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Clinical Studies Behind Every Bottle Created
Before an ingredient becomes part of a Rooted Nature product, our team looks at the human research behind it — randomized trials, systematic reviews, and peer-reviewed studies indexed through PubMed and NIH resources.
Explore Our Areas of Research
Our products are built around published scientific research, with formulations guided by evidence, ingredient quality, effectiveness, and long-term wellness support.
Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis
Research on joint pain, arthritis, and joint function.
Muscle Strength & performance
Research on muscle strength, physical performance, and recovery
Inflammation & Biomarkers
Research on inflammation and measurable health biomarkers
Mobility & Physical Recovery
Research on mobility, movement, and physical recovery.
Absorption & Bioavailability
Research on mobility, movement, and physical recovery.
Stress & Cortisol
Research on stress, cortisol, and stress-related outcomes.
Cognition & Healthy Aging
Research on cognition, brain health, and healthy aging.
Clinical Study #1 : Improving Knee Pain and Mobility in Osteoarthritis
Efficacy and Safety of Meriva®, a Curcumin-phosphatidylcholine Complex, during Extended Administration in Osteoarthritis Patients.
Summary:
100 adults with knee osteoarthritis were studied over 8 months. One group continued standard osteoarthritis care, while the other group used standard care plus Meriva® curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, taken daily at 1,000 mg/day.
Results:
Adults that took curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), showed significant improvements in joint pain, stiffness, physical function, walking ability, and inflammatory markers compared with the control group. Total WOMAC score improved from 80.6 to 33.3, and walking distance increased from 77.3 meters to 344.4 meters. The study suggests that curcumin Phytosome (Meriva®) may support long-term joint comfort and mobility in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study #2 : Improving Knee Pain and swelling in osteoarthritis
Efficacy and Tolerability of Boswellia serrata Extract in Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee – A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Figure Caption: The graph compares post-treatment symptom scores after 8 weeks. Participants who received Boswellia serrata extract reported lower pain, reduced swelling, and improved joint movement compared with the placebo group.
Summary:
Thirty adults with knee osteoarthritis (ages between 45 to 72 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. Participants received either Boswellia serrata extract (333 mg, three times daily) or placebo for 8 weeks, followed by a washout period before switching treatments. Researchers evaluated knee pain, swelling, physical function, walking ability, and joint flexibility to assess the efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract.
Results:
Adults who received Boswellia serrata extract reported significant reductions in knee pain and swelling, along with improved knee flexion, walking distance, stair climbing, and overall physical function compared with placebo. The extract was well tolerated, with only minor gastrointestinal side effects reported however no radiological change was observed. The study suggests that Boswellia serrata may help support joint comfort, mobility, and physical function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study #3 : Reducing Osteoarthritis Pain in Overweight Adults
Fish oil supplementation reduces osteoarthritis-specific pain in older adults with overweight/obesity
Summary:
152 sedentary adults aged 50–80 years with overweight or obesity participated in a 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants received fish oil providing 400 mg EPA + 2,000 mg DHA per day, either alone or with curcumin, while the control groups received matching placebos. The study evaluated chronic pain, osteoarthritis (OA) burden, microvascular function, inflammation, and well-being.
Results:
Participants who took fish oil experienced a 42% reduction in overall chronic pain compared with placebo (P = 0.013). Fish oil also significantly reduced pain scores and present pain intensity (both P = 0.012). OA burden was reduced by 40% after adjustment for baseline BMI (P = 0.050). These reductions in pain and OA burden can be seen in the graph, where the fish oil group showed greater decreases across the pain measures compared with the no-fish-oil group.
Clinical Study #4 : Reducing Pain in Chronic Conditions
Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Summary:
This systematic review and meta-analysis included 41 randomized controlled trials involving 3,759 participants with chronic pain i.e. pain lasting for more than 3 months. The researchers evaluated whether omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduced pain intensity and examined how the effects varied according to the type of disease, dosage, and treatment duration.
