Chauhan S, Srivastava MK, Pathak AK. Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) on well-being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial. Health Sci Rep. 2022;5(4):e741. doi:10.1002/hsr2.741

Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study examining the hormonal and vitality effects of ashwagandha ( withania somnifera) in aging, overweight males. Am J Mens Health. 2019;13(2):155798831983598. doi:10.1177/1557988319835985Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S. R., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2015). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Cumming, D. C., Quigley, M. E., & Yen, S. S. C. (1983). Acute suppression of circulating testosterone levels by cortisol in men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism Please bear in mind that Maca only protects skin when it’s applied to the skin, NOT when eaten.) Cost Ashwagandha Maca ( Lepidium Meyeni) is an indigenous Andean vegetable that’s been grown as a root crop for over 2,000 years. With all of the benefits of ashwagandha, it's not surprising that more people are talking about this ancient herb. Ashwagandha is usually sold in capsule or powder form. You can also find it in gummies and supplements with other herbs for a specific goal, like supporting mental health.

So, are these claims about ashwagandha and testosterone valid? There’s some indication they are! One study noted that the supplement seemed to boost testosterone. The testosterone levels of the men who took the root extract were over five times higher than those who didn’t (Wankhede, 2015). Studies suggest that it may be beneficial for treating several types of cancer, including breast, lung, colon, brain, and ovarian cancer. That’s all for this article, but what about Tongkat Ali vs Ashwagandha? Or can you take Fenugreek and Ashwagandha together?You may also want to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant or have an underlying medical condition. Taking Ashwagandha and Maca together could potentially provide comprehensive support for hormonal health. Increased energy and vitality Maca is an adaptogenic herb, and something all adaptogens have in common is that they can help the body manage environmental stress, explains Dr. Shah. “Adaptogens have long been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, but they’re experiencing a renaissance [in the West],” she says. In terms of their flavor profiles, maca has a nutty, slightly sweet taste, while ashwagandha has a bitter and earthy taste. A 2014 study of mice found a link between consuming maca for six weeks and increased dopamine levels, leading to reduced feelings of depression [2] Ai Z, Cheng AF, Yu YT, Yu LJ, Jin W. Antidepressant-like behavioral, anatomical, and biochemical effects of petroleum ether extract from maca (lepidium meyenii) in mice exposed to chronic, unpredictable stress. Journal of Medicinal Food. 2014;17(5):535-542. . Registered naturopathic doctor Cassie Wilder, N.D., says this connection is likely due to maca’s adaptogenic nature. “When people are more resilient to stress and are better able to handle day-to-day stressors, their mood gets better,” she says. So if you’re constantly feeling like you’re “on edge,” regularly consuming maca could potentially help—although more human studies need to be done to confirm the connection between maca and mood. 3. May Lead to Increased Energy

It looks like a big radish and is a hearty plant that can grow in harsh, extreme conditions,” says integrative medicine doctor Karen Koffler, M.D., from Coral Gables, Florida. “You have to appreciate a plant that can withstand harsh conditions—it’s an indicator of how it can help us when consumed.”

Additionally, ashwagandha has been found to have potential benefits for those with diabetes. Studies have shown that it may help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Since we’re on the topic of food that turns you on: is anyone else here fascinated by edible aphrodisiacs? And if so, which ones are your favorites? In terms of dosage, up to 3 grams a day is considered safe when taken for up to four months, according to the National Library of Medicine. “In terms of knowing if the maca is ‘working’ or not, I advise consuming it for six to 16 weeks to see if you really notice a difference,” says Dr. Khalsa. Among other compounds, such as amino acids, alkaloids, and fatty acids, ashwagandha contains steroidal lactones or withanolides, which is basically a group of around 300 steroid hormones. The way it works is that it competes with corticosteroids and binds to the steroid receptors instead of them, which helps control the levels of cortisol. Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, where it was prized for its ability to promote general health and longevity. It was also used as an aphrodisiac and to improve fertility.