Wellness Foods + Supplements 3/2022

No. 3, November/Dezember 2022 

www.harnisch.com | ISSN 2364-8104 

Women's health Gut health 

Mental health Antioxidants 

Lactoferrin Stress Tinnitus 

Heart & Brain health Skin health 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/nobeastofierce

Joints 

Heart 

Respiratory 

Sports 

Skin 

Eye 

Women 

Brain 

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Editorial 

SILKE WATKINS, Editor-in-Chief 

Pervasive global shortage of raw materials? 

Early November I attended SPS in Nuremberg, 

one of the largest international trade 

fairs for electrical automation technology. All 

the euphoria of the trade fair notwithstanding, 

the issues of raw material scarcity and supply 

chain disruptions occupied both companies 

and trade fair visitors. Manufacturers offered 

assurances that they are well prepared 

and have many parts for their pro ducts in 

stock. However, they also admitted that long 

delivery terms or component allocations are 

in part forcing them to find different solutions 

to produce the pro ducts that are in demand. 

Then there is the matter of price increases 

that have become entirely unpredictable. At 

least outwardly, manufacturers are projecting 

optimism. Nobody can predict how long this 

dry spell is going to last. 

When this topic is viewed through the lens of 

food production, we can clearly see during 

our shopping how the higher costs are being 

passed on to consumers. Food prices have 

increased to such an extent in recent months 

that many consumers are being forced to 

consider exactly what to actually buy. High 

energy prices are particularly problematic 

for producers that use a lot of energy, such 

as bakeries. It is therefore little wonder that 

even long-standing businesses are facing 

great hardship when, in addition to high raw 

material costs, energy costs now keep on 

rising more and more as well. 

What are politicians doing about this? There seems to be a general 

feeling of helplessness in Germany, even as the government attempts 

to calm the nation’s people with onomatopoeic announcements of 

the oomph in June and the double oomph in the autumn. Facing a 

winter with gas shortages, the citizens on the other hand seem to be 

asking: What’s next? 

Raw material scarcity, rising raw material costs and high energy 

prices are interrelated. Not only do manufacturers need assurances 

that they will be able to maintain their operations into the future, 

consumers also have to be in a position to afford foodstuffs going 

forward. What’s more, the quality of these should not suffer from 

adverse conditions. I don’t know exactly what the situation is like in 

other countries, but surely I am not the only one looking to the future 

with concern. 

With this edition 3 of Wellness Foods & Supplements, we are also 

presenting ourselves at Fi & Hi Europe in Paris. 

With kind regards, 

Silke Watkins 

No. 3 November/Dezember 2022 

3

Contents 

Health 

Convenience Food 

Food & Beverages 

Confectionary 

Cover Photo © : Adobe Stock/nobeastsofierce 

The microbiome is the community of microorganisms 

(such as fungi, bacteria and viruses) that exists in a 

particular environment. In humans, the term is often 

used to describe the microorganisms that live in or on a 

particular part of the body, such as the skin or gastrointestinal 

tract. These groups of microorganisms are 

dynamic and change in response to a host of environmental 

factors, such as exercise, diet, medication and 

other exposures. (Definition by NIH, National Human 

Genome Research Institute) 

Sports Nutrition 

Health Care 

Contents 

Personal Care 

Women's health 

06 Active at every stage of life: Focus on women 

Gut health 

11 The benefits of acacia gum in gut health 

Mental health 

14 Coping with occasional stress to support mental health 

Antioxidant capacity of caramel 

17 Antioxydant properties 

Lactoferrin 

18 Lactoferrin – also a real alternative for urinary tract infections 

Stress 

22 Balm for the soul – Melissa officinalis L. alleviates stress symptoms 

28 The hyper-specialization of anti-stress solutions 

31 Cultivating a sustainable source of a stress-busting adaptogen 

Brain health 

34 Highly bioavailable solution for brain health 

Heart and brain health 

38 With heart and brain: leading a healthy life 

Skin health 

42 Protection and stimulation 

Tinnitus 

45 Effective relief from tinnitus symptoms 

Fi & Hi Europe 2022 

48 Let’s meet in Paris! 

50 Impressum 

4 No. 3 November/Dezember 2022

New study on lactoferrin as non-antibiotic 

alternative available! Read now: 

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Photo © : Freepik/gpointstudio 

Active at every stage of life: Focus on women 

Anita Käser, Brigitte Hicks 

Women and men are now equal in many areas [1]. Nevertheless, 

women have different strengths, experiences, circumstances and 

visions and also experience changes in the different phases of life. 

A possible desire to have children, pregnancy, breastfeeding and 

menopause demand a different lifestyle and diet and have specific 

nutrient requirements [2]. But even in everyday life, when it comes 

to organizing work, family and the household, a healthy body and a 

positive mindset are essential. As a result, the interest in women’s 

health has been growing steadily. In 2021, the dietary supplement 

market reported an average growth of + 17% [3]. The following article 

looks at the different phases of a woman's life in more detail. 

Planning to have children 

Women planning to have children should pay attention to a few 

things. For example, it may be advisable to provide the body with 

ideal conditions for a pregnancy. Healthy eating and exercise as well 

as patience and joy of life should of course be part of this phase. Similarly, 

negative triggers, such as smoking or drinking alcohol, should 

be eliminated when trying to conceive. [4] Additionally, food supplements 

can provide specific nutrients during 

this time. In particular, folic acid, also known 

as vitamin B9, should be taken before pregnancy 

to reduce the risk of malformations, 

such as the neural tube defect in the growing 

fetus. The German Society of Nutrition (DGE) 

recommends an additional daily intake of 

400 µg folate (folic acid) for any woman who 

wishes to have children. In addition, vitamin 

D and iodine are usually recommended, as 

they are equally essential for the body. Folate 

and vitamin D also have a function in cell 

division, which is an authorized health claim. 

[5,6,7] 

Pregnancy 

With successful fertilization and implantation 

into the endometrium, the need for vitamins 

& minerals for the body of the expectant 



mother increases. The extra demand can be 

compensated by foods with a high nutrient 

density. These include whole grains, fruits, 

vegetables, potatoes, and dairy products. [8] 

One of the most important vitamins for 

women planning to have a baby, for pregnant 

and breastfeeding women is folic acid 

or folate. It takes on critical functions in 

cell division and growth processes in the 

body and is involved in numerous metabolic 

processes. To support the increased 

need for folic acid, foods rich in folate such 

as lettuce, spinach, broccoli and whole 

grains are beneficial. The D-A-CH societies 

(Germany, Austria, Switzerland) for nutrition 

recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding 

women supplement their daily diet 

with 400 µg folic acid. A lack of folate during 

pregnancy can have an extremely negative 

effect on the development of the fetus and 

can lead to a low birth weight or increase the 

risk of a miscarriage. Folate supplementation 

also reduces the risk of neural tube defects 

in the unborn child. 

Another important part of the diet during pregnancy 

is iodine. Iodine is an essential trace 

element maintaining many important body 

functions and which must be supplied via 

the diet. The thyroid gland needs the mineral 

mainly for the build-up of thyroid hormones. 

These are crucial for the growth and development 

of the nervous system, musculature 

and internal organs of the child. They also 

regulate crucial processes in metabolism, 

even before birth. Intake recommendations 

depend, for example, on age, gender, and 

state of health. The thyroid gland of the fetus 

matures only in the 18 th -20 th week of pregnancy 

and is therefore depending on the 

supply from the mother. The German Society 

of Nutrition (DGE) recommends a total daily 

intake of 230-260 µg iodine for pregnant 

and breastfeeding women, with 100-150 µg 

taken in capsule or tablet form. [6] 

In addition to folic acid, iodine and vitamin D, 

omega 3 fatty acids also play a crucial role 

in pregnancy. Omega 3 fatty acids cannot 

be made by the body itself and need to be 

supplied through food or supplements. The 

intake of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty 

acids, such as omega 3 from vegetable oils or the consumption of 

cold-water fish, is crucial in the last trimester of pregnancy. During 

this phase, long-chain fatty acids, especially arachidonic acid and 

docosahexaenoic acid (AA, DHA) are stored in the brain of the fetus. 

The DHA status of the mother is significant here, as DHA can affect 

the structure and function of the brain and eyes of the fetus. Also, 

the duration of pregnancy can be influenced by the formation of 

hormone-like substances from the fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid 

(EPA). The recommendation of DHA intake for pregnant women is at 

least 200 mg DHA per day. The exact fatty acid status can be determined 

at the beginning by the Omega 3 Index as a blood test to 

prevent a deficiency. Goerlich Pharma offers a wide range of marine 

and vegan Omega 3 capsules in the desired private label packaging. 

Additional vitamins that can be taken if needed, including vitamin 

C, vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), niacin, vitamin B6, 

vitamin B12, vitamin A and vitamin E as well as the minerals calcium, 

iron and zinc. [9] 

For this purpose, Goerlich Pharma developed a new basic formulation: 

A pregnancy capsule containing valuable micronutrients such 

as iodine, folic acid, vitamin D, B12, magnesium, zinc, and choline. 

The capsule is vegan and can be customized with other vitamins, 

minerals or trend ingredients to a Plus product. In combination with 

Omega 3 products containing algae or fish oil, customer-specific 

product concepts for pregnancy can be offered. 

Breastfeeding 

The amount of breast milk depends, among other things, on the 

mother’s diet and lifestyle. More attention should be paid to a healthy, 

balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The 

length of time the baby is breastfed depends on the individual situation 

and can range from three months to one year and more. [10] An 

additional energy intake of 635 kcal daily is recommended in the first 

four months of lactation, as the need for vitamins and minerals can 

be higher than during pregnancy. A daily calcium intake of 1000 mg 

and iron intake of 20 mg per day is advised during the first four to six 

months of breastfeeding. In addition, the need for iodine increases to 

approx. 260 µg daily. [9] A blood test is also recommended here in 

order to prevent deficiencies and to specifically provide support with 

supplements. 

Female cycle 

A woman’s cycle is a real miracle of nature and changes steadily from 

birth to first menstruation and possible pregnancy to menopause. At 

birth, the ovaries already contain the entire supply of eggs for the later 

life of a woman. Egg cells are enclosed in small bubbles, so-called 

follicles. At puberty, a part of the hormones will maturate the 1st 

follicle and release an egg cell into the uterus. In addition, hormones 

control the body temperature and the menstrual cycle by triggering 

ovulation once a month. [11] If the egg is not fertilized subsequently, 


7


gut, it is also important to maintain good bowel health [15]. Pre-, pro-, 

and postbiotics can help in this area. Goerlich Pharma offers a probiotic 

mixture in the form of capsules and as a direct stick, as well as a 

direct stick with beta-glucan from the walls of yeast cells. 

it dies and is excreted as menstrual period along with the top layer 

of the endometrium. On average, approximately 20 to 60 milliliters 

of blood are lost per menstrual period. During this time, iron supplements 

can be used to support the body and ensure iron supply. [11, 

12] Goerlich Pharma offers, for example, an iron acerola stick in the 

flavors of raspberry or blackcurrants delivering 14 mg iron and 80 mg 

vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to achieve better and higher 

iron absorption as well as many other EFSA-approved health claims. 

Additionally, health claims have been authorized for iron. It contributes 

to normal oxygen transport in the body, as well as to the normal 

formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Beyond that, magnesium 

can help to relax the muscles when suffering from menstrual 

cramps. Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function and the 

function of the nervous system. Goerlich Pharma offers a magnesium 

stick with 375 mg magnesium as a basic formulation, which can be 

customized with additional vitamins or minerals. The stick formulations 

are also available in capsule or tablet form. 

The middle years: Balance in everyday life 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/ssstocker 

Women still do 80 % of care work, and often juggle between different 

roles: They are employed, responsible for taking care of the children 

and the household. They are partners, caregivers and managing 

the tasks of everyday life [24]. In 2022, around 75 % of mothers are 

employed [13]. Organizational talent, resilience and good physical 

and mental health are the prerequisites to maintain this balance in 

everyday life. Moreover, there often is not enough time left for hobbies 

or sports as compensation to the daily tasks. 

Children, pets and household chores also need to be taken care of 

when you feel sick and the energy level is low. A strong immune system 

is required to avoid getting sick. Exercise, a balanced diet and enough 

sleep are essential to strengthen the immune system. Various vitamins 

and minerals can also contribute to the normal function of our 

immune system. For example, the EFSA has approved corresponding 

health claims for copper, folic acid, iron, selenium, zinc and vitamin A, 

B12, B6, C and D [14]. Because most of our immune system is in the 

In addition to physical health, mental health also plays a major 

role in meeting all the challenges in the everyday life of a modern 

woman. Mental strength is required in particular during phases with 

unplanned, unexpected and short-term changes, such as restrictions 

on child care, overtime on the job, etc. Here too, the EFSA has 

approved health claims for numerous vitamins and minerals [16]. 

In addition, there are indications that adaptogens can increase the 

body's resis tance to stress. [17] The herbal adaptogen Rhodiola can 

be found in the Anti-Stress capsule of Goerlich Pharma. Other basic 

formulations include the vitamin B complex capsule, the magnesium 

direct stick and the duo-magnesium capsule. 

The daily routine of a working mother might look like this: Getting up 

– Caring for pets – Making lunch/snack(s) – Waking up child(ren) 

– Getting everyone ready and out of the house – Working – Picking 

up child(ren) – Shopping – Taking care of the household – Cooking 

– Eating dinner – Cleaning up – Family time – Going to sleep – the 

day is usually filled with a variety of tasks from morning to evening. 

In order for the body to have sufficient energy and strength, a normal 

energy metabolism is necessary. Biotin, calcium, copper, iodine, 

iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, 

riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B12, B6 and C may help, which was 

confirmed by the EFSA with the approval of a corresponding health 

claim. However, if you feel tired or exhausted, folic acid, iron, magnesium, 

niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, vitamin B12, V6 and C can 

help to reduce this feeling. [14] Here it is possible to select from 

several basic formulations containing B vitamins, magnesium or iron. 

Often underestimated, but very important is, of course, finding or 

creating enough time to look after yourself. For some this is reading a 

good book, spending time with friends, playing sports or going to the 

Photo © : Freepik/pressfoto 



hairdresser or a cosmetician. If there is a lack 

of time due to a fully packed daily scedule, 

“beauty from the inside” is the keyword. 

Goerlich Pharma’s skin-hair-nails capsule 

contains ingredients that can help maintain 

normal skin, hair and nails, or normal skin 

and hair pigmentation. 

Menopause/climacteric period 

Menopause refers to the period of hormonal 

changes at the end of the fertile life phase of 

a woman. The concentration of female sex 

hormones decreases, resulting in the loss 

of the period at the end of menopause and 

thus no natural pregnancy being possible 

any longer. The beginning, duration and 

course of this period of life vary in each 

woman, but at the age of 52, about half of all 

women have had their last menstrual period. 

The appearance and severity of menopause 

symptoms vary just as much. These include 

hot flashes, sweating, sleep disturbances, 

dryness of the mucous membranes, e.g. in 

the urogenital area, mood swings, weight 

gain and memory problems. [18.19] In addition, 

the risk of osteoporosis in women after 

menopause is approximately twice as high 

as in men due to the lowering of estrogen 

levels. [20.21] 

calcium through the intestines and the incorporation 

of the mineral in the bones. This 

prevents a decrease in bone density and 

osteoporosis. If the vitamin D level is low, 

supplementation can be useful. Targeted 

strength training can also stimulate bone 

formation. [21] 

In addition to the above-mentioned menopause 

symptoms, the decrease in estrogen 

levels can often also be felt in the joints. 

Blood circulation to muscles and joints 

is reduced, collagen production and the 

amount of joint fluid decrease and the joint 

cartilage becomes thinner. In addition, with 

age and also due to the lack of estrogen, 

the skin becomes thinner, dryer, less elastic 

and more prone to injury. [18] An adequate 

supply of vitamin C can support the function 

of the joints and the skin. The vitamin 

contributes to normal collagen formation, 

which is responsible for the normal functioning 

of bones, cartilage and skin. [22]. 

Goerlich Pharma can offer a collagen stick 

for dissolving in water as a basic formulation. 

Outlook for probiotics 

A future topic, which is becoming increasingly 

important in women’s health, are 

Bioactive Collagen Peptides (BCP ® ) 

stimulate the body’s own collagen 

metabolism 

Body Toning 

Beauty from Within 

In order to maintain the usual quality of 

life in this phase of life, there are different 

approaches to treat the symptoms, 

depending on their severity. This can range 

from general measures to hormone replacement 

therapy. However, the latter is disputed 

due to possible serious side effects (e. g. 

increased risk of breast or uterine cancer 

and increased risk of blood clots) and is only 

prescribed by doctors to women with severe 

complaints. 

