Scientific reviews spotlight palm-based tocotrienols’ neuroprotective effects

A growing body of research evidences that tocotrienols — a potent form of vitamin E commonly extracted from palm fruits — are natural neuroprotective agents boosting brain cells to promote cognitive functions, memory, and healthier aging.

Two new scientific reviews in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences consolidate top findings supporting this. One highlights that tocotrienol’s antioxidant and neuroprotective activities are, respectively, around 40–60 and 1,000 times more potent than regular vitamin E tocopherol.

PhytoGaia, whose tocotrienol ingredient TocoGaia was involved in the clinical research, applauded the release of these papers. Dr. Ariati Aris, scientific affairs specialist at the company, elaborates: “A recently published clinical study shows that TocoGaia enhances psychological well-being, modulates oxidative stress, and supports genomic stability in aging populations.”

“Building on this, we are now planning a new randomized-controlled trial with TocoGaia for cognitive health, which we believe will further validate tocotrienols’ role as next-generation brain phytonutrients,” added Dr. Aris.

Unique protective mechanisms

The first review, completed by scientists at the National University of Malaysia, consolidated research from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The analysis covered 24 eligible research papers evaluating the neuroprotective effects of tocotrienols on the brain.

Aside from their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, tocotrienols were found to reduce cellular damage and inflammation. Next, they helped regulate gene and protein expression, modulating important pathways involved in brain health and recovery from injury.

The analysis highlights that this protection extends to preserving neuronal structure and mitochondrial integrity, which are crucial for the health and function of brain cells.

Ultimately, these actions contribute to the enhancement of memory and cognitive function, improving learning and behavioral performance.

Tocopherols vs. tocotrienols

A second review compared the distinct roles of tocopherols and tocotrienols in brain health.

The authors underscore that α-tocopherol remains the most widely studied, but tocotrienols show “stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidative capacities.” Additionally, they found tocotrienols help preserve white matter integrity and modulate neurodegenerative pathways.

When taken together, both forms of vitamin E may offer complementary benefits for cognitive performance, neuroinflammation, and structural brain protection, conclude the authors.

“At PhytoGaia, we are a proud supplier of TocoGaia — a full-spectrum tocotrienol complex that is backed by robust science and uncompromising quality,” says Bryan See, VP of PhytoGaia. “For our partners and brand owners, TocoGaia offers a unique opportunity to differentiate their formulations with a next-generation vitamin E that delivers more than conventional tocopherols.”

“With the latest science reinforcing tocotrienols’ potent neuroprotective potential, TocoGaia is the perfect ingredient for companies looking to innovate and create value in areas such as brain and cognitive health, healthy aging, and functional nutrition.”

Last month, a clinical study confirmed that a functional beverage enriched with TocoGaia led to “clinically meaningful anti-aging improvements.” Highlighted benefits included “enhanced psychological quality of life, stronger antioxidant defenses, and better maintained telomerase activity, a key marker of genomic stability in healthy aging adults.”

Nutrition Insight also previously sat down with Aris to explore the top emergent trends and innovations driving market diversity in the space of brain health and healthy aging.