The herb Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a popular botanical supplement classified as an adaptogen. Its use has garnered attention for supporting overall wellness, leading to questions about its specific effects on the body, including its potential influence on sexual function. This article explores the scientific evidence to address the concern that Ashwagandha might lower sexual drive.
Understanding Ashwagandha’s Primary Role
Ashwagandha is categorized as an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body maintain a balanced state by managing the effects of stress. It achieves this by modulating the body’s primary stress response system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the release of cortisol, often called the stress hormone.
The herb’s active compounds, primarily steroidal lactones called withanolides, interact with the HPA axis. Clinical studies consistently show that Ashwagandha supplementation leads to a significant reduction in elevated cortisol levels in individuals experiencing chronic stress. By dampening the heightened HPA axis activity, Ashwagandha supports the body in returning to equilibrium.
This stress-relieving property is the foundation of its benefits for general health and is an indirect promoter of sexual well-being. When the body is under constant stress, resources are diverted away from non-survival functions, including sexual desire. Mitigating chronic stress allows the body to reallocate energy toward optimizing other physiological processes.
Ashwagandha’s Influence on Sex Hormones
Scientific literature generally suggests that Ashwagandha has a positive or neutral effect on the hormones associated with sexual desire. A primary studied effect in men is the increase in testosterone levels, a hormone that plays a significant role in libido. Studies have shown that men taking Ashwagandha can experience a notable increase in testosterone levels.
This effect is linked to stress reduction and the herb’s potential to increase DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), a precursor hormone convertible into testosterone. Trials have shown significant increases in DHEA-S levels compared to placebo groups. The theory suggests that reducing the inhibitory effects of high cortisol allows the body to better produce and utilize sex hormones.
In women, Ashwagandha has been shown to improve various metrics of sexual function, including desire, arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction. This improvement is a combination of its anti-stress effects and its potential to balance reproductive hormones. By lowering psychological distress and chronic anxiety, the herb removes significant barriers to healthy sexual desire and function.
Analyzing Reports of Decreased Libido
Despite scientific findings pointing toward a beneficial or neutral effect on libido, some individuals report experiencing a decrease in sexual drive while taking Ashwagandha. This paradoxical outcome occurs because individual biological responses to supplements vary. The herb’s mechanism of action is complex and may not produce the desired balancing effect for everyone.
For some, the calming effect of Ashwagandha may be too pronounced, leading to side effects such as excessive drowsiness or emotional flatness. This state of over-sedation can indirectly dampen enthusiasm and desire, as a lack of energy interferes with sexual motivation. This is a side effect of its central nervous system activity, not direct hormonal suppression.
The quality and standardization of the supplement can also be a contributing factor to unexpected results. Different products contain varying concentrations of active withanolides, and poor-quality supplements may contain unlisted or contaminated ingredients. Furthermore, individuals taking other medications, particularly sedatives, may experience amplified effects due to Ashwagandha’s potential to enhance central nervous system depression.
A decrease in libido may also be related to underlying medical or psychological factors that Ashwagandha does not address. Relying solely on the herb may delay seeking a proper diagnosis and treatment if low libido stems from a condition other than stress. Any persistent change in sexual desire should be discussed with a healthcare provider.