Results:
Participants receiving omega-3 fatty acids experienced a moderate, statistically and clinically significant reduction in pain intensity compared with control treatments, with a standardized mean difference of −0.55 (95% CI: −0.76 to −0.34). The reduction was already significant after 1 month (SMD −0.27) and became greater after 6 months (SMD −0.83). Lower doses of omega-3 (≤1.35 g/day) produced a greater reduction in pain (SMD −0.60) than doses above 1.35 g/day (SMD −0.53). Significant pain reductions were observed in rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, and other chronic pain conditions.
Clinical Study #5 : Improving Knee Pain & Function in osteoarthritis
A pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel Boswellia serrata extract in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee.
Fig caption : Radiological X-ray images of two patients (Subjects #06 and #09) with knee osteoarthritis, taken before and after 120 days of Boswellia serrata extract (BSE) treatment. After treatment, both patients showed a visible increase in the gap between the knee joints and disappearance of the bony spurs (osteophytes) that were present at baseline — indicating improvement in joint condition.
Summary:
Forty-eight adults (mean age 58.7 ± 8.20 ) with knee osteoarthritis participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial lasting 120 days. Participants received either Boswellia serrata extract (Boswellin®; two tablets daily) or a placebo. The study evaluated whether Boswellia supplementation could improve knee pain, stiffness, physical function, walking ability, quality of life, and inflammatory markers while assessing overall safety and tolerability.
Results:
Participants who received Boswellia serrata extract showed significantly greater improvements in knee pain, stiffness, physical function, walking distance, and overall WOMAC scores compared with placebo. Walking distance increased from 218.0 m to 297.3 m, while placebo showed only minimal improvement. The Boswellia group also demonstrated lower pain scores and reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, with no serious adverse events reported. The study suggests that Boswellia serrata may help support joint comfort, mobility, and healthy inflammatory balance in adults with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study #6 : Reducing Knee Pain in osteoarthritis
Effects of a Ginger Extract on Knee Pain in Patients with Osteoarthritis.
Figure Caption: The x-axis shows the study visits at Weeks 2 and 6, while the y-axis represents knee pain scores (lower scores indicate less pain). Participants receiving ginger extract reported greater reductions in knee pain while standing compared with those receiving placebo.
Summary:
A total of 261 adults (age 42–70 years) with moderate-to-severe knee osteoarthritis participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial lasting 6 weeks. Participants received either a standardized ginger extract 170 mg extract twice daily or placebo, with acetaminophen permitted as rescue medication. The study evaluated whether ginger supplementation could reduce knee pain and improve physical function while assessing its safety and tolerability.
Results:
Adults who received ginger extract experienced greater reductions in knee pain on standing and after walking compared with placebo. Sixty-three percent of participants receiving ginger met the treatment response criteria versus 50% in the placebo group. Improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced use of rescue medication also favored the ginger group, while most side effects were mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The study suggests that ginger extract may help support joint comfort and mobility in adults with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study #7 : Reducing Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Examining the Effect of Withania somnifera Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Figure caption : Effect of Ashwagandha on muscle strength and size after 8 weeks of resistance training. Ashwagandha supplementation led to significantly greater gains than placebo in bench press strength (46.0 kg vs. 26.4 kg), leg extension strength (14.5 kg vs. 9.8 kg), arm size (8.9 cm² vs. 5.3 cm²), and chest size (3.4 cm vs. 1.4 cm), with no significant difference seen in thigh size.
Summary:
A total of 57 healthy young men (aged 18 to 50 years) with little previous resistance-training experience participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial lasting 8 weeks. Participants completed a structured resistance-training program while receiving either 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract twice daily or placebo. The study evaluated whether Ashwagandha supplementation could improve muscle strength, muscle size, recovery, body composition, and exercise performance.
Results:
Participants who received Ashwagandha root extract experienced significantly greater improvements in muscle strength, muscle size, and exercise recovery than those receiving placebo. The Ashwagandha group also demonstrated larger reductions in exercise-induced muscle damage and body fat percentage, along with greater increases in serum testosterone. The supplement was well tolerated throughout the study. The study suggests that Ashwagandha may help support muscle strength, recovery, and overall physical performance when combined with resistance training.
