Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, plays an important role in promoting secondary sexual characteristics like the growth of body hair and an increased bone and muscle mass. Moreover, adequate testosterone levels are essential for normal health and in preventing osteoporosis. A lower than normal testosterone level is seen to cause bone loss and frailty. Hectic and stressful lifestyle cause lower testosterone levels in men, and the problem is on the rise. Worried? Well, we have good news. Testosterone levels can be boosted with the help of natural Ayurvedic medicines. Before talking about medicines, let us first understand how testosterone is synthesized by the body.

Understanding the synthesis of testosterone

The secretion of testosterone is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. Means, low levels of testosterone result in the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus. This, in turn, triggers the pituitary gland to release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These two hormones stimulate the testis to secrete testosterone. In men, testosterone is primarily synthesized in Leydig cells (a type of cells in testis).

5 ayurvedic herbs to boost testosterone levels in men

Kaunch beej

Mucuna Pruriens or Kaunch beej is commonly used as an aphrodisiac in Ayurveda. These seeds are a natural source of L-dopa, a precursor of dopamine, which is a type of neurotransmitter. Dopamine triggers the release of LH from the pituitary gland, ultimately increasing the synthesis of testosterone. Moreover, kaunch beej benefits by improving the quantity and quality of semen production. It also increases libido and prevents early ejaculation.

Ashwagandha

The root of this herb is used for its various medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and blood sugar lowering effects. The stress hormone, cortisol, affects the production of testosterone. This herb is classified as an adaptogen, which reduces the effect of stress on the body and lowers cortisol level. According to research, ashwagandha improves testosterone levels in stressed men by lowering cortisol levels. Ashwagandha powder benefits men by increasing testosterone level, promoting fat loss, and improving strength and exercise performance. Ashwagandha is also seen to improve male fertility. Antioxidants in ashwagandha increase sperm quality and motility.

Tribulus Terrestris

Taking this herb regularly is seen to improve sex drive and increase testosterone levels in men. According to research, consuming tribulus for 90 days increased testosterone levels in men with erectile dysfunction by 16%. So, tribulus benefits men with low testosterone level and impaired sexual desire. However, it fails to improve testosterone in healthy men with normal testosterone levels.

Ginger

This household spice is used for centuries in Ayurveda. According to research, ginger reduces inflammation and boosts testosterone levels. A 30-day study on rats showed an increase in LH and testosterone levels. The testosterone levels nearly doubled, and the levels increased further when the amount of ginger consumption was doubled. Ginger has a positive effect on sexual function. In human studies on infertile men, testosterone level was increased by 17% and LH level was doubled. It also caused an increase of 16% in sperm count.

Garlic

This herb is of the utmost importance when it comes to low testosterone levels. A small amount of testosterone is also synthesized by the adrenal glands. Consumption of garlic triggers the release of noradrenaline hormone from the adrenal glands. An increased level of noradrenaline hormone triggers the secretion of LH from the pituitary, increasing the production of testosterone from Leydig cells. Sulfides in garlic play an important role in this action. Furthermore, garlic also improves sperm count.

Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining normal health and well-being in men. Ayurvedic medicines boost testosterone levels in men through different mechanisms. Some prevent inflammation while others increase the hormone responsible for the production of testosterone.