Abstract
Objectives
Curcumin (a flavonoid isolated from the spice turmeric) affects several processes involved in neurocognitive aging. We have previously reported that 4 weeks administration of a highly bioavailable curcumin extract (Longvida™) improved working memory and reduced fatigue and stress reactivity in older Australians. This follow-up study (ACTRN12616000484448) was aimed at determining if similar effects were evident following 12 weeks administration of the same extract.
Methods
A double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups trial was conducted. Eighty participants aged 50–80 years (mean = 68.1, SD 6.34) were randomised to receive administration of Longvida™ (400 mg daily containing 80 mg curcumin) or a matching placebo. Assessment took place at baseline then at 4 and 12 weeks. Outcomes included measures of cognitive performance focusing on memory processes relevant to hippocampal function. Participants also underwent neuroimaging and measures of mood, cardiovascular function and other blood biomarkers were collected.
Results
Compared with placebo, there were a number of improvements in the curcumin group. The curcumin group had significantly better working memory performance at 12 weeks, as measured by Serial Threes, Serial Sevens and performance on a virtual Morris Water Maze. Curcumin was also associated with better performance on a pattern separation task. Curcumin was also associated with significantly lower fatigue scores on the Profile of Mood States (POMS) at both 4 and 12 weeks, and of tension, anger, confusion and total mood disturbance at 4 weeks only. There were no group differences in biomarker levels.
Conclusions
These results confirm that Longvida™ improves aspects of mood and working memory in a healthy older cohort. The pattern of results is consistent with improvements in hippocampal function and may hold promise for alleviating cognitive decline in some populations.
Funding Sources
This study was funded by a grant from Verdure Sciences.
KC was supported by an Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship
Supporting Tables, Images and/or Graphs
Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® on cognitive control functions, mental activity of the prefrontal cortex and stress reactivity in elderly adults with subjective memory impairment – a randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
