A 2025 study titled "Effects of different dietary supplements combined with conditioning training on muscle strength, jump performance, sprint speed, and muscle mass in athletes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis" tested something simple: what helps build more muscle — creatine, BCAA, or an herbal blend?
Researchers followed 60 male college football players over 8 weeks. All did the same strength and conditioning training — but each group took a different supplement:
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Creatine
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BCAA
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Herbal + amino acid blend
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No supplements (control)
🔍 The Results:
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Muscle Mass (Fat-Free Mass):
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Herbal blend: ↑ 4.1%
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BCAA: ↑ 2.5%
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Creatine: ↑ 2.2%
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Control: ↑ 1.1%
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Squat Strength Increase:
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Herbal blend: +13.2%
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Creatine: +8.1%
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BCAA: +6.7%
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Control: +4.4%
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Vertical Jump Performance: Also improved the most in the herbal group
🧪 What Was in the Herbal Mix?
A combo of plant extracts and amino acids — including ingredients that support circulation, inflammation balance, and metabolic recovery.
🌿 Bottom Line:
Herbal-based formulas (when well-designed) can do more than you think. In this study, they outperformed creatine — without side effects.
That’s the same direction behind MuscleRoot™, our herbal post-workout formula with turmeric, frankincense, nopal cactus, and more — designed for muscle recovery, joint support, and mobility after exercise.