Bone Health 

Joint Health 

Connective Tissue 

Improvement 

However, general measures such as relaxation 

exercises, exercising outdoors, targeted 

strength training and a healthy diet and 

lifestyle can actively combat some of the 

unwanted symptoms. Exercise can have a 

positive effect on our mood, help with weight 

loss, and counteract age-related muscle 

loss. If the exercise takes place outside, the 

body’s own vitamin D production is stimulated. 

Vitamin D promotes the absorption of 

GELITA AG · Uferstr. 7 · 69412 Eberbach · Germany · www.gelita.com


Photo © : Freepik/mego-studio 

probiotics. The interest in finding solutions to women’s health problems 

is increasing the demand for natural ingredients such as probiotics. 

Benefits include specific applications of bacteria that offer a 

natural, over-the-counter and easily ingestible alternative without side 

effects to women’s health. From puberty to menopause, there are 

charac teristic probiotics for every woman at every stage of life that 

can affect the intestinal or vaginal microbiota. The balance of the 

microflora is a key factor in supporting health, is increasingly recog- 

nized and supported by studies. Above all, 

the probiotic genus of Lactobacilli, must 

be mentioned here. They have shown in 

some studies, that they can help to find the 

balance of the microflora and lead to better 

well-being. The Health Canada Ministry of 

Health approved the additional indication 

for the probiotic L. Plantarum Rosella that 

has been shown to support the health of the 

female intimate area. In order to be able to 

colonize the vaginal microflora as accurately 

as possible in the future, the choice of the 

right bacterial strain is essential. In addition 

to vaginal health, the most important growth 

areas in women’s health include urinary tract 

infections, pregnancy and skin health. [23] 

In this area, Goerlich Pharma also offers 

basic formulations: the probiotic immune 

and probiotic gastrointestinal direct stick, 

as well as a probiotic capsule containing a 

variety of bacterial strains. Those products 

can be customized to a Plus product by 

adding other raw materials. 

References 

[1] https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/themen/nachhaltigkeitspolitik/rechtliche-gleichstellung-841120 

[2] https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/service/begriffe-von-a-z/f/frauengesundheit.html 

[3] https://www.nutritioninsight.com/key-trends/b-life-womens/npd-in-action-womens-health.html 

[4] https://www.apotheken-umschau.de/familie/kinderwunsch/schwanger-werden/schwanger-werden-das-sollten-sie-vorher-beachten-790043.html 

[5] https://www.femibion.de/produkte/femibion-babyplanung#naehrwerte 

[6] https://www.pharmazeutische-zeitung.de/ausgabe-362006/iod-und-folsaeure-supplementieren/ 

[7] https://www.femibion.de/schwangerschaft/vitamine-mineralstoffe 

[8] https://www.ernaehrung.de/tipps/schwangerschaft/schwanger11.php 

[9] https://fet-ev.eu/schwangerschaft-stillzeit/ 

[10] https://www.femibion.de/stillzeit/ernaehrung-stillen 

[11] https://www.gesundheitsinformation.de/wie-funktioniert-der-weibliche-zyklus.html 

[12] https://www.frauenaerzte-im-netz.de/koerper-sexualitaet/zyklus-hormone/ 

[13] https://www.destatis.de/DE/Presse/Pressemitteilungen/2022/03/PD22_N012_12.html#:~:text=M%C3%BCtter%20in%20Deutschland%20waren%20damit,noch%20bei%20 

69%2C3%20%25 

[14]https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/labelling_nutrition/claims/register/public/?event=search 

[15] https://www.bzfe.de/ernaehrung/ernaehrungswissen/gesundheit/das-immunsystem-staerken/ 

[16] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012R0432&from=DE 

[17] https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/8/2861 

[18] https://www.frauenaerzte-im-netz.de/koerper-sexualitaet/wechseljahre-klimakterium/ 

[19] https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/heim/gesundheitsprobleme-von-frauen/wechseljahre/wechseljahre 

[20] https://www.msdmanuals.com/de-de/heim/knochen-,-gelenk-und-muskelerkrankungen/osteoporose/osteoporose 

[21] https://www.apotheken-umschau.de/krankheiten-symptome/gelenks-und-knochenerkrankungen/osteoporose-risikofaktoren-diagnose-therapie-734881.html 

[22] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32012R0432&from=EN 

[23] https://www.nutritioninsight.com/news/probiotics-for-womens-health-no-longer-taboo-as-lallemand-projects-market-growth.html 

[24] https://www.gender-mediathek.de/de/care-arbeit 

For more information, please contact 

Goerlich Pharma GmbH 

Edling, Germany 

sales@goerlich-pharma.com 

www.goerlich-pharma.com 


Gut health 

The benefits of acacia gum in gut health 

According to a study by Alland & Robert, 

80 % of people who consumed acacia gum 

every day for 2 months improved their intestinal 

health 

Acacia gum, also known as gum arabic, is 

a natural, safe and plant-based additive or 

ingredient. It comes from an exudation of 

Acacia trees after the incision of their stems 

and branches. Acacia gum has been used for 

centuries and provides many different functional 

properties such as emulsifying properties 

or fibre enrichment. It is now adays found 

in a wide variety of consumer products all 

over the world. 

Now, in addition to its versatility, digestive health can be added to the 

list the benefits of acacia gum. Alland & Robert, a leading manufacturer 

of acacia gum and expert of natural gums since 1884, recently 

conducted a study that confirms that people who consume acacia 

gum every day improve their intestinal health. The objective of the 

Alland & Robert study was to provide scientific data that support the 

use of acacia gum as a gut health improver. Scientific research has 

already highlighted that in addition to being a fibre, acacia gum is a 

prebiotic. Alland & Robert decided to go further and conducted a 

study to evaluate the impact of acacia gum on consumers who suffer 

from intestinal disorders regularly. 

In recent years, the gastrointestinal system has been linked to general 

health: from weight management to immunity to chronic illnesses, 

and even to sleep problems or skin health. About 70 million Ameri- 


11

Gut health 

cans are estimated to be affected by digestion discomforts. As scientists 

continue to explore the role played by the GI on human health, 

there is no doubt that the digestive health market will continue to 

boom: the global digestive health products market is expected to 

grow to $ 59 billion by 2025 1 . Many consumers today know that a 

happy, healthy gut is key for overall wellbeing. There is significant 

demand for food, beverage and dietary supplements with digestive 

health advantages. Manufacturers must understand the expectations 

of consumers and provide safe and natural products that answer their 

demands, and acacia gum is a multi-functional and natural option to 

formulate gut-friendly food and beverages. 

Consuming acacia gum daily improves intestinal 

discomfort and pain 

Alland & Robert worked with a leading company in consumer insight. 

The study consisted in the recruitment of 240 consumers who 

declared they suffer regularly from intestinal disorders such as flatulence, 

bloating, stomach aches, accelerated or slowed down transit. 

Consumers were separated in 3 groups and took various dosages of 

acacia gum daily for 2 months. After 60 days, 80 % of the consumers 

declared their intestinal discomfort had improved. 78 % of consumers 

agreed the intake of acacia gum daily had a beneficial effect on their 

digestive health, and 88 % of the participants said they had low intestinal 

pain after 2 months of consuming acacia gum. According to Dr 

Isabelle Jaouen, R&D Director of Alland & Robert, this study shows 

that acacia gum improves global digestive wellness and relieves 

the symptoms of intestinal discomfort. She 

declared: “Intestinal disorders impact the 

daily lives of a large portion of the human 

population. At Alland & Robert, we wanted to 

explore the possibility that acacia gum would 

provide an answer to these needs. Thanks 

to this study, we can affirm that acacia gum 

contributes to the improvement of the gut 

health and therefore the general well-being 

of a large majority of those tested. It is very 

likely that acacia gum, a natural fibre, favourably 

feeds our microbiota, which has already 

been described in the scientific literature in 

connection with its prebiotic effects“. 

As a prebiotic fibre, acacia gum can 

be used for the formulation of many 

applications 

Scientific research has shown that acacia 

gum is a prebiotic fibre. Its functional properties 

make it a perfect ingredient to enhance 

the fibre content of food and beverages. And 

the addition of acacia gum doesn’t impact 

or compromise the texture, appearance 

or texture product. According to Professor 

Christian Sanchez who works on basic 


Gut health 

research on acacia gum at the IATE 2 laboratory 

at the University of Montpellier, France: 

“Because of its classification as a fibre and 

its emulsifying properties, acacia gum could, 

theoretically, be used in all formulated food 

products since it also has the advantage of 

being temperature stable. Think yogurts, 

dairy products and derivatives, as well as 

baked goods and, more broadly, any flourbased 

products”. 

Commenting on the FDA decision, Mr. 

Frédéric Alland, CEO at Alland & Robert said: 

“We are extremely satisfied that the FDA 

agrees with us that acacia gum is a fibre and 

can be labelled as such. It’s a great news for 

the American consumers, who will be able 

to enjoy this natural ingredient in their daily 

food. Alland & Robert remains committed to 

providing the highest quality of natural and 

non-GMO Acacia Fibre”. 

References 

1 

2018 to 2025. https://www.fiormarkets.com/report/digestivehealth-products-market-by-ingredients-dairyproducts-385973.html 

February 20, 2020. 

2 

In English: Agropolymers Engineering and Emerging 

Technolo gies/In French : Ingénierie des Agropolymères et 

Technologies Emergentes 


Alland & Robert, France 

https://www.allandetrobert.com 

Violaine Fauvarque, Marketing Manager at 

Alland & Robert, added: “Multifunctional 

and versatile, acacia gum has many advantages. 

It can give texture, sweeten a taste or 

mask an aftertaste, and it can increase the 

fibre or prebiotic content with a very lowcalorie 

intake. Today, our study shows that 

acacia gum is a good fit in products formulated 

to improve digestive comfort. This also 

confirms that acacia gum responds in an 

innovative way to the challenges encountered 

in many industries!” 

Acacia gum, now a dietary fibre 

FDA approved 

In December 2021, a decision from the 

American FDA was made public acacia gum 

will be able to count as a dietary fibre on 

American Nutrition and Supplement Facts 

labels. The FDA agreed it has physiological 

effects beneficial to human health, such as 

the reduction of blood glucose and insulin 

levels after it is eaten with a meal containing a 

carbohydrate that raises blood glucose levels. 

Alland & Robert, along with a work group of 

other acacia gum stakeholders, submitted 

two science-backed citizen petitions in 2019 

and 2020, in order to provide the FDA with 

data showing proof that acacia gum has 

indeed “physiological benefits to human 

health”. Dr Isabelle Jaouen, R&D Director 

at Alland & Robert said: “We have provided 

the FDA with numerous data coming from 

several clinical trials to support our request 

that acacia gum be recognized as a dietary 

fibre. Two laboratories that specialize in clinical 

nutrition, including one university, have 

been mandated for the design and realization 

of the clinical tests. Our citizen petitions 

included data showing the benefits of acacia 

gum on blood glucose levels”. 

The flexitarian way of living. 

Tasty and nutritious plant-based ingredients. 

A mind-boggling 25% of consumers globally are flexitarians. They are drawn to plantbased 

options because of their healthful appeal, ecological convictions or the pleasure 

of trying something new. BENEO helps you develop plant-inspired options that are 

simply delicious. Sharpen up your recipe with natural ingredients that bring out pure 

flavours and exciting textures. Create a taste experience consumers will thoroughly 

enjoy with new and inspiring dairy-free or meat-free recipes. What will be your 

signature ingredient? 

Follow us on: 

www.beneo.com

Mental health 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/Prostock-studio 

Coping with occasional stress to support 

mental health 

The World Health Organization defines mental health as “a state of 

mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of 

life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to 

their community”. With globally one third of consumers that are not 

satisfied with their mental well-being 1 it is indeed quite concerning 

and worth talking about. 

Mental well-being in healthy individuals 

One of the burdens of modern lifestyle is everyday stress – heavily 

impacting mental well-being. Stress is common across the globe, but 

in the last two years it has been drastically increasing, with half of the 

population stating they experience stress most of the time or all the 

time 2 . No matter their age, half of global consumers claim that they 

are currently undergoing moderate, high, or extreme stress levels 3 . 

Just as stress, stress-induced digestive discomfort, and anxietylike 

symptoms, can in turns impact sleep quality, hence worsening 

mental well-being… establishing an unwelcomed pattern 4 . 

When asked about what they think causes their stress and troubles 

their sleep, consumers mention being most concerned about the 

health and well-being of loved ones, followed by being concerned 

about their own health, financial situation, 

work obligations, or feeling insecure 

about worldwide problems such as global 

warming 5 . Recurring bad night sleep can 

in turn impact learning capacity, memory, 

decision making, and even creativity. 

But there are good news! A large majority 

of consumers have a proactive approach 

towards their mental health and stress 

management, and they opt for natural solutions 

6 such as increasing physical activit 

ies. According to the Physical Activity 

Guidelines for Americans, being physically 

active on a regular basis, is one of 

the most important things people can do to 

improve both physical and mental health 7 . 

Other solutions include taking actions 

to address familial, work, or financial 

issues. Consumers also understand that 

by improving their mental wellbeing, they 

can improve their quality of sleep. Estab- 


Mental health 

lishing a soothing bedtime routine is also 

relevant. Warm comforting drinks such as 

herbal tea or milk, and taking nutritional 

supplements, are cited by consumers to 

help lowering stress levels before bedtime 8 . 

Specific probiotic supplements also appeal 

to consumers to improve sleep, as they help 

cope with day-to-day stressors 9 . Beside 

dietary supplements, an increased number 

of consumers are exploring the power of 

botanical extracts, to manage their stress 

and enhance their moods. 

Carefully selected botanical extracts 

to boost mood 

Turning to natural health solutions is 

rooted in traditional methods to help maintain 

holistic health. Over time and years of 

research, scientists came to harness microorganisms 

and plants benefits leading 

more precisely to proven health applications. 

Modern science allows to skillfully 

isolate specific bioactive compounds and 

study how botanical extract have an impact. For example, ashwagandha 

traditionally used in Indian, or Ayurvedic, medicine, is well 

known for its stress-lowering effects. It helps decrease levels of 

cortisol; a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response 

to stress. Saffron was conventionally used to bring joy and happiness. 

Thanks to an isolate from saffron, safranal, involved in serotonin 

amplification, Safr’Inside, an Active’Inside product, naturally 

supports positive mood and emotional health. 

The most documented probiotic to support a healthy 

response to occasional daily stress 

In 2019, a good proportion of consumers bought probiotic pro ducts 

to support mental health. This proportion is in constant increase 

and in 2020, it has raised to reach 23.7 % globally 10 . When comes 

the time to deal with the physical and psychological symptoms of 

everyday stress and feelings of anxiety, one natural solution stands 

out from the crowd and it’s the probiotic formula Cerebiome ® 

(L. helveticus Rosell ® -52 and B. longum Rosell ® -175). Cerebiome ® 

has been largely documented on the reduction of psychologi cal stress 

in humans by five clinical studies and over ten translational studies. 

Clinically proven, it offers natural support to help enhance mood and 

acts on the microbiome-gut brain axis to support a healthy response 

to everyday stress. 

Lipoid GmbH | info@lipoid.com | www.Lipoid.com 

MADE WITH 

100% NATURAL 

INGREDIENTS 

PHOSAL ® Curcumin – An Innovative 

Formulation for Bioavailable Curcumin 

With highly purified phosphatidylcholine 

from sunflower lecithin for an increased 

bioavailability in a natural way. 

We Invest in Quality.

Mental health 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/Grispb 

Botanical extract and probiotics: The perfect mix 

Cerebiome ® can also be formulated with other relevant ingredients 

that promote relaxation, sleep, emotional and mood balance, such 

as melatonin and ashwagandha. And now, it is possible to combine 

the best of both worlds. Cerebiome ® and Safr’Inside is a unique, 

documented, and powerful combination for mental wellness and 

emotional balance. In a consumer satisfaction trial, 96 % of consumer’s 

reported a reduction on daily stress, and more than 80 % were 

satisfied by the product effectiveness. 11 

A unique formulation’s expertise 

Probiotic industrial production requires a precise expertise in the 

fermentation of living microorganisms. When adding botanical 

extracts in the mix, the level of complexity amplifies. New ingredients 

must follow a strict validation process to ensure product compatibility, 

stability, and shelf-life longevity. Formulations represent a real 

production challenge as microorganisms have complex nutritional 

needs and marked sensitivities at certain key stages of bioproduction. 

