Ashwagandha Sexual Benefits: Boosting Libido and Enhancing Performance

March 27, 2023

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a traditional herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and fatigue. In recent years, ashwagandha has gained attention for its potential benefits for sexual health.

In this article, we will explore the sexual benefits of ashwagandha for both men and women.

What is Ashwagandha?

ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb that grows in India, the Middle East, and some parts of Africa. The root and leaves of the ashwagandha plant have been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional system of medicine that originated in India. In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is considered one of the most important herbs due to its wide range of health benefits.

The name "ashwagandha" comes from the Sanskrit language and means "smell of the horse." This name comes from the fact that the root of the ashwagandha plant smells like a horse and is said to give strength and vitality, just like a horse. Ashwagandha is also known as "Indian ginseng," as it is used in a similar way as ginseng in traditional Chinese medicine.

Ashwagandha has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions, including stress, anxiety, and fatigue. It is considered an adaptogen, which means that it can help the body adapt to stress and promote balance and homeostasis. (1) Ashwagandha is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

In recent years, ashwagandha has gained popularity in the Western world for its potential health benefits. It is now commonly used in dietary supplements, powders, teas, and extracts. While research on ashwagandha is still ongoing, it has shown promise for a variety of health conditions, including anxiety, depression, cognitive function, and sexual health.

What Are the Benefits of Ashwagandha for Sexual Health?

ashwagandha benefits

Ashwagandha has been shown to have several potential benefits for sexual health in both men and women. Some of the most notable benefits include:

1. Boosts Libido

Ashwagandha has been shown to increase libido in both men and women. In a study, men who took ashwagandha supplements for 8 weeks reported a significant increase in sexual desire compared to those who took a placebo. (2)

2. Improves Erectile Function

Ashwagandha has been shown to improve erectile function in men. In a study, men who took ashwagandha supplements for 12 weeks reported a significant improvement in erectile function compared to those who took a placebo. (3)

3. Enhances Sexual Performance

Ashwagandha may also enhance sexual performance in both men and women. In a study, women who took ashwagandha supplements for 8 weeks reported a significant improvement in sexual function, including increased arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction. (4)

4. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve sexual function. (5) Stress and anxiety can lead to sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

5. Supports Hormonal Balance

Ashwagandha may support hormonal balance, which is important for sexual health. In a study, men who took ashwagandha supplements for 3 months had increased levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone, which are important for male sexual function. (6)

How Does Ashwagandha Work?

Ashwagandha contains several active compounds that may be responsible for its sexual health benefits. (7) These include:

Withanolides: Withanolides are a group of compounds found in ashwagandha that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They may also help increase blood flow to the genitals, which can improve sexual function.
Alkaloids: Ashwagandha contains several alkaloids, including somniferin, sominine, and anferine. These compounds may help reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve sexual function.
Steroidal Lactones: Steroidal lactones, also known as withanolides, are compounds found in ashwagandha that may support hormonal balance and improve sexual function.

Additional Tips for Sexual Health

sexual health

While ashwagandha can be beneficial for sexual health, there are other things you can do to improve your sexual function and libido. Here are some additional tips for sexual health:

Exercise regularly: Exercise can improve blood flow and hormonal balance, which can improve sexual function.
Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can support sexual health.
Manage stress: Stress can negatively impact sexual function, so it's important to find ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or therapy.
Get enough sleep: Sleep is important for overall health, including sexual function. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Talk to your healthcare provider: If you're experiencing sexual dysfunction, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying health issues and recommend treatments or lifestyle changes.

Ashwagandha Gummies and Pills for Sexual Health

ashwagandha pills

Ashwagandha supplements are available in various forms, and ashwagandha gummies and pills have become more popular. While ashwagandha gummies and pills can be a convenient way to consume ashwagandha, alcohol extracts of ashwagandha may be better than gummies or pills for several reasons.

Alcohol extracts are generally more potent than gummies or pills, as the extraction process concentrates the active compounds in the herb. This means that you can consume a smaller amount of an alcohol extract to get the same dose of active compounds as a larger amount of gummies or pills.

Additionally, alcohol extracts are absorbed more quickly by the body, as alcohol is a more efficient solvent than water. This means that there is better absorption of the active compounds and that you may feel the effects of ashwagandha faster than a pill or gummy. Alcohol extracts can also be more versatile than gummies or pills, as they can be added to drinks or used in cooking to incorporate ashwagandha into your diet in a different way.

It's important to follow the recommended dosage no matter what form of ashwagandha you are taking and talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Summary

Ashwagandha is an herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It has several potential benefits for sexual health, including boosting libido, improving erectile function, and enhancing sexual performance. Ashwagandha contains several active compounds, including withanolides, alkaloids, and steroidal lactones, that may be responsible for its sexual health benefits.

While ashwagandha can be beneficial for sexual health, it's important to also maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and talk to your healthcare provider if you're experiencing sexual dysfunction.