Effect of ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera ) on endocrine and reproductive traits in Awassi sheep

Although ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is used as a broad-spectrum treatment for a wide range of illnesses, including reproductive issues, and to improve fertility, it is also considered a potent adaptogen and anti-stressor that may assist in improving physical performance.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two doses of ashwagandha on physiological and reproductive parameters in Awassi sheep in Iraq.

Thirty Awassi ewes were randomly assigned to three groups (10 each) for 60 days: a control (placebo), 300 mg/day ashwagandha, and 600 mg/day ashwagandha. Physiological (hepcidin, growth hormone, insulin, TSH, T3, T4) and reproductive (estrogen, progesterone, FSH, LH) parameters were measured on days 0, 30, and 60, and body weights were recorded weekly.

The experimental data demonstrated that both experimental groups showed increased growth hormone levels along with decreased hepcidin and insulin levels, and thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4) increased significantly (p < 0.05) in both experimental groups after ashwagandha administration compared to the control group. Both experimental groups demonstrated significantly elevated estrogen, progesterone, and FSH levels compared with the control group. This study demonstrates that ashwagandha supplementation improves the physiological and reproductive functions of Awassi sheep, which can help boost their performance.

Ashwagandha supplementation enhanced the metabolic and reproductive performance of Awassi sheep. It lowered insulin and hepcidin levels, increased growth hormone and thyroid hormone levels, and elevated estrogen, progesterone, and FSH levels, indicating improved metabolism and reproductive function.