Ashwagandha(Withania somnifera) is an herb that has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries inAyurvedicmedicine.
During the ashwagandha phase, the men experienced a 15% increase in testosterone levels.
They also reported improved vitality and less fatigue while on the second phase of treatment.
marekuliasz / Getty Images
This led to notable increases in muscle size between the ashwagandha vs. placebo groups.
Ashwagandha users were also able to push heavier on the bench press and leg-extension machines.
Improving Erectile Dysfunction
Ashwagandha is frequently marketed as a natural treatment forerectile dysfunction (ED).
It is thought to help by increasing testosterone levels and by potentially acting as an aphrodisiac.
To date, the evidence supporting the claim is weak.
While some studies in rats suggest a benefit,research in humans has not yielded similar results.
This includes excessive levels of the hormoneprolactin, which ashwagandha appears to have no effect on.
Claims that ashwagandha is an aphrodisiac are also largely unsupported.
The evidence supporting the claims is strong.
Whether these effects translate to slowed or reversed aging is largely unproven.
Taking doses in excess of this may lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Despite its apparent safety, experts recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional before using ashwagandha.
As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.
2019;98(37):e17186.
2013;2013:571420. doi:10.1155/2013/571420
Office of Dietary Supplements.Ashwagandha: is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep?
Fact sheet for health professionals.
2019;31(2):123-129.
2023 Mar 15;15(3):e36168.
2020 Feb 23;12(2):e7083.
doi:10.7759/cureus.7083
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Ashwagandha.