Fadogia Agrestis: Benefits, Testosterone Support, + Recovery

Takeaway

Fadogia agrestis, a traditional African herb, is now being studied for its potential to boost testosterone, libido, and athletic performance in men.

What Is Fadogia Agrestis?

Fadogia agrestis is a flowering shrubby plant in the Rubiaceae family native to Nigeria. In West African traditional medicine, it has long been used as an aphrodisiac and vitality tonic. Modern supplement formulations typically use a concentrated stem extract to deliver their purported bioactive compounds.

Benefits Of Fadogia Agrestis

Increase Testosterone

In a well-cited rodent study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology, supplementation with Fadogia agrestis for five days significantly increased serum testosterone levels in a dose-dependent manner:¹

• 18 mg/kg: 2-fold increase
• 50 mg/kg: 3-fold increase
• 100 mg/kg: 6-fold increase

All tested doses also improved sexual behavior, suggesting potential libido-enhancing effects alongside hormonal support.

While these findings are preclinical, the magnitude of the testosterone increase warrants further human research.

Reproductive and Testicular Health

A follow-up study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Fadogia supplementation led to an 11–15% increase in testicular weight in rodents, a marker of enhanced reproductive tissue development.² This supports its traditional use for male fertility and sexual health.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Interestingly, Fadogia agrestis may also support athletic recovery through its anti-inflammatory properties. A study in the journal Neurophysiology showed that Fadogia, at its highest dose (200 mg/kg), was comparable to aspirin (100 mg/kg) in reducing inflammation in vivo.³

This dual-action potential—hormonal support and reduced inflammation—may be especially appealing to athletes and active individuals.

Who Might Benefit From Fadogia Agrestis?

Although human trials are still needed, preclinical research suggests that Fadogia may benefit:

• Athletes and bodybuilders aiming to support testosterone and recovery
• Men over 30 looking to maintain hormonal health and vitality
• Individuals with concerns around joint inflammation or libido

Recommended Use And Stacking

Typical supplement doses range from 300–600 mg daily. Fadogia agrestis is often stacked with other adaptogenic or testosterone-support compounds for synergistic benefits:

• Longjack (Tongkat ali): Supports libido and energy via complementary hormonal pathways
• Creatine: Enhances muscular strength, power, and lean mass gains
• ARA (Arachidonic Acid): Amplifies anabolic signaling post-training for muscle adaptation

Final Thoughts: A Natural Ingredient with Real Potential

Fadogia agrestis is an emerging botanical with encouraging preclinical evidence. While human clinical trials are needed, current findings support its potential to enhance testosterone levels, reproductive function, and recovery. As always, consult a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine.

References:

1. Yakubu, M. T., Akanji, M. A., & Oladiji, A. T. (2005). Aphrodisiac potentials of the aqueous extract of Fadogia agrestis (Schweinf. Ex Hiern) stem in male albino rats. Asian Journal of Andrology, 7(4), 399–404. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1745-7262.2005.00052.x
2. Yakubu, M. T., Akanji, M. A., & Oladiji, A. T. (2008). Effects of oral administration of aqueous extract of Fadogia agrestis stem on some testicular function indices of male rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 115(2), 288–292. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2007.10.004
3. Oyekunle, O.A., Okojie, A.K., & Udoh, U.S. (2010). Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of an extract of Fadogia agrestis in rats. Neurophysiology, 42(2), 124–129. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11062-010-9140-x