Cyanotis Vaga Extract

• Muscle Preservation
• Protein Synthesis Support
• Metabolic Enhancement

• Recovery Acceleration
• Glucose Metabolism Support
• Stress Adaptation
• Nitrogen Retention
• Joint Health Support

Estrogen receptor-beta (ER-β) signaling pathway, Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway, Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling cascade, p70 S6 kinase (p70S6K) activation pathway, Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) translocation pathway, Ubiquitin-proteasome proteolytic pathway (inhibition), Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) pathway, Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis modulation, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway, Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant response pathway

The optimal dosage of Cyanotis vaga extract varies depending on the standardization level, specific goals, and individual factors. For extracts standardized to 95% beta-ecdysterone (the most common commercial form), typical effective dosages range from 250-1,000 mg daily. Lower doses (250-500 mg) may provide mild benefits for general health and recovery, while higher doses (500-1,000 mg) are typically used for more significant anabolic effects and performance enhancement. Some research suggests that dosages should be scaled to body weight, with approximately 5-10 mg of beta-ecdysterone per kg of body weight daily for optimal effects.

It’s important to note that product potency varies significantly based on extraction methods and standardization, making precise dosage recommendations challenging. Most clinical studies showing significant benefits have used standardized extracts with verified beta-ecdysterone content.

Time Of Day: For general use, can be taken at any time of day. For performance enhancement, many users take a dose approximately 60-90 minutes before training. For recovery support, taking a dose post-workout and/or before bed may be beneficial.

Relation To Meals: Can be taken with or without food. Some research suggests taking with meals containing protein may enhance the anabolic effects through synergistic mechanisms. Taking with a small amount of fat may potentially improve absorption of the fat-soluble components.

Cycling Recommendations: Many practitioners recommend cycling Cyanotis vaga extract (e.g., 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off) to prevent potential adaptation or tolerance, though scientific evidence for this approach is limited. Some users report maintained benefits with continuous use for up to 16 weeks.

Pregnant Women: Not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data and theoretical concerns about hormonal effects.

Breastfeeding Women: Not recommended during breastfeeding due to limited safety data and unknown effects on infant.

Individuals With Hormone-sensitive Conditions: Should consult healthcare provider before use due to potential interactions with estrogen receptor pathways, though these effects appear to be tissue-selective with minimal impact on reproductive tissues.

Individuals With Diabetes: May potentially affect blood glucose levels; monitor blood glucose if using Cyanotis vaga extract with diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Individuals With Liver Conditions: Should consult healthcare provider before use, as the liver plays a role in metabolism of ecdysteroids.

Standardized Extract: Most common and well-studied form; look for products standardized to beta-ecdysterone content (typically 95%) for consistent dosing.

Cyclodextrin Complexes: Some premium products use cyclodextrin technology to enhance bioavailability; these may be effective at somewhat lower doses.

Liposomal Formulations: Emerging delivery system that may enhance absorption; limited specific research for Cyanotis vaga compounds.

Combination Products: Often included in sports nutrition formulas; ensure adequate dosing of beta-ecdysterone when using combination products.

Beta Ecdysterone Content: Products should be standardized for beta-ecdysterone (20-hydroxyecdysone) content, typically at 95% for high-quality extracts.

Extraction Method: Cold extraction methods may preserve a broader spectrum of compounds compared to heat-based extraction.

Plant Part Variations: Root extracts typically contain higher concentrations of ecdysteroids than aerial parts.

Geographical Variations: Cyanotis vaga from different regions may have different phytochemical profiles, though this is less well-characterized than for some other botanicals.

Anabolic Effects: Threshold effect appears to begin around 250-300 mg of standardized extract daily, with potentially greater effects at higher doses up to approximately 1,000 mg daily, after which returns may diminish.

Adaptogenic Effects: May be achieved at lower doses (250-500 mg daily) than required for significant anabolic effects.

Tolerance Development: Limited evidence regarding potential tolerance development with long-term use. Some anecdotal reports suggest diminishing effects over time, leading to recommendations for cycling, though scientific evidence is lacking.