Clinical Study #8 : Improving Balance & Explosive Strength
The Effects of Soft Tissue Mobilization and Vibration Therapy on Balance, Explosive Strength, and Functional Performance in Elite Rowers
Summary:
45 elite-level male rowers were randomly assigned to three groups: instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM; n=15), percussion massage therapy (PMT; n=15), or control (n=15). Each intervention was performed as a single session. IASTM was performed using stainless-steel instruments, while PMT used a percussion massage device. Researchers assessed dynamic balance, explosive performance, and muscle strength.
Results:
Both IASTM and PMT significantly improved dynamic balance and nondominant-limb explosive performance compared with control, with no significant differences between the two techniques for these outcomes. PMT produced greater improvements in muscle-strength measures than IASTM. These findings suggest IASTM may offer similar benefits to percussion massage for balance and explosive performance.
Clinical Study #9 : Improving Bone Health & Inflammation in osteoporosis
Effect of Ginger and Curcumin Co-Supplementation on Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Bone Turnover Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.
Summary:
A total of 120 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (mean age 58 years) participated in a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted over 16 weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to receive curcumin (500 mg/day), ginger (500 mg/day), curcumin plus ginger (500 mg + 500 mg/day), or placebo, while continuing their standard osteoporosis treatment. The study evaluated whether combining curcumin and ginger provided greater benefits for inflammation, antioxidant status, and bone turnover than either ingredient alone.
Results:
Participants who received the curcumin and ginger combination demonstrated the greatest improvements in inflammatory and antioxidant markers compared with the individual treatment groups and placebo. The combination significantly reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) while increasing total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Improvements in bone turnover markers were also observed, suggesting enhanced overall therapeutic effects. The study suggests that curcumin and ginger combination proved to be statistically superior to the individual treatments across all outcomes
Clinical Study #10 : Reducing Inflammation in Overweight Adults
Omega-3 Supplementation Lowers Inflammation in Healthy Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Summary:
138 healthy, sedentary adults aged 40–85 years who were overweight or obese took part in a 4-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Participants were divided into three groups: a low-dose omega-3 group taking 1.25 g/day, a high-dose omega-3 group taking 2.5 g/day, and a placebo group. The researchers measured blood levels of inflammatory markers, including IL-6 (a protein involved in inflammation) and TNF-α (a protein that promotes inflammation), to see whether omega-3 supplementation affected inflammation.
Results:
Participants taking omega-3 had lower levels of these inflammatory markers compared with those taking placebo. IL-6 decreased by 10% in the 1.25 g/day group and 12% in the 2.5 g/day group, while it increased by 36% in the placebo group. TNF-α changed by only 0.2% in the low-dose omega-3 group and decreased by 2.3% in the high-dose group, compared with a 12% increase in the placebo group. These differences between the omega-3 and placebo groups were statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the two omega-3 doses. A total of 133 of the 138 participants (96%) completed the study, and no significant differences in adverse events were found between the groups.
Clinical Study #11 : Reducing Exercise Induced Muscle sorness in Lower Limb
Reduction of delayed onset muscle soreness by a novel curcumin delivery system (Meriva®): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Figure 3 Pain intensity: Patient-reported pain intensity in the right thigh (RT), left thigh (LT), right leg (RL), left leg (LL) and total pain score (the sum of the scores of each lower limb).
Summary:
19 healthy, moderately active men completed an intense downhill running test designed to cause muscle soreness. One group received placebo, while the other group took Meriva® curcumin phytosome twice daily for 4 days, starting 48 hours before exercise.
Results:
Adults that took curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), reported less lower-limb pain compared with placebo, with significant reductions in both right and left anterior thigh pain. MRI results also showed fewer signs of muscle injury in the Meriva® group, especially in the posterior and medial thigh areas. The study suggests that curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), may help support post-exercise muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and protect against exercise-related muscle damage.
Clinical Study #12 : Reducing Pain and Improving Mobility with IASTM
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain, function, and range of motion.
Summary:
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials involving 1,420 adults with musculoskeletal disorders evaluated instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), either alone or combined with conventional rehabilitation. The review examined its effects on pain, physical function, and range of motion across different musculoskeletal conditions.
