Lychee Polyphenol Reduces Inflammation

PURCHASE, N.Y.A proprietary lychee fruit polyphenol inhibited the stress hormone cortisol as well as key inflammatory markers in a recent study from South Korea (Nutr Res Pract 2010;4(3):203-207). The study examined Oligonol® (from Maypro Industries) intake on cortisol and the related cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-6, in healthy young men at rest and after physical exercise.  Both cortisol and cytokine concentrations are inflammatory markers known to increase when stress such as exercise is caused on the body. 

Nineteen healthy sedentary male (mean height of 174.2 ± 2.7 cm, mean weight of 74.8 ± 3.6 kg and a mean age of 22.8 ± 1.3 years) received 0.5 L water with Oligonol (100 mg) (N=10) twice daily or a placebo (N=9) for four weeks. Researchers found cortisol concentration and serum levels of IL-1beta and IL-6 were significantly decreased after Oligonol intake compared to before treatment (P<0.01, respectively). The rate of increase of these factors after exercise was also decreased compared to the placebo group.

Although a number of studies have demonstrated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Oligonol, this is the first published trial in humans that confirms a important role for Oligonol as an anti-inflammatory agent," said Dr. Dan Kenner, a leading writer and consultant in alternative health care.

Robert Hackman, research professor at the University of California, added, "Flavanols from polyphenols are one of the most exciting and important topics in nutrition research in 2011, and results from this study provide further suggestions about the potential value of flavanol supplementation for health and human performance."

Oligonol is a unique, proprietary form of lychee fruit extract with significantly improved bioavailability due to its low-molecular weight polyphenols, according to Maypro Industries. The company also said clinical studies with Oligonol have demonstrated benefits for skin health (through improving blood flow to the subdermal layer protecting it from damage caused by UV light and free radicals),  cardiovascular function, weight management and exercise fatigue.  Oligonol is marketed in Japan as a functional ingredient for supplements, cosmetics and food; has been accepted as a new dietary ingredient (NDI) by FDA; and has attained self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status.