Tesnor is a proprietary dietary ingredient blend marketed primarily for supporting healthy testosterone levels and enhancing muscle performance. This standardized herbal composition is incorporated into various dietary supplements aimed at men’s health and sports nutrition. It is promoted as a natural, food-derived extract designed to address age-related declines in male vitality and support the physical demands of active individuals. Understanding Tesnor requires examining its botanical origins, proposed actions, and the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy.
Composition and Botanical Sources
Tesnor is a standardized, patented blend derived from two distinct plant extracts: the cocoa bean (Theobroma cacao) and the pomegranate fruit rind (Punica granatum). The blend uses an aqueous ethanol extract of the cocoa seed combined with an extract from the pomegranate fruit rind, typically in a 4:1 ratio. The blend’s efficacy relies on the standardization of specific active compounds. The final product is standardized to contain at least 3.5% punicalagins (polyphenols found in pomegranate) and 0.5% theobromine (a bioactive alkaloid in cocoa). Punicalagins are known for their antioxidant properties, while theobromine may contribute to the blend’s overall biological activity.
Mechanisms of Action
The proposed mechanisms of action for Tesnor center on a dual approach to supporting healthy testosterone levels and overall male vitality. One primary pathway involves the direct support of steroidogenesis, the biological process responsible for hormone creation. Laboratory testing suggests the active components may increase testosterone production within Leydig cells by potentially activating the enzyme CYP17A1. A second mechanism involves inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which converts testosterone into estradiol (estrogen). This dual action—increasing production while simultaneously reducing conversion—optimizes the overall testosterone-to-estrogen balance.
Hormonal Signaling and Stress Reduction
In addition to these direct hormonal effects, the blend is reported to influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis by increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. LH is a key messenger released by the pituitary gland that signals the testes to produce testosterone. Furthermore, the ingredient’s components are thought to support muscle cell signaling pathways and help reduce cortisol, a stress hormone that negatively impacts testosterone production and muscle recovery.
Clinical Evidence and Efficacy
The efficacy of the Tesnor blend has been examined in multiple human clinical trials, focusing on both healthy young men and aging males. One randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved healthy young males (ages 21–35). Participants consuming 400 mg of the blend daily for 56 days saw a significant increase in free and total testosterone levels compared to the placebo group. The high-dose group experienced an increase in free testosterone by over 20% and total testosterone by over 15% after two months. This study also recorded significant improvements in functional strength, measured by increased hand grip strength and mid-upper arm circumference.
Effects on Aging Males
A second clinical trial focused on aging males (ages 36–55) and evaluated the ingredient’s effect on symptoms associated with male aging. In this group, the 400 mg dosage resulted in a substantial increase in free testosterone, with one finding reporting an increase of nearly 50% from baseline levels after 56 days. Participants also reported significant reductions in scores related to the Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). These results point to an improvement in general well-being and psychological health alongside hormonal changes.
Consumption and Safety Guidelines
The clinically supported daily dosage for Tesnor, based on human trials, is typically 200 mg to 400 mg. The ingredient is generally targeted toward healthy adult men over 21 seeking to support muscle strength, physical performance, or address age-related declines in vitality. Clinical studies indicate that the blend is well-tolerated and possesses a favorable safety profile over the 56-day study duration. Safety assessments, including monitoring vital signs and blood chemistry panels, showed no significant adverse effects. The manufacturer confirms the ingredient is tested for the absence of substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which is important for competitive athletes.