AskDocDoc
/
/
/
does ashwagandha increase dht
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 47M : 40S
background image
Click Here
background image
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #25267
8 days ago
24

does ashwagandha increase dht - #25267

Agastya

I am feeling a bit overwhelmed and confused about this whole ashwagandha thing. I started taking ashwagandha a few months ago because I read it can help with stress and energy levels, and honestly, I’ve been super stressed. But now I'm wondering — does ashwagandha increase DHT? Like, I’ve always been kinda paranoid about hair loss, and my dad went bald at a pretty young age, so I def don’t wanna make anything worse. I’ve been noticing some subtle changes in my hair and I can't help but wonder if it’s the ashwagandha or just my anxiety makin me see things. Also, I read online that some studies link ashwagandha to testosterone levels, which kinda freaks me out even more. My friend mentioned that DHT can contribute to hair loss, and I really don’t want to mess with my hormones or anything like that. Should I stop taking ashwagandha? Or is it just me overthinking? Is there even any solid info on whether ashwagandha increases DHT, or is it just speculation? I could really use some clarity since I’ve been feeling a bit lost about it all and don't want to end up making my hair situation worse, you know?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

The concern about ashwagandha and its effects on DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and hair loss is understandable, given your family history and worries about hair changes. Currently, there is no strong scientific evidence directly linking ashwagandha to increased DHT levels. Ashwagandha is known for possibly helping reduce stress and cortisol levels and may have some impact on testosterone, but the exact mechanisms aren’t fully understood. And it’s important to note that increasing testosterone doesn’t necessarily translate into increased DHT, which is the hormone more directly implicated in hair loss.

If you suspect that ashwagandha might be affecting your hair, it might be helpful to consider other possible factors that could be contributing to your hair concerns, such as genetics, nutrition, or stress itself, which you’ve mentioned is very high for you. Stress can lead to hair shedding in conditions like telogen effluvium. If stopping ashwagandha alleviates these concerns, it could be worthwhile to halt it or consult with a healthcare professional to weigh its benefits versus potential side effects in your case. It’s good to keep a diary of your symptoms too to see if there’s any noticeable difference when you’re not taking it.

If you’re considering discontinuing ashwagandha, observe any changes over several weeks as hair growth cycles take time to reflect changes in health or habits. Also, if hair loss persists or worsens, seek advice from a dermatologist or trichologist to rule out other causes and explore appropriate treatments. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress through other means like exercise or mindfulness, and having regular health check-ups can also support overall well-being and hair health.

16234 answered questions
87% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions