Efficacy and Safety of Low‐Dose Ashwagandha Supplementation on Exercise Endurance: A Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, Double‐Blind, Clinical Trial

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-known adaptogen with established roles in stress modulation and physical performance enhancement traditionally. Low dose Ashwagandha (LDA/Ashwa 0.30) is a bioactive-optimized root-only extract standardized to withanolides (> 15% w/w) and an ATP-active fraction (> 15% w/w). This study investigated the efficacy and safety of LDA supplementation on cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise-induced fatigue in healthy individuals. In this eight-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, healthy adults received either LDA (30 mg/day) or placebo. VO₂max was assessed as primary endpoint using an indirect method via the Modified Bruce Protocol Treadmill Test (MBPTT). Secondary endpoints included lactic acid, creatine phosphokinase (CPK), Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), fatigue scores (VAS), and safety biomarkers. LDA significantly improved VO₂max and maximal heart rate compared to the placebo. Participants in the treatment group showed lower lactic acid levels at exercise, indicating prolonged aerobic metabolism. CPK levels were significantly reduced, suggesting mitigation of muscle energy stress. Borg RPE and fatigue scores improved in the LDA group. LDA was well tolerated, with no treatment-related adverse events. Hematological, hepatic, renal, metabolic, and vital sign parameters remained within normal clinical ranges following intake of LDA. LDA supplementation for 8 weeks significantly enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness, delayed fatigue onset, and was safe for use in healthy adults. These findings support its potential as a safe and effective low-dose aid for endurance enhancement and overall exercise performance.