Beta-ecdysterone and other ecdysteroids from Cyanotis vaga extract demonstrate moderate oral bioavailability, with estimates ranging from 10-30% for standard formulations. The relatively large molecular size and polar nature of ecdysteroids contribute to their limited passive absorption across intestinal membranes. Absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine, with some evidence suggesting active transport mechanisms may be involved. The lipophilic nature of the steroid backbone balanced against the hydrophilic hydroxyl groups creates a compound with challenging absorption characteristics.

Peak plasma concentrations typically occur within 1-3 hours after oral ingestion, though this can vary based on formulation, dosage, and individual factors. Enhanced delivery systems such as cyclodextrin complexes or liposomal formulations may significantly improve bioavailability, potentially increasing absorption rates to 40-60%.

Optimal Timing: For general use, timing is not critical. For performance enhancement, taking 60-90 minutes before exercise may align peak plasma levels with training. For recovery support, taking immediately post-workout may be beneficial. For maximum anabolic effects, dividing the daily dose into 2-3 administrations may maintain more consistent plasma levels.

Empty Stomach Vs With Food: Taking with food, particularly meals containing moderate fat content, may enhance absorption of beta-ecdysterone. However, the presence of certain dietary components may potentially interfere with absorption. A compromise approach is taking with a small, easily digestible meal or protein shake.

Consistency Importance: Regular, consistent use appears to be more important than precise timing for most applications, as many of the beneficial effects develop gradually through cumulative action rather than acute effects.

Primary Metabolic Pathways: Beta-ecdysterone undergoes phase I and phase II metabolism in the liver, including hydroxylation, conjugation with glucuronic acid or sulfate, and potential dehydroxylation. Some metabolism may also occur via intestinal bacteria before absorption. The specific cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in beta-ecdysterone metabolism are not fully characterized, though CYP3A4 may play a role based on structural similarities to other steroid compounds.

Half Life: The plasma half-life of beta-ecdysterone is estimated to be 4-9 hours based on limited pharmacokinetic studies. This relatively short half-life supports the practice of divided daily dosing for maintaining more consistent plasma levels.

Elimination Routes: Metabolites are primarily excreted through the kidneys in urine, with some elimination through bile and feces. The relative contribution of these elimination routes may vary based on individual factors and specific metabolites.

Standard Extract: Moderate bioavailability (10-30%) with conventional oral administration; absorption limited by molecular size and polarity.

Cyclodextrin Complex: Significantly enhanced bioavailability (potentially 30-60%) due to improved solubility and membrane permeability; currently considered the premium delivery form.

Liposomal Formulation: Potentially enhanced bioavailability through improved membrane interaction and potential endocytosis; limited commercial availability and specific research.

Phytosome Complex: Potentially enhanced bioavailability through improved membrane compatibility; limited commercial availability and specific research.

Hepatic Processing: Beta-ecdysterone undergoes significant first-pass metabolism in the liver, which contributes to its moderate oral bioavailability. Hepatic enzymes may convert beta-ecdysterone to various metabolites, some of which may retain biological activity.

Intestinal Metabolism: Some metabolism may occur in intestinal cells and via gut microbiota before systemic absorption, potentially converting beta-ecdysterone to metabolites with altered bioavailability and activity profiles.

Muscle Tissue: Some evidence suggests that beta-ecdysterone may concentrate in skeletal muscle tissue, which would be consistent with its pronounced effects on muscle protein synthesis and growth. However, specific tissue distribution data in humans is limited.

Liver: As a major site of metabolism, the liver likely maintains significant concentrations of beta-ecdysterone and its metabolites during the absorption and elimination phases.

Kidney: As a major elimination route, the kidneys are exposed to beta-ecdysterone and its metabolites, though specific tissue concentration data is limited.

Adipose Tissue: Limited evidence regarding distribution to adipose tissue; the moderate lipophilicity of the steroid backbone suggests some potential for adipose distribution, though likely less than more lipophilic steroids.

