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A meta-analysis of 4 RCTs (n=234) found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly increased testosterone levels by a weighted mean of 14.7% compared to placebo (p = 0.004), with effects most pronounced in physically active men and those with suboptimal baseline levels.
| Study | Participants | Finding | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on male reproductive hormones: A systematic review and meta-analysis Smith SJ, Lopresti AL, Teo SYM, Fairchild TJ — Phytomedicine (2023) | 234 | Ashwagandha supplementation significantly increased testosterone and DHEA-S levels in men | High |
Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial Wankhede S, Langade D, Joshi K, Sinha SR, Bhattacharyya S — Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2015) | 57 | Ashwagandha 600mg/day significantly increased testosterone and muscle strength vs placebo over 8 weeks of resistance training | High |
For men seeking natural testosterone support, 600mg/day of KSM-66 ashwagandha extract for at least 8 weeks may provide a modest but meaningful increase in testosterone (~15%). This effect is additive with resistance training and is most impactful for men with stress-related hormonal suppression.
A systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supplementation on testosterone levels in men, synthesizing data from randomized controlled trials.
Yes. A 2023 meta-analysis of 4 RCTs found ashwagandha increased testosterone by approximately 14.7% versus placebo. The effect is moderate — not comparable to TRT — but is clinically meaningful, especially for men with stress-related hormonal suppression.
The best-studied dose is 600mg/day of KSM-66 root extract, taken for at least 8 weeks. Some trials used 300mg twice daily. Lower doses have less evidence for testosterone-specific effects.
Most testosterone trials enrolled men aged 25-50. The largest effects were seen in men with higher baseline stress and those engaged in resistance training. Young men with already-optimal testosterone may see smaller gains.
Ashwagandha has been studied in women primarily for stress and thyroid support, not testosterone. Women should not take ashwagandha specifically to increase testosterone. For female hormonal balance, consult a healthcare provider.
Clinical trials measured testosterone at 8-12 week timepoints. Some hormonal changes may begin within 4 weeks, but allow 8 weeks for meaningful testosterone increases. Consistent daily use is important.