Urtica Dioica

Urtica Dioica is the classy name for stinging nettle but will this name become synonymous with testosterone boosting? Some experts are suggesting that it might.

What is Urtica Dioica?

Urtica Dioica has been used in cultural medicine and food for thousands of years. Once the irritating agents are cooked out, Urtica Dioica is a dish rich in vitamins and minerals. For a plant, it’s a surprisingly good source of protein. But while it was eaten in years past, today Urtica Dioica is being used to help bodybuilders experience more anabolic effects.

Testosterone Boosting

Originally, Urtica Dioica was thought to be an aromatase inhibitor. It was assumed that it blocked enzymes from converting androgen hormones into estrogen, thus preserving testosterone. But in light of some recent research, more and more experts are not agreeing with this explanation. Instead, many have begun attributing its testosterone boosting ability to the fact that it contains 3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran.

3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran is a lignan that has been observed to bind and preoccupy a glycoprotein called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). SHBG is a failsafe the body uses to limit the amount of hormone activity in the body. SHBG actually binds itself to estrogen and testosterone to limit how much of each hormone can be used by the body at one time. 3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran has been proven to “distract” SHBG, thereby freeing up more testosterone the body can use to create anabolic responses.

Side Effects

If 3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran increases levels of free testosterone, it probably also raises levels of free estrogen. When estrogen levels are too high in men, side effects like man-breasts, acne, and water retention can occur.

Conclusion

Due to its 3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran content, Urtica Dioica will be effective in raising levels of free testosterone. Thus it has great application for helping athletes unlock better performance and trigger superior gains in muscle mass in strength. If you do use Urtica Dioica, it may be best to make sure you use it with an aromatase inhibitor to ensure estrogen levels don’t begin to climb.