Turmeric Can Interact With Prescription Drugs

Studies have proven turmeric may interact with various medications such as anticoagulants, antibiotics, etc, which can interfere with the effects of these medicines. Hence, a doctor’s recommendation is necessary before you start consuming a T-booster with a large turmeric dosage.

Final Thought

Turmeric has many positive benefits, but its overdosage can cause adverse effects. However, one thing is clear: it can support healthy testosterone levels. Conventionally, turmeric is considered safe when taken naturally, but it may have little impact on your testosterone deficiency.

That is why we recommend consuming Testosterone-boosting supplements with turmeric in optimal dosages. But exercise caution. You should not increase your daily consumption of turmeric, which can lead to undesirable consequences.