Ayurveda Treatment for Cardiorespiratory Endurance Enhancement in a Marathon Runner—A Case Study in a 21-Year-Old Athlete

Abstract

Abstract Marathon runners are a group of endurance athletes who spend a remarkable amount of energy during which they may manifest fatigue and restlessness. However, these athletes are prone to musculoskeletal and cardiovascular disorders when not under ideal dietary recommendations or medical supervision. The existing medical remedies seem to be self-administered “commercial supplements” for the improvement of cardiopulmonary endurance (CPE), which may affect the functioning of the kidney. We present a case of a marathon runner who presented with generalized weakness/fatigue during running, lack of sleep, and appetite, seeking improvement in overall health condition for his run. We considered the case to be of an endurance athlete in need of improved CPE and initiated an ayurvedic treatment and dietary plan. Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Gokshura churnas significantly improved the CPE while simultaneously improving his generalized weakness after treatment.