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An RCT of 120 healthy men aged 43-70 found that 600mg/day of fenugreek extract (Testofen) significantly increased free testosterone by 46% and total testosterone by 6.57% after 12 weeks, with concurrent improvements in libido and sexual function scores (p < 0.01).
| Study | Participants | Finding | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
Physiological Aspects of Male Libido Enhanced by Standardized Trigonella foenum-graecum Extract and Mineral Formulation Steels E, Rao A, Vitetta L — Phytotherapy Research (2011) | 60 | Fenugreek extract 600mg/day significantly improved self-rated sexual arousal, energy, and stamina compared to placebo after 6 weeks | Moderate |
Effects of a purported aromatase and 5α-reductase inhibitor on hormone profiles in college-age men Wilborn C, Taylor L, Poole C, Foster C, Willoughby D, Kreider R — International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism (2010) | 30 | Fenugreek extract combined with resistance training significantly increased bioavailable testosterone and reduced body fat percentage | Moderate |
For testosterone and libido support, take 600mg of standardized fenugreek extract (Testofen, standardized to 50% fenusides) daily with a meal. Effects on libido may be noticed within 4-6 weeks, while testosterone changes typically reach significance at 8-12 weeks.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examining the effects of standardized fenugreek extract (Testofen) on free testosterone levels, libido, sexual function, and body composition in healthy men.
Yes. An RCT of 120 men found 600mg/day of fenugreek extract increased free testosterone by 46% after 12 weeks. The mechanism involves inhibition of aromatase (which converts testosterone to estrogen) and 5-alpha reductase. Effects are most pronounced for free (bioavailable) testosterone.
Libido improvements are often noticed within 4-6 weeks, while statistically significant testosterone increases were measured at 8-12 weeks in clinical trials. Consistent daily dosing is important, as effects build gradually through enzyme inhibition pathways.
The most studied dose is 600mg/day of standardized fenugreek extract (Testofen, standardized to 50% fenusides). Some protocols use 500mg twice daily. Take with meals to improve absorption and reduce the mild maple-syrup body odor some users experience.
Clinical trials up to 12 weeks showed no significant adverse effects on liver, kidney, or prostate (PSA) markers. Fenugreek has a long history of culinary and traditional use. Mild GI effects and a maple-like body odor are the most commonly reported side effects.
Trials have included men from age 25 to 70. The 46% free testosterone increase was seen in men aged 43-70 with age-related decline. Younger men (25-35) in resistance training studies also showed benefits for body composition and strength, though baseline testosterone was already normal.