Are you feeling frustrated by your inability to achieve satisfactory sexual performance? Do you find it difficult to climax during sexual activity?
If so, you might be suffering from sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is a common problem, and there are many possible causes. The most common are stress, anxiety, age, and illness.
Sexual dysfunction can affect men and women differently, but a few ashwagandha benefits are likely beneficial for both genders. This article will outline three ashwagandha benefits for sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and Africa. It has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries.
The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit words “ashva,” meaning horse, and “gandha,” meaning smell. This is because the root of the plant has a solid horse-like odor.
Ashwagandha is commonly used as a powder made from the plant’s root. It can be taken orally or applied to the skin. Ashwagandha benefits many conditions, including anxiety, stress, and insomnia. It is also said to boost energy levels and improve memory.
Related: What Ashwagandha is Good for? Science-Backed Health Benefits
What is Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction is a problem that arises during any phase of the sexual response cycle, preventing an individual or couple from experiencing sexual satisfaction. The sexual response cycle has four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
Physical and psychological factors or a combination can cause sexual dysfunction. Physical causes include diabetes, heart disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, and menopause.
Psychological causes include anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship problems. Treatment for sexual dysfunction may involve medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches.
Medications to treat sexual dysfunction include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and testosterone replacement therapy.
Therapy can help couples communicate more effectively and resolve conflict. Lifestyle changes that may improve sexual function include quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.
Related: 18 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Quinoa
Ashwagandha for Male Sexual Dysfunction
Male sexual dysfunction (MSD) is a taboo topic, and many men don’t discuss it for fear of being labeled dysfunctional. We’ll discuss the benefits of ashwagandha for male sexual dysfunction and how to start taking it to improve your sex life.
Ashwagandha for Low Libido | How Can This Herb Help Increase Sex Drive?
We all know that libido, or sex drive, can fluctuate occasionally. For some men, the problem is more than just an occasional dip.
Low libido can be a constant issue and one that can have a significant impact on a man’s quality of life. Whatever the cause, low libido can be a frustrating and even embarrassing problem. Fortunately, some things can be done to help. One option is to try an herbal supplement like ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha has a range of potential health benefits. These include reducing stress and anxiety, boosting energy levels, and improving sexual function.
There is some evidence to suggest that ashwagandha may help to increase libido in men. One study found that men who took an ashwagandha supplement for eight weeks had significantly higher testosterone levels than those who took a placebo.
Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in sexual desire. So, it makes sense that increasing levels of this hormone could lead to an increase in libido.
Another study found that men who took ashwagandha had better erections than those who didn’t. They also reported a decrease in anxiety and an increase in sexual desire.
Ashwagandha for Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a common sexual disorder among men. It is characterized by the inability to get or maintain an erection during sexual intercourse.
A recent study published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journal found that ashwagandha may effectively treat erectile dysfunction.
The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that included 100 men with erectile dysfunction. The men were divided into two groups. One group received ashwagandha, and the other group received a placebo.
The men in the ashwagandha group were found to have significantly improved erectile function compared to the men in the placebo group. The study concluded that “ashwagandha root extract can be an effective and safe treatment for erectile dysfunction.”
Ashwagandha for Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation is a common sexual disorder that affects men of all ages. It is characterized by a man’s inability to control his ejaculation, resulting in premature orgasm and ejaculation.
Premature ejaculation can be a source of great distress and negatively impact a man’s self-esteem and sexual confidence.
While there is no cure for premature ejaculation, there are treatments that can help to improve a man’s sexual performance and help to delay ejaculation. Ashwagandha is one of the most promising natural treatments for premature ejaculation.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress and improve overall health. Ashwagandha is also nervine, which means it has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Ashwagandha effectively reduces anxiety and stress, two leading causes of premature ejaculation. In one study, men who took ashwagandha for eight weeks reported a significant anxiety reduction and improved sexual performance.
In another study, men who took ashwagandha for three months reported significantly improving their ability to delay ejaculation.
While more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of ashwagandha for premature ejaculation, the herb appears to be a promising natural treatment for this common sexual disorder.
How Does Ashwagandha Work for Sexual Dysfunction in Men?
