Can Plants Boost Hormones? Ashwagandha and Testosterone

Testosterone is an important hormone in the human body that plays a role in several processes, including muscle growth, bone density, libido, mood, and more. As such, it is important to maintain healthy levels of testosterone. But what if you could do more than just exercise and diet to naturally increase your male hormone by taking one of the best testosterone boosters known to man? One way to potentially increase your testosterone levels is by taking herbs and plants like ashwagandha, which could help your body produce more of the hormone. In this article, we’ll explore what ashwagandha is, the potential benefits it can have on testosterone levels, and any potential side effects.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb native to India and parts of North Africa. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body to adapt to stress. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

The active component in ashwagandha is a type of alkaloid called withanolides, which is believed to be responsible for the herb’s many therapeutic benefits including it’s connection to raising testosterone levels. In addition, ashwagandha also contains iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and several other minerals.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is known to have many potential benefits. It is believed to help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties beyond it’s function as a testosterone booster. Studies have also shown that it may be an effective treatment for anxiety and depression, as well as a potential aid in weight loss.

How Does Ashwagandha Affect Testosterone Levels?

Ashwagandha has been shown to increase testosterone levels in both humans and animals. In humans, a study conducted by the National Institute of Health found that men who took ashwagandha for 90 days experienced an increase in testosterone levels of 17%, as well as enhancing their sperm quality and fertility. In animals, a study conducted by the Department of Zoology at the University of Madras in India found that when rats were fed ashwagandha for 8 weeks, their testosterone levels increased by an average of 20%.

In another study conducted by the Department of Physiology at the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in India, it was found that when rats were given ashwagandha for 28 days, their testosterone levels increased by an average of 25%. It is believed that ashwagandha works to increase testosterone levels by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone, which is responsible for the production of testosterone. The hormone LH (luteinizing hormone) prompts the production of testosterone in the testes.

Testosterone is essential for the manufacture of sperm, as well as for the development of male physical characteristics such as a lower voice, increased body hair, and increased muscle mass. In women, a sudden spike in the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) is known as an LH surge, and it causes ovulation and the creation of the corpus luteum. In men, LH is also referred to as interstitial cell–stimulating hormone (ICSH), and it stimulates the production of testosterone from Leydig cells. LH works together with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for maximum effect.

Ashwagandha is also believed to work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, which can help to increase testosterone levels. Evidence suggests that ashwagandha works to maintain the balance of the endocrine system, and it has been demonstrated to lower the amount of estrogen in the body by hindering the activity of the aromatase enzyme, a catalyst that changes androgen into estrogen.

Ashwagandha has also been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce cortisol levels, both of which can raise testosterone levels and help improve the fertility issues that come along with lowered testosterone. With stress related fertility issues being an ongoing issue in South Africa.

Other Plants That Can Boost Testosterone

In addition to ashwagandha, there are several other plants that are believed to help increase testosterone levels.

Ginger has been found to help increase testosterone levels in rodents. A study conducted by the Department of Physiology at the University of Maryland in the United States found that when mice were fed ginger for 10 weeks, their testosterone levels increased by an average of 12%.

Tribulus terrestris is another plant that is believed to help boost testosterone levels. A study conducted by the Department of Physiology at the University of Pune in India found that when rats were given tribulus terrestris for 28 days, their testosterone levels increased by an average of 20%.

Lastly, fenugreek is also believed to help increase testosterone levels. A study conducted by the Department of Physiology at the University of Bombay in India found that when rats were given fenugreek for 28 days, their testosterone levels increased by an average of 18%.

Potential Side Effects of Taking Ashwagandha

The potential downsides of taking ashwagandha are known, but using it orally for up to three months is likely safe. High doses may result in an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and on rare occasions, liver issues. Additionally, pregnant women should not use this supplement since it may heighten the chance of a miscarriage. It is also important to note that ashwagandha is not recommended for pregnant women or those taking certain medications, as it can interact with them. If you are taking any medications, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha.

Recommended Dosages of Ashwagandha

The recommended dosage of ashwagandha will depend on the individual and the condition being treated. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and increase gradually. Research has explored the effects of ashwagandha utilizing dosages of 250-600 mg/day from its root extract. The most frequent dosage suggested is 600 mg/day, split into two parts, one consumed in the morning with breakfast and the other taken at night. Which is why a lot of testosterone boosters like Prime Male and Testogen include Ashwagandha in these doses. Findings have shown that 600 mg/day is superior compared to lower doses when it comes to improving sleep. For increasing testosterone levels, it is recommended to take between 500-600 mg of ashwagandha per day. It is also recommended to divide the dose into two or three doses taken throughout the day.

Summary For Ashwagandha As A Testosterone Booster

Although research studies are still rare, one way to potentially increase your testosterone levels is by taking herbs and plants like ashwagandha, which could help your body produce more of the hormone. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can help to increase testosterone levels in both humans and animals, which is why it ends up in a lot of testosterone booster supplements. In humans, studies have found that men who took ashwagandha for 90 days experienced an increase in testosterone levels of 17%. In animals, a study found that rats fed ashwagandha for 8 weeks experienced an increase in testosterone levels of 20%. In addition to ashwagandha, there are several other plants that are believed to help increase testosterone levels, including ginger, tribulus terrestris, and fenugreek. Just note that none of these will raise your testosterone to magical levels, especially not without proper nutrition and regular exercise as well.

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