Monteloeder’s nine-botanical supplement MindRevive targets age-related cognitive decline

A study published in Applied Sciences details the research and development of MindRevive, a nootropic supplement created by nutraceutical leader Monteloeder, a subsidiary of SuanNutra. 

The study, which combined laboratory analysis with a clinical trial, revealed the combination of sage extract (Salvia officinalis) and Japanese pagoda tree (Sophora japonica) results in significant cognitive improvements in memory, learning, and execution.

“The nine botanicals selected for analysis are widely recognized for their antioxidant properties and role in supporting cognitive function, with extensive documentation in scientific research,” says Monteloeder chief scientific officer Jonathan Jones.

“Some of these ingredients have been evaluated in clinical studies exploring cognitive health. Sage in particular has often been overlooked in discussions about cognitive support, yet it stood out in our screening trials. In fact, sage was the only extract to increase the expression of all analyzed factors associated with neuronal function and antioxidant defenses.”

“When combined with rutin, we observed significant enhancements in the production of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a key molecule involved in brain signaling and cognitive processes. Specifically, it is the major growth factor implicated in memory processes and learning.”

Herb extracts to combat neural oxidative stress

MindRevive is designed to help preserve cognitive vitality, specifically in adults aged 50 and older who are going through typical age-related changes.

The two-phase study, led by Pau Navarro, Ph.D., involved the in vitro analysis of nine botanical compounds assessed for their nootropic properties. These herb extracts were tested in human neural stem cell cultures exposed to oxidative stress.

These included water-ethanol extracts of bilberry, blueberry, bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), sage, saffron, rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), ginkgo biloba, panax ginseng roots, gotu kola, and, separately, Japanese pagoda tree.

The researchers analyzed each botanical’s ability to suppress harmful reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species (ROS and RNS), promote cell survival, and stimulate neural cell growth factors.

Results of this first phase demonstrated that sage standardized in rosmarinic acid exhibited the most noticeable effects on reducing oxidative stress and cell death while stimulating BDNF — a protein involved in improving brain cell growth, long-term memory, and cognitive function.

 MindRevive comprises a nine-botanical blend that includes Japanese pagoda (Sophora japonica) tree extract.Nerve growth factor (NGF) levels were also increased, a protein associated with neuronal function and maintenance. Additionally, the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was significantly enhanced. VEGF plays a role in supporting healthy circulation, which contributes to oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain cells.

When combined with Japanese pagoda tree extract enriched with 95% rutin, the BDNF effect was significantly augmented. Rutin is recognized as a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce age-related neuronal degeneration.

Moreover, AChE (acetylcholinesterase) activity was reduced by more than 60%. High AChE activity is known to impair nerve signaling through the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for learning, memory, and muscle function.

Phase Two

In phase two of the study, a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study tested the effects of the chosen composition MindRevive on 121 healthy volunteers aged 50–65 years and suffering from mild cognitive impairment. Split into three groups, the participants were given 250 mg of MindRevive, 400 mg of MindRevive, or a placebo every morning after breakfast over a period of three months.

At six weeks and again at 12 weeks, the participants were assessed using two questionnaires: the MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), a validated test to assess cognitive function, and the ADAS-Cog (Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale), used to evaluate key cognitive parameters such as memory, language, attention, and problem-solving.

From the sixth week, the 250 mg MindRevive dose was shown to improve short-term memory recall. After 12 weeks, the 400 mg contributed to improving short-term memory recall and abstract reasoning, with participants consistently outperforming the placebo group.

The ADAS-Cog test demonstrated significant cognitive improvements with both of the MindRevive doses compared to placebo after 12 weeks. Intragroup analysis showed more pronounced and rapid enhancements with the higher dose.

Notably, the supplementation positively impacted language skills at week 12 and motor skills as soon as week six. Individual item analysis revealed improvements in word recall, word recognition, and command performance across both doses.

Cognitive health is a growing concern among adults 65 and older, with conditions affecting memory and mental performance ranking among the top ten chronic issues, according to the National Council on Aging.

“Cognitive function naturally changes with age,” says SuanNutra science marketing manager, Mariana Ortega. “MindRevive is formulated with clinically studied ingredients to help maintain cognitive performance and support brain health.”

“This is especially relevant for older adults who are proactively looking for natural solutions to preserve mental sharpness and overall well-being.”

At SupplySide West 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, US, Nutrition Insight caught up with Stephanie Guillén, SuanNutra’s global sales director and Jonathan Jones, CSO, to discuss the launch of MindRevive.