Results:
IASTM significantly reduced pain and improved range of motion, with large effects for both pain (SMD = −0.84) and range of motion (SMD = 0.80). Benefits were particularly consistent in spinal conditions, while combining IASTM with conventional rehabilitation produced more consistent pain relief than IASTM alone. Because IASTM uses handheld instruments to apply controlled pressure to soft tissues, these findings support the same tool-assisted approach used by our wooden massage tool, although the included studies used various IASTM instruments rather than our specific tool.
Clinical Study #13 : Reducing Neck Pain in Cervical Disc Herniation
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and percussion massage therapy in cervical disc herniation: a randomized controlled study
fig : Vibration therapy applied with percussion massage device and Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization
Summary:
57 adults (mean age 45) with cervical disc herniation participated in a 3-week double-blind randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into three groups: conventional therapy (n=19), conventional therapy plus percussion massage therapy (n=19), or conventional therapy plus instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) (n=19). Treatments were given three times per week. Percussion massage was applied using a device at 33–40 Hz, while IASTM was performed using stainless-steel instruments. Researchers assessed pain, neck disability, fear of movement (kinesiophobia), and proprioception (the frbody’s ability to sense joint position and movement).
Results:
All three groups showed significant improvements in pain, disability, kinesiophobia, and proprioception (P<0.001). Compared with conventional therapy alone, both IASTM and percussion massage produced greater improvements in pain, kinesiophobia, and proprioception. Pain at rest decreased by 4.00 points with IASTM, 3.38 points with percussion massage, and 2.13 points with conventional therapy. Neck disability scores improved by 11.47 points with IASTM and 12.11 points with percussion massage, compared with 6.63 points with conventional therapy. Improvements in proprioception were also greater with both techniques. Overall, IASTM and percussion massage produced comparable benefits, suggesting that instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques may help improve pain and function when added to conventional therapy.
Clinical Study #14 : Reducing Joint Pain & Improving Function in Osteoarthritis
Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis
Summary:
This systematic review and meta-analysis combined results from 9 randomized controlled trials involving 2,070 adults (mean age 55 to 68 years) with osteoarthritis. Participants received omega-3 fatty acid supplementation or placebo/no additional treatment. Daily omega-3 doses ranged from 350 to 2,400 mg, with EPA and DHA amounts varying across studies. The studies followed participants for 1 to 63 months and evaluated arthritis pain, joint function, and treatment-related side effects.
Results:
Participants receiving omega-3 supplementation experienced significantly less arthritis pain compared with those receiving placebo or no additional treatment (P = 0.002). Omega-3 supplementation also significantly improved joint function (P = 0.002) in 8 out of 9 studies. The improvement in pain was consistent across different pain assessment methods, omega-3 doses, EPA and DHA doses, and follow-up durations. The analysis also found that the benefits for pain were more pronounced among participants younger than 65 years. No severe treatment-related side effects were reported, and overall side effects were similar between the omega-3 and control groups.
Clinical Study #15 : Relieving Upper Back Pain With a Massage Stick
Effects of traditional Thai self-massage using a Wilai massage stick(TM) versus ibuprofen in patients with upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points: a randomized controlled trial
Summary:
60 patients (mean age 42 years) with upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points were randomly assigned to a traditional Thai self-massage group using a Wilai massage stick™ or an ibuprofen group for 5 days. Both groups also performed the same daily stretching exercises. In the massage group, participants applied pressure to eight points along each of two massage lines on both sides of the upper back, gradually increasing pressure until mild pain was felt and holding it for 5 seconds at each point. Each session lasted approximately 12 minutes, including 10 minutes of massage and 2 minutes of stretching. Pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, tissue hardness, and cervical range of motion were assessed at baseline, immediately after the first treatment, and after 5 days.
Results:
The massage-stick group showed significant improvements in pain, pressure pain threshold, tissue hardness, and cervical range of motion after treatment. The ibuprofen group also improved in most outcomes, but the massage group had significantly better adjusted post-test results than the ibuprofen group. The findings support a handheld massage stick as a practical tool for targeted self-massage of myofascial trigger points. This study closely aligns with our wooden massage tool, which is also designed for controlled, targeted pressure during self-massage.
