Euromed’s olive oil extract shows neuroprotective effect in stroke recovery

28 May 2024 --- An independent pilot study conducted by researchers from the University of Jaén, Spain, into supplementation with Euromed’s olive oil extract, Mediteanox, standardized in hydroxytyrosol, an antioxidant, observed that daily administration after a stroke improved neurological and functional outcomes. Key biochemical and oxidative-stress-related parameters such as blood pressure and serum proteome were rehabilitated.

“Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Mediteanox already plays an important role in promoting healthy cardiovascular functions. However, this new pilot and independently conducted study shows that our olive fruit extract may also be a promising nootropic for a wide range of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products,” says Andrea Zangara, head of scientific communication and medical affairs at Euromed.

Mediteanox is processed using a patented water-only extraction method, which preserves and concentrates the fruit’s natural ingredients without any risk of residual volatile solvents. The study’s findings spotlight hydroxytyrosol’s potential as a neuroprotective agent.

Vascular health and neuroprotection
In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 15 mg of hydroxytyrosol was administered daily for 45 days, 24 hours after the stroke. The biochemical and oxidative stress-related parameters, blood pressure, serum proteome, neurological and functional outcomes were evaluated at 45 and 90 days, and compared to a control group. 

The findings show that hydroxytyrosol supplementation supports a reduction in the percentage of glycated hemoglobin and diastolic blood pressure and controls the increase in nitric oxide. In addition, it promotes a protective effect against oxidative stress and modulates the evolution of the serum proteome, particularly the expression of apolipoproteins.

Hydroxytyrosol specifically reduced the levels of apolipoproteins associated with cardiovascular risk, suggesting a protective vascular effect. Significant changes were also observed in the expression of proteins involved in inflammation and lipid metabolism, which may be related to the neuroprotective and vascular protective effects of hydroxytyrosol. 

The modulation of the serum proteome and its influence on nitric oxide are consistent with the known properties of hydroxytyrosol, which contribute to vascular health and neuroprotection.

Muscle strength
The Mediteanox group showed improvements in muscle strength of non-paretic limbs. However, the researchers recommend that a larger trial is necessary. The pilot suggests that Mediteanox is beneficial in the therapy of stroke patients.

Meanwhile, amid a growing consumer demand for natural health products and scientifically supported benefits, Euromed finds inspiration for innovative solutions in traditional knowledge and employs a comprehensive research strategy to develop new products, verify their health benefits and ensure their quality.

In addition, Pomanox, the signature pomegranate extract in Euromed’s portfolio, can reverse the loss of motor coordination and prevent oxidative stress, according to an independent mouse study conducted by the University of Valencia, Spain.

By Inga de Jong