HypeCheck

Fadogia Agrestis

Also known as: Fadogia agrestis Schweinf. Ex Hiern, Black aphrodisiac, Bakin gagai

Effective Dosage

No established dose (insufficient research data)

What the Science Says

Fadogia agrestis is a shrub native to West Africa traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. In rat studies, oral extracts raised serum testosterone levels and increased sexual behavior markers like mount frequency and reduced latency. However, all available research is in animals only — there are zero human clinical trials — so it is unknown whether these effects translate to people.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to boost testosterone in humans. No evidence it improves athletic performance or muscle growth. Not a safe or validated alternative to TRT. The 'natural' label doesn't mean it's harmless — studies show real organ toxicity in animals.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Nigerian plant traditionally used as aphrodisiac. Limited animal studies suggest possible testosterone effects. Very few human studies.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: Unknown - insufficient human data

Source: Limited PubMed data, safety concerns noted

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data exists. Animal studies used oral aqueous extracts, but absorption and metabolism in humans has never been studied.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Zero human clinical trials — all evidence comes from rat studies only
  • Animal studies show liver and kidney cell membrane damage, including signs of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation
  • Rat studies found adverse effects on testicular function, including disrupted enzyme activity — the opposite of the marketed benefit
  • 35 commercial supplement products registered despite no human safety or efficacy data
  • No established safe dose for humans — rat doses cannot be reliably extrapolated to human use
  • Heavily promoted on social media by influencers without scientific backing

Research Sources

  • PubMed
  • NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06