RCTHuman2023
Exploring the efficacy and safety of a novel standardized ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract (Witholytin®) in adults experiencing high stress and fatigue in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Plain-language summary
This study set out to test whether ashwagandha, a traditional herb, could reduce stress and fatigue in overweight or mildly obese adults aged 40-75 who reported high stress and fatigue. Participants took 200 mg of a standardized ashwagandha extract (Witholytin®) twice daily for 12 weeks, compared to a placebo group. While ashwagandha did not significantly outperform placebo in reducing perceived stress, it did reduce fatigue symptoms and improved heart rate variability (a marker of recovery). Men taking ashwagandha also saw increases in free testosterone and luteinizing hormone, which signals testosterone production.
Key findings
- Ashwagandha did not significantly reduce perceived stress compared to placebo.
- Ashwagandha reduced fatigue symptoms more than placebo.
- Ashwagandha improved heart rate variability, a marker of recovery.
- Men taking ashwagandha had higher free testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels.
How to analyze the study yourself
- Study type
- Randomized controlled trials are strong for testing cause and effect but may not reflect real-world conditions.
- Population
- Overweight or mildly obese men and women aged 40-75 with self-reported stress and fatigue.
- Funding
- Funded by Verdure Sciences Inc., which also supplied the Witholytin extract that was tested. The lead author is managing director of a contract research organization that has received research funding from nutraceutical companies.
- Takeaway
- This study found that in stressed, overweight adults aged 40 to 75, a standardized ashwagandha extract reduced fatigue and improved recovery markers, though it did no better than placebo on stress itself. Free testosterone rose in the men. If you have low testosterone, it may be worth asking your doctor about it before you reach for a supplement, because the extract tested here was one specific branded preparation, the trial was paid for by the company that sells it, and the stress result was null.