Performance
Benefits of Ashwagandha: Boosting Female Sexual Health and Male Fertility
Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb, is a natural supplement for improving sexual health. It enhances
libido and arousal in females and increases sperm count and motility in males, promoting reproductive
wellness for both genders.
Theory for Women
Ashwagandha, known for stress relief, may alleviate female sexual dysfunction by countering stress
or addressing androgen deficiency, aiding both genders.
Parameters:
A study was conducted at Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center in Thane, Maharashtra, India. It
involved 50 women in the age group of (21-50) with female sexual dysfunction (FSD). They received
either ashwagandha or a placebo for eight weeks and underwent counselling. Sexual function was
evaluated using two scales and the number of sexual encounters was recorded.
Outcomes:
-
After having Ashwagandha for 8 weeks:
- A notable rise in total FSFI score, indicating improved female sexual dysfunction (FSD).
- Significantly increased FSFI's arousal and lubrication domains compared to placebo.
- It showed greater enhancement in orgasm and sexual satisfaction.
- No disparity in sexual activity in both the groups, but the ashwagandha group had more successful
sexual encounters after 8 weeks.
- Ashwagandha extract is a safe and effective treatment for FSD, with no reported side effects, say
researchers. -
Impact:
FSD affects up to two-thirds of women and is commonly associated with emotional or stress-related
issues. The cause is unclear and treatment options are inadequate. A study found that ashwagandha, in
combination with therapy, reduced stress and increased testosterone levels, which could help treat
FSD. However, ashwagandha should not be considered an aphrodisiac as it does not affect sexual
desire.
Theory for Men
Ashwagandha has been linked to increased testosterone levels in humans and the ability to stimulate
spermatogenesis in rats. However, more research is needed to determine whether it can improve low
sperm concentration in humans and the safety of its supplementation. Can ashwagandha positively
impact spermatogenesis and address oligospermia?
Parameters
90 days pilot study was organized in Mumbai, India, involving 46 male patients between 22 and 40
years of age with oligospermia. The men were randomized to treatment with a full-spectrum root
extract of ashwagandha or placebo capsules. Semen parameters and serum hormone levels were
estimated at the end of treatment.
Outcomes
-
After having Ashwagandha for 90 days
- 167% increase in sperm count
- 53% increase in semen volume
- 57% increase in sperm motility
- increase in serum testosterone levels
- All parameters significantly improved, unlike the placebo group.
- 70% of the ashwagandha group found therapy "excellent" vs. 12% in the placebo group.
- Ashwagandha root extract is safe, effective, and well-tolerated.
-
Impact
Infertility affects both men and women equally, with oligospermia being the most common cause of
reduced male fertility. Ashwagandha, with its positive effects on stress and mental health, can address
core issues related to male infertility and benefit couples facing infertility.
