How Ashwagandha Can Help Increase Fertility
Introduction
Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in India and other parts of Asia. It is an important ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine and has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The herb has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, stress, depression, and inflammation. More recently, research has shown that Ashwagandha may also be beneficial for fertility. In this article, we will explore the evidence that suggests that Ashwagandha may be able to increase fertility.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb native to India and other parts of Asia. It is a member of the nightshade family and is related to tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. The herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is an important ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. The herb has a long history of use in treating a variety of ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, stress, depression, and inflammation.
How Does Ashwagandha Work?
Ashwagandha is thought to work by increasing the levels of certain hormones, such as testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are important for fertility. Additionally, Ashwagandha is thought to increase the levels of other hormones, such as cortisol and prolactin, which are thought to have an impact on fertility. Finally, Ashwagandha is believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which may be beneficial for fertility.
Evidence That Ashwagandha May Increase Fertility
Animal Studies
There have been several animal studies that suggest that Ashwagandha may be beneficial for fertility. In one study, male rats were given Ashwagandha for 30 days and it was found that the rats had increased levels of testosterone and LH, as well as improved sperm quality. Another study found that female rats given Ashwagandha had increased levels of LH and progesterone, which are both important hormones for fertility.
Human Studies
There have also been several human studies that suggest that Ashwagandha may be beneficial for fertility. In one study, infertile men were given Ashwagandha for 90 days and it was found that their sperm quality improved and their testosterone levels increased. Another study found that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who took Ashwagandha had improved ovulation and increased fertility.
Potential Side Effects
While Ashwagandha is generally considered to be safe, it can have some side effects. The most common side effects are:
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
It is important to note that Ashwagandha should not be taken during pregnancy, as it may cause miscarriage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is evidence that suggests that Ashwagandha may be beneficial for fertility. Animal studies have found that Ashwagandha may increase levels of testosterone and LH, as well as improve sperm quality. Human studies have also found that Ashwagandha may be beneficial for fertility, as it may improve ovulation and increase fertility. However, it is important to note that Ashwagandha should not be taken during pregnancy, as it may cause miscarriage.