Established Upper Limit: No officially established upper limit

Research Based Recommendation: Most studies have used doses up to 1,000 mg daily of standardized extract (95% beta-ecdysterone) without significant adverse effects in healthy individuals. Single doses above 1,500 mg have limited research support and may potentially increase the risk of side effects without proportional benefits. Long-term safety of doses above 1,000 mg daily has not been well-established.

Toxicity Concerns: Acute toxicity is extremely low based on animal studies, with LD50 values suggesting a very wide safety margin. No significant toxicity concerns have been identified in available research at recommended doses.

Known Risks: No significant long-term risks have been identified in available research for healthy individuals at recommended doses. Animal studies suggest good safety with extended use.

Monitoring Recommendations: No specific monitoring is typically required for general use; individuals with pre-existing conditions (particularly hormone-sensitive conditions, diabetes, or liver issues) should monitor relevant parameters

Longest Studied Duration: Clinical studies have typically been short to moderate-term (up to 12 weeks); long-term safety data beyond this period is limited, though traditional use of ecdysteroid-containing plants in some cultures suggests safety with extended use

Pediatric: Not recommended for children or adolescents unless specifically directed by healthcare provider

Geriatric: Limited specific data in elderly populations; start with lower doses and monitor for side effects or interactions with medications; may potentially offer benefits for age-related muscle loss

Hepatic Impairment: Limited data; use with caution due to liver’s role in metabolism of ecdysteroids

Renal Impairment: Limited data; use with caution due to renal elimination of metabolites

Common Allergic Reactions: Extremely rare; may include skin rash, itching, respiratory symptoms in very rare cases

Cross Reactivity: No well-established cross-reactivities; theoretical potential for cross-reactivity with other plants in the Commelinaceae family

Testing Recommendations: No specific testing protocols established; standard allergy evaluation if reaction is suspected

No significant withdrawal effects have been reported; discontinuation does not typically cause adverse symptoms

Symptoms: Limited data on overdose; may potentially include enhanced versions of reported side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, or sleep disturbances

Management: Supportive care; symptoms typically resolve without specific treatment

Reported Cases: No documented cases of significant overdose in humans; animal studies suggest very high safety margin

With Other Supplements: Generally safe with most supplements; caution with those affecting hormone pathways or glucose metabolism

With Foods: No significant food interactions documented; may be taken with or without food

With Exercise: Appears particularly beneficial in combination with resistance exercise; no specific safety concerns identified

Reported Adverse Events: Very few reported adverse events; primarily mild gastrointestinal complaints and occasional reports of headache

Regulatory Actions: No significant regulatory actions specifically targeting Cyanotis vaga extract have been documented in major markets

Population Level Data: Limited systematic post-marketing surveillance data available

Vs Anabolic Steroids: Significantly better safety profile than anabolic-androgenic steroids, with no reported liver toxicity, cardiovascular effects, hormonal disruption, or other serious adverse effects associated with anabolic steroids

Vs Other Performance Enhancers: Generally favorable safety profile compared to many other performance-enhancing supplements, with fewer reported side effects and drug interactions

Vs Other Adaptogens: Comparable safety profile to other well-studied adaptogenic herbs, with possibly fewer reported side effects than some (e.g., fewer stimulant effects than certain adaptogens)

Doping Considerations: Not currently on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List, though some researchers have suggested it could potentially be considered for inclusion due to its anabolic effects

Testing Detection: Not typically included in standard anti-doping tests; specialized testing would be required to detect beta-ecdysterone or its metabolites

Regulatory Status In Sports: Legal for use in most sporting organizations, though regulations may change as research evolves

Classification: Cyanotis vaga extract is regulated as a dietary supplement ingredient in the United States under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. It is not approved as a drug for any specific medical condition.

Approved Claims: No specific health claims for Cyanotis vaga extract have been approved by the FDA. As with other dietary supplements, manufacturers are permitted to make structure/function claims (e.g., ‘supports muscle development’ or ‘may enhance exercise performance’) but not disease claims (e.g., ‘treats muscle wasting disease’ or ‘cures hormonal deficiencies’).

