Over 65? Ashwagandha for Erectile Dysfunction—Who Should Avoid It

As men age, erectile dysfunction (ED) becomes more common. Among the many natural remedies suggested, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has attracted attention for its potential to improve sexual function, reduce stress, and boost energy. But is it safe for men over 65? And who might need to steer clear? This guide breaks down what we know from research and clinical insight, so you can decide if ashwagandha is right for you—or whether you should avoid it altogether.

What Is Ashwagandha and How Might It Help ED?

Ashwagandha is an herb long used in Ayurvedic medicine. Its active compounds—called withanolides—are believed to:

• Lower stress hormones (cortisol), which can interfere with sexual arousal.
• Support healthy testosterone levels, particularly important after age 50.
• Improve blood flow by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

A 2011 review in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (Singh et al.) highlighted multiple bioactivities of ashwagandha, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and stress-modulating effects that could indirectly support erectile function.

Key Considerations for Men Over 65

Age-Related Changes and ED

• Natural decline in testosterone and nitric oxide production.
• Increased prevalence of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Potential for multiple medications and drug–herb interactions.

Potential Benefits in Older Adults

• Stress reduction and better sleep can improve libido.
• Antioxidant action may support vascular health.
• Small clinical trials in younger men showed improved sexual satisfaction; data in seniors are limited but promising.

Who Should Avoid Ashwagandha for ED

While many men tolerate ashwagandha well, certain groups—especially those over 65—should use caution or avoid it:

• Existing Thyroid Disorders
  Ashwagandha can raise thyroid hormone levels. If you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, discuss it with your doctor before starting.

• Autoimmune or Hormone-Sensitive Conditions
  The herb may stimulate immune activity. In cases of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate, breast), ashwagandha’s immunomodulatory and hormone-boosting effects could pose risks.

• Severe Liver Disease
  Although rare, herbal supplements can stress the liver. If you have cirrhosis or advanced fibrosis, transient elastography (FibroScan) or a MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) score (Kamath & Wiesner) might be used to assess your risk. Until liver function is stable, avoid additional hepatic workload.

• Low Blood Pressure
  Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure. If you already take antihypertensive medications or have chronic hypotension, combining them could lead to dizziness or fainting.

• Sedative Use and CNS Depression
  The herb has mild sedative effects. If you’re on benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other central nervous system depressants, watch for excessive drowsiness.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  Although not directly relevant to men, it’s worth noting that ashwagandha is contraindicated in these groups due to potential uterine stimulation.

• Surgery or Anesthesia
  Stop ashwagandha at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery—it can alter sedation and blood pressure.

Potential Side Effects

Most men tolerate ashwagandha at typical doses (250–600 mg of standardized extract daily), but side effects can include:

• Upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea
• Headache or drowsiness
• Rare liver enzyme elevations

If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider.

Drug–Herb Interactions

Ashwagandha can interact with:

• Thyroid medications (levothyroxine, methimazole)
• Antihypertensives (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers)
• Sedatives (zolpidem, diazepam)
• Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine)
• Antidiabetic drugs (insulin, sulfonylureas)

Always review your current medication list with a clinician before adding ashwagandha.

How to Use Ashwagandha Safely

1. Start Low, Go Slow
   Begin with the lowest effective dose and monitor for side effects.
2. Choose Quality Products
   Look for third-party testing, standardized extracts (5% withanolides), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification.
3. Monitor Blood Work
   If you have thyroid or liver concerns, check relevant labs (TSH, free T4, ALT/AST) every 3–6 months.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
   Combine supplementation with regular exercise, a balanced diet, good sleep hygiene, and stress-management techniques.
5. Track Your Response
   Keep a simple diary of dosage, timing, and any changes in mood, libido, or side effects.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Erectile dysfunction in men over 65 can signal underlying health issues—from heart disease to diabetes. Never ignore new or worsening symptoms. If you experience:

• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Sudden changes in vision
• Persistent fatigue or unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain or jaundice

…you should speak to a doctor immediately.

You might also consider doing a free, online symptom check for ED or related concerns to better understand possible causes and next steps.

Final Thoughts

Ashwagandha shows promise as a natural aid for erectile dysfunction by reducing stress and supporting hormonal balance. However, men over 65 often have complex health profiles that demand caution. Before starting any new supplement:

• Review your medical history, current conditions, and medications with your physician.
• Assess liver and thyroid function if you have any related disorders.
• Start with a modest dose of a reputable product.
• Monitor for side effects and interactions.

Your health is too important to leave to chance. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about anything that could be life-threatening or serious, including persistent ED or new symptoms.