Do testosterone boosters work?

No, most non-prescription testosterone boosters — supplements marketed to raise testosterone levels naturally — do not work as advertised, and most are not backed by strong clinical evidence. Some of these testosterone supplements may even contain undisclosed ingredients that pose health risks. Here is what to know before buying one.

Most non-prescription testosterone boosters do not reliably increase testosterone levels, according to current research.

A review of 52 studies on 27 different testosterone booster ingredients found that most failed to raise testosterone compared with a placebo. While some ingredients, such as tongkat ali and ashwagandha, have shown promise in some studies, the evidence remains limited and inconsistent — meaning most testosterone boosters are unlikely to be worth the cost for most people.

In addition, many testosterone boosters combine multiple ingredients that have not been studied together, making it difficult to assess whether a particular product is effective or safe.

Consider one analysis of 50 popular testosterone boosters containing 109 different ingredients, which found that 90% claimed to boost testosterone, but only about 25% contained ingredients with data supporting that claim. Roughly 10% contained ingredients with data suggesting they could lower testosterone, and about 62% had no published data on their effect on testosterone.

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Whether there are any benefits of testosterone boosters depends on their ingredients. While most non-prescription testosterone boosters are not a reliable treatment for low testosterone, some of the herbs, vitamins, and minerals have been studied for possible effects on testosterone levels. 

Here are some natural testosterone booster ingredients, along with what the current research shows about each:

• DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. One very small study suggests that coupling exercise with a DHEA supplement may support free testosterone levels. 

• Fenugreek: A few small studies suggest that taking fenugreek positively affects testosterone, while others show no effect.

• D-aspartic acid: This is an amino acid naturally present in the body. Aspartic acid has been found to support testosterone levels in animal studies, though data in humans is limited and inconsistent.

• Tribulus terrestris: This Ayurvedic herb is often marketed as a workout supplement that can increase testosterone. So far, there is limited scientific evidence to suggest this herb affects hormone levels.

• Ashwagandha: This medicinal herb is often described as an adaptogen — a word used for herbs thought to help the body respond to stress. Chronic stress can affect hormone levels, and in theory, ashwagandha may help support testosterone production as a result. Some studies have reported increases in testosterone in certain groups of men. However, the studies have been relatively small, and more research is needed to determine whether the effect is clinically meaningful.

• Tongkat ali: Some research shows that tongkat ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, may increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone, but evidence is limited.

Take fenugreek and DHEA — two of the better-studied ingredients, and a good example of how mixed this evidence really is. In one 12-week trial of 120 men ages 43 to 70, a standardized fenugreek extract taken daily raised testosterone levels and improved sexual function compared with placebo. DHEA's effect is narrower: in one small trial, a single 50 mg dose taken the night before high-intensity exercise stopped free testosterone from dipping after the workout in middle-aged men.

Another class of testosterone boosters is common in health food stores. Many of these products promise muscle growth and increased testosterone, offering so-called "anabolic" and "prohormone" effects, but there is little to no evidence these products work. Some illegally contain steroids or steroid-like substances and have been linked to liver and kidney injury.

As with many supplements, testosterone boosters carry risks that may outweigh their potential benefits. Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements, including testosterone boosters, generally are not reviewed or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration( FDA) for safety and effectiveness before they are sold..

In addition, experimenting with anabolic boosters or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) with or without a prescription could actually suppress the body's natural testosterone production — the opposite of what was intended.

Some products marketed as testosterone boosters contain "prohormones" that mimic testosterone. Because prohormones act like testosterone in the body, they signal the brain to reduce its own testosterone production. 

In short, there is limited evidence that testosterone boosters work for most people, and these products can carry risks. Prohormones, anabolic steroids, and other steroid-like compounds in particular have been linked to side effects such as acne, mood problems, gynecomastia, liver or kidney damage, and infertility.

Certain lifestyle changes may help increase testosterone. Healthy habits can support your overall health, and weight loss may also help raise testosterone levels in men with overweight or obesity.

• Eating a balanced diet

• Getting regular exercise

• Cutting back on alcohol

• Getting enough quality sleep 

For men with overweight or obesity, losing excess body fat can be particularly effective. Research shows that weight loss is associated with increases in testosterone, especially in men with lower levels to begin with.

Testosterone replacement therapy is also an option for some men. This is an FDA-approved treatment for certain men with confirmed testosterone deficiency. It provides prescription testosterone and is available in several forms:

• Topical gels (AndroGel, Testim, and Fortesta)

• Testosterone solutions (applied to the underarm)

• Testosterone injections

• Implanted testosterone pellets (Testopel)

• Oral testosterone tablets (Jatenzo, Tlando, and Kyzatrex)

If your testosterone levels are normal, there is no established medical benefit to taking a supplement or TRT  simply to raise them. If you have symptoms of low testosterone, a healthcare provider can determine whether you have testosterone deficiency, identify possible underlying causes, and recommend appropriate treatment.

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Testosterone boosters may seem appealing because they are available without a prescription and marketed to increase testosterone levels naturally. But do testosterone boosters work? It is unlikely. Here is what we know:

• Most non-prescription testosterone boosters are not backed by strong clinical evidence and are unlikely to meaningfully increase testosterone levels. While a few ingredients have shown promise, the research remains limited and inconsistent.

• Some testosterone boosters may contain undisclosed ingredients that could pose serious health risks. Products containing prohormones or anabolic compounds could suppress the body's natural testosterone production and increase the risk of side effects.

• If you have symptoms of low testosterone, do not rely on supplements. A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and use blood tests to determine whether you have testosterone deficiency and recommend appropriate treatment.

• Lifestyle changes  may help when low testosterone is related to factors such as excess weight. Prescription TRT is an evidence-based treatment for certain men with confirmed testosterone deficiency.