does ashwagandha increase testosterone in females - #24803
I am really curious about this whole ashwagandha thing. I’ve been reading about it and how it's supposed to help with stress and energy levels. Just last month, I felt super drained and kind of low, so I thought, okay, I'll give ashwagandha a try. I've seen that people say “does ashwagandha increase testosterone in females?” and I want to know if that’s true! I mean, I’m just a bit worried because I’ve noticed some changes in my body lately. Like, my energy’s been pretty low and I felt like I was losing some muscle definition that I used to have, you know? My doctor checked hormone levels and said everything looks normal, but still, the whole ashwagandha increase testosterone in females thing has me thinking. Could taking ashwagandha mess with that somehow? I don’t wanna end up with side effects or something weird happening. Anyone has experiences or insight on this? Would love to hear different perspectives!
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Ashwagandha, commonly used in Ayurveda, is known primarily for adaptogenic properties - it’s great for stress management, improving energy, and bolstering overall vitality. The question of whether it increases testosterone specifically in females is a bit nuanced. Generally, ashwagandha has shown potential to modulate hormone levels, but it’s more researched for effects on male testosterone.
In females, its impact might not be directly on testosterone. To clarify, ashwagandha can support adrenal health, which in turn, may help balance hormones overall. It doesn’t necessarily mean a spike in testosterone like you may worry about. Some studies suggest that ashwagandha can improve strength and muscle symptoms through indirect pathways like reducing stress and improving well-being, which might explain why people relate it to testosterone.
Regarding dosage, within Ayurvedic recommendations, it’s usually suggested to start with about 300-500 mg of an ashwagandha extract per day. It’s crucial to monitor how your body responds. If you notice unusual changes or side effects, or if you’re unsure about interactions with existing conditions, reaching out to an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional is wise.
Additionally, consider your diet and lifestyle alongside ashwagandha. Supporting your energy levels and body composition can also be naturally boosted by aligning with your body’s doshic balance. Ensure a sattvic diet full of whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables to optimize your energy and overall health. Brisk walking or gentle yoga could also help in managing energy levels.
Remember, self-monitoring is essential. If you notice any unexpected changes, reevaluate your regimen and possibly seek professional guidance if needed. Ayurveda is deeply personal, so what works for one might not necessarily be the solution for another.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.