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Ashwagandha, an ancient Ayurvedic herb, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.

Ashwagandha’s health claims include stress reduction, improved energy, and increased immunity. Some studies suggest the herb may boost certain aspects of fertility. These include hormone regulation and sperm production.

But does taking ashwagandha really improve your chances of becoming pregnant? More research on the topic is necessary. If you’re struggling with fertility or other health issues, contact your doctor. Consult your health care provider before adding any new supplements to your diet.

Here’s what you need to know about ashwagandha and reproductive health.

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an ancient herb with a rich history of use as a medicine. Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub found in parts of India, Africa, and the Middle East.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are natural substances that some claim can improve overall well-being. Rather than targeting specific symptoms, adaptogens may impact various body systems.

They may promote resilience and balance in the body. But studies on the use of adaptogens remain limited.

Some say ashwagandha has the potential to increase fertility. Small studies have found that it may reduce stress, boost energy, and improve immunity.

Does Ashwagandha Make You More Fertile?

Scientific evidence is still evolving. But some studies suggest that ashwagandha may support fertility.

The isoflavones and flavonoids in ashwagandha may mimic estrogen activity. That’s according to a 2021 study.

Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help treat uterine infections. It may also treat irregular vaginal discharge and promote a healthy reproductive environment.

Small studies have found that ashwagandha may reduce stress and lower cortisol levels. This improves the reproductive system’s health and balance, increasing the chances of conception.

Ashwagandha root extract may help treat female sexual dysfunction. That’s according to a 2015 study.

But approaching these findings with caution is essential. More clinical trials are necessary to establish ashwagandha’s effects on fertility. Consult a health care professional before including any supplements in your fertility regimen.

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha may support certain health factors, but studies are still ongoing.

Reduce stress

Studies have shown that ashwagandha may result in lower stress and anxiety levels.

Ashwagandha can reduce levels of cortisol, the hormone released in response to stress. This helps to ease stress and anxiety symptoms.

Ashwagandha also contains anti-inflammatory compounds. This may contribute to a calming effect.

Hormonal regulation

Ashwagandha may promote the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This is crucial for egg maturation and release from the ovaries.

These findings show that ashwagandha may have a beneficial impact on the endocrine system. This may enhance thyroid gland secretions and promote adrenal activity normalization.

Regulate menstrual cycle

Ashwagandha may affect key factors that influence your menstrual cycle. These include stress, inflammation, and hormonal fluctuations.

Ashwagandha may regulate your cycle. It may balance follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH), luteinizing hormones (LH), and gonadotropin hormones. This may also result in a better balance of the stress hormone cortisol.

Conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often contribute to irregular menstrual cycles. Ashwagandha’s phytoestrogens (a plant compound that shares some characteristics with estrogen) may help restore balance. They may also aid in cycle regulation.

Reduce PMS symptoms

Ashwagandha may help prevent elevated stress by reducing cortisol levels. This can stop premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms from getting worse.

It may also help to soothe cramps, reduce fatigue, and enhance sleep quality.

Ashwagandha’s mood-boosting potential can help cultivate calmness. This may ease anxiety, depression, and irritability. Its anti-inflammatory effects may reduce fluid retention, breast tenderness, and low back pain.

Sexual health

Improving sexual function and libido is a traditional intended effect of ashwagandha. It may enhance blood flow to reproductive organs and overall sexual health. But more research is necessary.

Ashwagandha can support fertility by affecting hormones, easing stress, and improving mental well-being. This can lead to increased sexual desire.

Research from 2022 studied the impact of ashwagandha on the sexual health of women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

The study found enhancements in desire, arousal, orgasm, and overall sexual satisfaction.

Can Ashwagandha Boost Fertility for Men?

Ashwagandha root extract may treat erectile dysfunction, performance anxiety, and other sexual concerns in men, such as:

• Boosted testosterone levels — Ashwagandha may help enhance testosterone production. This is essential for male reproductive health and vitality. A 2019 study found that men who took 21 milligrams of ashwagandha extract a day for eight weeks showed a 14.7% increase in testosterone.
• Enhanced sexual desire — By reducing stress and cortisol levels, ashwagandha may improve libido and sexual function.
• Improved erectile dysfunction (ED) — Ashwagandha’s stress-reducing effects may contribute to better erectile function.
• Improved mental health — Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties may help manage stress, anxiety, and overall mental well-being.
• Increased sperm count — According to a 2013 study, it improves blood circulation and potentially enhances sperm quality and mobility.
• Reduced blood sugar and inflammation — Taking ashwagandha may result in lower blood glucose levels and reduced inflammation.

Individual responses to ashwagandha can vary. Consult a health care professional before adding any new supplement to your routine.

How Much Ashwagandha Is Safe to Take?

Studies have found no safety concerns for up to three months of ashwagandha use. But whether ashwagandha is safe to use for longer periods of time remains unclear.

The ideal dosage varies. But a common starting point is 250 to 600 milligrams daily. Consult your doctor to see which amount is right for you.

Ashwagandha Side Effects

Small doses of ashwagandha are generally safe for short-term use (up to three months). That’s according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Still, not enough information supports that they’re safe for long-term use.

For some individuals, ashwagandha may cause:

• Diarrhea.
• Drowsiness.
• Nausea.
• Upset stomach.
• Vomiting.

In rare cases, ashwagandha supplements may cause injury to the liver.

Ashwagandha might activate the immune system. This can worsen symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), or rheumatoid arthritis.

Ashwagandha shows promise in supporting fertility. But scientific evidence is still developing.

As you explore this herb, remember that individual responses may vary. If you have questions about your fertility, consult a health care provider.

Always consult a health care professional before taking any new supplement.