What Does Ashwagandha Do for Men?

Updated on March 6, 2024
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
Exploring the benefits of Ashwagandha for men's health and vitality.

What does Ashwagandha do for men?

Ashwagandha, an ancient Ayurvedic herb, has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for millennia. Renowned for its adaptogenic properties, this potent herb is often utilized to enhance vitality and virility in men.

The potential benefits of Ashwagandha span across physical, mental, and sexual health domains.

The use of Ashwagandha in traditional medicine is not just based on ancient wisdom but is increasingly being validated by modern science.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the specifics of what Ashwagandha does for men’s health and well-being. 

From boosting energy storiesto enhancing cognitive function and beyond—discover how this powerful Ayurvedic herb can contribute to your overall health.

Understanding Ashwagandha and Its Benefits

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits.

It’s one of the most effective and versatile nootropic herbs in the wellness market!

Known scientifically as Withania somnifera, this adaptogenic wonder has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to promote overall well-being and balance in the body.

Originating from Asia and Africa, Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that contains chemicals known to calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and even alter the immune system.

It is traditionally used as an adaptogen, which means it helps the body resist physical and mental stress.

One of the most remarkable benefits of Ashwagandha is its impact on cognitive function. Numerous studies have shown that this herb possesses neuroprotective properties, helping to boost memory, focus, and overall cognitive abilities.

By regulating cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for our stress response, Ashwagandha offers a soothing embrace in the face of daily pressures.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

This remarkable herb provides many positive impacts on individual health.

Whether you’re a woman or a man, there are loads of exciting effects for users to take advantage of for enhanced well-being. 

Ashwagandha has the following remarkable health benefits:

  • Stress Reduction: Ashwagandha is widely recognized for its stress-reducing properties. Its adaptogenic nature helps the body adapt and cope with stress more effectively by regulating cortisol, the stress hormone. Consuming Ashwagandha has been shown to lower anxiety levels, promote relaxation, and enhance mental clarity, enabling you to manage stress better.(1)
  • Improved Cognitive Function: Research suggests that Ashwagandha can improve brain function and memory. Its ability to protect nerve cells from oxidative stress and promote the growth and repair of brain cells may support long-term cognitive health. Regular consumption of Ashwagandha for 90 days may help enhance focus, attention span, and overall mental well-being.(2)
  • Enhanced Energy Levels: Ashwagandha is known for its revitalizing properties, helping combat fatigue and boost energy levels naturally. By improving mitochondrial health and optimizing oxygen utilization, this herb provides sustainable energy and combats adrenal fatigue.(3) Bid farewell to sluggish days and welcome increased productivity and stamina.
  • Immune System Boost: Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance the immune system, protecting against various infections and diseases. Its immune-modulating effects help strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanisms, promoting overall wellness. Regular consumption of Ashwagandha may significantly reduce the risk of illness and support the body’s ability to fight off infections.(4)
  • Hormonal Balance: Women experiencing hormone-related imbalances may find Ashwagandha incredibly beneficial. This herb has shown promising results in regulating the production of reproductive hormones, reducing symptoms of PMS and menopause, and enhancing fertility. Its adaptogenic qualities help the body reach a state of hormonal equilibrium, alleviating mood swings and supporting overall wellness. Studies have proven that this adaptogenic herb promoted a 15% increase in salivary testosterone and an 18% increase of DHEA-S levels.(5)
  • Improved Sleep Quality: Ashwagandha’s calming properties make it an effective natural remedy for insomnia and sleep disturbances. By lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, it can contribute to better sleep quality.(6) A restful night’s sleep enables you to wake up refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the day.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is often associated with various health conditions. Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties can help combat inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Its active compounds possess antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative damage, supporting overall health and well-being.(7)

 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Men’s Health

Ashwagandha, a traditional Indian herb, provides several health benefits for men.

It is known to reduce anxiety, combat depression, and enhance sexual function. Additionally, it aids in muscle growth and strength improvement.

This makes ashwagandha a popular choice for men seeking natural ways to boost their overall health and well-being.

Here are 5 key benefits of premium Ashwagandha supplements for men:

  1. Increased Testosterone Levels: Ashwagandha has been proven to naturally increase testosterone levels, which plays a crucial role in men’s health. Optimal testosterone levels can result in improved bone density, increased energy and mood, enhanced libido, and overall vitality.
  2. Improved Sexual Health: By harnessing the adaptogenic properties of Ashwagandha, men can experience greater sexual health. This powerful herb can boost libido, increase fertility, and support overall sexual well-being, ensuring a fulfilling and satisfying intimate life.
  3. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: In today’s fast-paced society, stress and anxiety can significantly impact men’s mental health. Ashwagandha acts as a natural stress reliever, helping to lessen the physical and mental effects of chronic stress. Incorporating this herb into your daily routine can promote calmness, relaxation, and an overall sense of well-being.
  4. Enhanced Physical Performance: For men who strive to excel in physical activities, Ashwagandha offers remarkable benefits. It can improve athletic performance, increase muscle mass, and boost overall physical vitality. Including this herb in your workout regimen can help fuel your exercise routine and aid in achieving your fitness goals.
  5. Sharper Cognitive Function: As men age, prioritizing cognitive health becomes crucial. Ashwagandha possesses neuroprotective qualities that support healthy brain function. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to cognitive decline, this herb can help improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
  6. Support Male Fertility: Research suggests that ashwagandha may help with male fertility by improving sperm quality and mobility. If you and your partner are trying to conceive, incorporating ashwagandha into your routine may be worth considering.

Ashwagandha is a powerful herb that offers a comprehensive method for men to enhance their physical health, mental well-being, and sexual vitality.

With its ability to increase testosterone levels, reduce stress and anxiety, improve physical performance, and enhance cognitive function, Ashwagandha stands out as a natural and effective solution for men’s health concerns.

By incorporating this herb into their wellness regimen, men can thrive in today’s demanding world and enjoy a higher quality of life!

Potential Risks and Side Effects for Men

While Ashwagandha may improve sexual performance, reduce erectile dysfunction, and alleviate sexual anxiety among men, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential side effects.

Many male participants have reported digestive issues after consuming Ashwagandha. These can include:

  • Stomach upset
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

These symptoms are generally mild and often resolve over time as your body adjusts to the herb.

Additionally, men with autoimmune diseases should exercise caution when considering Ashwagandha.

The herb can potentially stimulate the immune system and exacerbate symptoms of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. 

Lastly, Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications.

For example:

  • Sedatives: Ashwagandha could enhance the sedative effect of these drugs.
  • Blood thinners: The herb might increase bleeding risk if taken with blood-thinning medications.

Hormonal Imbalance

Excessive consumption of Ashwagandha could lead to hormonal imbalances in men, causing problems like hair loss – a common cause of distress among males.

It is always advised to stick to recommended dosages and consult your doctor if you notice any unusual changes.

While heart disease is a significant concern for many men, there’s currently no evidence linking ashwagandha use directly to heart disease risk.

However, due to its potential interaction with medications used for heart conditions, it’s recommended that individuals with heart disease speak with their doctor before starting ashwagandha.

Conclusion: How Does Ashwagandha Benefit Men?

Drawing from the body of scientific evidence, it’s clear that ashwagandha could be a game-changer for men.

Its potential to boost testosterone levels and fertility, aid muscle growth and fat reduction, enhance athletic performance, and improve mental health and sleep quality is impressive.

But remember, not all supplements are created equal. 

Choosing the right product and being aware of possible side effects are crucial steps towards reaping these benefits.

Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, why not give Ashwagandha a try?

It might just be the supplement you’ve been looking for to help elevate your health and wellness journey.


Sources, Studies, and Scientific Research
  1. Akhgarjand, Camellia et al. “Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Phytotherapy research : PTR vol. 36,11 (2022): 4115-4124. doi:10.1002/ptr.7598 ↩
  2. Gopukumar, Kumarpillai et al. “Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2021 8254344. 30 Nov. 2021, doi:10.1155/2021/8254344 ↩
  3. Lee, Da-Hye et al. “Withania somnifera Extract Enhances Energy Expenditure via Improving Mitochondrial Function in Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle.” Nutrients vol. 12,2 431. 7 Feb. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12020431 ↩
  4. Khanal, Pukar et al. “Withanolides from Withania somnifera as an immunity booster and their therapeutic options against COVID-19.” Journal of biomolecular structure & dynamics vol. 40,12 (2022): 5295-5308. doi:10.1080/07391102.2020.1869588 ↩
  5. Lopresti, Adrian L et al. “A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males.” American journal of men’s health vol. 13,2 (2019): 1557988319835985. doi:10.1177/1557988319835985 ↩
  6. Mikulska, Paulina et al. “Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)-Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review.” Pharmaceutics vol. 15,4 1057. 24 Mar. 2023, doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057 ↩
  7. Sikandan, Abudubari et al. “Ashwagandha root extract exerts anti‑inflammatory effects in HaCaT cells by inhibiting the MAPK/NF‑κB pathways and by regulating cytokines.” International journal of molecular medicine vol. 42,1 (2018): 425-434. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2018.3608 ↩
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