Lallemand Health Solutions cumulates over 85 years of microbial 

fermentation production know-how to successfully combine 

probiotics and other health ingredients, such as botanical extracts, 

prebiotics, bacteria, yeast, vitamins, and minerals. 

Along with a well-balanced diet and a healthy 

lifestyle, probiotics and carefully chosen 

ingredients synergistic effect in support to 

mental health is a trend to watch. 

References 

1 

FMCG GURUS: Stress and Sleep Management Survey, 15 consumers in 15 countries, 2020 

2 

FMCG GURUS: Stress and Sleep Management Survey, 15 000 consumers in 15 countries, 

2019 and 2021 

³Euromonitor’s Health and Nutrition Survey 2020, 21 countries, 21 000 respondents 

4 


5 


6 

FMCG Gurus: Mental Wellbeing: Targeting Stressed and Anxious Consumers in 2020 and 

beyond October 2020 

7 

https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_ 

edition.pdf 

8 


9 


10 

FMCG GURUS: Probiotic Survey, 15 000 consumers in 15 countries 2019 & 2020 

11 

Lallemand Health Solutions and Activ’Inside proprietary study 

For more information, please visit 

lallemand-health-solutions.com 

healthsolutions@lallemand.com 


Photo © : Adobe Stock/Apolikhina Anna 

Antioxidant capacity of caramel 

Antioxydant properties 

Nigay SAS has been carrying out researches 

for a better knowledge of caramel for many 

years. In order to do so, they worked with 

several laboratories to show the antioxidant 

properties of caramel. 

A scientific article describing the results of 

these studies has been published: 

Investigation of the antioxidant capacity of 

caramels: combination of laboratory assays 

and C. elegans model – Journal of Functional 

Foods – Volume 78 (2021) 104308. 

Caramel is produced by a controlled heating 

of sugars (sucrose – glucose syrup,...) 

with or without presence of caramelization 

promoters to provide a wide range of ingredients 

(aromatic caramels, burnt sugars or 

specialities) or additives (caramel colours). 

Caramelization is close to the Maillard reaction 

and begins with a dehydration of the 

sugars then a polymerization of the molecules 

formed. These multiple reactions 

create a complex mixture of compounds 

ranging from small molecules responsible 

for the typical taste of caramel (maltol – furaneol…) 

to large molecules responsible for 

the brown colour of caramel. 

Several methods have been tested simultaneously: 

1. Chemical analysis using a blue molecule 

called ABTS in solution which discolours in 

the presence of antioxidant 

2. Analysis of the effect of caramel on the 

lifespan of blood cells when they are 

attacked by strong oxidants 

3. Analysis of the impact of caramels on the 

lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans worms 

in the presence of strong oxidants 

=> 40 % increase in worm lifespan after 18 

hours of exposition 

These three studies, using radically different 

methods, have jointly shown that caramel 

has antioxidant properties in caramels. 

The greater the degree of caramelization, 

the greater the antioxidant activity’s will be. 

Further studies will be carried out to identify 

the molecules or families of molecules 

responsible for this activity. 

In conclusion, caramel contributes significantly 

to the consumption of antioxidants 

that can lead to interesting nutritional benefits. 

Based on 2012 EFSA exposure data, the 

current daily intake of caramel colour would 

provide antioxidant equivalent to a glass of 

orange juice or a cup of coffee. The aim of 

the following studies will be to explore these 

potential benefits due to the antioxidant 

pro perties in caramels. 

Who’s the expert 

The family-run business is specialized in 

the production of caramels used in many 

forms (liquid, paste, powder, pieces) by artisans 

and food industries. Producing aromatic 

caramels, caramel colours, burnt sugars and 

caramel specialities, Nigay is unique in its 

dedication to the art and science of caramelization 

which has made its name “The expert 

in caramels” around the world. 

With a turnover of nearly 90 million euros 

(72 % in exports), the company ships its 

products on the 5 continents. Focused on 

human values and driven by their profession, 

Henri and Yves Nigay lead a team of 

more than 320 people. They aim to perpetuate 

their caramel expertise and to pass it 

on to the 6 th generation thanks to anchored 

company values: Passion, Tradition, Innovation, 

High Standards & Ethics. 


www.nigay.com 


17

Lactoferrin 

Lactoferrin – also a real alternative for 

urinary tract infections 

A new preliminary study demonstrates the effect in cystitis 

Diana Kalustova 

Lactoferrin is a true all-rounder when it comes to treating various 

diseases and deficiency symptoms. As the name, composed of the 

Latin words milk and iron, suggests, the main function of lactoferrin 

is to bind and transport iron in the body. This special glycoprotein, 

which is found in mammals, for example in breast milk, and belongs 

to the transferrins, has antiviral as well as antimicrobial and antiinflammatory 

properties with its multifunctional enzyme activities. 

Effective from periodontitis to Alzheimer’s disease 

and infections 

The broad spectrum of activity of lactoferrin has been demonstrated 

in various studies for more than 100 years. As early as the beginning 

of the 21st century, lactoferrin was shown to have positive 

results in the treatment of chronic periodontitis. Since then, lactoferrin 

has demonstrated its efficacy in many areas. For example, 

a recent study* by neurologists in Cairo tested the effects of lactoferrin 

in Alzheimer’s patients. In this study, Alzheimer’s patients were 

treated with lactoferrin for 3 months and compared to both healthy 

patients and Alzheimer’s patients. Lactoferrin measurably reduced 

the levels of the disease markers amyloid-beta and tau proteins in 

Alzheimer’s patients. In addition, thinking performance improved 

after treatment. Lactoferrin also showed potential in the treatment of 

Covid-19. Preliminary results from a recently published meta study** 

in the U.K. show that lactoferrin has a detectable effect in reducing 

the risk of respiratory infection and also as a supplement in Covid-19. 

Recent study on positive effects in urinary tract infections 

A brand-new study*** on bovine lactoferrin (bLf) shows that there is 

much more to lactoferrin. It shows that this glycoprotein can be used as 

an alternative or adjunct to antibiotic treatments for urinary tract infections. 

A disease that affects more than 15 million people each year. 

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are most commonly caused by uropathogenic 

Escheria coli (UPEC) strains. Cystitis is defined as inflammation 

of the urinary bladder and is characterized by dysuria, frequent 

urination, and urinary urgency with or without suprapubic pain. 


Lactoferrin 

Supplementary Fig. S1. Incidence rate of cystitis before and after the date of enrolment by treatment groups. Data are expressed 

as events per 100 persons-month, and 95% confidence interval (CI). Given the fact that the number of patients treated with “bovine 

lactoferrin (bLf) + probiotics” and that of those treated with “bLf + probiotics + antibiotics” was relatively low (n=3 and n=5, 

respectively), these two groups were merged together (n=8) for the scope of this analysis. 

An effective antibiotic alternative 

The traditional treatment for urinary tract 

infections is antibiotic therapy. However, due 

to increasing bacterial resistance, effective 

non-antibiotic alternatives are being sought. 

The use of bLf as an alternative or complementary 

treatment to conventional antibiotics 

is based on its systemic effects in 

balancing, in particular, disturbances in 

iron and inflammatory homeostasis. What 

the tested bovine lactoferrin can do in this 

regard has now been investigated by several Italian scientists in a first 

study at the University of Rome. 

Lactoferrin in recurrent urinary tract infections: 

In vitro and in vivo evidence 

The bovine lactoferrin (bLf) study was conducted in patients with 

recurrent cystitis and showed a significant decrease in the number 

of such episodes over the observation period. Exceptionally positive 

results were observed both with bLf alone and as an adjunct to antibiotics, 

probiotics or both. The current, scientific findings are preliminary, 

promising studies whose results should be verified in further 

studies. Already today, the bovine lactoferrin under investigation is 


19

Lactoferrin 

produced in Australia at the same purity level (99%) as NatraFerrin. 

NatraFerrin is derived from the milk of free-range and grass-fed 

cattle, which is explicitly emphasized by both the partner manufacturer 

Saputo, as well as Vivatis Pharma. 

Supplementary Fig. S2. Incidence rate reduction (and 95% CI) from pre- to 

post-study period. Data are point estimates, 95% confidence interval (CI), 

and p-values. 

References 

*A pilot study on the effect of lactoferrin on Alzheimer’s disease pathological sequelae: Impact of the p-Akt/PTEN pathway 

Mohamed et al., Kairo 

Published: Biomed Pharmacother, March 2019 

**Lactoferrin reduces the risk of respiratory tract infections: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials 

Ali et al., University of Huddersfield 

Published: Clin Nutr ESPEN, October 2021 

***Effect of bovine lactoferrin on recurrent urinary tract infections: in vitro and in vivo evidences 

Conte et al., University or Rome 

Published: Biometals, 29. June 2022 


Diana Kalustova, 

Business Development Manager 

Vivatis Pharma GmbH 

Hamburg, Germany 


Pioneering psychobiotic. 

Game-changing science. 

• 5 clinical studies 

• 8 elucidated modes of action 

on the brain-gut axis 

• Exclusive and strong health claims 

on mood and stress granted 

in Canada and Brazil 

Visit the dedicated website 

cerebiomebylallemand.com

Stress 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/Prostock-studio (adapted) 

Balm for the soul – Melissa officinalis L. 

alleviates stress symptoms 

Dr Annette Masuch 

In today's ever-accelerating world, almost everyone has probably 

heard the phrase: take care of yourself, too much stress can make 

you sick. But, how much is too much? Certainly, there is no universal 

answer and one person might be able to cope with more stress 

compared to another. Fortunately, our body is able to signal that we 

are reaching our limits. And we should listen and react. 

Stress 

First of all, we should remember, a stress reaction is nothing negative. 

Stress enables us to act quickly in a threatening environment to 

ensure our survival. However, from the biological point of view, the 

aim of the stress reaction is to quickly deal with the acute danger 

by fight or flight. Nowadays, however, we mainly experience stress 

situations that cannot be solved simply by flight or attack, e. g. overtime 

and performance pressure at work, being constantly available 

or the continuous flood of information we are exposed to through 

the internet. If we classify these circumstances as threatening and 

the situation persists, the stress reaction 

may become a health risk. Symptoms of 

chronic stress may be diverse and affect the 

body, the psyche, the mind and behaviour. 

The following symptoms may occur among 

others [1]: 

– Physical: e. g. trembling, accelerated 

heartbeat, sweating, tension (mostly in the 

neck and shoulders), reduced performance, 

exhaustion, headaches and backaches, 

sleep disorders, gastrointestinal 

complaints (constipation, diarrhoea). 

– Psychological and emotional: e. g. nervousness, 

inner restlessness, irritability 

(“thin nerves”), panic, anxiety, anger. 

– Mental (cognitive): e. g. reduced ability to 

concentrate, slowed thinking, reduced 

ability to react, forgetfulness. 


Stress 

Usage of medicinal plants as remedy for all kind of symptoms has long 

tradition all over the world. One plant appears to be extra ordinarily 

suitable to address stress-related symptoms: Melissa officinalis L., 

commonly known as lemon balm. 

Lemon balm – used for centuries not without reason 

Indeed, lemon balm has a very long history of medicinal use for about 

2000 years and was already described by Dioskurides (40-90 AD) in 

his De materia medica [2]. Paracelsus recommended the plant for 

“all complaints supposed to proceed from a disordered state of the 

nervous system”; it would completely revivify a man [3]. One of the 

most famous remedies containing lemon balm is the Carmelite Water, 

crafted originally in the 14 th century by Carmelite nuns from the Abbey 

of St. Just for King Charles V. of France [4]. Later on, the nun Maria 

Clementine Martin, came to Cologne in the 19 th century and founded 

her business Maria Clementine Martin Klosterfrau. Her Carmelite Water 

is still sold today as Klosterfrau Melissengeist ® [5]. Over the course of 

the centuries, the plant found its way into handbooks and pharmacopoeias. 

According to the European Union Herbal Monograph its use 

in Europe is traditionally indicated for a) the relief of mild symptoms 

of mental stress and to aid sleep, and b) for the symptomatic relief 

of mild gastrointestinal complaints including bloating and flatulence 

[6]. The ESCOP monograph “MELISSAE FOLIUM” gives the following 

therapeutic indications for internal use: tenseness, restlessness, and 

irritability; symptomatic treatment of digestive disorders such as minor 

spasms. Notably, also external use within a cream is described for the 

treatment of Herpes simplex labialis (cold sores) [7]. 

Major constituents and molecular targets 

Lemon Balm or Melissa officinalis L. taxonomically belongs to the 

family of Lamiaceae. Originating probably from the Eastern Mediterranean 

region to Western Asia lemon balm is today naturalised all 

over the world. This perennial herbaceous plant has an intense lemon 

scent, growing erect to a height of about 30–70 cm. The branched 

stem is quadrangular and the soft hairy leaves are heart-shaped to 

ovate and arranged in decussate pairs. The leaf edge is scalloped or 

toothed and the leaf nervature is strongly protruding underneath [8]. 

Only the leaves are used as herbal drug itself, for infusions, as 

comminuted powder and for the preparation of various herbal drug 

preparations ranging from aqueous or alcoholic dry or soft extracts to 

tinctures [6]. The quality of the herbal substance is described in the 

European Pharmacopoeia in the monograph 1447 “Melissa leaf”. 

According to the HMPC assessment report on Melissa officinalis L. 

folium [6], the major characteristic components of lemon balm are: 

– Essential oil (0.06–0.8 % containing monoterpene aldehydes, 

mainly citral, neral and citronellal); 

– Sesquiterpene derivates β-caryophyllen and germacren-D (10 % 

each in essential oil); 

– Monoterpene glycoside; 

– Flavonoids with glycoside of lutein, quercetin, apigenin and 

kaempferol; 

– Phenylpropanoids including hydroxycinnamic acids derivatives 

such as caffeic and chlorogenic acid and in particular rosmarinic 

acid (up to 6 %); 

– Tannins 

– Triterpene including ursolic and oleanolic acids 

Of note, the exact mechanism of action and therapeutically active 

constituents are not yet identified and, further complicating the topic, 

different preparations appear to have diverging effect. 

Very intriguing, lemon balm extracts and essential oil have been 

reported to interfere with the signalling mediated by the neurotransmitter 

gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In animal studies, 

lemon balm extract inhibited or decreased GABA transaminase. 

Furthermore, lemon balm essential oil has been reported to bind 

to GABA A 

receptors. GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter 

in the human brain and is involved in sleep regulation and arousal. 

Indeed, several hypnotics as well as tranquilizers are targeting GABA 

metabol ism and/or GABAergic signal transduction [2,9] (please refer 

also to the info box). 

From in vitro studies, using brain membranes prepared by homogenizing 

grey matter from human occipital cortex, it has been reported 

that ethanolic extracts prepared from lemon balm are able to replace 

[ 3 H]-nicotine and [ 3 H]-scopolamine from membranes bearing acetylcholine 

receptors [10,11] implicating a direct binding to them (see 

below and please refer also to the info box). Furthermore, extracts as 

well as the essential oil of lemon balm have been reported to inhibit 

the acetylcholine (ACh) esterase activity in a dose-dependent manner, 

enhancing the ACh-receptor activation [2]. Both findings implicate a 

cholinergic effect of lemon balm herbal preparations and/or essential 

oil, which has been reported to be associated with an enhancement 

of memory and cognitive function. Of note, not every extract preparation 

appears to have cholinergic properties and results may be inconsistent 

depending on the type of preparation. 

Clinical evidence for the relief of stress symptoms 

To transfer molecular findings into clinically relevant observations 

several human studies have been performed. In 2002, 2003 and 

2004 Kennedy and co-workers reported results from three studies 

on hydro-alcoholic extracts from lemon balm leaves [11–13]. All 

three studies were randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, 

balanced cross-over studies. In the first one, 20 healthy volunteers 

were included and received 300 mg, 600 mg or 900 mg of 

an aqueous-methanolic lemon balm extract or matched placebo. 

