Does ashwagandha increase testosterone in females

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The Impact of Ashwagandha on Testosterone Levels in Females

Introduction to Ashwagandha and Hormonal Effects

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-known herb in Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used to enhance vitality, reduce stress, and improve overall health. While its effects on male hormones, particularly testosterone, have been widely studied, there is growing interest in understanding its impact on female hormonal profiles, specifically testosterone levels.

Ashwagandha and Testosterone in Females

Case Study Evidence

A notable case study highlights the potential of ashwagandha to elevate testosterone levels in females. A 27-year-old female who consumed 600 mg of ashwagandha twice daily experienced significantly elevated levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and testosterone. Her total testosterone levels were markedly higher than the normal range for females, which normalized after discontinuing ashwagandha supplementation . This case underscores the herb's capacity to alter hormonal balance in women.

Comparative Studies and Gender Differences

Research primarily focused on males has shown that ashwagandha can increase testosterone and DHEA-S levels. For instance, a study involving aging, overweight males demonstrated that ashwagandha intake was associated with a significant increase in testosterone and DHEA-S levels compared to a placebo . However, another study investigating the stress-relieving effects of ashwagandha in both males and females found that while testosterone levels increased in males, there was no significant change in females . This suggests that the hormonal response to ashwagandha may differ between genders.

Mechanisms of Action

Hormonal Pathways

The mechanisms by which ashwagandha influences hormone levels are not fully understood but are believed to involve the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Ashwagandha's stress-relieving properties may modulate this axis, thereby affecting the production of various hormones, including testosterone and DHEA-S .

Combined Herbal Formulations

Studies on combined herbal formulations containing ashwagandha, such as Mucuna, Ashwagandha, and Tribulus (M-A-T), have shown increased levels of sex hormones, including testosterone, in male subjects 15. While these studies do not directly address female subjects, they provide insight into the potential hormonal effects of ashwagandha when used in combination with other herbs.

Conclusion

Current evidence suggests that ashwagandha can increase testosterone levels in females, as demonstrated by case studies and its known effects in males. However, the response may vary, and more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand its impact on female hormonal health. Women considering ashwagandha supplementation should do so under medical supervision to monitor and manage any potential hormonal changes.

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Most relevant research papers on this topic

M‐A‐T (Mucuna, Ashwagandha and Tribulus) Enhances Testosterone and Reduces Oxidative Stress: In Vivo Model

M-A-T at 30 mg and 60 mg doses enhances testosterone levels and reduces oxidative stress, potentially improving sexual health and function.

Non-RCT

2016·

0citations

·V. Juturu et al.

SAT435 The Quest Of Elevated Dhea-s: Is It A Tumor Or Is It Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha intake may cause elevated DHEA-s levels in females, but it is not clear if this is due to a tumor or other underlying cause.

Case Report

2023·

0citations

·Shivani Patel et al.

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.

RCTRigorous Journal

2019·

59citations

·A. Lopresti et al.

An 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.

RCTVery Rigorous JournalHighly Cited

2019·

122citations

·A. Lopresti et al.

MAT, a Novel Polyherbal Aphrodisiac Formulation, Enhances Sexual Function and Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway While Reducing Oxidative Damage in Male Rats

Mucuna, Ashwagandha, and Tribulus complexes improve sexual function and reduce oxidative damage in male rats by increasing testosterone levels and regulating NF-B and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.

RCTAnimal StudyRigorous Journal

2018·

7citations

·K. Şahin et al.

Exploring 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.

RCT

2023·

10citations

·Stephen J. Smith et al.

Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations in Men: A Systematic Review.

Herbal extracts, such as fenugreek seed and ashwagandha root, show positive effects on testosterone concentrations in men, but more research is needed for definitive conclusions on efficacy and safety.

Systematic ReviewVery Rigorous Journal

2020·

33citations

·Stephen J. Smith et al.

Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial

Ashwagandha root extract supplementation significantly increases muscle strength and recovery in young men engaged in resistance training, while also reducing exercise-induced muscle damage and increasing testosterone levels.

RCTVery Rigorous JournalHighly Cited

2015·

105citations

·S. Wankhede et al.

Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study

Ashwagandha root extract (HCARE) supplementation significantly improves sexual function and satisfaction in healthy women when taken orally for 8 weeks.

RCTRigorous Journal

2015·

58citations

·Swati Dongre et al.

Iron 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.

2023·

0citations

·H. Tuli et al.

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