Supplements for increased testosterone (T)such as ashwagandha, coleus, DHEA, and many moreare popular.
They’re being studied for their health effects such as increasing libido and erectile dysfunction.
However, science has not yet proven definitively that they work.
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Some of these supplements may offer other benefits, however.
For example, ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
What Is Low Testosterone?
Many supplements are marketed as testosterone boosters.
Here’s what you’re gonna wanna know about some of the heavy hitters.
The purpose of a supplement is not to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Several studies suggest that the adaptogenashwagandhacan combat low T in males.
Traditionally used inAyurvedic medicine, ashwagandha has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Because of this, the supplement can increase testosterone levels that have dipped due toinflammationor stress.
Ashwagandha can also lowercortisollevels, a hormone associated with the body’s response to stress.
Lower cortisol levels cause increased levels of testosterone.
Ashwagandha may causesleepinessor stomach upset; some case reports have linked it toliver damage.
This supplement shouldn’t be taken before surgery.
The dose used was 500 milligrams daily for 12 weeks.Larger clinical trials are necessary to verify this benefit.
Coleus may cause gastrointestinal symptoms likediarrhea.
DHEA
DHEAis a hormone that helps the body make other hormones likeestrogenand testosterone.
Only females had an increased testosterone concentration.
Theoretically, itcouldwork by decreasing cortisol levels, but more information is necessary.
Ginseng also didn’t boost testosterone more than a placebo in a small clinical trial of 23 premenopausal females.
Some side effects of ginseng includehigh blood pressure,insomnia, and headaches.
It has a few notable drug interactions as well.
Ginseng can decrease levels of the blood-thinnerwarfarinand increase levels of sedatives.
L-Arginine
The amino acidL-arginineis necessary to makenitric oxidein the body.
Nitric oxide increases blood flow in the testesand testosterone levels.
L-arginine at doses of 1,5005,000 milligrams a day can improve EDand increase testosterone in males.
It is particularly effective combined with supplements likeyohimbeorcitrullineor the prescription ED medicationtadalafil.
Of note, long-term supplementation with L-arginine may be harmful.
Some studies have shown it can increase the risk ofheart or kidney disease.
Mucuna seeds can cause severe gastrointestinal side effects,confusion, andhallucinations.
Interestingly, puncture vine did not boost testosterone in females who were postmenopausal.
In a clinical trial of 112 females who were postmenopausal, supplementing with zinc increased testosterone levels.
However, it’s not safe for everyone.
Screen for drug interactions with your healthcare provider or pharmacist and watch for side effects.
Prioritizing rest can make a big difference in hormone levels.
Getting too little sleep for even one week can decrease testosterone levels in males by up to 15%.
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