Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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The testosterone-boosting category is one of the most competitive in the entire supplement industry. Over recent years, a flood of newcomers have entered the market, each one claiming to have an edge over the competition. Test Boost Max has been around for more than a decade and has established itself as a top seller.
The fact that a supplement is popular doesn't necessarily make it effective. In order to find out whether Test Boost Max stacks up, we need to go under the hood to find out what it's made of.
We'll shine a spotlight on each of its ingredients, assess its effectiveness and check customer reviews. We'll also compare Test Boost Max to three popular testosterone booster alternatives to give you a point of comparison.
Read on to get the real deal with our comprehensive Test Boost Max review.
**There may be affiliate links in this post where we might receive a small commission on purchases you make. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**
What is Test Boost Max?
Test Boost Max is a natural capsule form testosterone booster. It is not a form of testosterone. Instead, it is a blend of natural ingredients to help get users to healthy testosterone levels.
Sculpt Nation, the makers of Test Boost Max, claims that it will do the following:
- Improve libido
- Boost testosterone levels
- Increase muscle mass
- Decrease body fat
- Enhance energy levels
- Reduce stress
- Overcome erectile dysfunction
Test Boost Max is available on the official manufacturer's website.
Sculpt Nation LLC is a relatively new company that produces and sells fat-burning supplements under the umbrella of sports nutrition. All of Sculpt Nation's supplements make the assertion that increasing your metabolism will increase your chances of losing weight. Although the exact date Sculpt Nation was founded is unknown, it was most likely at the same time as V Shred (2015). Josh Krakauer serves as the company's CEO, while Vince Sant is a co-founder.
Texas is the home state of Sculpt Nation and V-Shred. To ensure quality and safety, the formulations are also put through third-party testing.
Test Boost Max Reviews: Pass Or Fail?
Test Boost Max makes some pretty big claims in terms of what it can do for a guy. In order to back up those claims it needs to have the right ingredients at the right dosages. Unfortunately, it falls short on both those counts.
The ingredients that you find on the Test Boost Max label are pretty uninspiring when it comes to testosterone boosters. They do not include such proven testosterone boosters as d-aspartic acid, vitamins A, D, and K, or magnesium. In fact, there are no extra vitamins or minerals included in this product. Yet, a deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium has been directly correlated to low testosterone levels.
The other problem with Test Boost Max is that the ingredients that it does include are majorly underdosed. As an example of this, you get just 20 mg of ginseng root. This is just 20% of the effective dosage as identified by the most relevant research on the subject. When it comes to cordyceps mushrooms, you get just 1/100th of the identified effective dosage. In both these cases, the ingredient will do nothing for you.
A number of the ingredients in Test Boost Max have not been identified to have anything to do with increasing testosterone production in the body.
Our general consensus on Test Boost Max is that it is underdosed and missing some key ingredients that you'd expect in testosterone boosters.
Overall Verdict: FAIL
Pros
- Contains some research-backed ingredients
- Reasonably priced
- 3rd party tested
Cons
- Most ingredients underdosed
- Some irrelevant ingredients
- Missing some key ingredients
Check out our post that covers the Best Testosterone Boosters on the market that can help you achieve your goals faster...
7 Test Boost Max Ingredients
The quality of testosterone boosters comes down to the type of ingredients and their quantities. In this section, we take a look at what ingredients are included but just as important are those that are omitted. Notable absences from Test Boost Max are d-aspartic acid, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, D, and K, and oyster extract.
One thing we really like about Test Boost Max is that it is 3rd party tested for purity and potency. That gives you the assurance that what is in the bottle is exactly what is stated on the label.
1. American Panax Ginseng - 20 mg
The evidence regarding ginseng's ability to boost testosterone levels is sparse. There is more credence to the claim that it can help with erectile dysfunction. Some studies suggest that American Panax Ginseng may help to improve nitric oxide levels to dilate the body's blood vessels. This has been shown to improve a man's ability to get an erection.1
You get 20 mg of ginseng in each dose of Test Boost Max. That is far lower than the recommended dosage of 100 mg.
2. Ashwagandha - 600 mg
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that has long been prized for its medicinal and body-enhancing effects.