Ashwagandha is thought to work similarly to testosterone replacement therapy by increasing hormone levels in the body. Testosterone is the essential hormone responsible for sexual desire and performance in men.
A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that ashwagandha effectively treated sexual dysfunction in men. The study involved 60 men with sexual dysfunction who were randomly assigned to receive either ashwagandha or a placebo.
After three months, the men taking ashwagandha showed a significant improvement in their sexual function compared to those taking the placebo.
They also had higher levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone, responsible for stimulating testosterone production. Another study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that ashwagandha improved sexual function in men with mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction.
Ashwagandha for Female Sexual Dysfunction
Do you suffer from female sexual dysfunction (FSD)? If so, you’re not alone. According to the National Women’s Health Information Center, approximately 50 percent of women experience some degree of FSD.
Ashwagandha is a herb used for centuries to treat various issues, including FSD.
Ashwagandha for Low Libido | How Can This Herb Help Increase Sex Drive?
It’s no secret that many women suffer from low libido. It’s estimated that as many as one in three women experience some form of sexual dysfunction. And while there are many potential causes of low libido in women, one of the most common is stress.
Though it’s best known for reducing stress, ashwagandha may also effectively treat low libido. One study found that ashwagandha increased hormone testosterone levels in men, which can lead to increased sex drive.
Ashwagandha has also been shown to improve sexual function in women. One study found that ashwagandha increased libido and sexual satisfaction in women with low libido.
Ashwagandha for Vaginal Dryness
Regarding female sexual dysfunction, vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms. This can lead to painful sex and make it difficult to get aroused or reach orgasm. There are several treatments for vaginal dryness, but they don’t always work for everyone. That’s where natural remedies like ashwagandha come in.
Recent studies have shown that ashwagandha can also help with vaginal dryness. One study found that it increased vaginal moisture by 44 percent.
Ashwagandha for Orgasm Difficulties
For some women, achieving orgasm can be difficult. But there may be an all-natural solution to this problem: ashwagandha. A small study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that ashwagandha may help women with orgasm difficulties.
The study involved 32 women who were experiencing orgasm difficulties. Half of the women took ashwagandha supplements for eight weeks, while the other half took a placebo.
At the end of the study, the women who took ashwagandha reported significantly improving their ability to reach orgasm. They also said stronger, more intense orgasms.
There are a few theories about how ashwagandha may help improve sexual function. One is that it helps to increase hormone testosterone levels, which is essential for sexual desire. Another theory is that ashwagandha helps increase blood flow to the genitals, improving sexual arousal.
Remember that this study was small, and more research is needed to confirm the findings.
Should You Try Ashwagandha for Orgasm Difficulties?
To try ashwagandha for orgasm difficulties, you must speak with your healthcare provider first. Ashwagandha is generally considered safe, but there is a lack of scientific evidence to support its use.
Additionally, the herb can interact with certain medications, so ensuring it’s safe for you is essential. If you try ashwagandha, start with a lower dose to see how you tolerate it. Some women must build up to more to experience the desired effects.
How Does Ashwagandha Work in Female Sexual Dysfunction?
Some women report that the herb helps increase blood flow to the genitals, leading to more powerful, more intense orgasms. Additionally, ashwagandha is thought to have anti-anxiety and stress-reducing effects, which may also contribute to its ability to improve orgasm quality.
How to Use Ashwagandha for Sexual Dysfunction?
There are a few different ways to take ashwagandha for sexual dysfunction. The most common way is to take it in pill form. You can also find ashwagandha in powder or liquid form.
If you are taking ashwagandha in pill form, following the directions on the package is essential. Usually, you will take one or two pills per day. If you take ashwagandha in powder or liquid form, mix it with water before drinking it.
It is essential to start with a low dose of Ashwagandha and increase the amount gradually over time.
How Long Will the Benefits of Ashwagandha Last After Taking It Regularly?
A recent study published in the Journal of Phytotherapy Research investigated the long-term effects of ashwagandha on sexual dysfunction. The study found that taking ashwagandha for eight weeks improved sexual function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.
After discontinuing ashwagandha, the improvements were maintained for at least four weeks. These findings suggest that the benefits of ashwagandha for sexual dysfunction may last for some time after taking it regularly.
However, more research is needed to confirm these results and determine how long ashwagandha’s effects may last.
