9 Best Supplements to Boost Testosterone Levels, According to a Dietitian

A quick look at the best supplements to help boost testosterone levels

• Best overall: The Genius Brand Genius Test
• Best runner-up: Roman Testosterone Support
• Best with vitamin D: Nature Made Vitamin D3
• Best with fenugreek: NOW Foods Fenugreek
• Best with saw palmetto: Bulk Supplements Saw Palmetto Extract
• Best with ginger: Pure Encapsulations Ginger Extract
• Best with DHEA: Life Extension DHEA
• Best with zinc: Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate
• Best with ashwagandha: Garden of Life mykind Organics Ashwagandha Stress & Mood

Testosterone is an essential hormone for both men and women, but its role is more significant in men, who have higher levels.

It contributes to male sexual health and development, fertility, muscle growth, fat loss, and many other aspects of health (1).

Testosterone levels fall with age. There’s also concern about an overall drop in testosterone levels in the United States. Lifestyle habits and health factors appear to play a role as well (2).

Various supplements claim to boost testosterone levels, and some people opt to use them in hopes of increasing their levels of this hormone.

Here are 9 supplements that may help increase testosterone levels.

What is a testosterone booster supplement?

Testosterone booster supplements are formulated with ingredients that have been shown to support healthy testosterone levels.

Many of these products contain a blend of herbal extracts or specific nutrients intended to promote hormone balance.

Some also include compounds that can either increase testosterone or related hormones directly or help prevent the body from converting testosterone into estrogen.

When to consider testosterone boosters

If you’re looking for a simple way to increase testosterone levels naturally, some supplements on this list may be beneficial.

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms of low testosterone — such as low energy levels, decreased libido, muscle loss, or fertility issues — please consult a healthcare professional to discuss possible treatment options.

How we chose

Here are a few of the factors we considered when choosing the products listed below:

• Vetting. All the products included were vetted to ensure they meet Healthline’s medical and business standards.
• Ingredients. Supplements feature ingredients that have been studied and shown to increase testosterone levels.
• Dosage. Supplements provide a dosage that has been proven safe and effective.
• Third-party testing. Many of the supplements we included have been tested for quality and safety by a third party organization such as NSF International, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), or Informed Choice.

Healthline’s picks for the best supplements to help boost testosterone levels

Best overall

The Genius Brand Genius Test

• Price: $$$$
• Type: capsules
• Dose: 4 capsules per day
• Certifications: third-party tested, manufactured in CGMP-certified facility

Genius Brand Genius Test features a variety of ingredients designed to optimize testosterone levels and balance hormone levels, including ashwagandha extract and fenugreek.

It also includes 500 mg of PrimaVie Shilajit-Fulvic Acid, which is made with shilajit extract, a compound that has been shown to increase testosterone levels.

In fact, one study found that taking 250 mg of purified shilajit extract twice daily increased levels of total and free testosterone after 90 days (4).

Boron citrate, another ingredient included in this supplement, has also been shown to support healthy testosterone levels in some studies (5).

The supplement is manufactured in a third-party certified facility and tested by an independent lab to ensure safety and quality.

Best runner-up

Roman Testosterone Support

• Price: $$$
• Type: tablets
• Dose: 4 tablets per day
• Certifications: manufactured in CGMP-certified facility

This supplement from Roman is specifically formulated to increase testosterone levels.

It contains several ingredients that have been studied for their ability to support healthy testosterone levels, including zinc, vitamin D3, and ashwagandha (6, 7, 8).

Plus, it contains maca, a plant that could potentially support male reproductive health and fertility (9).

It also provides copper, an essential micronutrient that has been studied for its effects on sperm quality and reproductive health in men (10, 11).

However, though many of the ingredients have been studied individually, more research is needed to understand whether they can increase testosterone levels when taken together.

This supplement is vegetarian-friendly and manufactured in a CGMP-certified facility. However, it isn’t third-party tested.

Other supplements that may help boost testosterone levels

Though some people may prefer products that contain a blend of nutrients and herbal ingredients, a single-nutrient supplement may be a better option for others.

Best with vitamin D

Nature Made Vitamin D3

• Price: $
• Type: tablet
• Dose: 1 tablet per day

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that your body produces upon exposure to sunlight. People with limited exposure to sunlight may have low levels of vitamin D.

