Therapeutic Potential and Safety Profile of Withania somnifera in Health and Sports Science: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Abstract
Introduction and Purpose: Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is a leading adaptogen in phytotherapy and sports nutrition. This review evaluates scientific evidence (2015–2024) regarding its impact on mental health, physical performance, and safety profile.Material and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on RCTs, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published between 2018 and 2024. Twenty-three high-quality sources were selected for analysis.Results: Ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduces serum cortisol and alleviates symptoms of anxiety and stress. In sports medicine, it is associated with increased muscle strength (1RM) and power, improved VO₂ max, and accelerated recovery, evidenced by reduced creatine kinase levels. Furthermore, it improves sleep quality and cognitive functions. While generally well-tolerated, rare cases of idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity and clinically significant interactions with thyroid and immunosuppressive medications have been documented.Conclusion: Ashwagandha exhibits substantial therapeutic potential as an ergogenic and anxiolytic agent. Despite high-level evidence of its efficacy, the risk of rare adverse events and drug interactions necessitates medical supervision. Future research should prioritize long-term safety monitoring and dosing standardization.
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