Ashwagandha hormone balance
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Ashwagandha and Hormone Balance: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Ashwagandha and Hormonal Health
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a prominent herb in Ayurvedic medicine, renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress and maintain homeostasis. Recent studies have explored its potential benefits in balancing various hormones, including those related to stress, thyroid function, and reproductive health.
Ashwagandha and Stress Hormones
Several studies have investigated the impact of Ashwagandha on stress-related hormones. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that Ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone, in stressed adults10. Another study reported that Ashwagandha intake was associated with a significant increase in heart rate variability, indicating improved autonomic nervous system function, and a reduction in stress levels, although these improvements were not significantly different from the placebo group2.
Ashwagandha and Thyroid Function
Ashwagandha has shown promise in normalizing thyroid hormone levels. In a study involving subclinical hypothyroid patients, Ashwagandha root extract significantly improved serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) compared to placebo3. This suggests that Ashwagandha may help regulate thyroid function, potentially benefiting individuals with thyroid imbalances.
Ashwagandha and Reproductive Hormones
Ashwagandha's effects on reproductive hormones have been extensively studied, particularly in men. Research indicates that Ashwagandha can significantly increase testosterone levels and improve sperm quality. In a study on aging, overweight males, Ashwagandha intake was associated with an 18% greater increase in dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and a 14.7% greater increase in testosterone compared to placebo1. Another study found that Ashwagandha supplementation led to significant increases in free testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) in men experiencing high stress and fatigue2.
Ashwagandha and Male Infertility
Ashwagandha has also been studied for its potential to improve male fertility. A pilot study on oligospermic males (men with low sperm count) demonstrated that Ashwagandha root extract significantly increased sperm count, semen volume, and sperm motility over a 90-day period9. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha may be a valuable natural remedy for male infertility.
Mechanisms of Action
The beneficial effects of Ashwagandha on hormone balance are thought to be mediated through its impact on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. By modulating these pathways, Ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol levels, enhance thyroid function, and improve reproductive hormone levels6.
Safety and Tolerability
Ashwagandha has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in various studies. A randomized, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers reported no significant adverse effects or abnormalities in hematological and biochemical parameters, including thyroid function, after 8 weeks of Ashwagandha supplementation5. This supports its safety for long-term use in managing hormonal imbalances.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha appears to be a promising natural remedy for balancing various hormones, including those related to stress, thyroid function, and reproductive health. Its ability to modulate the HPA and HPT axes makes it a valuable adaptogen for managing hormonal imbalances. Further research with larger sample sizes and diverse populations is needed to fully substantiate these findings and expand its applications in both traditional and modern medicine.
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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 JournalExploring 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.
RCTEfficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Subclinical Hypothyroid Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.
Ashwagandha root extract may effectively normalize thyroid indices in subclinical hypothyroid patients, with few mild and temporary adverse effects.
RCTRole 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 CitedSafety of Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Study in Healthy Volunteers.
Ashwagandha root extract consumption for 8 weeks was safe in both males and females, with no reported adverse events.
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 ReviewEffect of dietary intake Ashwagandha roots powder on the levels of sex hormones in the diabetic and non-diabetic male rats.
Ashwagandha roots powder can prevent diabetes-induced hormonal dysfunction by inhibiting hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, while only lowering FSH serum levels in intact animals.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyAdaptogenic and Immunomodulatory Activity of Ashwagandha Root Extract: An Experimental Study in an Equine Model
Ashwagandha root extract has potent hemopoietic, antioxidant, adaptogenic, and immune-stimulant properties, effectively reducing stress-related health issues in horses.
RCTAnimal StudyClinical 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 CitedAn investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract
Ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduces stress and anxiety in stressed adults, potentially due to its moderating effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis.
RCT
Very Rigorous JournalHighly Cited