Clinical Study #16 : Gua Sha for Chronic Neck Pain
Effectiveness of traditional Chinese "gua sha" therapy in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial
Fig : Pain score. Means standard deviation of the visual analog scale pain score in the Gua sha and the control intervention groups during the 7-day course of the study
Summary:
48 outpatients with chronic mechanical neck pain, with an average age of 58.5 years, participated in an open randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into two groups: a gua sha group (n=24) and a control group (n=24). The gua sha group received one treatment using a smooth-edged instrument, while the control group received a local thermal heat pad. Participants were followed for 7 days. Researchers assessed neck pain as the primary outcome, along with pain during movement, neck disability, and quality of life.
Results:
After 1 week, neck pain improved significantly more in the gua sha group than in the heat-pad group, with a between-group difference of −29.9 mm on the visual analog scale (95% CI: −43.3 to −16.6; P<0.001). Significant improvements were also found in pain during movement, neck disability, and several quality-of-life measures. The treatment was reported to be safe and well tolerated. The findings are particularly relevant to the scraping edge of the wooden massage tool, as gua sha uses a smooth-edged handheld instrument to apply repeated strokes to the body surface. This provides research evidence for the use of a shaped tool for targeted soft-tissue stimulation and supports the relevance of a scraping edge as a feature of the wooden massage tool.
Clinical Study #17 : Reducing Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness After Exercise
Acute Effects of Manual Myofascial Release Alone or in Combination with Instrument or Percussion Device on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness
Summary:
159 amateur athletes with delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) participated in a randomized controlled trial. Participants were assigned to three groups: manual myofascial release (MMR, n=73), MMR combined with instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (MMR+IASTM, n=47), or MMR combined with a percussion device massager (MMR+PDM, n=39). Each group received a single 40-minute treatment session, and pain was measured using a 0–10 visual analog scale immediately after treatment and again 24 hours later.
Results:
Before treatment, pain scores were 4.63 for MMR, 4.79 for MMR+IASTM, and 5.59 for MMR+PDM, with no significant difference between groups (P=0.099). Immediately after treatment, pain decreased to 2.30 with MMR, 2.34 with MMR+IASTM, and 5.28 with MMR+PDM. At 24 hours, scores were 2.38, 2.82, and 4.44, respectively. MMR and MMR+IASTM both produced significantly better pain outcomes than MMR+PDM (P<0.001), while there was no significant difference between MMR and MMR+IASTM (P=0.714). These findings suggest that adding an instrument-assisted technique to manual massage produced similar short-term pain relief to manual massage alone, while adding a percussion device did not provide the same benefit. The findings are relevant to a non-percussive wooden massage tool designed for targeted soft-tissue work alongside manual massage.
Clinical Study #18 : Improved Curcumin Absorption in the Body
Comparative Absorption of a Standardized Curcuminoid Mixture and Its Lecithin Formulation
Figure Caption: The x-axis shows time after supplementation (hours), while the y-axis shows the concentration of total curcuminoids in the blood (ng/mL). High-dose curcumin phytosome (◆) and low-dose curcumin phytosome (■) achieved substantially higher blood curcuminoid levels than the unformulated curcuminoid mixture (▲), demonstrating improved absorption.
Summary:
Nine healthy adults participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study comparing curcumin phytosome (a curcumin-phospholipid complex) with an unformulated curcuminoid mixture. Each participant received three treatments on separate study days, including low-dose curcumin phytosome (209 mg curcuminoids), high-dose curcumin phytosome (376 mg curcuminoids), and an unformulated curcuminoid mixture (1,799 mg). Blood samples were collected over 24 hours to compare the absorption of curcuminoids into the bloodstream.
Results:
Adults who received curcumin phytosome demonstrated approximately 29-fold greater curcuminoid absorption than those receiving the unformulated curcuminoid mixture. The phytosome formulation also achieved significantly higher blood concentrations of curcumin despite delivering lower doses. The study suggests that curcumin phytosome significantly improves the bioavailability of curcumin compared with raw curcuminoids, enhancing its absorption and bioavailability within the body.
Clinical Study #19 : Reducing Stress & Anxiety in Adults
A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults.
