| Effect | Increase |
| Values | Figures 3-9 in paper. Statistically significant for all domains and overall score. |
| Trial Design | Randomized trial |
| Trial Length | 1-6 months |
| Number of Subjects | 50 |
| Gender | Female |
| Age Range | 18-29, 30-44, 45-64 |
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial, 50 women with sexual dysfunction were allocated to take either 600 mg of ashwagandha (5% withanolides) or placebo daily for 8 weeks.
The primary outcome was score on the Female Sexual Function Index. Both groups saw a notable improvement after 8 weeks, and the ashwagandha group saw a somewhat greater improvement which was statistically significant compared with placebo. Pain, desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction were all rated higher in the ashwagandha group. Score on the Female Sexual Distress Scale improved notably for the ashwagandha group compared with the placebo group. Sexual encounters weren't increased, but the number of successful sexual encounters was. No notable adverse effects of ashwagandha were observed.