A major study of Ashwagandha's capacity to raise testosterone levels was conducted in 2010. 75 infertile men participated in this trial and received 3 grams of Ashwagandha root extract daily for three months. The amount of testosterone rose by between 14 and 41%.2
In another study, resistance training and Ashwagandha supplements were combined. Intermediate lifters were used as test subjects; they received 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract and underwent an 8-week exercise regimen. The identical program was administered to a placebo group, who received no ashwagandha.3
In the Ashwagandha group, the average rise in testosterone levels was 15.25 percent. In contrast, the placebo group only experienced a 2.6% increase.
These studies are merely a sample of those carried out in the previous ten years showing that ashwagandha can boost testosterone production.
Ashwagandha is also thought to reduce the stress hormone cortisol which can lead to weight loss and the potential to build more muscle tissue.
3. Tribulus Terrestris - 500 mg
Many bodybuilders utilize Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) as a post-steroid cycle method to reactivate their testosterone production.
By raising levels of "luteinizing hormone" (LH), a pituitary hormone in charge of controlling testosterone levels, researchers discovered Tribulus Terrestris may have the capacity to raise natural testosterone synthesis.
According to one Research Institute study, healthy men who received a daily dose of 750 mg of Tribulus Terrestris saw an average 72% increase in LH and a significant 41% increase in free testosterone. 4
4. Cordyceps mushroom - 20 mg
Cordyceps mushroom is a fungus that grows on insect larvae. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is necessary for supplying energy to the muscles, may be produced by the body more efficiently when cordyceps extract is consumed.
In one study, researchers used a stationary bike to examine the effect of cordyceps on the ability of 30 healthy older persons to exercise. For six weeks, participants were given either 3 grams per day of the synthetic Cordyceps strain CS-4 or a placebo tablet.
By the end of the study, participants who had taken CS-4 had increased their VO2 max by 7%, but those who had received the placebo pill showed no change.5
5. Hawthorn Berry Extract - 40 mg
The Hawthorn berry is a tiny fruit that is packed with antioxidants. That makes them effective fighters of oxidative stress and the free radical cell damage that results. Hawthorn berry extract has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and improve blood flow which may help to reduce blood pressure levels.6
6. Tongkat Ali - 20 mg
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia) has long been used in Asia for its ability to help them get erections. It may also considerably raise testosterone levels by modulating sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels.
In one trial, 200 mg of Tongkat Ali or a placebo was administered to men who reported moderate levels of stress. In the Tongkat Ali group, cortisol levels dropped by 16% and testosterone levels rose by 37% after 4 weeks.7
There is only 20 mg of Tongkat Ali in Test Boost. This is just one-tenth of the amount used in the above-cited study.
7. Horny Goat Weed - 160 mg
Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium HGW) is a flowering herb that comes from the Mediterranean region of Asia. In Chinese medicine, it has long been used as an aphrodisiac.
Horny Goat Weed contains a bioactive compound called icariin, which has been shown in studies to be an inhibitor of PDE-5 and PDE-4. It also activates the cAMP enzyme, which acts as a secondary messenger between cells and hormones.8
Claimed Benefits Of Test Boost Max
Test Boost Max is designed to increase your body's natural ability to increase testosterone. As we've already established, however, its ability to do is compromised by the absence of key ingredients and low dosages. Here are the benefits that the manufacturer claims you may experience from taking Test Boost Max.
1. Boost Testosterone Levels
The ingredients in the Test Boost Max supplement are intended to set up the ideal environment to stimulate the body to increase free testosterone levels. The higher your testosterone levels, the more lean muscle mass potential you have when working out with weights. Higher testosterone levels will also increase strength and improve virility.
2. Weight Loss
Test Boost Max's ability to help a person lose weight is directly related to its testosterone-boosting effect. When you add muscle to your body, your metabolism increases as a result of higher energy demands to sustain the new muscle mass. This increases your calorie burn, leading to potential fat loss.
3. Enhances Energy
Erythropoiesis, the process of making red blood cells, is highly dependent on testosterone. Low red blood cell production has a significant negative impact on our level of energy. By taking Test Boost Max as a supplement to raise your testosterone levels, you may promote erythropoiesis and get your red blood cell count back to normal. Your energy level will be greatly increased by this.
