Taking Ashwagandha can help enhance sperm health, which is one of the most important factors in male infertility. Recent studies have shown a significant decline in male fertility, with a meta-analysis showing a downward trend in sperm count and semen volume over the past 50 years.

One pilot study presented some really impressive results on Ashwagandha for male fertility. Infertile men with a low sperm count (oligospermic males) were enrolled and randomized to either receive a full spectrum Ashwagandha root extract supplement for 90 days or a placebo. 

At the end of the study, a semen analysis found that men taking the root extract of Ashwagandha had a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility! These results demonstrate an impressive improvement in overall semen quality and evidence that Ashwagandha can improve fertility in men. [2]

Supplementation with Ashwagandha has been used to increase testosterone levels in men. Low testosterone levels can be a common issue amongst men that can indirectly affect fertility by decreasing sex drive and libido and contributing to erectile dysfunction.

On average, Ashwagandha naturally boosts the level of testosterone by 17% in men, according to high-quality research. [9]

The main mechanism through which Ashwagandha appears to elevate testosterone levels is by lowering the stress hormone cortisol, which interferes with the normal function of the testes. This means that when cortisol levels are high, it can lead to reduced testosterone production. [10]

Ashwagandha’s scientifically proven benefits on sleep may be another mechanism by which it improves testosterone levels since just one week of reduced sleep time in men lowered daytime testosterone levels by a whopping 10-15%.  [11]

Learn more about Ashwagandha and testosterone here.

Ashwagandha is thought to enhance reproductive health in women by supporting hormonal balance and relieving stress.

Ashwagandha is known as a powerful adaptogenic herb, which means it assists the body in adapting and coping better with physical and psychological stressors. 

How does stress affect fertility?

The release of stress hormones such as cortisol can disrupt the balance of certain hormones required for essential functions relating to fertility, such as ovulation.

One example relates to progesterone. Progesterone is a crucial hormone involved in female fertility since it helps to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. [7]

Both progesterone and cortisol are synthesized in the body from the hormone known as pregnenolone. One theory suggests that when under stress, pregnenolone is diverted away from making progesterone and instead used for cortisol production. If this becomes chronic, it may result in lower levels of progesterone which could negatively affect the chance of getting pregnant.

Several studies have confirmed the interesting link between stress and fertility, showing that a woman’s day-to-day stress levels are linked to her chance of getting pregnant. For instance, women who had higher serum hormone levels of stress took 29% longer to get pregnant than those who were less stressed. [8]

Scientific research confirms that Ashwagandha can boost thyroid hormones in those with hypothyroidism (low thyroid function).

Low thyroid hormone levels can affect fertility on many different levels, such as ovulation and the menstrual cycle. Having low levels of the thyroid hormone known as T4 (thyroxine) can lead to higher prolactin levels. High prolactin levels can impact ovulation by affecting how the egg is released. [9]

Hypothyroidism can also shorten the second half of the menstrual cycle, which means a fertilized egg may not have enough time to attach to the wall of the womb. [10]

It’s thought that Ashwagandha improves thyroid function due to its stress-relieving effect since high cortisol levels can reduce the conversion of thyroid hormones into their most active form. 

For example, An 8-week study on participants with hypothyroidism found that taking 600 mg of ashwagandha root extract daily led to significant improvements in thyroid levels compared to taking a placebo. [11]

Learn more about Ashwagandha and thyroid health here.

The recommended dosage of Ashwagandha ranges from 500mg-1900mg per day for men and women, split into 2-3 separate doses. Choosing a standardized full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract is preferable over Ashwagandha powder due to enhanced potency. Certain clinical trials have used 600 mg of Ashwagandha extract per day, while other studies suggest higher doses may be more effective such as 1300-1900 mg per day.

Take Ashwagandha with or without food at any time of the day or night.

Make sure to speak to your doctor before adding Ashwagandha to your routine, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, taking medications, or have any pre-existing health conditions.

Can Ashwagandha affect the menstrual cycle?

It’s been hypothesized that Ashwagandha may help to support a more regular menstrual cycle by significantly lowering levels of stress. Stress can have a powerful impact on the hormonal pathways within the body, which can lead to irregular periods or even cause you to miss some cycles altogether.

Can you take Ashwagandha while trying to conceive? 

An Ashwagandha supplement is generally considered safe to take before pregnancy if you’re trying to conceive. If you're uncertain, remember always to discuss any new supplements you're interested in adding to your routine with your primary healthcare practitioner. 

NutriRise is a health and wellness brand providing dietary supplements to support the health of your mind, body, and spirit, including our top-selling Organic Ashwagandha, used by over 1 million happy customers.

Co-founders Basim & Ramsha Mirza started NutriRise in 2016, fuelled by the desire to transform their own health through the power of nutrition and ancient wisdom. NutriRise is now backed by a world-class team of researchers, chemists, biologists, doctors, and nutritionists. Every supplement we provide is produced in the USA in a CGMP-certified facility for unparalleled safety, purity, and quality.

At NutriRise, we ensure the quality and effectiveness of our Organic Ashwagandha Capsules and Ashwagandha Gummies by rigorous third-party testing. This stringent protocol helps us guarantee that the Ashwagandha we offer is of the highest standard. 

We also ensure you're getting the most potent and effective form of Ashwagandha by only using the root extract of the Ashwagandha plant. This delivers the perfect, safe amount of bioactive withanolides to ensure you experience the many benefits of Ashwagandha, like fertility support, thyroid support, stress relief, deeper sleep, hormonal balance, and overall vitality, making it the superior choice. 

Finally, we go beyond just creating and selling products; at NutriRise, we care deeply about the customer experience too. Through our efficient delivery system, we ensure your Ashwagandha reaches you in perfect condition. By choosing NutriRise, you can trust in the quality and potency of each product, from our meticulous production processes to its arrival at your doorstep. 

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