Malabar Spinach
Basella alba (Malabar Spinach) is a leafy green vegetable consumed in tropical regions, also studied in combination with Hibiscus macranthus for testosterone and fertility effects. One rat study showed testosterone increase with the Basella + Hibiscus combination, and Basella appeared more active. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - only ONE rat study on testosterone, and it used a combination. Cannot isolate Basella's effects from available research. The vegetable itself is nutritious (high in vitamins A, C, and iron). No established hormonal use in humans.
Quick Answer
What it is
Basella alba (Malabar Spinach) is a leafy green vegetable consumed in tropical regions, also studied in combination with Hibiscus macranthus for testosterone and fertility effects. One rat study showed testosterone increase with the Basella + Hibiscus combination, and Basella appeared more active.
Key findings
- Grade D: Testosterone
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Malabar Spinach
Quick Facts: Malabar Spinach
- Best Evidence:Grade D
- Conditions Studied:0
- Research Outcomes:1
Detailed Outcomes
Research Citations (1)
You Might Also Like
L-Carnitine
1 shared outcome · 558 outcomes
L-carnitine can relieve leg pain in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and treat some aspects of metabolic syndrome. Although it’s often also used for fat loss, its effectiveness for that is questionable.
Curcumin
1 shared outcome · 502 outcomes
Curcumin is the primary bioactive substance in turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate symptoms of depression as well as improve pain and function in people with osteoarthritis.
Fish Oil
1 shared outcome · 448 outcomes
Fish oil is a mix of mostly EPA and DHA derived from fatty fish. It reduces triglycerides, but does not seem to affect the rate of cardiovascular events. It appears to reduce the symptoms of depression and improve some painful, inflammatory conditions.
Creatine
1 shared outcome · 433 outcomes
Creatine is among the most well-studied and effective supplements for improving exercise performance. It does this mainly by increasing energy availability during high-intensity activity. Creatine may also provide cognitive and mental health benefits in some contexts.
Saffron
1 shared outcome · 390 outcomes
Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.
Ashwagandha
1 shared outcome · 318 outcomes
Ashwagandha has been called the king of Ayurvedic herbs. It’s best known for reducing stress and anxiety. It may also modestly enhance various aspects of physical performance, increase testosterone levels, and improve reproductive health, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Resveratrol
1 shared outcome · 318 outcomes
Resveratrol is a bioactive molecule found in plant sources such as grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and, famously, red wine. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular function, glycemic control, and lipid metabolism. Although it’s promoted for lifespan extension, there’s no evidence for this in humans and limited evidence in animals.
Vitamin D
1 shared outcome · 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.