Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that the body naturally secretes in the adrenal gland. This hormone helps in the production of other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Natural DHEA levels also rise early in adulthood and then gradually decrease with age. DHEA is used as an anti-aging treatment and to improve physical performance. This hormone is also used to treat depression and treat symptoms associated with menopause.