Hibiscus macranthus

Hibiscus macranthus is an African plant traditionally used for male fertility and testosterone enhancement, often combined with Basella alba. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - only one rat study exists showing testosterone increase with the combination. Extremely under-researched. NOT the same as Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle/hibiscus tea). Cannot recommend use due to complete lack of human evidence. The traditional combination with Basella alba makes isolating H. macranthus effects impossible from available research.

Quick Answer

What it is

Hibiscus macranthus is an African plant traditionally used for male fertility and testosterone enhancement, often combined with Basella alba. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - only one rat study exists showing testosterone increase with the combination.

Key findings

  • Grade D: Testosterone
  • Grade D: Spermatogenesis

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Hibiscus macranthus

Quick Facts: Hibiscus macranthus

  • Best Evidence:Grade D
  • Conditions Studied:0
  • Research Outcomes:2
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C0
D2
0 conditions · 2 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

D
Testosterone
In a rat study, the combination of H. macranthus and Basella alba aqueous extracts increased serum testosterone by 80% after 15 days (Moundipa et al., 1999). An in vitro testes slice study confirmed testosterone increases (34-60%) with the combination mixture (Moundipa et al., 2006). However, when tested alone on isolated Leydig cells, H. macranthus showed no androgenic effect and inhibited testosterone at higher concentrations, while Basella alba was the active androgenic component (Moundipa et al., 2005). The testosterone-boosting effect may be attributable to Basella alba rather than H. macranthus itself.
small↑Improves
D
Spermatogenesis
In one rat study, oral administration of the combined H. macranthus and Basella alba aqueous extract produced abundant spermatozoa in seminiferous tubule lumens from day 7, increased seminal vesicle weights after 15 days, and elevated prostatic acid phosphatase activity, suggesting anabolizing and virilizing effects (Moundipa et al., 1999). The contribution of H. macranthus specifically cannot be isolated from this combination study.
small↑Improves

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