In its active form, vitamin D functions as a steroid hormone in the body and is essential for male sexual function (12).

Some research suggests that having lower blood levels of vitamin D could be linked to decreased testosterone levels in men (13, 14).

In a small study, 10 days of sun exposure and 6 weeks of vitamin D supplementation led to significant increases in vitamin D and testosterone levels in soccer players (6).

Therefore, if you’re deficient in vitamin D, increasing your sun exposure, eating more vitamin D rich foods, or using a vitamin D supplement could be beneficial.

Although research on the best dosage to specifically support testosterone levels is lacking, most guidelines recommend doses of 400–2,000 IU of vitamin D per day to prevent deficiency (15).

Nature Made offers a supplement with 2,000 IU of vitamin D per tablet, making it a convenient way to meet your daily needs for this essential micronutrient.

It also features vitamin D3, which can increase vitamin D blood levels higher and for longer than vitamin D2 (16).

What’s more, not only is it free of artificial colors and flavors, but Nature Made Vitamin D3 is also third-party tested and verified by USP.

Best fenugreek supplement

NOW Foods Fenugreek

• Price: $
• Type: capsules
• Dose: 2 capsules per day

Fenugreek is another popular herb-based option that could support healthy testosterone levels, though more research is needed.

In one study, men who took 600 mg of fenugreek extract daily for 12 weeks experienced a significant increase in testosterone levels, along with improvements in sexual function compared to a placebo (17).

Another study showed that taking 500 mg of fenugreek extract per day increased free testosterone levels by up to 46% in 90% of participants after 12 weeks. It also improved mental alertness and mood in the majority of participants (18).

Authors of a 2020 review concluded that fenugreek extract can enhance testosterone levels effectively (19).

Still, keep in mind that the research on fenugreek is limited, and larger, long-term studies are needed.

NOW Supplements Fenugreek provides 500 mg of organic fenugreek in each capsule, which is the same amount used in many studies to increase testosterone levels.

It’s also free of common allergens, like wheat, gluten, soy, eggs, milk, and tree nuts.

Additionally, NOW Supplements is certified by UL Solutions and the Natural Products Association, meaning that the company adheres to strict manufacturing standards to ensure purity and potency.

Best saw palmetto supplement

Bulk Supplements Saw Palmetto Extract

• Price: $
• Type: softgel capsules or powder
• Dose: 1 softgel per day or 1/5 teaspoon (500 mg) of powder 1–2 times per day

Saw palmetto is a type of shrub-like palm that’s often used as a supplement to prevent hair loss and treat urinary symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (20).

Although more research in humans is needed, saw palmetto may also increase testosterone levels by blocking the activity of a specific enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5α-R), which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (21).

According to a study with 20 men, those who took a 1,200 mg supplement containing saw palmetto and astaxanthin — a type of antioxidant— for 14 days experienced a 38% increase in testosterone levels compared to a placebo. However, this was not statistically significant (22).

Another study in rats showed that saw palmetto extract increased testosterone production by altering hormone regulation. It also improved muscle endurance and sperm count. However, these results haven’t been confirmed in humans (23).

Bulk Supplements offers a high quality saw palmetto supplement designed to support prostate health and hormone levels.

The supplement is available in softgels and powder form, both of which are free of added sugar, yeast, dairy, and soy.

Each softgel capsule contains 320 mg of saw palmetto extract, while one serving (1/5 teaspoon or 500 grams) of the powder provides 500 mg of saw palmetto extract.

Bulk Supplements provides a certificate of analysis (COA) upon request for all products, which is a document used to verify the strength and purity of a supplement.

Best ginger supplement

Pure Encapsulations Ginger Extract

• Price: $$
• Type: capsules
• Dose: 1–4 capsules per day

Ginger is a common household spice that’s played a role in alternative medicine for centuries.

It appears to have many potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and cholesterol levels. A study of rats suggested it may also boost testosterone (24).

In fact, several animal studies have found that ginger positively affects testosterone levels and sexual function. In an older 30-day study published in 2013, researchers found ginger increased testosterone and luteinizing hormone in rats with diabetes (25).

Several other older studies have found that administering ginger to rats significantly increased testosterone levels as well (26, 27).

