Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates that ED affects 30 million men in the United States.
While there are medications approved for ED, many people may choose to use natural methods and herbal supplements. One such supplement that you may have heard of is ashwagandha, an herb that’s used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Although ashwagandha may have several potential health benefits, including for male sexual health, the current scientific evidence doesn’t support its use for ED.
Keep reading to learn more about ashwagandha and ED, as well as the herb’s potential benefits and side effects.
What are the traditional and current uses of ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a Rasayana, or a type of therapeutic preparation that’s used to boost general health, increase energy levels, and promote longevity.
Ashwagandha is considered an aphrodisiac, or herb used to improve sexual desire, pleasure, or performance. While scientific research doesn’t support the herb’s use for ED, it may be effective for low libido.
Ashwagandha has also been used in traditional medicine for:
• insomnia
• anxiety
• rheumatism
• constipation
• skin conditions like boils and ulcers
• goiter
• parasitic worms
• snake bites
• enhancing fertility
What benefits does ashwagandha have?
Scientific studies have been performed on the potential health benefits of ashwagandha. But a lot of this research has been done in a test tube (in vitro) or on animals.
Although additional research is needed, current findings suggest that ashwagandha may do the following:
• reduce inflammation
• ease pain
• boost energy
• decrease stress or anxiety
• improve sleep
• enhance memory
• lower blood sugar
• inhibit the growth of some types of cancer cells
Is there research on ashwagandha for Erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Overall, a very limited amount of research has been carried out on the efficacy of using ashwagandha for ED. Let’s examine what it says so far.
A study from 2002Trusted Source looked at the effect that an ashwagandha extract had on male rats over a week. The researchers found that the rats actually experienced increased ED as well as lower sex drive and performance.
A study from 2011Trusted Source investigated the use of ashwagandha for a specific type of ED called psychogenic ED, which is primarily associated with sexual anxiety and worries about sexual performance.
In the study, 86 men with psychogenic ED received either ashwagandha or a placebo for 60 days. Overall, ashwagandha didn’t provide any more relief for ED than the placebo. A 2014 follow-up analysis by the same research group confirmed these findings.
Ashwagandha for the male reproductive system
Even though research doesn’t show that ashwagandha is effective for ED, it may have other benefits for the male reproductive system. Research from 2018Trusted Source found that it may:
• improve overall semen quality
• increase sperm count
• enhance sperm motility
SUMMARY
While research is limited, ashwagandha doesn’t appear to be effective for ED. In fact, animal studies have suggested that it may potentially promote ED and lower sex drive.
Ayurveda and Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical practice that combines dietary and lifestyle practices with natural therapies. It aims to promote health and longevity by achieving balance in the environment and the mind, body, and spirit.
Vajikarana and Erectile dysfunction (ED)
There are eight different domains in Ayurveda. Each domain focuses on a different area of health. Conditions like ED are addressed under the domain of Vajikarana, which centers on sexual health and reproduction.
Vajikarana uses a variety of formulations that aim to enhance sexual function. These formulations can have a variety of different natural ingredients and are believed to work by acting on the brain’s hypothalamus and limbic system.
Some Vajikarana formulations can include Trusted Source ashwagandha. Additional examples of plants that may be used in Vajikarana are:
• Saccharum officinarum, a kind of sugarcane
• Piper longum, a variety of pepper
• Mucuna pruriens, a tropical bean
• Asparagus racemosus, a variety of asparagus
• Pueraria tuberosa, a type of kudzu
Other supplements for Erectile dysfunction (ED)
There are other herbal supplements that may be beneficial for ED. These include Panax ginseng and Pausinystalia yohimbe. More research is needed to show evidence of their effectiveness, side effects, and safety.
What is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a type of herb that grows naturally in India and Southeast Asia. It’s often used in Ayurvedic medicine.
You may also see ashwagandha called Indian ginseng or winter cherry. Its scientific name is Withania somnifera.
Typically, the root of the plant is used in Ayurvedic medicine. However, the leaves and flowers can be used as well.
Extracts of ashwagandha can have as many as 35 different chemical componentsTrusted Source. So far, a specific active ingredient hasn’t been determined.
Does ashwagandha have side effects?
Overall, ashwagandha is consideredTrusted Source to be safe. Some of the commonly reported side effects of ashwagandha include:
• drowsiness
• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea
• skin rash
Some less common side effects are:
• giddiness or hyperactivity
• dry mouth
• stuffy nose
• cough
• decreased appetite
• constipation
Who should avoid taking ashwagandha?
Talk to your doctor before using ashwagandha if you have:
• Diabetes. Ashwagandha can lower blood sugar levels.
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Ashwagandha can raise levels of thyroid hormone.
Avoid taking ashwagandha if you:
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ashwagandha in high doses may be harmful to a developing fetus. There are currently no studies available on the safety of ashwagandha while breastfeeding.
• Are taking sedatives. Since ashwagandha itself is sometimes used as a sedative, avoid using it if you’re taking medications like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or anticonvulsants.
• Have hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Ashwagandha may increase levels of the hormone testosterone in the body.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/ashwagandha-for-erectile-dysfunction
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