Figure caption: Percentage reduction in stress, anxiety, and cortisol after 60 days — the larger the drop (more negative), the greater the improvement. Ashwagandha outperformed placebo across all four measures: Perceived Stress Scale (-44% vs. -5.5%), GHQ-28 (-72.3% vs. -2.3%), DASS (-71.6% vs. -5%), and serum cortisol (-27.9% vs. -7.9%)
Summary:
Sixty-four adults with a history of chronic stress participated in a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants received either 300 mg of a high-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract twice daily or placebo for 60 days. The study evaluated whether Ashwagandha supplementation could reduce stress, anxiety, and serum cortisol levels while assessing its safety and overall tolerability.
Results:
Adults who received Ashwagandha root extract showed significantly greater reductions in stress and anxiety scores compared with placebo. The Ashwagandha group also experienced a significant decrease in serum cortisol, a key marker of physiological stress, while reporting improvements in self reported well-being. The supplement was well tolerated, with only mild adverse effects reported. The study suggests that Ashwagandha may help support stress resilience, emotional well-being, and healthy cortisol levels in adults.
Clinical Study #20 : Improving Cognitive Function In Older Adults
Evaluation of Cognitive Performance following Fish-Oil and Curcumin Supplementation in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Summary:
152 adults aged 50–80 years with overweight or obesity participated in a 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were assigned to four groups: fish oil, curcumin, fish oil + curcumin, or placebo. The fish-oil group received 400 mg EPA + 2,000 mg DHA per day. Researchers assessed several areas of cognitive function, including processing speed, memory, language, cognitive flexibility, and overall cognitive performance.
Results:
Participants receiving fish oil showed a significant improvement in processing speed in men compared with placebo after 16 weeks (P = 0.043). The improvement was also significant compared with the curcumin group (P = 0.008) and the fish oil + curcumin group (P = 0.012). In a specific processing-speed test, the fish-oil group also performed significantly better than placebo (P = 0.027). The study also found improvements in several cardiovascular risk factors, including systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and C-reactive protein (CRP), as well as improved cerebrovascular function. As shown in the figure, fish oil supplementation provided 2,000 mg DHA + 400 mg EPA per day, with changes in cardiovascular risk factors and cerebrovascular function being associated with improved cognitive function, specifically processing speed.
Clinical Study #21 : Slowing Biological Aging with Omega-3
Individual and additive effects of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise on DNA methylation clocks of biological aging in older adults from the DO-HEALTH trial
Summary:
777 adults aged 70 years and older participated in this 3-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The study used an eight-group factorial design to examine vitamin D, omega-3, and exercise separately and in combination. Participants received 1 g/day of omega-3 (330 mg EPA + 660 mg DHA), 2,000 IU/day of vitamin D, a home exercise program, or combinations of these treatments, with a placebo group for comparison. Researchers measured four DNA methylation-based markers of biological aging: PhenoAge, GrimAge, GrimAge2, and DunedinPACE
Results:
Participants taking omega-3 showed slower biological aging over the 3-year study, with improvements seen in 3 of the 4 biological-aging measures studied. The changes were equivalent to approximately 2.9–3.8 months of slower biological aging over the 3-year period. Vitamin D or exercise alone did not significantly change these measures. However, when omega-3 was combined with vitamin D and/or exercise, the benefit was greater for one of the aging measures (PhenoAge). As shown in the figure, omega-3 produced a consistent effect toward slower biological aging, while combining the treatments provided an additional benefit for PhenoAge.
Explore Our Areas of Research
Our products are built around published scientific research, with formulations guided by evidence, ingredient quality, effectiveness, and long-term wellness support.
Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis
Clinical Study # 1 : Improving Knee Pain and Mobility in Osteoarthritis
Efficacy and Safety of Meriva®, a Curcumin-phosphatidylcholine Complex, during Extended Administration in Osteoarthritis Patients.
Summary: 100 adults with knee osteoarthritis were studied over 8 months. One group continued standard osteoarthritis care, while the other group used standard care plus Meriva® curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, taken daily at 1,000 mg/day.