In one of the few human studies from 2012, 75 men with infertility took a daily ginger supplement. After 3 months, they experienced a 17% increase in testosterone levels, and their levels of luteinizing hormone nearly doubled (28).

When measuring sperm health, the researchers found several improvements, including a 16% increase in sperm count (28).

More recent research on how ginger might benefit testosterone levels in humans is needed. Still, eating ginger is safe and may provide numerous other health benefits.

Pure Encapsulations Ginger Extract provides 500 mg of ginger extract in each capsule and is non-GMO, hypoallergenic, and certified gluten-free.

According to the company website, all Pure Encapsulations products are also tested at independent labs, such as Silliker, Eurofins, Intertek, and Advanced Laboratories to ensure that the products are free of pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful contaminants.

Best DHEA supplement

Life Extension DHEA

• Price: $$
• Type: capsules
• Dose: 1 capsule per day

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that’s primarily produced by your adrenal glands.

It helps manage testosterone and estrogen levels. Many people supplement with DHEA, which is an anabolic steroid, to boost testosterone.

Some research suggests taking DHEA supplements can boost testosterone levels, especially as people get older (29, 30).

However, as with most supplements, the results are mixed, and other studies using similar dosages have found no effect (31).

Still, it could potentially benefit those with low DHEA or testosterone levels.

Life Extension produces a variety of high quality supplements, including DHEA, all of which are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. The company’s website states that ingredients and products are third-party tested. COAs are available for every product upon request.

Life Extension DHEA contains 25 mg of DHEA in each capsule and is gluten-free and non-GMO.

Just keep in mind that DHEA is banned in professional sports, though the effects of DHEA on testosterone levels and athletic performance aren’t clear (32).

Best zinc supplement

Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate

• Price: $$
• Type: capsules
• Dose: 1 capsule per day

Zinc is an essential mineral that contributes to over 100 chemical processes within your body.

Research has found links between zinc and men’s sexual health, including testosterone levels. The authors of a 2018 review noted that low zinc levels can negatively affect men’s sexual health and fertility (33).

A review also concluded that men with low testosterone levels and infertility could benefit from taking 220 mg of zinc sulfate twice per day for 1–4 months, especially if they have low blood levels of zinc (34).

Another study in 116 postmenopausal women with low zinc levels found that zinc supplementation increased testosterone levels and improved overall sexual function (7).

Adding Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate to your daily routine can be a quick and convenient way to boost your zinc intake to support healthy testosterone levels.

It offers 30 mg of zinc per capsule and is free of gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial flavors.

Thorne Zinc Picolinate is NSF Certified for Sport and manufactured in an NSF-certified facility.

Best ashwagandha supplement

Garden of Life mykind Organics Ashwagandha Stress & Mood

• Price: $$
• Type: tablets
• Dose: 1 tablet per day

Also known as Withania somnifera, ashwagandha is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine (35).

Ashwagandha is primarily used as an adaptogen, meaning it helps your body handle stress and anxiety (36).

An older study tested its benefits on sperm quality in men with infertility. After taking 5 grams per day for 3 months, the participants experienced a 10–22% increase in testosterone levels. In addition, the partners of 14% of participants became pregnant (37).

Another study suggested ashwagandha increases exercise performance, strength, and fat loss while boosting testosterone levels (8).

What’s more, one small study in 57 men found that taking 600 mg of ashwagandha extract increased testosterone levels by nearly 15% after 8 weeks compared to a placebo (38).

It’s likely that ashwagandha could help increase testosterone levels in stressed individuals, possibly by reducing the stress hormone cortisol. However, larger studies are needed.

MyKind Organics Ashwagandha Stress & Mood provides 600 mg of organic ashwagandha root extract, which is the same dosage that was found to increase testosterone levels in the study above.

This supplement also features organic fermented ginger root, another ingredient that could help promote healthy testosterone levels (24).

Garden of Life products are third-party tested to ensure purity and potency. This supplement is also certified gluten-free by NSF.

How to choose a testosterone-boosting supplement

There are several key factors to consider when shopping for a supplement to help increase your testosterone levels, including:

• Ingredients. When it comes to increasing testosterone levels, some ingredients have more research than others. Be sure to look for products containing researched ingredients.
• Dose. Choose supplements that contain ingredients in doses that have been shown to be safe and effective.
• Quality. Look for products made from reputable companies are CGMP-compliant. When possible, opt for products that are third-party tested to insure purity and accuracy.