Participants received the dosage and completed all required tests 

pre-dose and at 1 h, 2.5 h, 4 h, and 6 h post dosage, following 7 

days wash-out period. This test regimen was repeated three further 

times. Overall, the data show sustained improvement in accuracy 

of attention following 600 mg of lemon balm extract and time- and 


23

Stress 

dose-dependent reductions in both secondary memory and working 

memory factors. Self-rated “calmness” was elevated already by the 

lowest dose and at the earliest time point, whilst “alertness” was 

significantly reduced at all time points following the highest dose 

of 900 mg [12]. In the following study, different aqueous-ethanolic 

extract preparations of lemon balm were screened for the ability 

to bind to ACh receptor in vitro since the extract used in the first 

study did not show considerable ACh receptor binding abilities. The 

extract with highest cholinergic binding properties was then used in 

a study with 20 healthy volunteers. The dosage was 600 mg, 1,000 

mg, 1,600 mg or matched placebo and tests were performed predose 

and at 1 h, 3 h, and 6 h post-dose followed by 7 days washout 

period and three times repeat of this regimen. The highest dose 

(1,600 mg) results in improved memory performance and increased 

calmness at all post-dose time-points [11]. In the third study, the 

aqueous-methanolic lemon balm extract utilized in the first study 

was examined in 18 healthy volunteers for its effects on laboratoryinduced 

psychological stress induced by means of the Defined Intensity 

Stressor Simulation (DISS) Computerized Battery. Dosage was 

300 mg, 600 mg or matched placebo and cognitive performance and 

mood were assessed pre-dose and 1 h after administration followed 

by 7 days wash-out period. The procedure was repeated further two 

times. The results of this study implicate that ingestion of extract of 

lemon balm can directly alleviate effects of stress. The higher dose 

(600 mg) mitigated the negative mood effects induced by the DISS 

in terms of increased self-rating of calmness and reduced self-rated 

alertness [13]. Apparently, lemon balm may support memory performance 

depending on the type of extract. Whilst an aqueous-methanolic 

extract rather reduced secondary and working memory performance, 

the aqueous-ethanolic extract preparation with cholinergic 

properties improved memory performance. 

Cases et al. report results from a prospective, single-centre, open 

label study. Twenty stressed volunteers were included who were 

affected by mild-to-moderate anxiety disorder and sleep disturbances. 

The participants received for 15 days a standardized lemon 

balm leaf aqueous-ethanolic extract that contained more than 7 % 

rosmarinic acid and more than 15 % hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. 

Significant improvement of anxiety-related symptoms as well 

as insomnia and no adverse effects were reported. Anxiety with associated 

symptoms, insomnia at baseline and post-treatment were 

assessed by means of the Free Rating Scale of Anxiety (FRSA) and 

the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), respectively. The 

overall anxiety manifestation, including agitation, hyperactivity and 

tension, was significantly reduced by 18 %. Insomnia was clinically 

significant improved. Notably, full remission of symptoms within the 

15-day treatment was reached in 17 out of 20 participants [14]. 

The efficacy of an aqueous lemon balm extract in food products 

(drinks and yoghurt) was examined in one pilot and two behavioural 

studies in healthy adults. The latter ones were designed as 

randomised, placebo-controlled, balanced cross-over studies to 

examine the effects of lemon balm extract on the mood, stress-level 

and also cognitive function. The findings 

support the notion that supplementation of 

food with lemon balm extract lowers levels 

of anxiety and stress. This was also associated 

with reduced cortisol levels as a physiological 

measure of stress. The cognitive 

performance as assessed by a multi-tasking 

framework of four simultaneous tasks was 

also enhanced [3]. 

Taken together, these observations strongly 

underline the traditional use of lemon balm 

to aid sleep and relief symptoms of stress like 

anxiety or tension related to stress. 

Lemon balm and its calming effect 

on the gut 

At the first glance, the indications “relief of 

mild symptoms of stress and to aid sleep” 

and “relief of mild symptoms of gastrointestinal 

complaints” appear to have nothing to 

do with each other. Yet, surprisingly, dosages 

and preparations are basically identical for 

both. Considering bodily signs of stress, one 

or the other reader might have already said 

the phrase “I am getting a stress ulcer over 

this”. Of note, the term “functional gastrointestinal 

(GI) complaints” means complaints 

like abdominal pain, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, 

constipation and bloating in the absence 

of demonstrable pathologic condition like 

inflammation, GI infection or food intolerance 

for instance. Historically, they have 

been defined as “of no organic basis”, but 

today alterations in the gut-brain communication 

are strongly implicated in the aetiology 

including altered gut-microbiota [15]. 

Maybe the connection between brain and 

gut might be of importance as well for the 

efficacy of lemon balm for the treatment of 

mild GI complaints. But, so far this remains 

only a speculation. Notably, the use of lemon 

balm for this indication is based only on longstanding 

tradition and clinical studies are not 

available. 

The spasmolytic effects of lemon balm 

extracts have been shown in ex vivo studies, 

however. It was reported that an aqueousethanolic 

extract from lemon balm leaves 

has site- and dose-dependent effects on 

the contractile activity of the GI tract. Aubert 


Stress 

and colleagues examined the response of 

different segments of the mouse GI tract 

under basal conditions as well as precontracted 

to observe spasmolytic properties. 

Whereas no effects were reported for antrum 

and colon, lemon balm extract significantly 

and dose-dependently reduced the contractile 

activity in ileum and jejunum. The authors 

describe that treatment with the extract also 

reduced the spontaneous phasic contraction 

and overall lemon balm might slow the 

GI transit [16]. 

Several other studies reported spasmolytic 

effects of lemon balm essential oil on 

isolated guinea pig ileum, rat duodenum and 

vas deferens, and on the jejunum of rabbits 

[7]. In line with these findings, Sadraei et al. 

reported inhibitory effects of lemon balm 

essential oil and especially citral as one of 

the major components of the essential oil 

on rat ileum. Contractions were induced 

by addition of 80 mM KCl, 320 nM ACh or 

1.28 µM 5-HT (5-Hydroxytryptamine) to the 

bath solution of the isolated ileum [17]. The later findings implicate 

the essential oil to mediate spasmolytic effects, however, the study of 

Aubert et al. analysed the investigated extract phytochemically and 

did not detect essential oil [16]. Thus, spasmolytic effects may not 

only be attributable to the essential oil but also to other not yet specified 

components present in an aqueous-ethanolic extract. Though 

clinical data are not available, the use of lemon balm against GI 

complaints has long tradition and numerous products are present in 

the market. 

Antiviral effect to treat cold sores 

Lemon balm shows antiviral effects. However, the European Union 

Herbal monograph does not cover the indication. A highly concentrated 

lemon balm extract with a drug to extract ratio of 70:1 is 

contained in a cream for the topic treatment of recurrent Herpes 

simplex labialis. The extract is standardised with respect to the antiviral 

activity using plaque inhibition test [6]. Symptoms of infections 

with Herpex simplex virus (HSV)-1 comprise pain and blistering on 

the lips and perioral area (cold sores). Usually, the primary infection 

occurs in the childhood and the virus is presumably remaining 

latent in the trigeminal ganglion. Of note, stress may be one factor 

to trigger recurrence [18]. Clinical studies for this special extract 

are available from the 1990s. Application of the cream significantly 

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25

Stress 

reduced the healing time of cutaneous lesions and extended the 

interval of recurrences in a multicentre, open, controlled study with 

115 patients. These finding were confirmed in a multicentre, doubleblind, 

placebo-controlled study including 116 patients [7, 19]. Independent 

from the first studies, Koytchev and coworkers performed 

a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial including 66 

patients to investigate the efficacy of the cream containing the above 

mentioned standardised aqueous extract. They also reported shortened 

healing period and, furthermore, the prevention of spreading of 

the infection and rapid effects on typical symptoms [20]. Also other 

lemon balm extracts and the essential oil appear to have antiviral 

properties at least in vitro. As summarised by Shakeri et al., both 

aqueous-alcoholic and aqueous extracts of lemon balm exert antiviral 

activity against HSV-1 and HSV-2 in cell-based experiments. Also for 

the essential oil inhibition of HSV-1 and HSV-2 has been reported 

from in vitro plaque reduction tests [2]. 

Taken together, lemon balm and various preparations from its leaves 

have been under investigation already for a long time and its efficacy 

has been reported in several clinical studies. In view of today’s 

challenging and fast-moving everyday life, the experience of somatic 

signs of stress – like difficulty to fall asleep due to running thoughts, 

gastrointestinal complaints, or even recurrent cold sore – is widespread 

and well-known to many people. Melissa officinalis L. has 

been used successfully for centuries as a 

remedy, though still not all her secrets are 

elucidated by now. 

About Anklam Extrakt GmbH 

Anklam Extrakt GmbH is a German company 

that stands for top expertise in development, 

production and research of high-quality plant 

extracts. Our extract portfolio includes both 

extracts for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical 

industry. As a specialist in innovative 

ingredients, Anklam Extrakt ® also develops 

brand concepts that are based on scientific 

studies for the healthcare sector. 

With a rosmarinic acid content of ≥ 2.0 % 

our lemon balm extract is suitable for food 

supplement and pharmaceutical applications. 

The extract is compliant with the 

Ph. Eur. and we can support the registration 

process of our customers with a CEP (Certificate 

of Suitability of Monographs of the European 

Pharmacopoeia). 

Info box: Transmitter systems 

a) γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) 

GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter maintaining the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the human central 

nervous system. GABA can bind to two main types of receptors: 

– ionotropic GABA A 

receptors: fast-acting ligand-gated Cl - channels; increased influx of chloride ions induces an 

inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) 

– metabotropic GABA B 

receptors: slow-acting dimeric receptors linked to Gα i/o 

activating ligand gated Cl - channels in 

the postsynaptic cell (slow IPSP) or closing voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels in the presynapse (consequently reducing 

transmitter release) 

GABA is cleared from the synaptic cleft by GABA-transporters and about 80 % of the transmitter is recycled. Breakdown 

of GABA occurs through the GABA transaminase removing a nitrogen group from GABA to create L-glutamate 

in the so-called GABA shunt. 

b) Acetylcholine (ACh) 

ACh is a ubiquitous signalling molecule. It is an excitatory neurotransmitter in the human central nervous system and 

also modulates signal transduction of other transmitter systems. ACh is the transmitter at the neuromuscular junction 

(transmitting the signal from the nerve to the muscle), is one of the major transmitters in the autonomic nervous 

system (internal transmitter in the sympathetic system and final output transmitter in the parasympathetic system), 

and is even involved in non-neuronal signalling. ACh can bind to two main types of receptors: 

– nicotinergic ACh (nACh) receptors (ionotropic): fast-acting ligand-gated non-selective cation channels: increased 

permeability to Na + and K + (and sometimes Ca 2+ , depending on subunit composition) induces an excitatory postsynaptic 

potential (EPSP) in neurons; nicotine is a selective agonist 

– muscarinergic ACh (mACh) receptor (metabotropic): slow-acting monomeric receptors with 7 transmembrane 

domains coupled to G-proteins (Gα q 

or Gα i/o 

depending on the receptor subtype). There are 5 subtypes of mACh 

receptors with different effectors, thus the downstream signalling varies depending on the subtype; muscarine is a 

selective agonist, scopolamine is a high-affinity antagonist 

ACh action is terminated by acetylcholine esterase breaking down the molecule into choline and acetate. 


Stress 

References 

[1] Stress. Univ Zür https://www.usz.ch/krankheit/stress/ (accessed August 26, 2022). 

[2] Shakeri A, Sahebkar A, Javadi B. Melissa officinalis L. - A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology. J Ethnopharmacol 

2016;188:204–28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.010. 

[3] Scholey A, Gibbs A, Neale C, Perry N, Ossoukhova A, Bilog V, et al. Anti-stress effects of lemon balm-containing foods. Nutrients 2014;6:4805–21. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6114805. 

[4] Groom N. The Perfume Handbook. Chapman & Hall; 1992. 

[5] Ein Unternehmen mit Tradition: Alles über Klosterfrau erfahren. Klosterfrau | Heilkraft der Pflanzen – wo Wirksamkeit wächst https://www.klosterfrau.de/ 

ueber-klosterfrau.html (accessed August 26, 2022). 

[6] Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC). Assessment report on Melissa officinalis L., folium (EMA/HMPC/196746/2012). Eur Med Agency 

2013:1–20. 

[7] ESCOP. MELISSAE FOLIUM Melissa Leaf. ESCOP Monographs 2009;2nd Edition:324–8. 

[8] Wichtl M. Teedrogen und Phytopharmaka. 5 th Edition 2009. 

[9] Bruni O, Ferini-Strambi L, Giacomoni E, Pellegrino P. Herbal Remedies and Their Possible Effect on the GABAergic System and Sleep. Nutrients 

2021;13:530. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020530. 

[10] Wake G, Court J, Pickering A, Lewis R, Wilkins R, Perry E. CNS acetylcholine receptor activity in European medicinal plants traditionally used to improve 

failing memory. J Ethnopharmacol 2000;69:105–14. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0378-8741(99)00113-0. 

[11] Kennedy DO, Wake G, Savelev S, Tildesley NTJ, Perry EK, Wesnes KA, et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration 

of single doses of Melissa officinalis (Lemon balm) with human CNS nicotinic and muscarinic receptor-binding properties. Neuropsychopharmacol 

2003;28:1871–81. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.npp.1300230. 

[12] Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NTJ, Perry EK, Wesnes KA. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa 

officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2002;72:953–64. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0091-3057(02)00777-3. 

[13] Kennedy DO, Little W, Scholey AB. Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). 

Psychosom Med 2004;66:607–13. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.psy.0000132877.72833.71. 

[14] Cases J, Ibarra A, Feuillère N, Roller M, Sukkar SG. Pilot trial of Melissa officinalis L. leaf extract in the treatment of volunteers suffering from mild-tomoderate 

anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances. Mediterr J Nutr Metab 2011;4:211–8. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12349-010-0045-4. 

[15] Fikree A, Byrne P. Management of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Clin Med Lond Engl 2021;21:44–52. https://doi.org/10.7861/clinmed.2020- 

0980. 

[16] Aubert P, Guinobert I, Blondeau C, Bardot V, Ripoche I, Chalard P, et al. Basal and Spasmolytic Effects of a Hydroethanolic Leaf Extract of Melissa officinalis 

L. on Intestinal Motility: An Ex Vivo Study. J Med Food 2019;22:653–62. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2018.0154. 

[17] Sadraei H, Ghannadi A, Malekshahi K. Relaxant effect of essential oil of Melissa officinalis and citral on rat ileum contractions. Fitoterapia 2003;74:445– 

52. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0367-326x(03)00109-6. 

[18] Worrall G. Herpes labialis. BMJ Clin Evid 2009;2009:1704. 

[19] Wölbling RH, Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine Int J Phytother Phytopharm 

1994;1:25–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(11)80019-X. 

[20] Koytchev R, Alken R, Dundarov S. Balm mint extract (Lo-701) for topical treatment of recurring herpes labialis. Phytomedicine Int J Phytother Phytopharm 

1999;6. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(99)80013-0. 


Dr Annette Masuch, 

Regulatory Affairs Manager 

Anklam Extrakt GmbH, Germany 

www.anklam-extrakt.de 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/GCapture 


27

Stress 

The hyper-specialization of anti-stress solutions 

Laure Egoumenides 

Stress is a protective reaction of the body when it is in a situation of 

perceived danger or when faced with a major challenge. Considered 

the defining disease of the 21 st century due to its association with 

negative emotions, stress is a major general health problem. 

The global prevalence of anxiety and depression has increased by a 

massive 25 % since the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020, 29.6 % of the 

world population were reported to be suffering from stress, 31.9 % 

with anxiety and 33.7 % depression. 1 

Exposure to stress is not without consequences; it results in several 

psychological and physical disorders such as burn out, irritability, 

physical and emotional exhaustion, eating disorders or even bodily 

dysfunction when this exposure is prolonged. Consumers are therefore 

looking for effective solutions to relieve their stress-related 

ailments. 

The stress management market is well-established and mature. 

Sales for anxiety/stress relief dietary supplements in 2020 have 

grown by 79 % since 2018. 2 Thus, there is a wide variety of solutions 

and becoming more and more specialized. They respond to different 

levels of stress e. g., temporary stress, anxiety and depression, as 

well as to the consequences of stress, such as sleep disorders, mood 

swings and variations in immune function. 

The mechanisms of stress and its consequences 

The mechanisms of stress 

Stress reactions are triggered by a stimulus. This stimulus can be of 

a number of different kinds. Modern sources of stress include work, 

geopolitical and climatic conditions, family situations and changes in 

daily life. 

The body reacts to this stimulus in several phases 

The alarm phase immediately follows the stimulus. This is an immediate 

survival reaction involving, in particular, the release of adrenaline. 

This induces an increase in heart rate, body temperature and 

blood pressure. Thus, the body’s vigilance is at its peak, entering 

“fight or flight” mode in order to get out of the stressful situation as 

quickly as possible. 