Side Effects of Test Boost Max
Test Boost Max contains only natural herbal ingredients for the purpose of boosting testosterone levels. It is completely safe, though some people may experience upset stomach, bloating, gas, or other minor side effects as their body transitions to taking the supplement. This should go away after a couple of weeks.
Test Boost Max Customer Reviews
There are a lot of reviews online for Test Boost Max, and, as is normally the case, they range from very good to extremely bad. Here are a couple of representative reviews from both perspectives ...
How To Take Test Boost Max?
The only instruction provided by the manufacturer on the label of this testosterone booster supplement is to take three capsules daily.
When to take test boost max?
Sculpt Nation does not provide any information about whether the three capsules daily dose should be taken all at once or spread throughout the day. It appears from reviews that most people take all three capsules in the morning as a matter of convenience.
Who Should Take Test Boost Max?
Test Boost Max should be taken by men over the age of 18 who are wanting to increase their body's natural production of testosterone. This could be for the purpose of gaining muscle, getting stronger, increasing energy, or boosting virility. However, we always recommend you consult your primary healthcare provider before beginning any new supplementation regimen.
3 Alternative Test Boosters
With the testosterone booster market being so competitive, there are plenty of alternatives to Test Boost Max that are worthy of consideration.
Here are three of the most popular options.
1. TestoFuel
TestoFuel is a capsule-based testosterone booster manufactured by a company called Roar Ambition. It contains the following ten ingredients:
- D-Aspartic Acid
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin K2
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Boron
- Maca root extract
- Asian red panax ginseng
- Oyster extract
- Fenugreek seed extract
Roar Ambition claims that these ingredients will be able to increase muscle mass, build strength, improve a lagging libido, enhance energy and increase self-esteem. Each of these effects are based on research study results of the ingredients in the product.
TestoFuel includes some of the best 'T' boosting compounds that have been identified by researchers and provides them in clinical doses. That makes this a very effective testosterone booster when combined with resistance training and a high protein, high-calorie diet.
Pros
- 10 research-backed ingredients
- Transparent dosage labeling
- Bulk purchase discounts
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not vegan friendly
- Quite expensive
TestoFuel is considered to be a revolutionary, exhaustively researched muscle building supplement with one very focused aim...to smash down the barriers to growth by opening your testosterone floodgates...
Get the full picture with our TestoFuel Review.
2. Testoprime
TestoPrime's manufacturer claims that it can improve the body's production of testosterone while reducing cortisol levels and widening blood vessels. This product contains 11 components, all of which have been supported by research.
When used in conjunction with weightlifting and a weight-gaining diet, TestoPrime may help you gain muscle mass, increase your sex desire, maintain erections, have more energy, and have better stamina.
The following 11 ingredients are in TestoPrime:
- D-Aspartic Acid
- Panax Ginseng
- Ashwagandha Extract
- Fenugreek
- Green Tea Catechins
- Pomegranate Extract
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
- Vitamin B5
- Vitamin B6
- Garlic Extract
- Black Pepper Extract with Piperine
TestoPrime costs around $60 for a one-month supply, though you do get a sizable discount when you buy two or more bottles.
Pros
- 11 research-backed ingredients
- Well dosed
- Reduces cortisol
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Only available from the official website
- Requires taking four capsules per day
TestoPrime is an all-natural testosterone support that can help any man take control of his youthful vitality with a flood of new and natural testosterone...
Read our full TestoPrime Review.
3. Prime Male
PrimeMale is another multi-ingredient testosterone booster featuring the most research-attested herbal ingredients. There are a dozen active ingredients in Prime Male, giving it the longest ingredient profile on this page. The label clearly spells out the dosages of the ingredients, which contrasts with many competitors. It shows that all ingredients are dosed at a level that is in line with the research.
Here's a list of the ingredients contained in Prime Male:
- Magnesium
- Luteolin
- Ashwagandha extract
- Nettle root extract
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin K2
- Zinc
- D-aspartic acid calcium chelate
- Black pepper
- Boron
- Korean red ginseng
PrimeMale can be purchased both from Amazon and on the official website. Here is a cost breakdown ...