Results: Adults that took curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), showed significant improvements in joint pain, stiffness, physical function, walking ability, and inflammatory markers compared with the control group. Total WOMAC score improved from 80.6 to 33.3, and walking distance increased from 77.3 meters to 344.4 meters. The study suggests that curcumin Phytosome (Meriva®) may support long-term joint comfort and mobility in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study # 2 : Improving Knee Pain and swelling in osteoarthritis
Efficacy and Tolerability of Boswellia serrata Extract in Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee – A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Figure Caption: The graph compares post-treatment symptom scores after 8 weeks. Participants who received Boswellia serrata extract reported lower pain, reduced swelling, and improved joint movement compared with the placebo group.
Summary: Thirty adults with knee osteoarthritis (ages between 45 to 72 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. Participants received either Boswellia serrata extract (333 mg, three times daily) or placebo for 8 weeks, followed by a washout period before switching treatments. Researchers evaluated knee pain, swelling, physical function, walking ability, and joint flexibility to assess the efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract.
Results: Adults who received Boswellia serrata extract reported significant reductions in knee pain and swelling, along with improved knee flexion, walking distance, stair climbing, and overall physical function compared with placebo. The extract was well tolerated, with only minor gastrointestinal side effects reported however no radiological change was observed. The study suggests that Boswellia serrata may help support joint comfort, mobility, and physical function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study # 3 : Reducing Osteoarthritis Pain in Overweight Adults
Fish oil supplementation reduces osteoarthritis-specific pain in older adults with overweight/obesity
Summary: 52 sedentary adults aged 50–80 years with overweight or obesity participated in a 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants received fish oil providing 400 mg EPA + 2,000 mg DHA per day, either alone or with curcumin, while the control groups received matching placebos. The study evaluated chronic pain, osteoarthritis (OA) burden, microvascular function, inflammation, and well-being.
Results: Participants who took fish oil experienced a 42% reduction in overall chronic pain compared with placebo (P = 0.013). Fish oil also significantly reduced pain scores and present pain intensity (both P = 0.012). OA burden was reduced by 40% after adjustment for baseline BMI (P = 0.050). These reductions in pain and OA burden can be seen in the graph, where the fish oil group showed greater decreases across the pain measures compared with the no-fish-oil group.
Clinical Study # 4 : Reducing Pain in Chronic Conditions
Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Summary:
Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis included 41 randomized controlled trials involving 3,759 participants with chronic pain i.e. pain lasting for more than 3 months. The researchers evaluated whether omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduced pain intensity and examined how the effects varied according to the type of disease, dosage, and treatment duration.
Results: Participants receiving omega-3 fatty acids experienced a moderate, statistically and clinically significant reduction in pain intensity compared with control treatments, with a standardized mean difference of −0.55 (95% CI: −0.76 to −0.34). The reduction was already significant after 1 month (SMD −0.27) and became greater after 6 months (SMD −0.83). Lower doses of omega-3 (≤1.35 g/day) produced a greater reduction in pain (SMD −0.60) than doses above 1.35 g/day (SMD −0.53). Significant pain reductions were observed in rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, and other chronic pain conditions.
Clinical Study # 5 : Improving Knee Pain & Function in osteoarthritis
A pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel Boswellia serrata extract in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee.
Fig caption : Radiological X-ray images of two patients (Subjects #06 and #09) with knee osteoarthritis, taken before and after 120 days of Boswellia serrata extract (BSE) treatment. After treatment, both patients showed a visible increase in the gap between the knee joints and disappearance of the bony spurs (osteophytes) that were present at baseline — indicating improvement in joint condition.
Summary: Forty-eight adults (mean age 58.7 ± 8.20 ) with knee osteoarthritis participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial lasting 120 days. Participants received either Boswellia serrata extract (Boswellin®; two tablets daily) or a placebo. The study evaluated whether Boswellia supplementation could improve knee pain, stiffness, physical function, walking ability, quality of life, and inflammatory markers while assessing overall safety and tolerability.
Results: Participants who received Boswellia serrata extract showed significantly greater improvements in knee pain, stiffness, physical function, walking distance, and overall WOMAC scores compared with placebo. Walking distance increased from 218.0 m to 297.3 m, while placebo showed only minimal improvement. The Boswellia group also demonstrated lower pain scores and reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, with no serious adverse events reported. The study suggests that Boswellia serrata may help support joint comfort, mobility, and healthy inflammatory balance in adults with knee osteoarthritis.