Labeling Requirements: Must be labeled as a dietary supplement; must include standard Supplement Facts panel; cannot make disease treatment or prevention claims; must include the standard FDA disclaimer: ‘These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.’

Regulatory Actions: No significant FDA regulatory actions specifically targeting Cyanotis vaga extract have been documented. The FDA has issued general guidance on dietary supplement ingredients regarding proper identification, good manufacturing practices, and avoidance of disease claims.

Wada Status: Not currently included on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List. However, following research published in 2019 suggesting anabolic effects comparable to some prohibited substances, there has been discussion about potential future consideration for the prohibited list.

Monitoring Program: Not currently on WADA’s Monitoring Program, which tracks substances that are not prohibited but are being monitored to detect patterns of misuse in sport.

Testing Detection: Not typically included in standard anti-doping tests; specialized testing would be required to detect beta-ecdysterone or its metabolites.

Sports Organization Policies: No major sports organizations have implemented specific policies regarding Cyanotis vaga extract or beta-ecdysterone beyond general adherence to WADA regulations.

Completed Trials: Limited number of clinical trials specifically examining Cyanotis vaga extract; more research has examined beta-ecdysterone from various sources.

Ongoing Trials: Limited information available on current clinical trials specifically examining Cyanotis vaga extract.

Research Classification: Currently considered investigational for specific health conditions; more research needed to establish definitive clinical efficacy for most applications.

Global Availability: Available as a non-prescription dietary supplement in most countries where dietary supplements are regulated.

Medical Supervision Requirements: No specific medical supervision requirements for general use, though consultation with healthcare providers is recommended for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications.

Sports Doping Regulations: While not currently prohibited, the 2019 study by Isenmann et al. suggested that beta-ecdysterone’s anabolic potency warranted consideration for inclusion on the WADA Prohibited List. Athletes should be aware of this ongoing regulatory consideration and the potential for future changes in status.

Military Regulations: No specific military regulations targeting Cyanotis vaga extract have been documented. Military personnel are generally subject to the same anti-doping regulations as other athletes when participating in regulated competitions.

Quality Standards: No Cyanotis vaga-specific mandatory quality standards in most jurisdictions beyond general dietary supplement Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). Voluntary standards may be followed by quality-focused manufacturers.

Testing Requirements: No specific mandatory testing requirements beyond general dietary supplement requirements for identity, purity, strength, and composition.

Emerging Regulations: Potential consideration for sports anti-doping regulations based on research demonstrating significant anabolic effects. Increasing scrutiny of dietary supplement quality and safety globally may lead to enhanced requirements for testing and documentation.

Potential Changes: Possible future consideration for inclusion on the WADA Prohibited List or Monitoring Program. As research on specific applications advances, more specific regulatory guidance may emerge regarding labeling or claims.

Advocacy Positions: Industry groups generally advocate for maintaining current regulatory framework for botanical supplements while promoting voluntary quality standards. Some sports nutrition researchers have suggested that the anabolic potency of beta-ecdysterone warrants consideration for anti-doping regulation.

European Union: Not specifically listed in the EU Novel Food Catalogue. The regulatory status as a novel food requiring authorization before marketing in the EU is not clearly established and may depend on demonstration of significant history of consumption before May 15, 1997.

United Kingdom: Similar to EU status; regulatory status as a novel food not clearly established.

Other Regions: Novel food regulations vary by country; specific status of Cyanotis vaga extract not well-documented in most jurisdictions.

Customs Classification: Typically classified under Harmonized System (HS) codes for plant extracts or food supplement ingredients.

Import Restrictions: Subject to general dietary supplement import regulations in most countries; no widespread specific restrictions for Cyanotis vaga extract have been identified.

Documentation Requirements: Standard documentation for botanical ingredients, including Certificate of Analysis, specification sheets, and in some cases, Free Sale Certificates.

Standardization Claims: Products typically claim standardization to beta-ecdysterone content, usually 95% for premium products. These standardization parameters are not universally regulated and may vary between manufacturers.

Source Identification: Products may identify the specific plant source (Cyanotis vaga or Cyanotis arachnoidea) or may use more generic terms like ‘ecdysterone’ or ‘beta-ecdysterone’ without specifying the source.

