Citable fact
«Laxogenin» — evidence level C. Dosage: The dose has not been established: there are no controlled human studies, so no justified amounts exist. Source: PMID 32962190, permanent link to the source in the list below.
How it works
A plant steroidal saponin (5-alpha-hydroxy laxogenin) from smilax. It is marketed as a “natural anabolic”, but there are no data on effects on muscle protein synthesis in humans: the proposed mechanisms have been transferred from cell and animal models.
Dosage and intake
The dose has not been established: there are no controlled human studies, so no justified amounts exist.
There are no recommendations on the time of intake because of the absence of clinical data.
Forms
Laxogenin capsules or powder, often in mixes with other “natural anabolics”. The content of the active substance is not independently controlled.
What is confirmed
- No convincing beneficial effects in humans have been described
- It belongs to plant saponins, which are usually tolerated well, but this has not been systematically tested
Adverse effects and limitations
- There are no controlled human studies: neither the effect nor the safety has been established
- Reviews of supplements for body composition classify such products as unproven
- For “natural anabolics”, contamination with prohibited steroids is documented
- There are no data on long-term safety or effects on hormonal status
Interactions
- There are no data on interactions with medications and supplements
Who must not use it
- Under 18 years: Not recommended: there are no safety data.
- Pregnancy and lactation: Not recommended: there are no safety data for pregnancy and lactation.
- participation in competitions under doping control
- history of liver disease
- use of hormonal drugs
Sources
- Current Evidence to Propose Different Food Supplements for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Review · Watanabe M, Risi R, Masi D · Nutrients, 2020 · PMID 32962190
- Essential Features of Third-Party Certification Programs for Dietary Supplements: A Consensus Statement · Eichner AK, Coyles J, Fedoruk M · Current sports medicine reports, 2019 · PMID 31082891
- Adulteration of Sports Supplements with Anabolic Steroids-From Innocent Athlete to Vicious Cheater · Puscasiu D, Flangea C, Vlad D · Nutrients, 2025 · PMID 41097223
See also
Open in the app
This page holds reference data with links to studies. In the app you can calculate calories and macros for your goal, build a personal supplement stack and review weekly training volume.