Akay’s BlaQmax cumin extract may alleviate stress and boost sleep quality, study finds

16 Feb 2022 --- Akay’s BlaQmax, a black cumin extract, may reduce cortisol levels – a biomarker of insomnia. This is according to a study from Aman Hospital and Research Centre, India, that found positive effects of consuming BlaQmax as a safe natural sleep-aid and stress reliever.

“More than 85% of the consumers who have used BlaQmax have reported positive effects upon a single dosage. On continuation, they get sound sleep, reduced disturbances and feel relaxed. Most importantly, BlaQmax is devoid of side effects such as headache, dizziness, morning sickness, nausea and fatigue,” Dr. Krishnakumar IM, chief research officer at Akay, tells NutritionInsight.

“Our scientists were successful in the extraction of the key bioactive composition of black cumin having neuroprotective effects and benefit on stress and sleep disorders for the first time,’” says Dr. Balu Maliakel, managing director of Akay.

COVID-19 impact on sleep and psychological issues
These findings come as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused issues within the psychological areas, including stress or anxiety disorders, depressive manifestations and insomnia.

Researchers note that these sleep issues are also an acute phase of COVID-19 infection or after recovery (post-COVID state).Sleep is a biological need and sleep disorders can cause various health problems, including chronic diseases, researchers note.

“Sleep, stress and immunity are the most-wanted health support areas for people globally during this post-COVID scenario,” says Krishnakumar.

Sleep issues that include difficulty falling asleep, sleep disturbances, low quality sleep and awakening earlier were the most commonly reported. These issues were heightened when participants were stressed or depressed.

Echoing the impact that COVID-19 has had on mental health, Healthy Marketing Team highlighted the role of supplement and F&B choices. It also spotlighted that “traditional Asian adaptogenic herbs and spices are emerging“ in the west to aid in mental well-being ailments.

A separate study from the Samueli Foundation unveiled that consumers choose supplements for stress management and sleep quality due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Polysomnography findings on BlaQMax
The polysomnography study results after seven days of supplementation with BlaQmax at 200 mg per day led to a 30% REM sleep increase resulting in improved sleep quality.

The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) analysis showed significant improvement in sleep quality after a 28-day treatment, without any safety or tolerance issue.Black cumin may be beneficial for immunity, respiratory health and metabolic health (Credit: Akay).

Approximately 80% of the population reported improvement in sleep quality, sleep efficiency and reduction in sleep latency.

“Black cumin is well known for its various therapeutic properties, like immunity, respiratory health, anti-inflammatory effect and metabolic health,” says Krishnakumar.

“While most of the stress relieving and anxiolytic drugs compromise memory, BlaQmax works safely and supports memory and mood.”

Krishnakumar adds that there will be more research on these findings in the future.

Tracking Akay’s previous moves
The spice extract and nutraceutical ingredient supplier has been tapping into extracts for overall wellness NPD.

Previously, a study found that Akay’s CurQfen supplement may treat and prevent inflammation caused by chronic diseases. Additionally, its Capsifen red chili extract showed anti-obesity effects in rats with high cholesterol.

Meanwhile, its fenugreek extract supported hormonal balance and improved sexual dysfunction in young women. Its curcumin extract also held potential in crossing the blood-brain barrier.

By Nicole Kerr