The Claim

Ashwagandha root extract at a dosage of 300 mg twice daily for 8 weeks significantly improves five domains of male sexual function (sexual cognition/fantasy, sexual arousal, sexual behavior/experiences, orgasm, and sexual drive/desire) compared with placebo in healthy adult men with low sexual desire, with all differences reaching statistical significance (p < 0.0001).

Source: Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well‐being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
81score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Cause and effect
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Taking an extract from the ashwagandha plant's root—300 milligrams twice a day for 8 weeks—helps men with low sex drive. Compared with men who took a fake pill, these men felt more sexual desire and improved in all measured areas of sexual function: having sexual thoughts, becoming aroused, engaging in sexual behavior, having orgasms, and wanting sex.

See the scientific wording

Ashwagandha root extract taken at 300 mg twice daily for 8 weeks significantly improves all five measured aspects of male sexual function – sexual cognition/fantasy, sexual arousal, sexual behavior/experiences, orgasm, and sexual drive/desire – in healthy adult men with low sexual desire, with each domain showing significantly greater improvement compared to placebo (all p < 0.0001).

Why this might work

Ashwagandha extract makes the brain send a signal to the testicles to produce more testosterone. It also contains tiny plant chemicals that look like testosterone and can attach to the same receiving spots in the body. Testosterone is the main hormone for male sexual function. It works on the brain to increase sexual thoughts and desire, on the body to improve arousal and performance, and on the nerves to help with orgasm. By raising the level of androgen activity in the body, ashwagandha improves all five areas of sexual function.

Suggested mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well‐being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial

    The study showed ashwagandha improved overall sexual health in men with low desire, but it didn't give separate results for each of the five areas, so we can't confirm the claim's exact details.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.