Formestane
Also known as 4-hydroxyandrostenedione (4-Hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3,17-dione). An irreversible, “suicide” inhibitor of the aromatase enzyme (responsible for the conversion of androgens to estrogens). Originally developed as a treatment for breast cancer, formestane is now sold as a bodybuilding supplement, and used primarily for estrogen control/post-cycle therapy.
Polyrachis Ant Extract
An extract from a type of edible ant (Polyrachis vicina) that’s used in traditional Chinese medicine to enhance virility and fertility, as well as boost the immune system and act as an overall restorative/rejuvenator. Needless to state, there are no studies to verify this, although dried ant powder is pretty nutritious. Ant extract is used as an ingredient in certain bodybuilding supplements; it was also used as an ingredient in one novelty energy drink in the UK.
CDP-Choline
Cytidine 5-diphosphocholine; also known as “citicoline”. A bioavailable source of choline and precursor to the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine (cell membrane phospholipid)and acetylcholine (neurotransmitter). Like alpha-glycerophosphocholine, CDP-choline has neuroprotective and cognitive effects, with potential therapeutic applications for stroke, senile dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Pycnogenol®
A proprietary French maritime pine bark extract manufactured by Horphag Research.
For more details, see “Pycnogenol Review & Information“.
Pine Bark Extract
An extract from French maritime pine bark containing proanthocyanidins (also known as “procyanidin oligomers” or PCOs). Pine bark extract is a potent antioxidant and has been shown to enhance nitric oxide (NO) production and vasodilation in animal and human experiments. It also appears to be an effective treatment for chronic venous insufficiency and diabetic retinopathy. Anti-inflammatory, glucose lowering, analgesic and fertility-enhancing effects have also been observed in trials with human subjects.
