Fact Check: Does ashwagandha increase testosterone and height

Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone and Height?

Introduction

The claim that ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, can increase testosterone levels and potentially influence height has gained popularity. Proponents suggest that ashwagandha can enhance hormonal balance and overall well-being, leading to increased testosterone production. However, the evidence surrounding these claims is mixed, and the assertion regarding height remains largely unsubstantiated. This article will explore the available research and expert opinions on the effects of ashwagandha on testosterone and height.

What We Know

1. Testosterone Levels: Several studies have indicated that ashwagandha supplementation may lead to increased testosterone levels in men. For instance, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study reported a 15% increase in testosterone levels among participants taking ashwagandha, with levels remaining within normal ranges 1. Another study noted an increase of approximately 14.7% in testosterone levels compared to a placebo group 35.

2. DHEA-S Levels: Ashwagandha has also been associated with increased levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), a hormone that can influence testosterone production. One study found an 18% increase in DHEA-S among participants taking ashwagandha 39.

3. Height: There is currently no substantial scientific evidence supporting the claim that ashwagandha can increase height. Height is primarily determined by genetic factors and growth during puberty, and while some herbal supplements may influence growth factors, ashwagandha's role in height enhancement is not documented in reputable scientific literature.

4. General Well-Being: In addition to hormonal effects, ashwagandha has been reported to improve overall well-being, including reductions in stress and fatigue, which may indirectly affect testosterone levels and sexual health 4610.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim that ashwagandha increases testosterone levels is derived from several studies, primarily focusing on adult males. However, the reliability of these studies varies:

• Study Design: Many of the studies cited are randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, which are considered robust methodologies in clinical research. However, the sample sizes and demographic diversity of participants can affect the generalizability of the findings. For example, some studies focused exclusively on older or overweight males, which may not represent the broader population 135.

• Conflicting Evidence: While some studies report positive effects on testosterone, others suggest that the evidence is inconclusive. A review article highlighted that while ashwagandha may have some positive effects, the clinical evidence remains limited and not universally accepted 8. This suggests a need for further research to establish definitive conclusions.

• Source Credibility: The sources cited include peer-reviewed journals and health websites, which generally have a good reputation for disseminating scientific information. However, some sources, such as health blogs and articles from wellness websites, may have inherent biases or conflicts of interest, particularly if they are promoting supplements for commercial gain 7910.

• Height Claims: The lack of credible scientific studies linking ashwagandha to increased height raises questions about the validity of such claims. Height is influenced by numerous factors, and without specific studies, assertions regarding height enhancement should be approached with skepticism.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that ashwagandha can increase testosterone levels is supported by some studies, which indicate a modest increase in testosterone and DHEA-S levels among certain populations. However, the evidence is not universally accepted, and the studies often have limitations, such as small sample sizes and demographic restrictions. Conversely, the assertion that ashwagandha can increase height lacks any substantial scientific backing, as no credible studies support this claim.

It is important to acknowledge that while ashwagandha may have some beneficial effects on testosterone levels, the overall evidence remains mixed and requires further investigation to draw definitive conclusions. Readers should critically evaluate the information presented and consider the limitations of the studies referenced, as well as the potential biases in the sources consulted.

Sources

1. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6438434/)
2. Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9297375/)
3. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30854916/)
4. Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35873404/)
5. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) supplementation: a review of its. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11800443/)
6. Examining the Effects of Herbs on Testosterone Concentrations. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150931/)
7. How Much Ashwagandha to Take Per Day for Testosterone Increase? (https://www.healthline.com/health/low-testosterone/how-much-ashwagandha-per-day-for-testosterone)
8. The Use of Ashwagandha to Increase Testosterone Levels: Limited Clinical Evidence and Lack of Regulatory Supervision. (https://www.hendrxhealth.com/the-t/the-use-of-ashwagandha-to-increase-testosterone-levels-limited-clinical-evidence-and-lack-of-regulatory-supervision)
9. Ashwagandha and Testosterone: What You Need to Know. (https://www.everlywell.com/blog/testosterone/ashwagandha-testosterone/)
10. Ashwagandha and Testosterone: What's the Link? (https://www.hims.com/blog/ashwagandha-testosterone)