Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone? Evidence and Safety

Does ashwagandha increase testosterone? Some small studies in men have found increases, but the evidence does not establish it as a treatment for low testosterone. A higher hormone measurement also does not automatically mean better energy, libido or fertility.

If those symptoms brought you here, the useful next step is to understand what the research measured and whether you need a medical assessment. Buying a supplement before identifying the cause can leave the original problem unresolved.

Does ashwagandha increase testosterone in clinical trials?

Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is an herb used in traditional Indian medicine. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health describes evidence for increased testosterone and sperm quality after two to four months as limited. That wording matters: it does not promise that everyone will benefit.

Clinical trials study specific extracts in selected participants. Their results cannot establish that every powder, capsule or mixed herbal product has the same effect.

An eight-week resistance-training trial

A 2015 randomised trial recruited 57 men with little resistance-training experience; 50 completed it. Everyone followed a training programme. Men taking the studied root extract had a greater average rise in serum testosterone than those taking placebo.

However, this was a small, short study involving exercise alongside supplementation. It was not a trial showing that ashwagandha treats diagnosed hypogonadism. The findings should not become a universal prescription for men who feel tired.

A trial in older, overweight men

A 2019 crossover trial enrolled 57 overweight men aged 40–70 with mild fatigue. Participants received a specific extract or placebo during eight-week periods. The study reported a 14.7% greater increase in salivary testosterone with the extract.

Importantly, there were no significant differences between groups in fatigue, vigour or sexual wellbeing. Therefore, the hormone result cannot support a promise of greater energy or libido. The study’s small sample and selected population also limit what we can infer for other people.

Does a testosterone rise mean a health benefit?

Not necessarily. A laboratory result and a symptom are different outcomes. Ask whether a study measured what you actually want to improve, rather than assuming that a hormone change answers every question.

Also, percentages need context. A relative change in a trial is not a prediction of your response. It does not tell you whether your starting level is low, whether you have a hormone disorder or which treatment would help.

Low testosterone requires more than a symptom checklist

The Endocrine Society explains that diagnosis requires typical signs or symptoms together with at least two low early-morning testosterone blood tests. Levels vary, and the laboratory method and reference range matter.

Its 2026 statement also notes that low energy, libido and mood can have many causes. Clinicians should consider reversible contributors, including some medicines and obesity. Being over 30, feeling tired or seeing one test result does not by itself establish a deficiency.

Prepare for your appointment by noting when symptoms began, changes in sleep or health, and every medicine or supplement you take. Bring previous test results if available. Then ask what further assessment would change the treatment decision.

What about women and PCOS?

Studies in men cannot establish that women should use ashwagandha to increase testosterone. In addition, higher testosterone is not a universal health goal.

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development describes elevated androgens as a feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This contradicts the idea that PCOS generally needs a testosterone boost. Seek an individual assessment for menstrual, fertility or hormone concerns instead of following advice intended for a different population.

Safety concerns still matter

NCCIH advises avoiding ashwagandha during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is not recommended for people with thyroid or autoimmune disorders, people approaching surgery, or people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Possible interactions include diabetes, blood-pressure and thyroid medicines, sedatives, anti-seizure medicines and immunosuppressants.

The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration warns about severe digestive reactions and very rare liver injury. Avoid it with current or previous liver problems. Stop taking it and seek medical advice for yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual tiredness or loss of appetite.

Read our fuller guide to ashwagandha safety and medicine interactions before considering a product. Short-term tolerance does not establish safety for indefinite use.

Questions to ask before considering a supplement

• Do my symptoms need assessment before discussing supplements?
• Have test results confirmed a hormone problem?
• Does the study match my situation and the outcome I want?
• Is the exact product suitable alongside my health conditions and medicines?
• What would we monitor, and when would we review the decision?

Do not use a trial’s dose as a personal prescription or replace prescribed treatment. Instead, bring the complete product label to your clinician or pharmacist. Keep the discussion focused on the problem you want to solve, not merely on achieving a bigger number.

The takeaway from the evidence

So, does ashwagandha increase testosterone? Limited research suggests that certain extracts may do so in some men. It does not justify guaranteed claims about energy, sexual function or treatment of hormone deficiency. Medical assessment and a clear safety plan are more useful than starting a supplement on the strength of a headline.