Neuravena Studied for Brain Health

NORTH BERGEN, N.J.—Frutarom USA released data from two preclinical studies conducted in Switzerland on its Neuravena™ (EFLA®955) wild green oat extract, which show the ingredient influences brain activity and has stimulating properties. This adds to previous research suggesting Neuravena may stimulate the dopaminergic transmitter system, improve general learning performance and enhance social competence.

In the first study, scientists used the Tele-Stero EEG animal model to record EEG signals after oral administration to conscious, freely moving rats; three different dosages of EFLA®955 were administered consecutively in intervals of 90 minutes to a group of four rats. The extract changed electrical brain activity during the first hour after administration, with changes dominated by a decrease in the alpha-2 frequency range of the EEG, showing activation of the dopaminergic system, with results approaching those of antidementive drugs.

The second study included three groups of rats receiving either standard diet, diet plus 1 g/kg body weight (bw)/d, or diet plus 10 g/kg bw/d of Neuravena for seven weeks. Effects were measured with behavioral tests; body weight, food consumption and fluid intake were measured twice a week. Main findings included: Neuravena improved general learning performance, seemingly due to enhanced alertness and improved stress coping abilities; a pro-social effect; and mood-enhancing effects as seen in a forced swimming test, suggesting the extract could support active rather than passive stress coping behavior. Further, chronic intake was found to be safe, with the lower dose showing greater efficacy and safety.

“This is exciting research with high consumer interest for effective and safe ingredients to improve memory, sharpen focus and increase brainpower,” said Laurent Leduc, vice president of Frutarom Inc. “The choice of raw materials as well as the extract optimization of Neuravena are based on the results of bioassays carried out at our state-of-the-art production site under ISO and GMP [good manufacturing practice] compliance.”

For more information, visit www.frutarom.com or Booth #1630 at SupplySide East.