Ashwagandha benefits for men
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Ashwagandha Benefits for Men
Hormonal Balance and Vitality
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been shown to positively impact hormonal balance in men, particularly in aging and overweight individuals. A study involving men aged 40-70 years demonstrated that an 8-week supplementation with ashwagandha extract significantly increased levels of DHEA-S by 18% and testosterone by 14.7% compared to a placebo group 1. Another study found that ashwagandha supplementation led to a significant increase in free testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels in men experiencing high stress and fatigue 4. These hormonal changes are crucial for maintaining vitality and overall well-being in men.
Male Infertility and Reproductive Health
Ashwagandha has been extensively studied for its role in managing male infertility. Research indicates that ashwagandha can improve semen quality by increasing sperm count, motility, and volume. A pilot study on oligospermic males showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility after 90 days of ashwagandha supplementation 9. Additionally, ashwagandha's antioxidant properties help mitigate oxidative stress, which is a common cause of infertility 26.
Physical Performance and Muscle Strength
Ashwagandha is also known for enhancing physical performance and muscle strength. An 8-week study involving resistance training participants found that those who took ashwagandha experienced greater improvements in muscle strength, muscle size, and cardiorespiratory endurance compared to the placebo group 8. A systematic review and meta-analysis further confirmed that ashwagandha supplementation is effective in improving physical performance variables such as strength, power, and endurance in healthy individuals 10.
Stress Reduction and Anti-Fatigue Effects
Ashwagandha has significant anti-stress and anti-fatigue properties. In a study on adults experiencing high stress and fatigue, ashwagandha supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in fatigue symptoms and an increase in heart rate variability, indicating improved autonomic nervous system function 4. These effects are beneficial for men dealing with chronic stress and fatigue, contributing to better mental and physical health.
Endocrine System Support
Ashwagandha's impact on the endocrine system extends beyond reproductive hormones. It has been shown to normalize adrenal activity, improve thyroid function, and reduce cortisol levels, which are essential for managing stress and maintaining hormonal balance 5. These benefits make ashwagandha a valuable herb for supporting overall endocrine health in men.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha offers a range of benefits for men, including improved hormonal balance, enhanced reproductive health, increased physical performance, and reduced stress and fatigue. These effects are supported by multiple studies, highlighting ashwagandha's potential as a natural remedy for various health concerns. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to substantiate these findings and explore additional benefits.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males
Ashwagandha intake for 8 weeks increased levels of DHEA-S and testosterone in overweight men, but did not significantly affect cortisol, estradiol, fatigue, vigor, or sexual well-being.
RCT
Rigorous JournalRole of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in the management of male infertility.
Ashwagandha root supplementation may improve male fertility by reducing oxidative stress and regulating hormonal balance through endocrine glands.
Literature Review
Highly CitedEffect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well‐being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial
Ashwagandha root extract improves sexual health and well-being in adult males, as demonstrated in a randomized controlled trial.
RCTExploring the efficacy and safety of a novel standardized ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract (Witholytin®) in adults experiencing high stress and fatigue in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Ashwagandha may have anti-fatigue effects in overweight middle-to-older adults experiencing high stress and fatigue, but its impact on perceived stress levels was not significantly different from a placebo.
RCTCan Ashwagandha Benefit the Endocrine System?—A Review
Ashwagandha root extract shows potential in improving thyroid gland function, normalizing adrenal activity, and enhancing reproductive system function.
Literature ReviewIron chelation and antioxidant properties of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) restore fertility in men and women
Ashwagandha restores fertility in men and women by improving testicular and ovarian functions, making it a safer and more cost-effective alternative to synthetic drugs.
Potential clinical usage of ashwagandha root extract: A review
Ashwagandha root extract shows potential in treating insomnia, stress-related disorders, cognitive functions, endocrine diseases, and enhancing muscle strength and recovery in healthy adults.
Systematic ReviewEffects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) standardized root extract on physical endurance and VO 2max in healthy adults performing resistance training: An eight-week, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Ashwagandha root extract supplementation for eight weeks effectively improves muscle strength, growth, endurance, and recovery in both male and female participants.
RCTClinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study
Ashwagandha root extract significantly improves sperm count, semen volume, and motility in males with oligospermia, potentially reducing infertility.
RCTRigorous JournalHighly CitedEffects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on Physical Performance: Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis
Ashwagandha supplementation shows potential in improving physical performance in healthy men and women, with more comparable studies needed for exercise training and athletic populations.
Meta-Analysis