Akay Bioactives has published groundbreaking data in the Journal of Functional Foods on Immufen.
This innovative ashwagandha and curcumin complex, meticulously standardised to withanolides and curcuminoids, is expertly crafted with FenuMat, a plant-based codelivery technology that ensures a consistent release of soluble bioactives, optimising overall bioavailability for improved efficacy.
The 84-day randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 105 participants and employed objective and subjective measures to assess allergic rhinitis (AR) symptom relief and quality of life improvements.
Key findings include
- Symptom reduction: A 55.5% decrease in total nasal symptom score (TNSS), with significant improvements in nasal congestion (-42.5%), runny nose (-57.5%), sneezing (-41.0%) and nasal itching (-43.6%) compared with a placebo.
- Quality of life enhancements: Improved sleep quality (-49.3% on the Bergen Insomnia Scale), increased energy (+59.3%), reduced fatigue (-31.3%) and better mood (-61.4% on POMS-SF) compared with a placebo.
- Reduced medication dependence: By the study's end, only 9% of Immufen users continued rescue medication, compared with 68% in the placebo group.
- Immune balance: Significant reductions in Th2 and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and increases in Th1 cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were observed in comparison with the placebo. Significant increases in immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) and reductions in IgE levels and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio were also observed when compared with the placebo and are indicative of a "balanced" immune response.
Conducted at a Speciality Hospital in Bangalore, the study adhered to rigorous standards, confirming the reliability of the results.
Dr Krishnakumar, Chief Research Officer of Akay Bioactives, stated: "These findings showcase Immufen as a transformative, long-term solution to manage seasonal health and discomfort while improving overall well-being."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25.7% and 18.9% of US adults and children are affected by seasonal allergies.
The seasonal allergy market, valued at $1.15 billion in 2022, is expected to more than double, reaching $2.58 billion by 2033.
This growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8%, highlights the increasing demand for effective, natural and plant-based solutions to address seasonal discomforts and meet consumer preferences for holistic health products (Future Market Insights).