A standardized combination of Boswellia serrata and Terminalia chebula extracts to improve cognition in adults with subjective memory complaints: a randomized controlled proof-of-concept study

Source abstract

Objective Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) and Terminalia chebula (haritaki) are botanicals widely used in Indian Ayurvedic Medicine for cognitive health. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept study evaluated the effectiveness of LN19184, a unique, standardized blend of B. serrata gum resin and T. chebula fruit extracts, to improve cognitive function, sleep quality, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in aging individuals. Methods One hundred participants aged 40–65 with subjective complaints of poor memory were randomized into two groups: 300 mg of LN19184 or placebo, once daily for 120 days. At baseline and days 15, 30, 60, and 120, two neuropsychological batteries, the Rey’s Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) and the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test (CANTAB), were used to assess cognitive function, and the Athens Insomnia Scale was used to evaluate sleep quality. Serum BDNF levels and safety parameters were also assessed. Results LN19184 improved each measured RAVLT outcome compared to placebo. Supplementation improved proactive interference ( p < 0.001) and recognition index ( p = 0.004) by day 15. Learning rate, total learning, and delayed recall improved by day 60 ( p < 0.001), and immediate recall improved by day 90 ( p = 0.003). Compared to placebo, supplementation also improved CANTAB assessments of visual learning, processing speed, and accuracy ( p < 0.05), sleep quality ( p < 0.001), and serum BDNF levels ( p < 0.001). Vital signs and safety parameters remained within normal clinical limits throughout the study. Conclusion This pilot trial provides early empirical evidence demonstrating that a novel extract blend of B. serrata and T. chebula was well tolerated and improved cognitive function, sleep quality, and peripheral BDNF levels in aging adults with memory complaints. Clinical trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov , identifier CTRI/2020/08/027368.