Then comes the resistance phase. This corresponds to a prolonged 

period of stress. The body secretes cortisol, which stimulates the 

metabolism of glucose. The released glucose supplies the organs 


Stress 

with energy, which allows the body to defend itself and adapt. It also 

releases dopamine and serotonin which increase concentration and 

motivation. 

Finally, if the period of exposure to stress is prolonged, the exhaustion 

phase arrives (corresponding to burn out, depression or chronic 

stress disorders). The metabolism is disrupted, and the body 

becomes physically and psychologically exhausted. 

The consequences of exposure to stress 

The consequences of stress are multiple, and manifest themselves 

in different ways: 

– Poor sleep quality and/or excessive fatigue 

– Irritability and/or poor emotional management 

– Eating disorders (loss of appetite or, on the 

contrary, compulsive eating) 

– A lack of productivity, concentration, memory problems 

– And many others... 

Unique bioactive 

for Healthy blood sugar levels 

In addition to general malaise, exposure to stress can lead to metabolic 

dysfunctions. The hormonal cascade leads in particular to the 

secretion of molecules of the corticoid family, responsible for disturbances 

in the body’s oxidative status. These molecules can be 

responsible for mood disorders such as irritability or anxiety. 

The resulting oxidative damage has a signifi cant impact on health 

and well-being. Indeed, the excess of free radicals in the body (linked 

to oxidative stress) degrade cells and certain metabolites, leading to 

dysfunctions. 

Composed of 60 % lipids and representing more than 20 % of our 

total oxygen consumption, our brain is particularly sensitive to oxidative 

stress. 

Several studies suggest that oxidative stress may have a role to 

play in the onset of feelings of stress and anxiety. There is therefore 

a link between oxidative metabolism and the management of 

anxiety disorders. 

Moreover, stress is also associated with abnormal inflammatory 

activity, impacting the digestive system and the intestinal microbiota. 

Finally, it induces increased risks of cardiovascular and immune 

disorders. 

Stress regulation: 

hyper-specialized solutions 

There are many ways to manage stress naturally. It is important to 

adapt one’s diet in order to promote the development of the intestinal 

microbiota. Indeed, the microbiota has a great influence on the ability 

to manage stress, especially because the intestine produces 95 % of 

serotonin (the so-called “happiness hormone”), and this secretion is 

induced by the intestinal microbiota. 

CLINICALLY 

PROVEN 

NATURAL 

INGREDIENT 

www.pep2dia.com 

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APPROVED 


29

Stress 

Stress is a phenomenon that is becoming 

increasingly well known: numerous scientific 

studies have looked into its mode of action, 

as well as its impact on the metabolism, 

the brain, and mental states. Thanks to this 

in-depth knowledge of stress, the nutraceutical 

industry can offer solutions that respond 

to extremely specific problems. Thus, we 

can observe different categories of solutions: 

Robertet Health & Beauty has therefore 

developed an ingredient with clinically proven 

efficacy to help relieve stress. A unique melon 

juice concentrate, Extramel ® is obtained from 

a patented process of cantaloupe, grown 

exclusively in the South of France. 

Naturally rich in SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), 

a powerful anti-oxidant, Extramel ® helps overcome 

feelings of stress: people who take 

Extramel ® experience less irritability and 

weariness, and enjoy a better quality of life. 

The development of anti-stress solutions is 

thus no longer limited to offering products 

that only reduce stress. It is now essential to 

also target the consequences and even the 

causes of stress. 

Solutions responding to different degrees 

of stress 

– Temporary stress 

– Intense stress 

– Oxidative stress 

– Anxiety 

Solutions acting on stress and its consequences 

– Stress and reduction of fatigue 

– Stress and sleep quality 

– Positive mood 

– Stress and immunity 

– Stress and energy 

Solutions targeting a specific problem 

related to stress 

– Nervous balance 

– Cardiovascular system and oxidative stress 

– Calming emotional stress 

– Relaxation 

– Physical and mental resistance to stress 

There is therefore a real challenge ahead for 

players positioning themselves in the stress 

market in three key areas: 

– Scientific support, which plays a crucial 

role: this allows players to demonstrate 

modes of action and the effectiveness of 

the solutions, thus justifying their positioning 

– The combination of effective ingredients to 

meet several objectives (treating stress 

and fatigue for example), without negative 

interactions between the active ingredients 

– The use of holistic ingredients to relieve 

different ailments 


Laure Egoumenides, Product Manager 

Robertet S.A., France 

www.robertet.com 

Fig. 1: Secondly, Extramel ® helps maintain cognitive and physical performance by significantly increasing 

mental concentration and decreasing fatigue, sleep disorders and physical pain. 

Fig. 2: In fact, by targeting oxidative stress, Extramel ® acts on both the consequences of stress and 

its possible causes. It therefore allows for the development of holistic solutions, which will help attain 

several objectives. 

References 

1 

OMS. Les cas d’anxiété et de dépression sont en hausse de 25 % dans le monde en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19. 

Mars 2022 

2 

Francis E. COVID-19 Stress Drives Anxiety-Reducing Supplement Sales Up 79 % In US Since 2018. HBW Insight. 30 Apr 

2021. Retrieved July 22, 2021 


Stress 

Cultivating a sustainable source of 

a stress-busting adaptogen 

Growing demand for Rhodiola rosea is creating pressure on wild-harvested supplies. Nektium’s Deborah 

Thoma explains how a pioneering cultivation strategy is delivering a sustainable solution 

Deborah Thoma 

Physical and emotional stress are part of 

everyday life for people all over the world 

– and the impacts can be severe. In fact, 

stress-related non-communicable diseases 

such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, 

and cancer have been described as “the 

major health crisis in the 21 st century.” 1 In 

this context, it is little surprise that adaptogens 

– ancient plants and herbs that can 

help the body adapt to stress – are seeing a 

significant increase in demand. 2 

The term adaptogen was coined by Dr. 

Nikolai Lazarev in 1947 and referred to 

substances that meet three criteria. First, 

they need to help the body contend with an 

array of conditions, such as physical, chemical, 

or biological stress. Secondly, they must 

regulate homeostasis, which means either 

offsetting or resisting physical disorders resulting from external stress. 

Thirdly, they must not damage the body’s normal function. 3 

While there are many adaptogens on the market today, Rhodiola 

rosea, primarily growing wild in the remote Altai mountains, is the 

one that best matches Dr. Lazarev’s original definition. 

Sustainable sourcing 

With demand for Rhodiola rosea accelerating, there is now considerable 

pressure on wild supplies – leading to concerns around overharvesting. 

Botanical extract manufacturer Nektium is therefore 

taking steps to secure the long-term sustainability of its standardized 

Rhodiola rosea extract by switching a significant proportion of its 

sourcing to cultivated plants. 

The company is implementing this pioneering cultivation strategy in 

close cooperation with its long-standing partner in the Altai mountains. 

The material used to grow the cultivated Rhodiola rosea for 


31

Stress 

presents significant challenges, especially in maintaining the levels 

of actives. Nonetheless, the company’s vegetative propagation technique 

is not only faster and more reliable but ensures that the molecular 

composition of the cultivated Rhodiola rosea is identical to the 

wild-grown plant. This achievement was the outcome of many years 

of experimentation, testing, and refinement of techniques. 

Growing Rhodiola rosea in a controlled setting also limits unknown 

factors and results in a more predictable and secure long-term raw 

material supply. Cultivation means improved price stability, superior 

safety, and more effective quality control. With a Quality Assurance 

system put in place with Good Agricultural and Collection Practices 

(GACPs) governing rules of production, harvesting, storage, and record 

keeping is monitored. This is accompanied by training programs, as 

well as traceability and recall plans, all of which has allowed the initiative 

to be established as a successful long-term project. 

Harnessing the benefits 

Rhodiola rosea’s adaptogenic activity is usually attributed to four 

principal active compounds – salidroside, rosin, rosavin, and rosarin 

– which are found at high concentrations in the roots. Ensuring the 

final ingredient delivers the appropriate quantity of the desired bioactive 

components is a task that requires skill and care. Apart from the 

expertise in manufacturing the botanical extract, an understanding 

for how growing conditions affect the plants and, in turn, when to 

harvest them, while putting in place a quality management system 

together with the local partner, was developed. 

Rhodiola rosea is an extremely hardy plant that is well suited to the 

harsh weather conditions in the Altai mountains. The coldest months 

are January and February, when the average temperature falls as low 

as -15°C. The snow usually begins to melt in early May, providing the 

plants with a short window in which to grow. 

The bioactive compounds in the Rhodiola rosea root reach their 

highest levels between three and five years of growth. If harvested 

too early, the overall level of actives is likely to be substantially lower. 

Through visual inspection and by analyzing climatic conditions, it is 

possible to determine the ideal time to harvest the plant. 

the ingredient was originally taken from wild-harvested plants from 

the area where the cultivation fields are now established. To ensure 

the plant will flourish, Nektium has worked with its partner to establish 

fields that offer optimal conditions for the controlled growing of 

Rhodiola rosea. 

Barren land in undeveloped and unpopulated locations was 

selected for conversion to ensure minimal impact on local communities. 

Subsequent expansion of the initial cultivated area has been 

carried out not from seeds but through vegetative propagation of root 

rhizomes extracted from the cultivated Rhodiola rosea. Cultivation 

Scientific research 

Rhodiola rosea is supported by centuries of traditional use for mental 

and physical stress. In the modern era, studies have found that it offers 

a range of cognitive health benefits, including reduced stress and 

fatigue as well as improved mental sharpness. In addition, Rhodiola 

rosea has been shown to deliver a boost to athletic performance by 

aiding recovery and enhancing immune health after exercise. 4 

A pilot study set out to evaluate whether the ingredient can reduce 

symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Ten participants 

with a DSM-IV diagnosis of GAD received a total daily dose of 340 mg 


Stress 

References 

1 

Fricchione, G.L. 'The Challenge of Stress-Related Non-Communicable Diseases' Medical 

Science Monitor Basic Research (2018) 

2 

NielsenIQ 'What are nootropics and adaptogens?' (2022) 

3 

Liao, L.Y. et al. 'A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity 

in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide' Chinese Medical Journal 

(2018) 

4 

Stojcheva. E.I. et al. “The Effectiveness of Rhodiola rosea L. Preparations in Alleviating 

Various Aspects of Life-Stress Symptoms and Stress-Induced Conditions—Encouraging 

Clinical Evidence.” Molecules (2022) 

5 

Bystritsky, A. et al. 'A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder 

(GAD)' Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (2008) 

6 

Abidov, M. et al. 'Extract of Rhodiola rosea radix reduces the level of C-reactive protein 

and creatinine kinase in the blood' Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine (2004) 

7 

Ahmed, M. et al. 'Rhodiola rosea Exerts Antiviral Activity in Athletes Following a Competitive 

Marathon Race' Frontiers in Nutrition (2015) 

of the Rhodiola rosea extract over a period of ten weeks. Significant 

improvements in symptoms, with reduced scores on both the 

Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and the Four-Dimensional Anxiety and 

Depression Scale were demonstrated. 5 

Rhodiola rosea extract also has a long history of use among professional 

athletes to improve endurance and rapid recovery of muscles. 

A double-blind placebo-controlled study explored the effects of the 

ingredient on blood levels of inflammatory C-reactive protein (CRP) 

and creatinine kinase (CK) before and after exhausting exercise. 

Among 36 healthy, untrained volunteers, the extract was found to 

exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect and protect muscle tissue during 

exercise. Blood levels of CRP were less pronounced among those 

taking the Rhodiola rosea extract, while the exercise-induced rise in 

CK was also blunted. 6 

A further study provided evidence that the ingredient can increase 

immune protection after sports. Marathon runners are prone to viral 

illnesses shortly after competing in a race. A study set out to measure 

the antiviral and antibacterial properties of the bioactive metabolites of 

Rhodiola rosea in the serum of experienced marathon runners. The 

study found that the use of Rhodiola rosea induced antiviral activity at 

early times post-infection by delaying an exercise-dependent increase 

in virus replication. This suggests it exerts protective effects against 

virus replication following intense and prolonged exercise. 7 


Deborah Thoma 

Marketing Manager 

Nektium Pharma S.L. 

customerservice@nektium.com 

www.nektium.com 

DEPUIS 

SAVOIR-FAIRE 

F R A N Ç A 

I S 

1855 

Plant power 

Miam 

As one of the most powerful adaptogens found in nature, Rhodiola 

rosea is seeing a surge in popularity. Rhodiolife ® is a sustainably 

produced root extract with a phytochemical profile that reflects all the 

natural active ingredient content of the wild Siberian Rhodiola rosea 

in terms of both composition and relative concentrations. It is ideally 

suited to supplements and can also be used across a wide range of 

food and beverage applications, including sports and energy drinks, 

dairy products, gummies, and cereal bars. 

savoureux 

frais 

délicieux 

Supported by scientific research, the ingredient offers wide-ranging 

benefits for product development objectives across sports and 

cognitive health. 


33

Brain health 

Photo © : Fotolia/Okea 

Phospholife ® 

Highly bioavailable solution for brain health 

Stephanie Lennon, Gildas Breton 

Phospholife ® is an innovative patented vegan solution, made of 

sustainable and highly bioavailable resources. It brings high content 

of pure and ultra-stable Omega-3 (DHA) from microalgae and phospholipids 

very rich in Phosphatidylcholine. This solution gives higher 

bioavailability than standard Omega-3 oils (TG & EE) and it has been 

specially designed to target brain health through all stages of life: 

from the beginning of intrauterine life to the maintenance of cognitive 

faculties in the elderly. 

DHA, an essential fatty acid for brain development 

and cognitive maintenance 

DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) is an essential long-chain polyunsaturated 

fatty acids (PUFAs) Omega-3, highly concentrated in the 

brain and retina, which is critical for normal nervous development 

and function. DHA accounts for up to 97 % of the Omega-3 fatty 

acids in the brain and 93 % of the omega-3 fatty acids in the eyes. 

The presence of DHA in the membranes helps for the optimal functioning 

of membrane receptors and transporters, signal transduction 

and neurotransmission. Furthermore, DHA counteracts pro-inflammatory 

effect of Omega 6 arachidonic acid (AA), and the metabolites 

of DHA (resolvins, protectins, maresins) play critical roles in the resolution 

of inflammation. 

Most studies indicates that the DHA accumulation is mainly influenced 

by dietary intake, specifically of preformed DHA. 

Maternal DHA supplementation and brain development 

DHA intake is most important during pregnancy and lactation for 

both mom and baby alike. During the prenatal time, there is a very 

high demand and rapid accumulation of specific fatty acids including 

AA and DHA in the infant brain. The human brain relies on DHA 

for proper growth and development. The most active accumulation 

occurs during gestation until the age of 2 years and continues until 

the age of 18 years. DHA can be synthetized from its essential fatty 

acid precursor, α-linolenic acid (ALA). However, the capacity of brain 

for synthesizing DHA is very limited especially in early life stage, thus 

this fatty acid is mainly supplied via the uteroplacental circulation 

during pregnancy and the breast milk during nursing. Because the 

mother is the sole source of DHA for the developing baby, it is critical 

that a pregnant, and nursing-, mother consumes enough Omega-3s 

to ensure brain development for her baby. [1-2] 

The composition of human breast milk reflects the nutritional status 

and dietary intake of the lactating mother. Over the first 6 months of 

life, which is the time exclusive breastfeeding is recommended, the 


Brain health 

with age-related cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment, 

particularly for improving memory. [5-6] 

Choline, an essential nutrient for brain health 

Choline is recognized by the National Academy of Medicine as an 

essential nutrient that must be acquired from diet, as de novo biosynthesis 

is insufficient to meet human requirements. Choline plays a 

key role in lipid transport and cell membrane structural support (as 

phosphatidylcholine), neurotransmission (as acetylcholine), and as a 

source of methyl group (as a precursor of betaine). 

infant brain doubles in weight, and the large 

brain/body weight ratio for infants compared 

with adults may put the infant at greater risk 

to deficits in nutrients and energy. Much 

of the increase in brain weight is attributed 

to increased grey matter, corresponding to 

the formation of neural synapses which are 

rich in DHA. Neurite outgrowth, dendritic 

complexity and neurotransmitter metabolism 

are also highly reliant on DHA. 

