TurmXTRA and Prolanza, a water-dispersible turmeric extract and root-only, sustained-release ashwagandha extract marketed by Nutriventia, may offer neuroprotective benefits, an animal study found. The findings were published in Pharmacognosy Research.

“While the existing body of research on curcumin and ashwagandha’s role in neuroprotection is extensive, our primary motivation was to conduct rigorous studies specifically confirming these vital effects in our flagship brands, TurmXTRA and Prolanza,” said Shefali Thanawala, assistant vice president of medical science and research at Nutriventia.

In the study, zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to Benzo[a]pyrene, a neurotoxic compound that triggers oxidative stress, for seven days. They were then administered either TurmXTRA or Prolanza and compared against the control of zebrafish administered Levodopa, a medication used for Parkinson’s disease. The fish were then subjected to a tank diving test to examine anxiety-like behavior.

Fish that were administered the herbs showed improvements in mobility, faster speed swimming, higher exploration rate, further distances traveled, and reduced time being inactive.

“Both plant extracts evaluated in this study were novel and this study demonstrates neuroprotective potential of these novel nutraceutical supplements, TurmXTRA and Prolanza, against B[a]P-induced neurodegeneration,” the authors concluded.

“These results are an exciting and definitive step in our translational research pathway,” said Thanawala. “The reconfirmation of Prolanza’s neuroprotective action, coupled with the consistent positive findings across both behavioral and histopathological tests in the experimental species, provides robust scientific evidence for its role in cognition support and neuroprotection. We are equally encouraged by the similar potential displayed by TurmXTRA, reinforcing our portfolio of ingredients designed to genuinely support healthy brain function … we strongly believe in fostering academic collaboration and harnessing the innovative potential of young scientific minds. This successful study, conducted in partnership with a leading academic institute, exemplifies our commitment to both scientific validation and nurturing future research talent.”