(P22-050-25) A Botanical Blend of Sphaeranthus indicus and Mangifera indica Extracts Elevates Testosterone Levels, Improves Grip Strength, and Enhances Sexual Function in Healthy Men

Objectives: Sphaeranthus indicus (Indian Globe Thistle) and Mangifera indica (Mango Tree) are botanicals widely used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote health. Previously, a 2:1 blend of extracts from S. indicus flower head and M. indica bark (SMI) was shown to improve muscle strength and endurance in men participating in resistance exercise training. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial assessed the efficacy of SMI on serum testosterone levels, grip strength, sexual function, and quality of life measures in healthy, recreationally active men.

Methods: Sixty healthy men, aged 40-65, with a BMI of 22-29.9 kg/m2 and testosterone levels >300 ng/dL were randomly allocated to either 325 mg SMI or placebo (PLA), consumed daily for 8 weeks. Serum total and free testosterone (TT, FT), handgrip strength (HGS), and Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire (CSFQ-14) were assessed at baseline and on days 7, 14, 28, and 56. Perceived energy levels, stress, and sleep quality were assessed via the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). Body composition was measured by DEXA, and additional hormones, including serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT), cortisol (C), and 17-β estradiol (E2), were also evaluated.

Results: TT, FT, HGS, and the total CSFQ score demonstrated significant time x treatment interactions (p < 0.001). Compared to PLA, SMI increased TT on days 14, 28, and 56 (p < 0.01); FT and HGS increased on days 28 and 56 (p < 0.05); and the total CSFQ score improved on days 14, 28, and 56 (p < 0.01). Each CSFQ domain score—pleasure, frequency, interest, arousal, and ejaculation—improved on day 56 (p < 0.05 vs PLA). SMI improved measures of energy, sleep quality, and stress as CFS, AIS, and PSS scores were greater compared to PLA on day 56 (p < 0.05). Additionally, on day 56, SMI decreased body fat and increased lean body mass compared to respective baseline values (p < 0.05) while TT: E2 and FT: C ratios improved compared to PLA (P < 0.05). Serum DHT values did not change in either group.

Conclusions: Daily consumption of 325 mg SMI for two weeks improved serum testosterone levels and sexual function in healthy men. Over eight weeks, SMI supplementation also improved handgrip strength, body composition, hormone ratios, and measures of perceived energy, stress, and sleep.

Funding Sources: Laila Nutraceuticals, Vijayawada, India.