- One month’s supply costs $69
- Two month’s supply costs $137
- Four month’s supply costs $207
Pros
- A dozen research-supported ingredients
- Well dosed
- Transparent labeling
Cons
- Expensive
- Need to take four capsules per day
The natural testosterone booster that can help support and raise your testosterone levels, helping you to burn fat, build muscle, and increase your libido...
Check out our full Prime Male Review.
Test Boost Max FAQs
Is Test Boost Max safe and effective?
We do not recommend Test Boost Max. It leaves out some well-established testosterone-boosting ingredients, such as d-aspartic acid, zinc, and magnesium. It also does not include any vitamins, several of which are known to help boost testosterone levels. It is generally safe to consume. Finally, Test Boost Max is woefully low in the dosages of some of its ingredients. For example, the dosage of ginseng root is only 20% of the research makes recommendations.
Does Test Boost Max work?
It may work but not very well. The ingredients in Test Boost Max need to build up in the body before they can be utilized. This may take 2-3 weeks depending on what your current levels are like. The speed with which this supplement will take effect also depends on your current level of exercise and what your diet is like. Most people find that they experience effects from taking this supplement 2-3 weeks after first taking it.
Which brand of testosterone booster is best?
With so many different brands on the market, it is almost impossible to pick out one brand as being the absolute best. However, a brand that we really like, and that has got a lot of positive reviews from verified users, is TestoFuel from Roar Ambition. TestoFuel combines 10 research-backed ingredients, using clinically approved dosages and providing full-label transparency.
Summary
Test Boost Max has been a popular testosterone booster for close to a decade. However, it falls short by missing some key ingredients, and not dosing its ingredients at effective levels. our recommendation is to pass on Test Boost Max and go for a product like TestoFuel which has a much more pleasing ingredient profile and dosage level.
More Testosterone Related Resources:
Research
- Hyun SH, Bhilare KD, In G, Park CK, Kim JH. Effects of Panax ginseng and ginsenosides on oxidative stress and cardiovascular diseases: pharmacological and therapeutic roles. J Ginseng Res. 2022 Jan;46(1):33-38. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2021.07.007. Epub 2021 Jul 26. PMID: 35058725; PMCID: PMC8753520.
- Ahmad MK, Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Islam N, Rajender S, Madhukar D, Shankhwar SN, Ahmad S. Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males. Fertil Steril. 2010 Aug;94(3):989-96. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.04.046. Epub 2009 Jun 6. PMID: 19501822.
- Wankhede S, Langade D, Joshi K, Sinha SR, Bhattacharyya S. Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Nov 25;12:43. doi: 10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9. PMID: 26609282; PMCID: PMC4658772.
- Ghosian Moghaddam MH, Khalili M, Maleki M, Ahmad Abadi ME. The Effect of Oral Feeding of Tribulus terrestris L. on Sex Hormone and Gonadotropin Levels in Addicted Male Rats. Int J Fertil Steril. 2013 Apr;7(1):57-62. Epub 2013 Mar 6. PMID: 24520465; PMCID: PMC3850326.
- Yi, Xiao, et al. “Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial and Assessment of Fermentation Product of Cordyceps Sinensis (Cs-4) in Enhancing Aerobic Capacity and Respiratory Function of the Healthy Elderly Volunteers.” Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, vol. 10, no. 3, Sept. 2004, pp. 187–192, 10.1007/bf02836405.
- Nabavi SF, Habtemariam S, Ahmed T, Sureda A, Daglia M, Sobarzo-Sánchez E, Nabavi SM. Polyphenolic Composition of Crataegus monogyna Jacq.: From Chemistry to Medical Applications. Nutrients. 2015 Sep 11;7(9):7708-28. doi: 10.3390/nu7095361. PMID: 26378574; PMCID: PMC4586556.
- Leitão AE, Vieira MCS, Pelegrini A, da Silva EL, Guimarães ACA. A 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial to evaluate the effect of Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) and concurrent training on erectile function and testosterone levels in androgen deficiency of aging males (ADAM). Maturitas. 2021 Mar;145:78-85. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.12.002. Epub 2020 Dec 10. PMID: 33541567.
- LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012–. Horny Goat Weed. 2022 Aug 8. PMID: 35998248.
Steve Theunissen
Author