New study shows the safety and efficacy of nootropic Alpinia galanga extract

Photo © iStockphoto.com/Jacob Wackerhausen

A recent study, published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, examined the safety and efficacy of an Alpinia galanga extract called EnXtra (from Enovate Biolife; Mumbai, India). In the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, a total of 69 participants were assigned to receive either 300 mg EnXtra with 200 mg of caffeine, 300 mg of EnXtra alone, and placebo twice per day for 12 weeks.

Researchers evaluated cardiovascular safety by measuring changes in QT interval, blood pressure, and heart rate. Efficacy was determined by measuring changes in perceived alertness and calmness with Bond and Lader mood scales, sleep disturbance with the Pittsburgh sleep quality index, and daytime sleepiness with the Epworth sleepiness scale.

Results showed that after 12 weeks none of the groups experienced any significant changes in QT interval, blood pressure, or heart rate, demonstrating the safety of the ingredient with or without caffeine. In efficacy measures, Bond and Lader scale scores for alertness and calmness increased significantly for both the EnXtra group and EnXtra/caffeine group, compared to placebo. These results occurred within three hours of consumption. Measures of sleep quality and daytime sleepiness did not experience any significant changes among any of the groups.

With the rise in popularity of nootropic ingredients, and the demand for natural, caffeine free alternatives, the present study shows that EnXtra can be a viable and safe solution for finished product manufacturers. The results of safety parameters are particularly relevant for older consumers who want to support their cognitive health.

Reference

1. Srivastava S et al. “A randomized placebo controlled clinical trial demonstrating safety & efficacy of EnXtra in healthy adults.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Published online ahead of print on May 15, 2020