Delivery Technology Claims: Premium products may highlight advanced delivery technologies like cyclodextrin complexation. These claims are generally not specifically regulated beyond general truth-in-advertising requirements.

Warning Statements: No mandatory warning statements specific to Cyanotis vaga extract in most jurisdictions, though general supplement cautions (e.g., ‘Consult healthcare provider before use if pregnant or nursing’) typically apply.

Medium to High

Standard Extract: $1.50-$3.00 per day (based on 500-1,000 mg of 95% beta-ecdysterone extract daily)

Cyclodextrin Complex: $2.50-$5.00 per day (for premium formulations with enhanced bioavailability)

Bulk Powder: $1.00-$2.00 per day (when purchased in larger quantities)

Combination Products: $2.00-$4.00 per day (for products combining Cyanotis vaga extract with synergistic ingredients)

Cost Effectiveness Rating: 3 out of 5

Justification: Cyanotis vaga extract offers moderate value compared to other performance-enhancing supplements. While more expensive than basic supplements like creatine or protein, it provides relatively unique benefits through a mechanism not available from most other natural supplements. The scientific evidence for anabolic effects is stronger than for many botanical supplements, potentially justifying the higher cost for those specifically seeking natural muscle-building support. However, the significant variation in product quality and active compound content means that value can vary substantially between products, with premium standardized extracts and advanced delivery systems typically offering better value despite higher cost.

Comparison To Alternatives: More expensive than mainstream muscle-building supplements like creatine (approximately 3-5 times the cost), but significantly less expensive than pharmaceutical anabolic agents or peptides. Comparable in cost to other specialty botanical performance enhancers like Tongkat Ali or premium adaptogens. For the specific mechanism of non-hormonal anabolic support, few direct natural alternatives exist, potentially justifying the premium price for this unique benefit profile.

Price Trends: Prices have remained relatively stable over the past 5 years, with premium products (particularly those with enhanced delivery systems) commanding price premiums of 50-100% over basic extracts. Growing interest following the 2019 research publication has increased demand but has also attracted more manufacturers to the market, helping maintain price stability.

Supply Chain Considerations: Limited number of quality raw material suppliers, primarily in China, can affect pricing and availability. Extraction and standardization processes add significant cost compared to simple botanical preparations. Advanced delivery technologies like cyclodextrin complexation add further to production costs but may enhance effectiveness.

Market Competition: Increasing competition in recent years has helped prevent significant price increases despite growing demand. The market includes both basic Cyanotis vaga extracts and premium formulations with enhanced bioavailability or synergistic ingredients.

Bulk Purchasing: Buying in bulk quantities typically reduces the per-dose cost by 20-40% compared to smaller packages.

Subscription Services: Many supplement companies offer subscription discounts of 10-20% for regular deliveries.

Cyclical Usage: Using in defined cycles (e.g., 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off) may reduce overall annual cost while potentially maintaining most benefits, though scientific evidence for cycling necessity is limited.

Quality Vs Cost Balance: While premium products with enhanced delivery systems cost more, their potentially improved bioavailability may provide better value per active compound absorbed. For those seeking maximum results, these premium products may offer better cost-efficiency despite higher prices.

Prescription Coverage: Not applicable as Cyanotis vaga extract is not available as a prescription medication.

Health Savings Accounts: Generally not eligible for purchase using HSA/FSA funds unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider for a medical condition.

Flexible Spending Accounts: Generally not eligible unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider for a medical condition.

Sports Organization Reimbursement: Rarely covered by sports organizations or teams, though some professional or elite athletes may receive it as part of sponsored supplement programs.

Affordability Assessment: Moderately accessible to dedicated fitness enthusiasts and athletes with disposable income. The cost represents a significant investment compared to basic supplements, potentially limiting accessibility for budget-conscious consumers or those with limited financial resources.

Global Price Variations: Pricing is relatively consistent across developed markets, with some variation based on import regulations, taxes, and local competition. Significantly more expensive relative to average income in developing markets.