Most importantly, talk with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements.

Not only can they help you choose the best supplement for your individual needs, but they can also warn you about any ingredients that may interact with other medications you’re taking.

When to see a doctor

It’s best to talk with a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have low levels of testosterone or if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:

• decreased sex drive
• erectile dysfunction
• muscle loss
• hot flashes
• fatigue

A healthcare professional can test your blood levels to determine whether you have low testosterone and develop a treatment plan to address your needs.

They can also evaluate whether other factors or conditions could be contributing to your low testosterone levels and whether those conditions need to be addressed.

It’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications that could interact with herbal supplements.

Frequently asked questions

What causes low testosterone?

Low levels of testosterone can be caused by a variety of different factors.

Age is one of the most common causes of low testosterone. According to Dr. Joseph M. Brito, an assistant professor of urology at Yale University School of Medicine, testosterone levels can start to decline as early as age 30.

Additionally, men who have had surgery for testicular cancer or those who are receiving home treatments for conditions, like prostate cancer, may have lower levels of testosterone. In rare cases, pituitary abnormalities or brain tumors may also be a cause.

Brito explains that several other factors can also contribute to low testosterone, including:

• stress
• nutritional deficiencies
• obesity
• not getting enough sleep

How do I know if I have low testosterone?

Low testosterone levels can cause a wide range of symptoms, many of which could also be caused by other conditions, such as depression or sleep apnea.

According to Brito, some signs that you may have low testosterone are:

• low energy levels
• decreased libido
• muscle loss
• mood changes
• hot flashes

If you suspect you may have low testosterone, your doctor can test your blood levels.

Home tests are also available, most of which use either a blood or saliva sample to test your testosterone levels. However, as Brito points out, there’s limited research on the effectiveness of these tests and how they compare to lab tests.

Are testosterone boosters worth it?

Though studies suggest that many of the ingredients listed above may improve testosterone levels or other markers of male sexual function, it’s important to keep in mind that the FDA does not regulate OTC supplements in the same way as medications.

For this reason, not all products are created equal and some may not be effective. In fact, one review of 37 studies found that only 30% of participants experienced an increase in testosterone levels after using any of 5 popular OTC testosterone boosters (3).

In addition to choosing products that contain clinically studied ingredients, choosing high quality products that come from a trusted manufacturer and are third-party tested may be beneficial.

Furthermore, Brito notes that some people may need to be cautious when using supplements, especially if they’re taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

What’s the best testosterone supplement on the market?

Several supplements are available that are designed to increase testosterone, including Testosterone Support from Roman and Genius Test from The Genius Brand.

Both of these products contain a blend of herbal ingredients and nutrients that can support healthy testosterone levels and promote hormone balance.

However, though both products are formulated with clinically studied ingredients that may help optimize testosterone levels, more research is needed on the effectiveness of OTC testosterone booster supplements.

Does zinc boost testosterone?

Some studies suggest that low levels of zinc could negatively affect reproductive health and fertility for men (33, 34).

What’s more, one study in postmenopausal women with low blood levels of zinc found that taking a zinc supplement increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function (7).

Still, more research is needed to determine whether zinc can increase testosterone levels in people without a deficiency.

How can I raise my testosterone levels quickly?

According to Brito, “the quickest way to raise testosterone levels is with testosterone supplementation.”

A doctor can prescribe testosterone supplementation in the form of intramuscular injections, topical creams or gels, oral medications, and pellets that are implanted into the skin.

Are there other ways to boost testosterone naturally?

Because low testosterone levels have many possible causes, treating any underlying causes could be beneficial.

In addition to maintaining a moderate weight, Brito recommends engaging in resistance training and addressing health conditions such as sleep apnea.

Some studies also suggest that a ketogenic diet could increase testosterone levels. However, it’s important to remember that this low carb, high fat eating pattern may be linked to other health concerns and might not be a good fit for everyone (38, 39).

The bottom line

A wide range of testosterone-boosting supplements is available, but only a few have significant research to support their use, and some may have noticeable benefits only in people with fertility issues or low testosterone levels.

In addition, researchers have not yet established the long-term safety of most of these supplements.

To avoid negative side effects, be sure to talk with a healthcare professional before using any of the supplements listed above, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.