DHA supplementation 

and brain health 

Photo © : Fotolia/Monkey Business 

Under its ability to control membrane 

fluidity, the DHA also modulated neuronal 

density, neurotransmitter concentration, and 

synaptic activity by regulating the brain’s 

neuro-inflammatory state. Neurons are 

the core component of the central nervous 

system and are exceptionally rich in DHA. A 

diet deficient in DHA will deprive the nervous 

system of a critical nutritional component 

that could impair your body’s ability to learn, 

think, and remember. [3-4] 

DHA has been shown to accumulate in areas 

of the brain associated with learning and 

memory, cerebral cortex and hippocampus. 

DHA helps maintaining healthy brain at all 

stages of life. The current evidence suggests 

that DHA may be of benefit for older adults 

In addition to the role of choline in general physiology, choline is critically 

during pregnancy. Lower serum choline levels are associated 

with increased risk of neural tube defects [7], suggesting that choline 

intakes should be increased prior to pregnancy. Choline, transferred 

across the placenta from the mother to the foetus, plays a significant 

role in foetal development, and particularly brain development. It has 

been observed that prenatal choline is essential to the neurophysiological 

development of the hippocampus, the so-called “Memory 

Centre” of the brain. Furthermore, Choline is needed after birth, as 

well, as part of the synaptic connections that continue to be formed 

in the hippocampus and basal forebrain after birth. [8-9] Moreover, in 

a recent clinical study at Cornell University, increased choline intake 

during pregnancy was correlated with improved processing speed in 

infants. [10] 

Choline is also an essential nutrient for cognitive performance. 

Choline has been shown to be associated with lower risk of incident 

dementia and better cognitive performance in men. [11] A 

reduction in acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter for memory 

and learning synthesised from choline, has been observed among 

patients with Alzheimer’s disease. [12]. Furthermore, researches 

have shown the neuroprotective effect of choline supplementation. 

[13-14] Another study has shown that Choline supplementa- 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/Alex Mit 


35

Brain health 

tion is associated with improved cognitive function among young 

and middle-aged adults. [15] And to complete the picture, a recent 

study has shown that Choline intake has a protective effect on cognitive 

function, including learning ability, processing speed, sustained 

attention, and working memory. [16] 

Phospholife ® , a highly available solution for the brain 

DHA and advance memory-related behaviour in mice expressing 

human Apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4). Indeed, APOE4 human genotype 

was related to cognitive decline and risks of age-related neurological 

disorders. A decrease of APOE4 could be related to low levels 

of DHA, thus suggesting that a long-term treatment rich with DHA 

can protect from neurodegenerative disease. [22] 

DHA & Choline are both important components in our brain and 

increased intake is better for brain development. The form in which 

these two specific nutrients are consumed is important for their 

uptake and use in the body. Indeed, DHA and Choline need to cross 

2 barriers on the way to our brain: the intestinal barrier and the highly 

selective blood-brain barrier (BBD). 

DHA as part of this solution is under Re-esterified triglyceride form 

(rTG), which has been shown to have a higher index of bioavailability 

(124 %) compared to natural triglycerides, free fatty acids 

and ethyl-esters forms. Besides, bioavailability of DHA is enhanced 

by the plant-based phospholipids. Indeed, studies have shown that 

the association of DHA with Phospholipids allows a better emulsification, 

increasing the speed of gastrointestinal hydrolysis which 

is a crucial step for Omega 3 biovailability. The improvement of 

intestinal absorption of Omega 3 would result in a modification of 

lipid micellization and would favour the Omega 3 absorption within 

enterocytes and would promote the accretion of TG into chylomicrons 

in lymph. [17-19] 

Fig. 2: Mechanisms of DHA uptake to the brain [24] 

Choline, is bound in a lipid-soluble form as phosphatidylcholine, 

which is the main form present in tissues. Clinical trials show that 

Choline as part of the phospholipids is absorbed to 4 times more efficiently 

compared to salt form. [23] 

Polaris’ solution 

Fig. 1: Polaris illustration 

Furthermore, Phosphatidylcholine plays a crucial role in the accretion 

of the DHA in the brain. In the liver, the association of Phosphatidylcholine 

and DHA leads to Lyso-Phosphatidylcholine-DHA (LPC- 

DHA) in sn-2 position, which is the major carrier of DHA responsible 

for brain enrichment. Blood DHA is transported across the 

BBD more efficiently when esterified at the physi ological sn-2 position 

of lyso-phosphat idylcholine. [20] The uptake of LPC-DHA across 

the BBD is carried by one transporter, constitutively and exclusively 

expressed by brain endothelial cells, named ‘Major facilitator superfamily 

domain-containing protein 2A’ (Mfsd2a). The Mfsd2a transports 

DHA across the BBD only in the LPC form but not as a nonesterified 

fatty acid. [21] 

Previous studies highlighted the crucial role of LPC-DHA in brain 

development and neuronal cell growth. More recently, studies show 

the neuroprotection role of LPC-DHA diets to increase the brain 

Polaris’ patented Phospholife ® is the sustainable solution for maintaining 

healthy brain at all stages of life via the accretion of DHA 

directly to the cerebral cortex and hippocampus which are important 

in cognitive functions including memory, thoughts… and for targeting 

the brain development of foetus and infant during pregnancy and 

lactating. This product is declined in oil and in hard-shell capsules to 

meet all development projects. Further bioavailability studies will be 

carried out later in 2023. 

References 

[1] Brenna JT et al. Docosahexaenoic acid and human brain development: evidence that a 

dietary supply is needed for optimal development. J Hum Evol 2012, Apr 26 

[2] Shcoltz SA et al. Clinical overview of effects of dietary long-chain polyunsaturated fatty 

acids during the perinatal period. Nestel Nutr Inst Workshop Ser 2012;77:145-154 

[1] Brenna JT et al. Docosahexaenoic acid and human brain development: evidence that a 

dietary supply is needed for optimal development. J Hum Evol 2012, Apr 26 

[3] Cao D, Kevala K, Kim J, Moon HS, Jun SB, Lovinger D, Kim HY. Docosahexaenoic acid 

promotes hippocampal neuronal development and synaptic function. J Neurochem 

2009;111: 510–521. 

[4] Moriguchi T, Greiner RS, Salem N Jr. Behavioral deficits associated with dietary induction 

of decreased brain docosahexaenoic acid concentration. J Neurochem 2000;75: 2563–2573 


[5] Yurko-Mauro et al. 2010. Beneficial effects of docosahexaenoic acid on cognition in 

age-related cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s & Dementia 6 456–464 

[6] Yurko-Mauro et al. 2015.Docosahexaenoic Acid and Adult Memory: A Systematic Review 

and Meta-Analysis. PLOS ONE 

[7] Shaw G.M et al. Choline and risk of neural tube defects in a folate-fortified population. 

Epidemiology 2009, 20, 714-719 

[8] Li Q, Guo-Ross S, Lewis DV, Turner D, White AM, Wilson WA et al. Dietary prenatal choline 

supplementation alters postnatal hippocampal structure and function. J Neurophysiol 

2004;91:1545-55. 

[9] Albright CD, Tsai AY, Friedrich CB, Mar MH, Zeisel SH. Choline availability alters embryonic 

development of the hippocampus and septum in the rat. Brain Res 1999;113:13-20. 

[10] Caudill MA, et al. FASEB J, 2017 

[11] Amija PT Ylilauri et al. Associations of dietary choline intake with risk of incident 

dementia and with cognitive performance : the Kuopio Ischaemic Heat Disease Risk Factor 

Study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2019; 110:1416-1423 

[12] W. M. Mcdonald and C. B. Nemeroff, “Neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in Alzheimer’s 

disease,” Psychiatric Clinics of North America, vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 421–442, 1991. 

[13] R. A. Bekdash, “Neuroprotective effects of choline and other methyl donors,” Nutrients, 

vol. 11, no. 12, 2019. 

[14] J. K. Blusztajn, B. E. Slack, and T. J. Mellott, “Neuroprotective actions of dietary 

choline,” Nutrients, vol. 9, no. 8, 2017. 

[15] C. Poly, J. M. Massaro, S. Seshadri et al., “The relation of dietary choline to cognitive 

performance and white-matter hyperintensity in the Framingham Offspring Cohort1234,” 

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 94, no. 6, pp. 1584–1591, 2011. 

[16] Lu Liu, Song Qiao, Liying Zhuang, Shanhu Xu, Linhui Chen, Qilun Lai , and Wenfeng 

Wang (2021). Choline Intake Correlates with Cognitive Performance among Elder Adults in 

the United States. Behavioural Neurology Volume 2021, Article ID 2962245. 

[17] Cansell M., Nacka F. and Combe N. (2003). Marine Lipid-Based Liposomes Increase in 

vivo Fatty Acid Bioavailability. Lipids, Volume 38, N°5, 10p 

[18] Garaiova I., Guschina I.A., Plummer S.F., Tang J., Wang D. and Plummer N.T. (2007). A 

randomised cross-over trial in healthy adults indicating improved absorption of omega-3 

fatty acids by pre-emulsification. Nutrition Journal, Volume 6, Issue 4, 9p. 

[19]Pafumi Y., Lairon D., De la Porte P.L., Juhel C., Storch J., Hamosh M. and Armand M. 

(2002). Mechanisms of Inhibition of Triacylglycerol Hydrolysis by Human Gastric Lipase. The 

Journal of Biological Chemistry, Volume 277, N°31, p28070-28079. 

[20] Mayssa Hachem et al. Efficient docosahexaenoic acid uptake by the brain from a 

structured phospholipids. Mol Neurobiol. 2016 Jul;53(5):3205-3215 

[21] Nguyen LN, Ma D, Shui G, Wong P, Cazenave-Gassiot A, Zhang X, Wenk MR, Goh EL et 

al (2014) Mfsd2a is a transporter for the essential omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic 

acid. Nature 509:503–506 

[22] Mayssa Hachem et al. Emerging role of phospholipids and lysophospholipids for 

improving brain docosahexaenoic aicd as potential preventive and therapeutic strategies 

for neurological diseases. In J Mol Sci. 2022 Apr; 23(7): 3969 

[23] Yvonne Mödinger et al. Plasma Kinetics of Choline and Choline Metabolites After A 

Single Dose of SuperbaBoostTM Krill Oil or Choline Bitartrate in Healthy Volunteers. Nutrients. 

2019 Oct; 11(10): 2548. 

[24] DhavamaniSugasini et al. Potential role of hepatic lipase in the accretion of docosahexaenoic 

acid (DHA) by the brain. (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, Volume 

1866, Issue 10, October 2021 


Stephanie Lennon, 

Product development manager 

Gildas Breton, R&D Director 

Polaris, France 

No. 3 November/Dezember 2022


Photo © : Stockphoto/unsplash 

With heart and brain: leading a healthy life 

Astaxanthin, the red diamond amongst free radical scavengers, supports physical and mental fitness 

Katharina Müller, Monika Siebel 

Natural astaxanthin has a strong inflammatory effect and is highly 

efficient fighting against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Astaxanthin’s 

power as strongest antioxidant has lately become increasingly known. 

Thanks to its special chemical structure, natural astaxanthin can pass 

the blood-brain barrier and take full effect – a property that only few 

compounds possess.[1] Furthermore, the blood flow within the body 

is impacted in a positive way by an oral intake of natural astaxanthin, 

which is not only of great significance for cardiovascular health but 

also improves oxygen and nutrient transport to/towards the human 

brain.[2] A clinical study from 2019 has proven the holistic positive 

effect of natural astaxanthin on the psychophysiological heart-brain 

axis and enables new applications of the red diamond as co-therapeutic 

agent.[3] 

The positive effect of natural 

asta xanthin on the cardiovascular 

system and on the brain 

Chronic inflammations and increased oxidative 

stress significantly add to cardiovascular 

diseases and arteriosclerosis. In the case of 

arteriosclerosis, fat is deposited at the inner 

lining of the arterial walls, oxidates and may 

cause inflammations in the body. This can 

lead to a dangerous accumulation of plaques 

which constrict arteries and restrict perfusion 

and oxygen supply.[4],[5] 



Astaxanthin obstructs the oxidation of lowdensity 

lipoprotein (LDL) and raises the level 

of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol 

and adiponectin, a fat tissue hormone that 

is, together with other hormones, responsible 

for the regulation of the energy metabolism. 

Adiponectin originates from fat tissue 

and influences insulin activity in the glucose 

and fat metabolism. Extensive studies have 

demonstrated that astaxanthin can act preemptively 

against arteriosclerotic cardiovascular 

diseases as it may alleviate oxidative 

stress and resultant inflammations as well as 

lipid and glucose metabolism.[6],[7] 

Cardioprotective effects of natural astaxanthin 

have, for instance, been ascertained 

in a clinical, randomised, placebocontrolled 

double-blind study. In the study, 

44 probands with type 2 diabetes were daily 

supplemented with 8 mg of asta xanthin 

over 8 weeks. The intake of astaxanthin led 

to a significant increase of the adiponectin 

concentration in the serum (p < 0.05) and 

to a reduction of the visceral body fat mass. Moreover, a significant 

astaxanthin-induced reduction of triglyceride and LDL cholesterol in 

the blood and a lowering of the systolic blood pressure were demonstrated.[7] 

These results affirmed findings from previous studies and 

illustrated the high potential of natural astaxanthin to pre-emptively 

counteract arteriosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Cognitive health 

also plays a major role in maintaining all important body functions. 

In some ways, our brain is the control centre of the body. Due to 

several blood vessels, it has high oxygen consumption and is susceptible 

to oxidative stress. Especially with advancing age, natural antioxidative 

enzymes in the body become less effective, through which 

inflammations and, consequently, neurodegenerative diseases may 

occur. Astaxanthin is one of the less known compounds that can overcome 

all the blood-brain barrier by which its antioxidative properties 

are also enhanced in the human brain.[8],[9] 

A randomised placebo-controlled double-blind study with 89 participants 

has shown that a 3-months nutritional supplement with a daily 

dose of 12 mg of natural astaxanthin influences the cognitive performance 

of older probands. In this clinical study, various parameters to 

determine the cognitive performance like working memory, delayed 

memory to measure accuracy or short-term working memory were 

significantly enhanced in participants supplemented with astaxan- 

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thin. Probands who had been complaining of age-related obliviousness, 

showed better results regarding mental performance and multitasking.[10] 

Positive influences of natural astaxanthin on the psychophysiological 

hearth-brain axis 

Heart and brain communicate in various ways with each other. Best 

known are the communication regarding the nervous system and 

the electrical impulses that are triggered; in this context, particularly 

the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system can be 

mentioned. The sympathetic nerve fibres originate in the cervical 

ganglions and are also termed cardiac nerves (Nervi cardiaci); they 

are responsible for the acceleration of the heart rate. The parasympathetic 

nerve fibres that are responsible for relaxation and the deceleration 

of the heart rate stem from the tenth cranial nerve. These nerve 

fibres end in a neuroplexus, the so-called Plexus cardiacus, at the 

base of the heart. The stimulation of the Nervus vagus as therapeutic 

agent for various diseases plays a central role in today’s research (see 

Fig. 1).[12],[13] 

tion), investigation of the psychological state by a validated survey 

regarding the profile of mood state (POMS) as well as the evaluation 

of the global mood. The results of the astaxanthin reference group 

were astonishing. 

The probands with astaxanthin supplementation showed a significant 

decrease of the average heart rate at submaximal stress intensity by 

10 percent compared to the placebo group. As shown in Table 1, 

their heart beats per minute (bpm) could be reduced significantly 

after an 8-week supplement at the aerobic (AeT) as well as at the 

anaerobic (AT) threshold. This suggests a substantial easing of the 

cardiovascular system. After the astaxanthin supplementation, the 

probands did manual work at reduced heart rate and, hence, with 

higher cardiovascular efficiency, and were altogether more powerful. 