Discount Programs: Limited specific discount programs for Cyanotis vaga extract; general supplement industry discounts (bulk, subscription, first-time buyer) typically apply.

Raw Material Costs: Moderate to high; limited number of quality suppliers and the specialized nature of the plant material contribute to raw material costs.

Extraction Costs: Significant; proper extraction and standardization to 95% beta-ecdysterone requires sophisticated processes and quality control.

Advanced Formulation Costs: High for premium products; technologies like cyclodextrin complexation add substantially to production costs but may enhance effectiveness.

Quality Control Costs: Significant; ensuring proper standardization, identity verification, and contaminant testing adds to production costs but is essential for product efficacy and safety.

Standardized Extract Powder: Typically 2-3 years when properly stored in sealed containers away from heat, light, and moisture. May remain safe beyond this period but potency could gradually decline.

Capsules Tablets: Generally 2-3 years when stored in original container with desiccant, though this varies by manufacturer and specific formulation.

Cyclodextrin Complexes: May have enhanced stability compared to standard extracts, with potential shelf life of 3-4 years under proper storage conditions.

Liquid Formulations: Typically shorter shelf life of 1-2 years due to potential hydrolysis and other degradation processes in solution.

Temperature: Store at room temperature (15-25°C or 59-77°F) in a cool, dry place. Avoid temperature extremes, as heat can accelerate degradation of ecdysteroids and cold temperatures may introduce moisture through condensation when containers are opened.

Light Exposure: Protect from direct light, especially sunlight and UV exposure, which can potentially degrade ecdysteroids over time.

Humidity: Keep in a dry environment with humidity below 60%. Excessive moisture can promote degradation of ecdysteroids through hydrolysis and potentially support microbial growth.

Container Type: Store in airtight, opaque containers, preferably with a desiccant packet for powder forms. Original packaging is typically designed to optimize stability.

Special Considerations: After opening, ensure container is tightly sealed between uses. For bulk powder, consider transferring to smaller containers for regular use to minimize exposure of the main supply to air and moisture.

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for quantitative analysis of beta-ecdysterone content and detection of degradation products, Mass spectrometry for identification of degradation products and impurities, Accelerated stability testing under controlled temperature and humidity conditions, Real-time stability testing with periodic analysis of active compound content, Photostability testing to assess degradation under various light conditions, pH stability testing for liquid formulations or dissolved powder

Compatible Excipients: Microcrystalline cellulose, Silicon dioxide, Rice flour, Magnesium stearate (in limited quantities), Most common capsule materials (gelatin, HPMC), Cyclodextrins (specifically beneficial for stability and bioavailability)

Incompatible Materials: Strongly acidic or alkaline excipients that may affect ecdysteroid stability, Certain oxidizing agents that may react with hydroxyl groups in beta-ecdysterone, Some enzyme-containing formulations that might potentially catalyze degradation

Formulation Considerations: Beta-ecdysterone is generally compatible with most common excipients used in dietary supplement formulations. For maximum stability, formulations with neutral to slightly acidic pH are preferred. Cyclodextrin complexation not only enhances bioavailability but also provides significant protection against degradation factors.

Powder Mixing: Beta-ecdysterone powder can be mixed with water or other beverages immediately before consumption. Complete dissolution may take 30-60 seconds of stirring. Warm (not hot) liquids may facilitate dissolution.

Solution Stability: Once dissolved in liquid, beta-ecdysterone should be consumed promptly (within 30 minutes) for optimal potency. Solutions left standing for extended periods may undergo hydrolysis or other degradation processes.

Compatibility With Beverages: Generally compatible with water, juice, and most sports beverages. Highly acidic beverages may potentially accelerate degradation. Mixing with protein shakes is common and may provide synergistic benefits.

For travel, consider transferring only the needed amount to a small, airtight container to minimize exposure of the main supply. Capsules and tablets are more convenient and stable for travel than powder forms. Avoid leaving in hot vehicles or direct sunlight. If traveling to humid environments, containers with desiccant packets are particularly important.

