- Male
- 34 Years
- 22/01/2025
I'm currently taking finasteride 1mg and using minoxidil 5%, and I'm wondering if it's okay to add ashwagandha 500mg to the mix. From what I've gathered, ashwagandha can reduce inflammation and lower cortisol, which could be linked to DHT formation, but it also might boost testosterone levels. I'm trying to figure out if this combo might help keep my testosterone levels balanced. Lately, I've been noticing some muscle loss, inflammation, and fatigue, so I'm a bit worried if I might have low T. Can you give me some guidance on this?
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
You're considering adding ashwagandha to your existing regimen of finasteride and minoxidil.
Ashwagandha's Effects on Testosterone and DHT
- Testosterone Increase: Ashwagandha may help increase testosterone levels, which could potentially counterbalance the testosterone-reducing effects of finasteride.
- DHT Reduction: Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties might help reduce DHT levels, which could complement the DHT-reducing effects of finasteride.
- Cortisol Reduction: Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties can help reduce cortisol levels, which may contribute to a decrease in DHT formation.
Potential Benefits of the Combination
- Balanced Testosterone Levels: The combination of finasteride (reducing DHT) and ashwagandha (potentially increasing testosterone) might help maintain balanced testosterone levels.
- Reduced Inflammation: Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties could complement the anti-inflammatory effects of minoxidil, potentially leading to reduced inflammation and improved overall health.
- Improved Muscle Mass and Fatigue: Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties might help alleviate fatigue and improve muscle mass, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Dr. Chandra Suggests...
Consult a Dermatologist
Answered 04/07/2025
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Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
I've been dealing with a fungal infection that I treated last year, and while most of it's gone, I'm noticing these big, deep stretch marks appearing on my skin really quickly. Its a bit worrying. I know Ive got low hemoglobin and Im deficient in vitamin B and B12. What should I do about these skin changes?
yes u can use it, visit ur physician for apprpropriate managent
Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
Doc, I'm 37 and dealing with oily skin that has pits. I've got my acne under control now, thankfully. I've been applying vitamin C serum for about 21 months, and it's helped a lot with the pits. For nine months now, I've also been using Retino A 0.05 as an anti-aging treatment, and it's been going pretty smoothlyno irritation, redness, or peeling. Here's my routine: - Morning: face wash, Cetaphil, vitamin C serum, and then sunscreen. - Night: Plum aloe vera face wash, pea-sized Retino A 0.05, Olay serum, and ending with Sebamed Q10 cream. So, could you tell me if my routine's good as is, or if I should change or add anything else? How safe is it to use tretinoin for extended periods? And I'm looking for a good sunscreen recommendation that works for oily skin. Appreciate your insight!
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Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors
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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.