Ashwagandha Science ashwagandhascience.org

Research summary

Ashwagandha and Salivary Hormones in Men

Key takeaway

One small trial studied salivary hormone measurements in overweight men with mild fatigue. A hormone difference is distinct from improved symptoms or an established clinical benefit.[1]

What these findings do not establish

The studied extract delivered 21 mg of withanolide glycosides per day. Fifty-seven men enrolled, 50 completed the first eight weeks, and 43 completed the full 16-week crossover study. Fatigue, vigor, and sexual or psychological well-being did not improve significantly versus placebo; the salivary hormone findings do not establish a clinical benefit or effects in women.[1]

The salivary-hormone trial and its limits

In one small randomized placebo-controlled crossover trial of overweight men aged 40 to 70 years with mild fatigue, eight weeks of ashwagandha extract was associated with higher salivary testosterone and DHEA-S than placebo. The studied extract delivered 21 mg of withanolide glycosides per day. Fifty-seven men enrolled, 50 completed the first eight weeks, and 43 completed the full 16-week crossover study. Fatigue, vigor, and sexual or psychological well-being did not improve significantly versus placebo; the salivary hormone findings do not establish a clinical benefit or effects in women.[1]

Relevant safety guidance

NCCIH advises people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer to avoid ashwagandha because it may increase testosterone. This is a condition-specific safety caution, not a treatment recommendation or an instruction to change cancer care.[2]

References

  1. 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. 2019. Randomized controlled trial View source →
  2. Ashwagandha: Usefulness and Safety. NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Retrieved 2026-09-30. Government health fact sheet View source →

Read the concise FAQ answer

Use the FAQ when you want the direct answer first, then return here for the full evidence context.

Does ashwagandha increase testosterone in men?

In one small crossover study of overweight men aged 40–70 with mild fatigue, eight weeks of supplementation was associated with higher salivary testosterone and DHEA-S than placebo. Fatigue, vigor and sexual well-being did not improve significantly versus placebo, so these hormone changes do not establish clinical benefit.

Read FAQ →

Related