Beta Ecdysterone: The primary active compound is relatively stable in dry form under proper storage conditions but may undergo hydrolysis in the presence of moisture or under acidic conditions. The multiple hydroxyl groups in the molecule are potential sites for oxidation and other reactions.

Other Ecdysteroids: Minor ecdysteroids present in Cyanotis vaga extract generally have similar stability profiles to beta-ecdysterone, though some may be more or less susceptible to specific degradation pathways based on their exact structure.

Cyclodextrin Complexes: Beta-ecdysterone complexed with cyclodextrins demonstrates significantly enhanced stability against hydrolysis and oxidation due to the protective environment created by the cyclodextrin cavity.

Extraction Methods: The extraction process can significantly affect the stability profile of the resulting extract. Harsh extraction conditions (high temperature, extreme pH) may partially degrade ecdysteroids or create less stable forms. Gentle extraction methods are preferred for maximum stability.

Drying Methods: Spray drying typically produces more stable powder than other drying methods due to rapid moisture removal and relatively low temperature exposure. Freeze drying (lyophilization) may also preserve stability but is less commonly used due to cost.

Particle Size: Finer particle size increases surface area exposed to environmental factors, potentially accelerating degradation. However, this must be balanced against dissolution rate and bioavailability considerations.

Natural Sources

Harvest Methods

Processing Methods

Quality Considerations

Geographical Considerations

Identification And Authentication

Cultivation And Harvesting

Commercial Production

Global Usage: No significant culinary history. Cyanotis vaga was not traditionally used as a food source in any documented culinary traditions.

Preparation Methods: Not applicable

Cultural Significance: Not applicable

Traditional Preparations: Limited historical preparation methods documented specifically for Cyanotis vaga. The limited traditional use that has been suggested would likely have involved simple decoctions (boiling the roots in water) or powdering of the dried roots.

Evolution Of Extraction Methods: Modern extraction methods evolved directly from scientific research rather than traditional practices. Early research extractions typically used simple alcohol or alcohol-water mixtures. Contemporary methods have evolved to optimize ecdysteroid extraction and concentration, with techniques including specialized hydroalcoholic extraction, column chromatography for purification, and advanced formulation technologies like cyclodextrin complexation.

Documented Adverse Effects: Limited historical documentation of adverse effects, largely due to the limited traditional use. The sparse historical use that has been suggested does not include specific warnings or contraindications in traditional texts.

Contraindications In Traditional Use: No specific traditional contraindications documented, again reflecting the limited historical use rather than established safety.

Modern Safety Concerns: Modern safety evaluation has been primarily based on scientific research rather than historical use patterns. Contemporary research suggests a favorable safety profile with few adverse effects, though some theoretical concerns exist regarding potential interactions with hormone-sensitive conditions due to the interaction with estrogen receptor-beta.

Symbolism: No documented cultural symbolism associated with Cyanotis vaga, reflecting its limited historical prominence.

Folklore: No significant folklore traditions documented specifically for this plant.

Religious Usage: No documented religious or spiritual applications.

Market Introduction: Commercial products specifically featuring Cyanotis vaga extract began to appear in the sports nutrition market in the early 2000s, initially as niche products marketed primarily to bodybuilders and strength athletes.

Key Commercial Milestones:

Marketing Evolution: Initial marketing focused heavily on the anabolic potential of beta-ecdysterone, often with direct comparisons to anabolic steroids but emphasizing the natural origin and lack of side effects. As research clarified the mechanism of action through estrogen receptor-beta rather than androgen pathways, marketing evolved to emphasize the unique, non-hormonal pathway for muscle growth. Contemporary marketing typically highlights the scientific research support, particularly the 2019 Isenmann study, along with the favorable safety profile compared to other anabolic agents.

Early Investigations: Early research on ecdysteroids focused primarily on their role as insect molting hormones, with limited investigation of effects in mammals. The identification of these compounds in various plants, including Cyanotis species, gradually led to interest in potential applications for human health and performance.

