Found naturally in the body, DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) usually reaches peak levels in early adulthood, then steadily decreases every year afterward. DHEA supplementation has been recommended for restoring youthful vigor and helping to enhance energy and intimacy.
Some of the reported effects of oral DHEA may be due to its weak androgenic activity and to the fact that it is metabolized to androstenedione which in turn is metabolized to androgens and estrogens. The observed benefits of DHEA in post menopausal women, for example, may be accounted for by this weak androgenic activity