Anti-fatigue effects of Korean red ginseng extract in healthy Japanese adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Background: Chronic fatigue deleteriously affects the quality of life, thereby impairing physical and social functions and subsequently leading to financial and social problems. This study investigated the anti-fatigue effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) extract in healthy middle-aged Japanese adults. Methods: Forty-six participants were randomly divided into two groups (KRG and placebo). KRG (960 mg) or placebo capsules were administered for 3 weeks. The effect of KRG on fatigue was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS), plasma lactic acid, and cortisol levels. Results and conclusions: Three-week consumption of KRG extract resulted in a significant decrease in the fatigue VAS score compared to the placebo group (p = 0.035). No significant difference was found in plasma cortisol and lactic acid levels between the groups. There were no differences between groups in the incidence of adverse events and the results of urinalysis, hematology, and biochemistry. These findings suggest the potential of KRG extract in mitigating fatigue and the safety of KRG extracts in healthy adults.