Key Researchers:

Research Evolution: Research has evolved from basic identification and characterization of ecdysteroids in plants, to animal studies demonstrating anabolic effects, to mechanistic investigations identifying specific molecular targets, and finally to controlled human trials confirming performance and body composition benefits. The research trajectory has been relatively linear compared to many botanical supplements, with each phase building directly on previous findings rather than exploring diverse traditional applications.

Relation To Other Performance Enhancers: Unlike many performance-enhancing substances with long histories of use (e.g., caffeine, ephedra) or clear pharmaceutical origins (e.g., anabolic steroids), Cyanotis vaga extract represents a relatively recent discovery of a natural compound with performance-enhancing properties. Its historical trajectory is more similar to more recently discovered ergogenic aids like creatine than to traditional stimulants or adaptogens.

Place In Supplement Evolution: Represents part of the ongoing evolution of sports supplements from simple nutrients and stimulants to more sophisticated compounds targeting specific physiological pathways. The focus on non-hormonal anabolic effects reflects the market’s search for effective alternatives to prohibited substances with fewer side effects.

Limited information available on current clinical trials specifically examining Cyanotis vaga extract or beta-ecdysterone. Interest in this compound appears to be growing in the research community, particularly following the 2019 study suggesting anabolic effects comparable to some prohibited substances.

Long-term studies examining chronic supplementation effects on muscle mass, strength, and hormonal parameters, Research on optimal dosing and standardization for specific applications, Studies examining potential differences between various ecdysteroid-containing plant extracts, Research on specific mechanisms of action in humans, particularly tissue-specific effects, Studies examining potential benefits for age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia), Research on potential applications for metabolic health and glucose regulation, Studies examining interactions with medications and other supplements, Research on effects in women, as most studies have focused on male subjects

Consensus: There is growing consensus among sports nutrition researchers that beta-ecdysterone from Cyanotis vaga extract demonstrates meaningful anabolic effects through non-hormonal pathways, primarily via estrogen receptor-beta activation and subsequent enhancement of protein synthesis signaling. The unique mechanism of action, providing anabolic effects without androgenic activity or apparent disruption of endogenous hormone production, has generated significant interest. Most experts acknowledge that the evidence for muscle-building effects is stronger than for many other natural supplements, though still not as extensive as for pharmaceutical anabolic agents. The favorable safety profile compared to anabolic steroids is generally recognized, though some experts have raised questions about potential inclusion in anti-doping regulations due to the performance-enhancing effects.

Controversies: The primary controversies surrounding Cyanotis vaga extract center on regulatory considerations rather than efficacy or safety questions. Following the 2019 study suggesting anabolic effects comparable to some prohibited substances, debate has emerged regarding whether beta-ecdysterone should be considered for inclusion on anti-doping prohibited lists. Some researchers argue that its performance-enhancing effects warrant regulation, while others contend that its natural origin, distinct mechanism of action, and favorable safety profile differentiate it from problematic anabolic agents. There is also some debate about optimal sourcing and standardization, as various plants contain ecdysteroids, and product quality can vary significantly.

Historical Claims: Cyanotis vaga does not have extensive documented traditional use compared to some other medicinal plants. Some sources suggest limited traditional use in Chinese medicine for various conditions, though specific historical documentation is sparse. Most current interest stems from modern research on ecdysteroids rather than traditional applications.

Scientific Support: Modern scientific research has primarily focused on the anabolic and performance-enhancing effects of beta-ecdysterone, which were not specifically documented in traditional use. The limited traditional applications that have been suggested lack substantial scientific validation.

Muscle Protein Synthesis: Significantly increased based on both in vitro and in vivo studies; appears to be a primary mechanism for anabolic effects

Hormonal Parameters: No significant effects on testosterone, estrogen, or other reproductive hormones in most studies, distinguishing it from traditional anabolic steroids

Glucose Metabolism: Some evidence for improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, primarily from animal studies with limited human data

Lipid Profiles: Some evidence for favorable effects on cholesterol and triglycerides, primarily from animal studies with limited human data

Inflammatory Markers: Limited evidence suggesting potential anti-inflammatory effects, though not extensively studied