Evaluation of effects of Spilanthes acmella extract on muscle mass and sexual potency in males: A population-based study.

Introduction: Spilanthol, an active metabolite of the herb , has many biological and pharmacological effects with limited studies on humans.

Objectives: To determine the extent of increase/decrease in muscle mass and sexual frequency over a period of 3 weeks and 2 months in participants consuming SA3X capsules (containing 500 mg of extract, standardized to 3.5% spilanthol delivering 17.5 mg spilanthol).

Materials And Methods: The study is longitudinal in nature and is conducted among 240 male participants consuming SA3X capsules at three points - first at recruitment, second at the end of 3 weeks, and lastly at the end of 2 months in Hyderabad and Secunderabad who were assessed for muscle gain by measuring mid upper-arm circumference (MUAC), chest circumference (CC), thigh circumference (TC), and for sexual activity by a change in frequency of sexual activity and duration of penile erection. The nutrient intake was assessed by 24-h dietary recall method at each visit along with the daily activity.

Results: A significant increase in the MUAC, ( = 0.050), frequency of sexual intercourse ( = 0.028), and duration of penile erection = 0.032) were observed at the end of 3 weeks; however, no changes were observed in CC and TC. At the end of 2 months, a significant increase in the parameters MUAC ( = 0.031), frequency of sexual intercourse ( < 0.001), duration of penile erection ( = 0.029) along with significant increase in CC; ( = 0.048) and TC; ( = 0.036) was observed.

Conclusion: The study reflects the herb to be a potent muscle gainer and aphrodisiac. However, further studies on humans need to be carried out to establish the temporality of the association of spilanthol with its claimed benefits.