Spearmint Extract Improves Cognitive Performance?

The results of a new clinical study suggest that a spearmint extract may improve cognitive performance in older adults. Neumentix Phenolic Complex K110-42, a patent-pending spearmint extract from supplier Kemin (Des Moines, IA), was first launched at SupplySide West last fall. The latest study seems to confirm the ingredient’s intended benefits of aiding working memory and improving the ability to fall asleep.

90 participants aged 58-60 were randomly assigned to consume either 900 mg of Neumentix, 600 mg of Neumentix, or a placebo once daily with breakfast for 90 days. The trial was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, and cognitive health was assessed using the computerized Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) battery at 0, 45, and 90 days into the trial. Additionally, participants completed the Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire at the beginning and conclusion of the trial. Blood samples were also collected to assess tolerability to the ingredient.

Researchers found that the accuracy and quality of working memory improved on the CDR test battery in the Neumentix group more than in the placebo group. Participants taking Neumentix were also found to have an improved ability to fall asleep and greater feelings of vitality and energy, according to a press release from Kemin. The researchers reported near-perfect subject compliance, no adverse events, and no problematic tolerability issues.

“These results suggest the proprietary spearmint extract, Neumentix, was well tolerated and a beneficial nutritional intervention for cognitive health in older subjects with AAMI [age-associated memory impairement],” the researchers wrote.

Neumentix is sourced from Kemin’s own-grown, patent-pending, non-GMO spearmint.

“The demand for cognitive health products is growing worldwide, and we are very excited about these strong clinical results,” said Anita Norian, president of the human nutrition and health division at Kemin. “Working memory is critical to our overall cognitive performance, and we feel this research opens up some great opportunities for customers who use Neumentix in their finished products.”

Cook C et al. “Effects of a proprietary spearmint extract on cognitive function and tolerance parameters in men and women with age-associated memory impairment.” The Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, vol. 29, no. 1 (April 2015): supplement 900.15.

Michael Crane
Associate Editor
Nutritional Outlook magazine
michael.crane@ubm.com

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