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Synthesis of RAW Testosterone



This method was originally used in 1935 after DHEA was synthesized from " Diosgenin " isolated from plants of the Dioscorea family. Yes, for those who do not know modern day testosterone and by extension all the other AAS are manufactured from soy-beans and yams. 

These plants have " saponins " that act as a precursor molecule ( steroidal nucleus ) for the manufacturing of Androgenic Anabolic Steroids ( AAS's ).

We are trying to replicate the synthesis with minimal reagents and equipment.


  • Chemical Constituents :-
  1. DHEA ( OTC Supplement )
  2. Acetic Anhydride
  3. Benzoyl Chloride
  4. Acetone
  5. Potassium Hydroxide
  6. Aluminium

  • Equipment Needed :-
  1. Round Bottom Flask
  2. Heat Source ( Direct Flame OR Electric )
  3. Re-flux Condenser
  4. Sensitive Weighing Scale
  5. Filter Paper + Funnel
  6. Beaker

  • AFTER EACH STEP :  Let the product cool down and then pass through a filter paper + funnel. Wash thoroughly with water to ensure all byproducts are removed before moving to the next step. 

*All calculations have been done for 1500 mg DHEA for a 100% " theoretical " yield of 1500 mg RAW Testosterone. 
*This is a guide made with the assumption that you do know how to setup and handle basic equipment.

STEP 1 :- 
- Mount round bottom flask  on a heat source, keep in mind temperature has to be adjusted and maintained multiple times.
- Thermometer has to be fixed such that the tip does not touch the flask bottom and  you can get readings throughout.
- Setup the Re-flux Condenser to maintain constant flow of water and temperature, check for vapors leaving the condenser and increase water flow to make sure it stops.

STEP 2 :-
- Open the DHEA capsules and weigh 1500 mg on a scale, add to the beaker.
- Add 300 mg of Acetic Anhydride to the flask
- Heat for the next 180 mins at constant temperature of 200* Celsius

STEP 3 :-
- Add 750 mg of Benzoyl Chloride and heat the mixture for 120 mins

STEP 4 :-
- In a separate beaker, heat a mixture of aluminium, iso-propyl alcohol. A catalytic amount of iodine is sometimes added to initiate the reaction. 
- Add this " Aluminium Isopropoxide " to 3000 mg Acetone.
-  The product from Step 3 is oxidized by this Aluminium IsoP and Acetone mixture.

STEP 5 :-
- Add 300 mg Potassium Hydroxide to the product of Step 4.
- The product has to be filtered and " washed "  with water, and should be a white crystalline powder like this. 





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