Table. 1: The heart rates of the aerobic (AeT) and the anaerobic threshold 

(AT) were significantly lower after the supplementation of natural astaxanthin 

compared to PL (AeT; astaxanthin 130+17 vs. PL 145+14 and AT; 

astaxanthin 139+20 vs. PL 154+11, p < 0.05), suggesting that the astaxanthin 

probands were able to do a certain degree of manual work with lower 

relative intensity or higher cardiovascular efficiency. Modified illustration 

based on the data from the study by S. Talbott et al., Effect of Astaxanthin 

supplementation on psychophysiological heart-brain axis dynamics in 

healthy subjects.[3] 

Fig. 1: Schematic diagram of the efferent (motoric) projections of the parasympathetic 

autonomic nervous system (ANS). Postganglionic axons from 

ganglionic cells innervate the heart (deceleration of the heart rate, reduction 

of the heart contractility) and other organs.[12] 

Most recent studies from the year 2020 addressed that heart-brain 

axis and analysed the significance of antioxidants like natural astaxanthin 

in connection with cardiovascular and cognitive health. In 

this randomised, placebo-controlled double-blind study, 28 healthy 

probands were supplemented with a daily dose of 12 mg of natural 

astaxanthin or with a respective placebo over 8 weeks. The interaction 

of the heart-brain axis was determined through cardiovascular 

stress tests (measuring of heart rate and oxygen consump- 

Furthermore, there were significant improvements in the astaxanthin 

group regarding the evaluation of the psychological state. The parameters 

for tension, depression, anger, tiredness and confusion were 

significantly reduced and suggested an altogether positive state of 

mind. Natural astaxanthin, thus, influences the psychophysiologi cal 

heart-brain axis verifiably positively and substantially supports the 

physical and mental wellbeing.[3] 

Summary 

An intake of micronutrients of highly dosed natural astaxanthin of 

12 mg significantly contributes to physical and mental fitness. While 

earlier studies have shown how astaxanthin positively influences 

heart health and the cognitive performance, the herein presented 

results are the first to prove that supplementation with natural asta- 



xanthin supports the psychophysiological 

heart-brain axis with simultaneous enhancement 

of the physical and mental wellbeing. 

In addition to these psychophysiological 

benefits for the heart-brain axis, the results 

suggest that a supplementation with natural 

astaxanthin from the microalga Haematococcus 

pluvialis as co-therapeutic agent 

can support persons with physical and 

psychological needs. Particularly in old age, 

the degree of free radicals can be reduced 

through taking antioxidants as by doing so, 

endogenous antioxidative enzymes increasingly 

lose effect. However, also long-distance 

and ultra-distance endurance athletes (e. g., 

marathon runner, ironman triathletes and 

ultra-runner/-cyclists) benefit from nutritional 

supplementation with antioxidants as 

the physiological endurance as well as the 

psychological balance are strained, and 

their support could be a new approach to 

enhance the physical/mental performance. 

Due to the double effect of natural astaxanthin 

on the health of heart and brain, future 

studies will be even more important to also 

support other groups of persons signifi cantly. 

[9] S. Fakhri, I. Y. Aneva, M. H. Farzaei, and E. Sobarzo-Sánchez, “The neuroprotective 

effects of astaxanthin: Therapeutic targets and clinical perspective,” Molecules, vol. 24, 

no. 14, pp. 1–19, 2019. 

[10] M. Katagiri, A. Satoh, S. Tsuji, and T. Shirasawa, “Effects of astaxanthin-rich Haematococcus 

pluvialis extract on cognitive function: a randomised, double-blind, placebocontrolled 

study,” J. Clin. Biochem. Nutr., pp. 2012–2013. 

[11] D. Zanotta, S. Puricelli, and G. Bonoldi, “Cognitive effects of a dietary supplement 

made from extract of Bacopa monnieri, astaxanthin, phosphatidylserine, and vitamin E in 

subjects with mild cognitive impairment: A noncomparative, exploratory clinical study,” 

Neuropsychiatr. Dis. Treat., vol. 10, pp. 225–230, 2014. 

[12] M. J. Capilupi, S. M. Kerath, and L. B. Becker, “Vagus nerve stimulation and the cardiovascular 

system,” Cold Spring Harb. Perspect. Med., vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 1–18, 2020. 

[13] E. Al et al., “Heart-brain interactions shape somatosensory perception and evoked 

potentials,” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of 

America, vol. 117, no. 19. pp. 10575–10584, 2020. 


Katharina Müller 

Monika Siebel 

BDI-BioLife Science 

www.bdi-biolifescience.com 

References 

[1] C. Galasso et al., “On the neuroprotective role of astaxanthin: 

New perspectives?,” Mar. Drugs, vol. 16, no. 8, pp. 

1–16, 2018. 

[2] H. Miyawaki, J. Takahashi, H. Tsukahara, and I. Takehara, 

“Effects of astaxanthin on human blood rheology,” J. 

Clin. Biochem. Nutr., vol. 43, no. 2, pp. 69–74, 2008. 

[3] S. Talbott, D. Hantla, B. Capelli, L. Ding, Y. Li, and 

C. Artaria, “Effect of Astaxanthin supplementation on 

psychophysiological heart-brain axis dynamics in healthy 

subjects,” Funct. Foods Heal. Dis., vol. 9, no. 8, pp. 

521–531, 2019. 

[4] F. Visioli and C. Artaria, “Astaxanthin in cardiovascular 

health and disease: Mechanisms of action, therapeutic 

merits, and knowledge gaps,” Food Funct., vol. 8, no. 1, 

pp. 39–63, 2017. 

[5] K. Cervantes Gracia, D. Llanas-Cornejo, and H. Husi, 

“CVD and Oxidative Stress,” J. Clin. Med., vol. 6, no. 2, p. 

22, 2017. 

[6] Y. Kishimoto, H. Yoshida, and K. Kondo, “Potential antiatherosclerotic 

properties of astaxanthin,” Mar. Drugs, vol. 

14, no. 2, pp. 1–13, 2016. 

[7] N. S. Mashhadi, M. Zakerkish, J. Mohammadiasl, M. 

Zarei, M. Mohammadshahi, and M. H. Haghighizadeh, 

“Astaxanthin improves glucose metabolism and reduces 

blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus,” 

Asia Pac. J. Clin. Nutr., vol. 27, no. 2, pp. 341–346, 2018. 

[8] M. Perluigi et al., “Redox proteomics identification of 

4-hydroxynonenal-modified brain proteins in Alzheimer’s 

disease: Role of lipid peroxidation in Alzheimer’s disease 

pathogenesis,” PROTEOMICS – Clin. Appl., vol. 3, no. 6, pp. 

682–693, Jun. 2009. 

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41

Skin health 

Photo © : Yuri Arcurs 

Protection and stimulation 

Natural astaxanthin and bioactive collagen peptides are proven 

to improve skin health from the inside out 

Behnaz Shakersain, Oliver Wolf 

Let’s go on a journey into the past. We are on a beach or at an outdoor 

pool; all around us are people sunbathing … just lying in the blazing 

heat for hours. Remember that? Today, things are very different. Most 

people now take sunshades, hats, beach tents, etc., and factor 50 

sun protection is an absolute essential. Our awareness of skin health 

has increased, and now, more and more consumers are looking for 

ways to keep their skin healthy, young and supple for longer. Nutricosmetics 

that work from the inside out can make a significant contribution 

here. 

Creams and other topical products such as gels or serums are increasingly 

popular when it comes to preventing sunburn or providing shortterm 

relief from dry skin. However, they only work on the top layer of 

skin: the epidermis. The two underlying layers, the dermis and the 

hypodermis, remain literally untouched. Yet, they play an essential 

role in keeping the skin elastic and supplying it with nutrients. 

An excellent way to reach these deeper layers – and exert a targeted 

influence – is through nutrition and the use of dietary supplements. 

The latter are demonstrably gaining in popularity: according to the 

market research company, Grand View 

Research, the beauty and health sector is 

predicted to grow at an average annual rate 

of 4.8 % between 2022 and 2030. In 2021, 

their market was already valued at approximately 

$55 billion [1]. 

Power from algae 

One thing is certain, though, dietary supplements 

are only as good for the skin as their 

ingredients. One promising candidate comes 

from the freshwater green alga, Haematococcus 

pluvialis. This unicellular microalga 

produces astaxanthin in extreme temperatures 

and other stressful situations, like 

high UV exposure, to maintain its vitality and 

function. Being consumed in the aquatic 

food web, this red carotenoid not only determines 

the colour of salmon or crustaceans, 


Skin health 

Other studies show a similar picture: 

CYa 

placebo-controlled double-blind study CMY 

showed that natural astaxanthin (with a daily K 

intake of 4 mg for 9 weeks) protects against 

UV-induced skin changes [4]. The astaxanthin 

group showed a higher minimum 

erythema dose (a measure of skin tolerance 

to solar radiation) and less moisture 

loss in the irradiated skin region than the 

placebo group. In their subjective perception, 

the participants in the astaxanthin group also rated their skin 

to be smoother. In another study involving 28 women, an 8-week 

daily intake of 6 mg of asta xanthin combined with topical treatment 

resulted in a decrease in the depth and width of wrinkles in the eye 

region [5]. In a second part of the study, Tominaga et al. also treated 

healthy young men with a daily dose of 6 mg of natural astaxanthin 

for 6 weeks. The majority experienced improved skin and a balanced 

sebum production, compared with a control group receiving a 

placebo, opening up an interesting opportunity for acne control with 

natural astaxanthin. 

Photo © : AstaReal 

it also serves as one of the most powerful 

antioxidants in nature – with an effect that 

is 110 times stronger than vitamin E [2]. In 

contrast to other antioxidants, it can penetrate 

both the hydrophilic and hydrophobic 

layers of the cell membrane, protecting the 

cell from free radicals from the outside and 

inside at the same time. It is these same free 

radicals that plague the skin and lead to its 

visible aging. 

The positive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory 

effects of astaxanthin on the skin 

– as well as for other body functions such 

as immune health and visual acuity – have 

been demonstrated in more than 500 peerreviewed 

studies. The most intensively scientifically 

researched brand of natural astaxanthin 

is produced by AstaReal. A study 

with AstaReal ® Astaxanthin showed that it 

protects the skin from the seasonal wear and 

tear caused by UV radiation and dryness. 

From August to December, participants took 

a daily dose of 6 or 12 mg astaxanthin, and 

C 

during this time, their skin remained resilient. 

In contrast, wrinkles and dryness were 

M 

Y 

more pronounced in the non-supplemented 

CM 

control group [3]. 

Collagen peptides: help for self-help 

Just like astaxanthin, collagen peptides also act on the skin from 

within but have a completely different mechanism of action. Highly 

pure collagen peptides can be obtained from native animal-origin 

collagen using a partial hydrolysis process. Quickly absorbed and 

utilized by the body, studies have shown that specific Bioactive 

Collagen Peptides (VERISOL ® from GELITA) stimulate the fibroblasts 

in the dermis after ingestion, and to a certain extent, encourage the 

skin to regenerate itself. This significantly increases the production of 

collagen, elastin and proteoglycans. These compounds are essential 

for the elasticity of the skin. Thus, the epidermis is supported from 

within and wrinkling is reduced. 

EN Anzeige WFS 2022 Q4 DE Frauengesundheit_CS5_Pfade_beschnitt_3mm.pdf 1 18.10. 

MY 

No. 3 November/Dezember 2022

Skin health 

still detectable 4 weeks after discontinuation of use, indicating a longlasting 

stimulation. A clinical follow-up study showed that the intake 

of collagen peptides can reduce the depth of skin wrinkles in the eye 

area and promote the synthesis of important structural skin components 

such as collagen type I, elastin and fibrillin [7]. 

In addition, VERISOL ® is able to causally combat cellulite in normal 

and overweight women. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, 

105 women between the ages of 24 and 50 received 2.5 g of 

VERISOL ® or a placebo daily [8]. After just 3 months, the extent of 

cellulite had decreased significantly. At the end of the 6-month study, 

the researchers noted an average 9 % reduction in participants with 

a normal BMI compared with the placebo group. In subjects with a 

BMI > 25, this positive effect was also visible but less pronounced 

(4 % reduction). 

As today’s consumers become more aware about the correlation 

between skin health and nutrition, they are starting to favour beautyfrom-within 

products with the greatest amount of scientific research 

to support them. Natural astaxanthin and collagen peptides can 

satisfy these demands and effectively target this growing market. 

Three placebo-controlled human studies confirm the positive effects 

of supplementation with VERISOL ® collagen peptides on the epidermis 

and dermis. The first study investigated the effectiveness of collagen 

peptides using biophysical parameters related to skin aging [6]. In 

this study, 69 women aged between 35 and 55 took either 2.5 or 5 g 

of VERISOL ® or a placebo daily during an 8-week study period. After 

only 4 weeks, both VERISOL ® groups showed a statistically significant 

improvement in skin elasticity. Interestingly, the positive effect was 

more pronounced in participants older than 50. The benefits were 


Behnaz Shakersain, PhD 

Scientific Affairs Manager 

AstaReal AB 

behnaz.shakersain@astareal.se 

www.astareal.se 

Photo © : Fotolia/ Leonid & Anna Dedukh 

References 

[1] Grand View Research: Women’s Health And Beauty Supplements Market Size, Share & 

Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Application, By Age Group, By Consumer Group, By 

Sales Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 – 2030. 2021. www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/women-health-beauty-supplements-market; 

(5/10/2022). 

[2] Nishida Y et al.: Quenching activities of common hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidants 

against singlet oxygen using chemiluminescence detection system. Carotenoid Science. 

2007;11(6):16-20. 

[3] Tominaga K et al.: Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration. J Clin Biochem 

Nutr. 2017;61(1):33-39. 

[4] Ito N et al.: The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration 

in Healthy People-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 

2018;10(7).pii: E817. 

[5] Tominaga K et al.: Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on human subjects. Acta Biochim 

Pol. 2012;59(1):43-7. 

[6] Proksch E et al.: Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides has beneficial 

effects on human skin physiology: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacol. 

Physiol. 2014;27,47-55. 

[7] Proksch E et al.: Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles 

and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis. Skin Pharmacol. Physiol. 2014;27,113-119. 

[8] Schunck M et al.: Dietary Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides Has 

a Body Mass Index-Dependent Beneficial Effect on Cellulite Morphology. J Med Food. 

2015;18(12):1340-1348. 

Oliver Wolf 

Global Communication 

Gelita AG 

oliver.wolf@gelita.com 

www.gelita.com 


Tinnitus 

Photo © : Adobe Stock/andriano_cz 

Effective relief from tinnitus symptoms 

Dr Franziska Weichmann 

Subjective tinnitus is the perception of 

sound without any external acoustic noise. 

This sound is mostly described as ringing, 

sometimes as a buzzing, roaring, whistling 

or hissing sensation (1). Several people with 

tinnitus suffer from an associated hearing 

loss, at least on one ear (1). With a prevalence 

of 10 to 20 % of the population worldwide, 

tinnitus is one of the most common 

and distressing ear-related problems in the 

world (2). In many cases, tinnitus affects the 

quality of life and can be accompanied by 

anxiety, depression, insomnia or increased 

sensitivity to noises (hyperacusis) (2). 

Effectiveness against tinnitus 

Two studies could show that supplementation with Pycnogenol ® 

ameliorates the symptoms of tinnitus (4, 5). 

In the first clinical study with 82 patients, a supplementation for 4 

weeks had an impressive influence on the tinnitus scale (4). In this 

subjective scale, presence, intensity and duration of tinnitus, as well 

as the changes in the quality of life and drug intake to relieve tinnitus 

were each rated from 0 (none/low) to 3 (always/severe). The control 

group did not show a significant change in the personal tinnitus rating 

with only 16 % reduction, whereas 100 mg Pycnogenol ® per day 

improved the tinnitus rating by 41 % and 150 mg Pycnogenol ® per 

day even led to a reduction of 63 % on the tinnitus scale. 

No medication is currently officially approved 

to treat tinnitus, but several medications are 

in use, such as anesthetics, antidepressants, 

antihistamines, anxiolytics, vasodilators or 

calcium channel blockers (3). Many of those 

medications come with serious risks for side 

effects. 

The natural extract from French maritime 

pine bark Pycnogenol ® was shown to be efficacious 

in relieving symptoms of tinnitus 

(4, 5). By improving microcirculation (4-8), 

normalizing hypertension (9-12), enhancing 

endothelial health (11-17) and reducing 

inflammation (18-20), Pycnogenol ® positively 

affects mechanisms that are associated 

with the development of tinnitus. 


45

Tinnitus 

The study further investigated the effects of 

the supplementation on microcirculation in 

the inner ear. For that, the blood flow velocity 

in the cochlea was measured using ultrasonography. 

Only one ear of the patients was 

affected by tinnitus, the “tinnitus ear”, while 

the other ear was referenced as the “healthy 

ear”. The effect of a 4-week supplementation 

on the microcirculation in the healthy 

ear was neglectable, whereas the very low 

cochlear blood flow velocity in the tinnitus 

ear could be normalized with 4 weeks of 

Pycnogenol ® supplementation. Systolic 

as well as diastolic blood flow velocity was 

increased to almost normal values by 48 % 

and 95 %, respectively. There was however 

no observable change of the microcirculation 

in the control group. 

cally improved after the supplementation, 

which helps explain the beneficial effects of 

Pycnogenol ® on tinnitus symptoms. 

