A study conducted by Monteloeder has found that its nootropic sage and Japanese pagoda tree extract, Mindrevive can support cognition.
The two-phase trial, which is published in Applied Sciences, spans the laboratory analysis that led to the blend's creation, to the clinical trial that highlights the nutraceutical's learning and memory-boosting potential.
Mindrevive, which contains a blend of Salvia officinalis and Sophora japonica, was revealed to be the combination with the highest synergistic potential when assessing the efficacy of nine botanical nootropic compounds.
The nutraceutical, which is designed to support cognition and healthy ageing in adults over 50, was found to benefit users in a number of ways, including:
- Reducing oxidative stress by activating antioxidant defenses
- Increasing neuronal regeneration/survival
- Boost learning and memory
- Support release of key brain-related growth factors such as NGF, BDNF and VEGF
- Maintain brain health
In vitro testing
To begin the study, researchers began by conducting in vitro analysis of nine botanicals that have commonly been branded as "nootropics".
This included water-ethanol-derived bilberry, blueberry, bacopa, sage, saffron, rhodiola, gingko biloba, panax ginseng roots, gotu kola and Japanese pagoda tree extracts.
They were tested on human neural stem cell cultures under high oxidative stress, with each compound's potential to reduce the presence of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species being measured, as well as their ability to promote cell survival.
Notably, sage standardised in rosmarinic acid was the best at reducing oxidative stress and cell death, though it could also stimulate the release of nerve, brain and vascular growth factors BDNF, VEGF and NGF.
This growth factor stimulation was further increased by joining a sophora extract enriched to 95% rutin, with BDNF levels experiencing a further increase.
This combination also reduced the activity of acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme responsible for the breakdown of key neurotransmitter, ACh.
“The nine botanicals selected for analysis are widely recognised for their antioxidant properties and role in supporting cognitive function, with extensive documentation in scientific research,” commented Jonathan Jones, Chief Scientific Officer at Monteloeder.
“Some of these ingredients have been evaluated in clinical studies exploring cognitive health. Sage, in particular, has often been overlooked in discussions about cognitive support, yet it stood out in our screening trials."
Jonathan noted that sage was the only extract capable of increasing the expression of all analysed factors associated with neuronal function and antioxidant defenses.
"When combined with rutin, we observed significant enhancements in BDNF, a key molecule involved in brain signalling and cognitive processes. Previous research has suggested that maintaining optimal BDNF levels is important for overall brain health," he stated.
Phase two highlights Mindrevive's benefits
After the success of the in vitro study, Monteloeder looked into how the ingredient blend could benefit users in real life.
The randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 121 volunteers between the ages of 50 and 65 — all of which were suffering from mild cognitive impairment.
Participants were either given a low (250mg) or high (400mg) dose of Mindrevive or a placebo daily for three months. Their cognitive capabilities were then tested through questionnaires at both 6 and 12 weeks.
From week 6 onwards, the group on 250mg experienced significant improvements in short-term memory recall, while those on the 400mg dose had improvements in both short-term memory recall and abstract reasoning after the 12 week period.
Both groups consistently outperformed the placebo group, though there was a more pronounced improvement in those on a higher dose.
Interestingly, supplementation with Mindrevive benefitted motor skills by week 6, and language skills at week 12. Word recall, recognition and command performance was also improved across both doses.
“Cognitive function naturally changes with age,” explains Mariana Ortega, Science Marketing Manager of SUANNUTRA. “Mindrevive is formulated with clinically studied ingredients to
help maintain cognitive performance and support brain health. This is especially relevant for older adults who are proactively looking for natural solutions to preserve mental sharpness
and overall well-being.”