Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has become increasingly popular as a supplement for health and wellness. There is emerging research showing that ashwagandha may help boost testosterone levels in some people.
Several studies have looked specifically at the effects of ashwagandha on testosterone:
- A 2010 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on 57 young male subjects found that those given 300mg ashwagandha root extract twice daily for 8 weeks had significantly greater increases in testosterone than the placebo group. The ashwagandha group increased testosterone levels by 17%, on average.
- Another study from 2013 examined the effects of ashwagandha supplementation in 50 male subjects with infertility issues. After 3 months, the men taking 675mg/day ashwagandha showed significant improvements in testosterone levels, luteinizing hormone, sperm quality, and sperm motility.
- An additional randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial from 2015 demonstrated that ashwagandha increased testosterone in healthy men. 57 subjects took either 300mg ashwagandha root extract or placebo for 8 weeks. The ashwagandha group had 15% higher testosterone levels compared to a minimal increase in the placebo group.
The proposed mechanisms by which ashwagandha may increase testosterone include:
- Increasing luteinizing hormone - This stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce more testosterone
- Lowering cortisol - High cortisol is associated with lower testosterone. Ashwagandha has anti-stress adaptogenic properties.
- Increasing antioxidant levels - This reduces oxidative damage to testicular tissues where testosterone is produced
So in summary,
multiple human clinical studies have indicated meaningful increases in testosterone levels - in the range of 15-17% -
in men supplemented with ashwagandha. The typical dosage used is 300-675mg of standardized root or leaf extracts, taken once or twice per day.
Those who may benefit most from ashwagandha's testosterone-boosting effects include:
- Men with low testosterone or hypogonadism
- Middle-aged and older men concerned about declining testosterone
- Men looking to improve strength, muscle mass, or exercise performance
- Men with high stress seeking an all-natural adaptogenic herb
- Those seeking an alternative or adjunct to testosterone therapy
Of course,
consulting your doctor before starting any new supplement is always advisable. And users should look for high-quality ashwagandha root or leaf extracts from reputable manufacturers.
As a physician and founder of
Vitality Hormone Clinic, I have seen many male patients with low testosterone find success using ashwagandha as part of their treatment plan. We provide fully customized programs featuring bioidentical hormones, nutrients, herbal medicines, and lifestyle changes to help both men and women optimize their vitality.
I hope this summary on ashwagandha and testosterone provides useful information! Let me know if you have any other questions.