Pycnogenol ® improves microcirculation, 

normalizes hypertension and 

ameliorates endothelial health 

The development of tinnitus has been 

associated with cochlear microcirculatory 

dysfunction (21). As described in the 

previously mentioned studies, it has positively 

affects microcirculation in the inner 

ear (4, 5). This beneficial effect was not only 

observed in the ear but could be confirmed 

in other small blood vessels in the body, like 

the retinal capillaries in the eye or the very 

fine micro vessels in the fingertip (6-8). In 

Another study found beneficial effects of 

the supplementation on tinnitus in patients, 

suffering from Ménière’s disease (5). This 

condition is a disorder of the inner ear, 

presenting with symptoms such as vertigo, 

hearing loss and tinnitus. 107 patients took 

part in the 6-month study. The tinnitus scale 

of the patients taking Pycnogenol ® was 

significantly reduced by 53 %, compared 

to the control group with a reduction of only 

28 %. Interestingly, 87 % of the patients, 

supplemented with Pycnogenol ® stated to be 

asymptomatic after 6 months and only 35 % 

of the patients in the control group were 

symptomless. Furthermore, the supplementation 

could significantly improve the 

working and social life by 72 % and 81 % 

respectively, compared to 50 % and 9 % in 

the control group. As in the first study, blood 

flow velocity in the inner ear was drastia 

3-month study on diabetic retinopathy, 

the supplementation improved the retinal 

blood flow by around 30 % compared to 

no change in the control patients (6). In 

another study with patients suffering from 

coronary heart disease, microcirculation on 

the fingertip improved significantly in 54 % 

of the patients, taking Pycnogenol ® and in 

33 % of the placebo patients after 4 weeks 

(7). A third study showed improved microcirculation 

in the legs by 34 % after the intake, 

in patients with diabetic microangiopathy 

(8). Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) 

can also be a causal or at least an adjuvant 

factor for tinnitus (21). The normalizing effect 

of Pycnogenol ® supplementation on hypertension 

was investigated in several studies 

(9-12). A double-blind, placebo-controlled, 

crossover study with borderline hypertension 

patients showed that the supplementation 

for 8 weeks significantly lowered elevated 

systolic blood pressure by 5 % compared to 

placebo (10). Diastolic pressure was found to 

be lowered by 2 %. Another study with hypertensive 

patients, treated with calcium channel 

blockers found that after 3 months, 57 % of 

the patients supplemented with Pycnogenol ® 

were able to cut their individual hypertension 

medication dosage to a quarter of the previous 

dose to keep their blood pressure in a healthy 

range (11). Only 13 % of the placebo patients 

were able to do so. 

Microcirculatory problems and hypertension 

can both be explained by endothelial 

dysfunction, an impairment of the inner lining 

of blood vessels. Consistently, endothelial 

dysfunction has been described in patients 

with tinnitus (22). There is strong evidence 

that Pycnogenol ® improves endothelial health 

(11-17). One study, among others, showed 

that in patients with coronary artery disease, 

Pycnogenol ® supplementation had a beneficial 

effect on endothelial function (13). 

Endothelial function was assessed by flowmediated 

dilatation of the brachial artery (the 

widening of the artery in response to elevations 

in blood flow-associated shear stress). 

This 8-week randomized, double-blind, 

placebo-controlled cross-over study showed 

that flow-mediated dilation was improved by 

32 % in the Pycnogenol ® group, whereas it 

slightly decreased in the placebo group. 

Reduction of inflammatory processes 

Recent research has shown that inflammation, 

specifically neuroinflammation 

is involved in the development of several 

hearing disorders including tinnitus (23). 

In several studies, Pycnogenol ® exhibited 

potent anti-inflammatory activities (18-20). 

Already after 5 days of daily intake, a study 

reported that Pycnogenol ® significantly 

prevented the up-regulation of the proinflammatory 

enzymes 5-LOX and COX-2 

(18). In another study, plasma samples 

of volunteers after intake of Pycnogenol ® 

showed to significantly inhibit NF-κB activation 

by 15.5 % and matrix metalloproteinase 

9 (MMP-9) release by 25%, two important 

regulators in the inflammation process 

(19). In a similar study, significant inhibi- 


Tinnitus 

tion of inflammatory molecules COX-1 and 

COX-2 was observed after intake of 300 mg 

Pycnogenol ® (20). 

French maritime pine bark extract is an 

effective, safe and evidence-based natural 

solution to manage tinnitus by improving 

microcirculation, normalizing hypertension, 

enhancing endothelial health and reducing 

inflammation. 

References 

1. Chari DA, Limb CJ. Tinnitus. Med Clin North Am. 

2018;102(6):1081-93. 

2. Han BI, Lee HW, Ryu S, Kim J-S. Tinnitus Update. Journal of 

Clinical Neurology. 2021;17(1):1. 

3. Kim SH, Kim D, Lee J-M, Lee SK, Kang HJ, Yeo SG. Review 

of Pharmacotherapy for Tinnitus. Healthcare. 2021;9(6):779. 

4. Grossi MG, Belcaro G., Cesarone, M.R., Duggall, M., Hosoi, 

M Cacchio,. Improvement in cochlear flow with Pycnogenol ® 

in patients with tinnitus: a pilot evaluation. Panminerva 

Med. 2010;52(2):63-7. 

5. Luzzi R BG, Hu S, Dugall M, Hosoi M, Cacchio M, Ippolito 

E, Corsi M Improvement in symptoms and cochlear flow with 

Pycnogenol in patients with Meniere’s disease and tinnitus. 

Minerva Med 2014;105:245-54. 

6. Steigerwalt R, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Di Renzo A, Grossi 

MG, Ricci A, et al. Pycnogenol ® improves microcirculation, 

retinal edema, and visual acuity in early diabetic retinopathy. 

J Ocul Pharmacol Ther. 2009;25(6):537-40. 

7. Wang S, Tan D, Zhao Y, Gao G, Gao X, Hu L. The effect 

of Pycnogenol ® on the microcirculation, platelet function 

and ischaemic myocardium in patients with coronary 

artery diseases. European Bulletin of Drug Research. 

1999;7(2):19-25. 

8. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ledda 

A, Vinciguerra G, et al. Improvement of diabetic microangiopathy 

with pycnogenol: A prospective, controlled study. 

Angiology. 2006;57(4):431-6. 

9. Stuard SBG, Cesarone, M.R., Ricci, A., Dugall, M., Cornelli, 

U., Gizzi, G. Pellegrini L, Rohdewald, P.J. Kidney function 

in metabolic syndrome may be improved with Pycnogenol. 

Panminerva Med. 2010;52(2):27-32. 

10. Hosseini S LJ, Sepulveda RT, Rohdewald P, Watson RR. A 

randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective, 

16 week crossover study to determine the role of Pycnogenol 

in modifying blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. 

Nutr Res. 2001;21(9):1251-60. 

11. Liu X, Wei J, Tan F, Zhou S, Wurthwein G, Rohdewald P. 

Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves 

endothelial function of hypertensive patients. Life Sci. 

2004;74(7):855-62. 

12. Zibadi S, Rohdewald PJ, Park D, Watson RR. Reduction 

of cardiovascular risk factors in subjects with type 

2 diabetes by Pycnogenol supplementation. Nutr Res. 

2008;28(5):315-20. 

13. Enseleit F, Sudano I, Periat D, Winnik S, Wolfrum M, 

Flammer AJ, et al. Effects of Pycnogenol on endothelial 

function in patients with stable coronary artery disease: a 

double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over 

study. Eur Heart J. 2012;33(13):1589-97. 

14. Fitzpatrick DF, Bing B, Rohdewald P. Endotheliumdependent 

vascular effects of Pycnogenol. J Cardiovasc 

Pharmacol. 1998;32(4):509-15. 

15. Hu S BG, Cornelli U, et al Effects of Pycnogenol ® on 

endothelial dysfunction in borderline hypertensive, hyperlipidemic, 

and hyperglycemic individuals: the borderline study. 

Int Angiol 2015;34(1):43-52. 

16. Nishioka K, Hidaka T, Nakamura S, Umemura T, Jitsuiki D, 

Soga J, et al. Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, 

augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans. 

Hypertens Res. 2007;30(9):775-80. 

17. Uhlenhut K, Högger P. Facilitated cellular uptake and 

suppression of inducible nitric oxide synthase by a metabolite 

of maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol). Free Radic 

Biol Med. 2012;53(2):305-13. 

18. Canali R, Comitato R, Schonlau F, Virgili F. The antiinflammatory 

pharmacology of Pycnogenol in humans 

involves COX-2 and 5-LOX mRNA expression in leukocytes. 

Int Immunopharmacol. 2009;9(10):1145-9. 

19. Grimm T, Chovanova Z, Muchova J, Sumegova K, Liptakova 

A, Durackova Z, et al. Inhibition of NF-kappaB activation 

and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of human volunteers 

after ingestion of maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol). J 

Inflamm (Lond). 2006;3:1. 

20. Schäfer A, Chovanova Z, Muchova J, Sumegova K, Liptakova 

A, Durackova Z, et al. Inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 

activity by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of 

French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol). Biomed 

Pharmacother. 2005;60(1):5-9. 

21. Figueiredo RR, de Azevedo AA, Penido Nde O. Tinnitus and 

arterial hypertension: a systematic review. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 

2015;272(11):3089-94. 

22. Neri S, Signorelli S, Pulvirenti D, Mauceri B, Cilio D, 

Bordonaro F, et al. Oxidative stress, nitric oxide, endothelial 

dysfunction and tinnitus. Free Radic Res. 2006;40(6):615-8. 

23. Shulman A, Wang W, Luo H, Bao S, Searchfield G, Zhang 

J. Neuroinflammation and Tinnitus. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 

2021;51:161-74. 


Dr. Franziska Weichmann, 

Manager of Scientific Communications 

and Product Development 

at Horphag Research 

Tapping into a calm state of 

mind amidst a hectic life 

A natural ingredient for stress relief, 

providing mental & physical well-being. 

Extramel ® 

extramel.com 


47


Let’s meet in Paris! 

Leading ingredients trade show Fi & Hi Europe all set to welcome more than 20,000 visitors 

from around the world 

Fi & Hi Europe returns to France this year. From December 6 to 8, 

the leading ingredients fair will be held for the first time at the Paris 

Expo Porte de Versailles exhibition centre. More than 1,200 exhibitors 

– from leading ingredients manufacturers to highly specialized 

startups – will present themselves in four halls. The face-to-face exhibition 

will be complemented by a comprehensive online offering. A 

broad conference programme, as well as the renowned Innovation 

Awards and Startup Innovation Challenge, will complete the trade 

show experience. 

In the heart of Paris, Fi & Hi Europe is set to attract exhibitors and 

attendees from more than 135 countries around the world. The new 

Paris Expo Porte de Versailles location is within walking distance 

of many hotels, restaurants and bars, making logistics easier and 

the event more visitor-friendly than ever before. Many leading ingredient 

manufacturers have already confirmed their participation in 

Paris, including ADM, Beneo, Brenntag, Cargill, DSM and Ingredion. 

In addition to well- established companies, many new players 

have also announced their intention to present their solutions to the 

industry. In addition, there will be more country pavilions this year 

than ever before. 

Digitally enabled event concept 

This year, Informa Markets is focusing on 

a technologically enhanced hybrid show 

concept. The combination of online and faceto-face 

events offers participants the best of 

both worlds, including a wide variety of live 

and on-demand content as well as data-driven 

networking options. All exhibiting companies 

have their own online profile, allowing 

them to find relevant contacts, network and 

set up virtual or face-to-face meetings before 

the event. A smartphone app also facilitates 

on-site lead generation. “We look forward to 

welcoming visitors and exhibitors from around 

the world to an event that no one in the ingredients 

industry should miss,” says Julien 

Bonvallet, Group Brand Director at Informa 

Markets. “After months of restriction and 

uncertainty, many people have a great need 

for face-to-face meetings. But even those who 



prefer to participate online can do so easily 

thanks to our technical solutions.” 

Multifaceted conference programme 

The online event will begin on 28 November, 

the week before doors open at Paris Expo 

Porte de Versailles. It offers an extensive 

conference programme covering the hottest 

topics in the industry, with a focus on plantbased 

nutrition, health & wellness, and reformulation. 

In addition, interested participants 

will find a wealth of information on application 

areas that are currently trending – such 

as baked goods, snacks, dairy products and 

dairy alternatives. Overall, the conference 

programme includes more than 55 expert 

sessions on-site and online, giving global 

audiences access to invaluable knowledge. 

The platform Fi Global insights provides a lot of additional information 

as well as exclusive reports covering the following topics: 

– Protein 

– Dairy and Dairy Alternatives 

– Snacks, Bakery and Confectionery 

– Plant-based 

– Sustainability 

– Beverages 

Market products in the spotlight 

On-site, the New Product Zone in cooperation with Innova Market 

Insights offers an extensive selection of the most innovative products, 

showcased alongside insightful information. It features product 

innovations from leading industry players and provides the perfect 

opportunity to give new ingredients the introduction to the market 

that they deserve. A popular area for visitors and the press, this 

feature has become a trendsetting spot for the nutrition industry. 

Lipo20 

LIPOSOMAL ASTAXANTHIN 

HIGHTECH INGREDIENT 

FOR OUTSTANDING 

BIOAVAILABILITY 

2 active ingredients with profound 

health advantages: 

Astaxanthin & Phophatidylcholine 

Product benefits: 

Fast absorption 

Easy to combine with vitamins 

Clean labelling & vegan 

BDI-BioLife Science | info@bdi-biolifescience.com 

+43 3332 32042 10 | bdi-biolifescience.com 


49


Fi Europe Innovation Awards 

The renowned Fi Europe Innovation Awards will once again be 

adding extra value to the trade show. With one exception, the awards 

will only be presented among Fi Europe exhibitors: The new “Food 

Training & Education” category is also open to non-exhibitors. This 

award is intended to recognise a company, institution or organisation 

that contributes to better consumer health, for example, through 

an educational initiative or a pioneering approach. The “Sustainability 

Innovation Award” recognises environmentally, economi cally 

or socially sustainable approaches and practices in the food and 

beverage industry. Companies that create equal opportunities in 

the work environment receive the “Diversity & Inclusion Innovation 

Award”. The “Plant-based Innovation Award” acknowledges alternatives 

to animal products and is given for the best ingredient or 

application. In the “Sensory Innovation” category, the award is for 

an ingredient or process that improves the overall sensory properties 

of foods or beverages. The “Health Innovation Award” honours an 

ingredient or process that provides a health benefit. The “Food Tech 

Innovation Award” goes to companies that have developed innovative 

processes, packaging or waste reduction solutions. 

The decision as to who receives awards is made by industry experts 

from the fields of consulting, management, product development 

and trade media. Prof. Colin Dennis, Chairman of the Board of Trustees 

of the IFIS organization and member of the Board of Trustees 

of the British Nutrition Foundation, will again chair the jury this year. 

The winners of all categories will be announced during Fi & Hi Europe 

at a ceremony on December 6. 


https://www.figlobal.com/fieurope/en/home.html 

Award for innovative startups 

The Fi Global Startup Innovation Challenge also enables young 

companies to present their innovative concepts, products and ideas 

to an international audience of experts, major companies and sponsors. 

All companies founded no more than five years ago are eligible 

to participate. 

They can apply in one or more of the following categories: 

Most innovative ingredient for food or beverage 

Most innovative plant-based or alternative ingredient 

Most innovative processing technology 

Most innovative service, technology or digital solution for the food and 

beverage industry 

Finalists and winners will have access to the Startup Lounge, where 

they can present their products and solutions on the Innovation Hub 

stage, and network with industry representatives. Both the pitches 

and the award ceremony will also be streamed via the Fi Europe 

online platform and remain permanently available. Winners will have 

a choice of several attractive prizes: A fully equipped booth at Fi 

Europe next year, a comprehensive online marketing package or an 

individual mentoring programme. 

The latter can be coaching, for example, or the implementation of a 

pilot project, or it can include access to corporate collaborations and 

business accelerator programmes. 

In addition to the Innovation Hub, visitors will find the new Sustainability 

Hub at the exhibition, which focuses on sustainable food solutions 

along the entire value chain. Here visitors will find information 

on food waste, circular economy, regenerative agriculture and many 

other topics. Finally, the Women’s Networking Breakfast, sponsored 

by DSM, Lunch & Learn and other events are perfect for building a 

professional network. 

Impressum 

ISSN 2364-8104 

Wellness Foods & Supplements | No. 3 /2022 

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