Extract & Compound · Other

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

Provisional Strong Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone precursor produced by the adrenal glands that converts to testosterone and estrogen in peripheral tissues. It supports hormone balance, energy production, and anti-aging processes through its role as the most abundant circulating steroid hormone.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary KeywordDHEA supplement benefits

DHEA close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in hormone precursor, androgenic, neurostimulant

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports hormone balance by acting as a precursor to key hormones, helping alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances. - Enhances energy levels by boosting mitochondrial function, leading to improved physical performance and endurance. - Combats aging by promoting collagen production and reducing oxidative stress, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles. - Supports immune function by modulating immune responses, enhancing the body's ability to fight off infections. - Promotes bone health by increasing bone density, which can reduce the risk of osteoporosis by up to 20%. - Enhances mood and cognitive function by increasing serotonin levels, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional well-being. - Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood lipid profiles and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, serving as a precursor to other hormones like estrogen and testosterone. It can be synthesized from plant sources like wild yam.

“DHEA was first identified in the 1930s and has been used as a supplement since the 1980s for its proposed anti-aging and hormone-balancing effects.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

RCTs and observational studies suggest benefits in hormone balance and bone health. More research is needed to fully understand its effects and long-term safety.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Precursor to sex hormones, influencing various bodily functions. - Levels decline with age, often supplemented for anti-aging benefits. - Available in oral and topical forms.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

DHEA acts as a prohormone, converting to androstenedione via 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, then to testosterone and estrogen through tissue-specific enzymes. It activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and enhances mitochondrial function by increasing ATP synthesis. DHEA also modulates cortisol activity by competing for 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, helping maintain optimal cortisol-to-DHEA ratios.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Randomized controlled trials show DHEA supplementation (25-50mg daily) can increase bone mineral density by 2-4% in postmenopausal women over 12-24 months. Studies in elderly adults demonstrate modest improvements in muscle strength and sexual function, though results vary significantly between individuals. A meta-analysis of 42 studies found DHEA may improve well-being and depression scores in older adults, but evidence for anti-aging benefits remains limited and inconsistent.

Also Known As

DehydroepiandrosteroneDHEA-SAndrostenolone3β-Hydroxyandrost-5-en-17-onePrasteroneYouth hormoneMother hormone

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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