Generating new neurons: Kemin Industries obtains patent for brain health enhancing phenol-rich ingredient

11 Sep 2023 --- Sustainable ingredients manufacturer Kemin Industries reveals it has been granted a patent by the European Patent Office for its neural health product, Neumentix. The patent extends Kemin’s intellectual property protection and has been validated in multiple member countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK.

Officially awarded in July, the company states that patent number EP 3 538 085 B1 is a “significant milestone” for Neumentix.

“This patent confirms the novelty of research findings on Neumentix’s ability to grow new neurons in the brain,” says Brenda Fonseca, inventor listed on the patent and global technical services lead at Kemin Human Nutrition and Health (HNH).

“Our research has indicated that Neumentix, sourced from patented plants and characterized by its phenolic complex, works to nourish the neurons in the brain and may increase new neural growth in specific areas of the brain, providing an important source of neuro-nutrition to fuel brain performance in healthy adults,” she explains.

Stimulating neuronal growth?
According to the company, Neumentix – a water-soluble spearmint extract developed by Kemin HNH – contains over 50 phenolic compounds, including rosmarinic, salvianolic, and lithospermic acids. The natural nootropic product is designed to support cognitive functions, particularly working memory. 

Notably, it targets the hippocampus, one of the few brain regions capable of generating new nerve cells, or neurons, throughout an individual’s lifespan. The company further explains that the hippocampus’ neurogenesis rate tends to decline with age, exposure to stress, sleep deprivation and other factors that can affect cognitive performance.

Neumentix contains over 50 phenols, is water soluble and can be used in a variety of formats. (Image Credit: Kemin Industries)However, research shows that Neumentix’s phenolic complex can stimulate the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus. Promoting such neural growth offers the potential for enhanced learning, information management and reaction times.

“Backed by over 19 peer-reviewed scientific publications covering clinical and preclinical research, as well as spearmint plant features, Neumentix is a great choice for manufacturers looking to formulate with safe, sustainable and scientifically backed brain health ingredients to help promote new neuronal growth,” Fonseca underscores.

Multifunctional brain food
Kemin further adds that, besides its positive impact on working memory, Neumentix also offers a range of cognitive benefits, including improved focus, sustained attention and enhanced physical performance. 

Moreover, the company says that the ingredients’ versatility extends to various application possibilities, making it a promising ingredient in the field of neural health. 

Furthermore, the compound supports neural tissue in adults by reducing oxidative stress, lowering inflammatory markers, increasing neurotrophin levels, safeguarding neuronal cells, elevating neurotransmitter levels and promoting new neuronal growth. 

Fonseca states that these attributes position Neumentix as a valuable asset in pursuing cognitive well-being and overall brain health.

“Delivering high-quality, patented and science-backed ingredients is extremely important to Kemin, because our customers provide supplements, foods and beverages that help improve the quality of life for those around the world,” she concludes. 

Edited by William Bradford Nichols