Efficacy of Ashwagandha (withania somnifera [l.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance (VO2 max test) in healthy subjects

In Ayurveda, certain herbal formulas are considered to be Rasayana and they are typically taken over periods of time to regenerate both brain and body tissue. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is used as an adaptogen, antioxidant, immune modulator, free radical scavenger, anti stress, anti arthritic, antispasmodic, anti inflammatory, nervous tonic, nerve soothing and anticancer agent. Ashwagandha (WS) as a nutritional supplement is yet too established. Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) is a gold standard of cardiopulmonary and muscle cell fitness is considered.  The study evaluated the efficacy of Ashwagandha to improve cardiorespiratory endurance (VO2 max) in healthy subjects. They randomized single blind controlled comparative clinical study. 54 health volunteers in each group, study group received Ashwagandha Choorna 12gm with milk (200ml) empty stomach in the morning and the control group only milk (200ml). Maximal capacity of oxygen intake in ml/kg/min (VO2 max) with Rockport fitness walking test of both study and control group were measured before intervention (0th day), after the intervention (60th day) and follow up (90th day). A significant improvement in the VO2 max (F=20.675, P <0.0001) and Hemoglobin (X2=74.150 P <0.0001) in the study group was found. Supplementation of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) with milk improve hemoglobin and VO2 max (maximum aerobic capacity).