Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone?

Nowadays, alongside modern support methods, male reproductive health issues caused by hormonal imbalances and infections can also be addressed using natural herbs, Ashwagandha being one of them.

Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) has been utilized in Ayurveda medicine for a long time as an herb with numerous health benefits.

One of the most notable and widely discussed benefits of Ashwagandha is its ability to boost testosterone levels.

This article aims to provide information to answer the question: Does Ashwagandha increase testosterone?

Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone?

As indicated by several recent studies, Ashwagandha helps increase testosterone levels.

One study evaluating the role of Ashwagandha in supporting male infertility found that consuming Ashwagandha root suppresses lipid peroxidation, improves sperm count and motility, and regulates reproductive hormone levels, particularly by increasing testosterone levels [1].

Another study conducted on 57 young men over two months to test the herbal supplement's capacity to enhance muscle strength and recovery showed significant improvements in muscle size and serum testosterone levels [2].

Thus, Ashwagandha effectively increases testosterone levels in men, addressing reproductive health issues and supporting muscle enhancement. However, further research is needed to solidify this role.

How Does Ashwagandha Impact Testosterone Level? Scientific Evidence

Withanolides are the main active compounds in Ashwagandha, with Withaferin A being the most studied.

This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, protects cells from oxidation, helps the body respond well to stress, and is crucial in enhancing testosterone levels [3]. It achieves its function through the 3 following mechanisms:

Ashwagandha May Reduce Cortisol Levels and Boost Testosterone

Ashwagandha inhibits cortisol (stress hormone) production, as evidenced by its impact on cortisol levels in the adrenal cortex.

A study reviewing sleep quality, memory improvement, and concentration showed that Ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol secretion, providing anti-stress and immune-regulating effects [4].

Another study examining 13 herbs for their effectiveness in mitigating age-related testosterone decline in men also highlighted Ashwagandha's positive impact on boosting this hormone.

Consequently, it helps address related issues such as depression, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases [5].

Ashwagandha Increase Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Production

Ashwagandha boosts luteinizing hormone levels, a chemical that promotes critical processes in the human reproductive system.

Some animal studies have also confirmed the positive impacts of Ashwagandha-based supplements on luteinizing hormone, stimulating follicles, activating testicles, balancing, and increasing testosterone and progesterone levels [6].

Ashwagandha Antioxidant Properties

Oxidative stress is one of the causes that reduce normal testosterone levels, straining the testicles, decreasing sperm count, possibly damaging sperm DNA, and leading to infertility [7].

Withania somnifera compounds in Ashwagandha are noted for their anti-stress properties, significantly contributing to combating stress, increasing testosterone levels, improving antioxidant status, and reducing male infertility [8].

How Much Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone?

Ashwagandha shows promising potential in supporting testosterone enhancement.

A study conducted on overweight, frequently fatigued men aged 40-70 over four months demonstrated a 14.7% higher growth in testosterone levels and an 18% increase in DHEA (a hormone that stimulates the production of other hormones) [9].

In addition to increasing testosterone levels, Ashwagandha also raises the chances of pregnancy in partners by 14% in patients facing infertility due to stress [8].

How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha to Work for Testosterone?

A clinical trial conducted in Florida on 17 men with a 225 mg/day dosage for 30 days showed positive results in reducing anxiety and stress [11].

Another 90-day study on 130 healthy men and women in India with a 300 mg dosage also recorded increased stress levels and sleep quality among participants [12].

Therefore, Ashwagandha takes at least 30 days to effectively enhance testosterone levels, with a more assured period being 60-90 days with consistent and regular use.

How Much Ashwagandha Per Day for Testosterone?

Ashwagandha is used for various purposes, with each effect accompanied by a specific dosage. First, consult a specialist before using any dietary supplements directly affecting health.

For the effect of increasing testosterone, the recommended dosage is 300-600 mg of Ashwagandha daily.

This dosage is safe and can increase testosterone levels with regular long-term use, in combination with a healthy lifestyle and proper diet [10]. Consult a specialist for specific dosages according to individual physiques.

Ashwagandha Safety And Side Effects When Taken for Testosterone In Men

A study by Raut et al. in 2012 applied a dosage of 5 g (equivalent to 5000 mg) to 18 healthy volunteers.

After 30 days of testing, one volunteer showed increased appetite and heightened libido, experienced hallucinations when dizzy, and was removed from the study, while the remaining showed no side effects [13].

The study's experts assessed this dosage to be safe for muscle activity. However, it still poses potential risks such as dizziness, hallucinations, uncontrollable appetite, and increased libido.

Additionally, Ashwagandha belongs to the Solanaceae family [14], so those allergic to tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers should be cautious.

Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone In Women?

It is not yet certain whether Ashwagandha increases testosterone levels in women. Consult a doctor or healthcare professional for the most accurate answer.

Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha works in the female body similarly to how it does in men, increasing serum testosterone levels, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone levels, and boosting luteinizing hormone production [15].

Conversely, another study indicated no significant changes in testosterone levels after using 300 mg for eight weeks in 100 pre-menopausal women [16].

Other Benefits of Ashwagandha for Men

Besides increasing testosterone levels, Ashwagandha also performs the following functions effectively for men's health:

• Increasing muscle strength and mass: Ashwagandha is an effective antioxidant that helps prevent muscle damage, enhances recovery, and supports muscle growth [17].
• Improving reproductive function: Ashwagandha has antioxidant properties that reduce stress and prevent the occurrence of free radicals, which can disrupt sperm health and hormone balance [18].
• Boosting libido: Ashwagandha increases testosterone levels and reduces the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol, which helps boost sexual desire [19].

Conclusion

This article has explored the benefits, recommended dosage, and potential side effects to answer the question, "Does Ashwagandha increase testosterone?".

If you are experiencing issues with low testosterone levels, consult your doctor, maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, and consider using Ashwagandha as a natural support method. However, always monitor and adjust the dosage appropriately.