Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, but its application for supporting mitochondrial health is a more recent development rooted in emerging scientific research. Several preclinical studies have examined ashwagandha’s bioactive compounds—such as withanolides—for their potential to enhance mitochondrial function. Evidence from in vitro and animal studies suggests that ashwagandha extracts may help protect mitochondria against oxidative stress, improve mitochondrial biogenesis, and enhance cellular energy production. For example, some rodent studies have shown ashwagandha can upregulate antioxidant enzymes and proteins associated with mitochondrial energy metabolism.

However, human clinical evidence specifically linking ashwagandha supplementation to improved mitochondrial function is limited and indirect. Most human studies focus on its adaptogenic, anti-stress, and anti-inflammatory effects, which may secondarily influence mitochondrial health, but direct measures of mitochondrial function are rare. Thus, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some early data from laboratory and animal models, robust clinical validation is lacking. The evidence supporting ashwagandha’s use for mitochondrial support is therefore rated as moderate to low (2/5) and should be viewed as preliminary pending further study.