Soon-to-be published research shows Nektium’s Vanizem ingredient support stress and sleep

Image courtesy of Nektium

Nektium has announced the results of new research demonstrating the mood and stress-relief benefits of its Vanizem botanical extract. Vanizem is derived from the West African spice Aframomum melegueta. In the placebo-controlled crossover study that the company projects will be published in a peer-reviewed journal by mid-2024, 30 male and female volunteers between the ages of 40 and 50 experiencing day-to-day stress and anxious feelings were given either placebo or three doses of Vanizem, (50 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg).

Results showed that a dose of at least 100 mg significantly reduced Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) scores to below the threshold for anxiety by the study’s conclusion. Researchers also assessed subjects’ changes in tension, depression, vigor, and fatigue with the Profile of Mood States (POMs). After three days, supplementation at 150 mg resulted in self-reported reductions in stress (19%), fatigue (23%), depression (34%), and vigor (8%). Total mood disturbance (TMD) scores showed 54% improvements in overall mood state by 54% when taking 100 mg of the extract and 77% when taking 150 mg.

There was also self-reported improvements in sleep. According to Nektium, Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaires showed that Vanizem quickly helped with sleep after an initial 100 mg dose, and after three days, sleep was reported to be 30% better compared to placebo.

“In today's fast-paced world, managing mental health and stress has become more critical than ever,” said Bruno Berheide, Nektium’s commercial and partnership director, in a press release. “Vanizem is a fast-acting botanical extract that can help consumers unlock their inner calm. Unlike many mood enhancers and stress relief options, it is also a non-sedative solution so does not cause any drowsiness while carrying out everyday activities.”

According to the company, Aframomum meleguet has three main bioactives called vanilloids: 6-shogaol, 6-paradol and 6-gingerol. In vitro research Nektium says is also due for publication by mid-2024 has demonstrated that the extract targets the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate stress and emotional responses. More specifically, Vanizem inhibits the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) within the endocannabinoid system to maintain levels of anandamide which is known as the “bliss molecule.”

The in vitro research also shows that the extract effects the TRPV1 receptor, a receptor specifically for vanilloid compounds that is known to mediate pain perception, inflammation, and body temperature. Additionally, it may also activate 5-HT1A, which is involved in serotonin pathway modulation, and CB2R, which plays a key role in the reduction of neuroinflammation in response to stress, explains Nektium.

“Our sophisticated formulation approach not only protects the active compounds from degradation but ensures that Vanizem retains its potency over time,” said Nektium’s head of product, Laura López, in a press release. “With the recommended dosage of just 100mg to 150mg per day, it provides a simple solution that enables consumers to reliably lower tension and enhance feelings of calmness.”