Is There a Recommended Dosage for Ashwagandha for Sexual Dysfunction?
Ashwagandha dosage depends on the person and the severity of the problem.
- It is recommended to take 500-1000mg daily for milder cases.
- Taking 1000-2000mg per day is recommended for more severe cases.
- And for the most severe cases, taking 2000-4000mg daily is recommended.
I also want to point out that you shouldn’t take more than 4000 mg daily. That’s the maximum dosage that one would ever recommend. Anything more than that could be dangerous.
If you are considering taking ashwagandha for sexual dysfunction, speak to your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.
Side Effects and Precautions
While ashwagandha is generally considered safe, there are some side effects and precautions to be aware of before taking the herb.
Side effects of ashwagandha include stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. These side effects are typically mild and go away on their own. If you experience these side effects, stop taking ashwagandha and see your doctor.
- Ashwagandha can also interact with other medications. Talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha if you are taking any medications.
- Ashwagandha is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha if you have any medical conditions.
- Do not take ashwagandha if you are allergic to it.
- Ashwagandha is generally safe when taken as directed. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
We always downplay the importance of sexual health in our life. It can make or break your relationships, and you can also lose confidence when going through sexual disorders.
With its potent ingredients, it is no wonder why this herb has become so popular for treating female sexual disorders like lack of libido and reduced sensitivity to arousal.
Visit a trusted dispensary for quality products that work!
FAQs | Ashwagandha and Sexual Dysfunction
Does ashwagandha cause erectile dysfunction?
There is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha causes erectile dysfunction. Some research indicates that the herb may improve sexual function.
Does ashwagandha work for erectile dysfunction?
There is some evidence that ashwagandha may be effective for treating erectile dysfunction. A study from 2012 found that men who took ashwagandha had better quality erections than those who didn’t. However, more research is needed to confirm these results.
Can ashwagandha cause erectile dysfunction?
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that ashwagandha causes erectile dysfunction. Some research suggests that ashwagandha may improve sexual function. However, if you take any medications for erectile dysfunction, speaking to your doctor before taking ashwagandha is crucial, as it may interact with certain medications.
Does ashwagandha make you last longer in bed?
No scientific evidence suggests that ashwagandha has any effect on lasting longer in bed. However, some believe the herb may positively impact sexual performance and stamina.
Is ashwagandha like Viagra?
No, ashwagandha is not like Viagra. Viagra is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction, while ashwagandha is an herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. While they may effectively treat sexual dysfunction, they work via different mechanisms and have other side effects.
How quickly does ashwagandha work?
It depends on the person taking it and their specific situation. However, some people have reported feeling the effects of ashwagandha within a few days or weeks.
Do I need to take a break from ashwagandha?
Yes, it would help if you took a break from ashwagandha every few months. This will help your body not become dependent on the herb and allow you to get the full benefits when you take it.
Other Articles in This Series
- Amazing Health Benefits of Ashwagandha for Diabetes
- Ashwagandha for Infertility: Does It Work?
- Ashwagandha Skin Benefits You Didn’t Know About
- Ashwagandha and Heart Health
- The Truth About Ashwagandha for Stress and Anxiety
- Ashwagandha Good for Sleeping?
- Link Between Ashwagandha and Breast Cancer (or Any Cancer)
- Can We Use Ashwagandha for Inflammation?
- Ashwagandha and Immune System
- Chronic Fatigue | Does Ashwagandha Give You Energy?
- Benefits of Ashwagandha for Arthritis
- 11 Benefits of Ashwagandha for Menopause
- Ashwagandha and Parkinson’s (Should You Try It?)
Sources
- Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Clinical evaluation of the spermatogenic activity of the root extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in oligospermic males: a pilot study
- BMRI: Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract in improving sexual function in women: a pilot study
- NCBI: Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal. Linn.) in the management of psychogenic erectile dysfunction
- ScienceDirect: Role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in the management of male infertility
- EasiHealth: Ashwagandha
- Research Gate: Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera); A potential aphrodisiac drug in Ayurveda
- NMI: Ashwagandha: A Review of Clinical Use and Efficacy
Featured Photo by andrew welch on Unsplash
Editor’s Note: The information in this health article is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This health article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this health article.