Clinical Study # 6 : Reducing Knee Pain in osteoarthritis
Effects of a Ginger Extract on Knee Pain in Patients with Osteoarthritis.
Figure Caption: The x-axis shows the study visits at Weeks 2 and 6, while the y-axis represents knee pain scores (lower scores indicate less pain). Participants receiving ginger extract reported greater reductions in knee pain while standing compared with those receiving placebo.
Summary: A total of 261 adults (age 42–70 years) with moderate-to-severe knee osteoarthritis participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial lasting 6 weeks. Participants received either a standardized ginger extract 170 mg extract twice daily or placebo, with acetaminophen permitted as rescue medication. The study evaluated whether ginger supplementation could reduce knee pain and improve physical function while assessing its safety and tolerability.
Results: Adults who received ginger extract experienced greater reductions in knee pain on standing and after walking compared with placebo. Sixty-three percent of participants receiving ginger met the treatment response criteria versus 50% in the placebo group. Improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced use of rescue medication also favored the ginger group, while most side effects were mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The study suggests that ginger extract may help support joint comfort and mobility in adults with knee osteoarthritis.
Muscle Strength & performance
Clinical Study # 7 : Reducing Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Examining the Effect of Withania somnifera Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Figure caption : Effect of Ashwagandha on muscle strength and size after 8 weeks of resistance training. Ashwagandha supplementation led to significantly greater gains than placebo in bench press strength (46.0 kg vs. 26.4 kg), leg extension strength (14.5 kg vs. 9.8 kg), arm size (8.9 cm² vs. 5.3 cm²), and chest size (3.4 cm vs. 1.4 cm), with no significant difference seen in thigh size.
Summary: A total of 57 healthy young men (aged 18 to 50 years) with little previous resistance-training experience participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial lasting 8 weeks. Participants completed a structured resistance-training program while receiving either 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract twice daily or placebo. The study evaluated whether Ashwagandha supplementation could improve muscle strength, muscle size, recovery, body composition, and exercise performance.
Results: Participants who received Ashwagandha root extract experienced significantly greater improvements in muscle strength, muscle size, and exercise recovery than those receiving placebo. The Ashwagandha group also demonstrated larger reductions in exercise-induced muscle damage and body fat percentage, along with greater increases in serum testosterone. The supplement was well tolerated throughout the study. The study suggests that Ashwagandha may help support muscle strength, recovery, and overall physical performance when combined with resistance training.
Clinical Study # 8 : Improving Balance & Explosive Strength
The Effects of Soft Tissue Mobilization and Vibration Therapy on Balance, Explosive Strength, and Functional Performance in Elite Rowers
Summary:
Summary: 45 elite-level male rowers were randomly assigned to three groups: instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM; n=15), percussion massage therapy (PMT; n=15), or control (n=15). Each intervention was performed as a single session. IASTM was performed using stainless-steel instruments, while PMT used a percussion massage device. Researchers assessed dynamic balance, explosive performance, and muscle strength.
Results: Both IASTM and PMT significantly improved dynamic balance and nondominant-limb explosive performance compared with control, with no significant differences between the two techniques for these outcomes. PMT produced greater improvements in muscle-strength measures than IASTM. These findings suggest IASTM may offer similar benefits to percussion massage for balance and explosive performance.
Inflammation & Biomarkers
Clinical Study # 9 : Improving Bone Health & Inflammation in osteoporosis
Effect of Ginger and Curcumin Co-Supplementation on Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Bone Turnover Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.
Summary:
Summary: A total of 120 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (mean age 58 years) participated in a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted over 16 weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to receive curcumin (500 mg/day), ginger (500 mg/day), curcumin plus ginger (500 mg + 500 mg/day), or placebo, while continuing their standard osteoporosis treatment. The study evaluated whether combining curcumin and ginger provided greater benefits for inflammation, antioxidant status, and bone turnover than either ingredient alone.
Results: Participants who received the curcumin and ginger combination demonstrated the greatest improvements in inflammatory and antioxidant markers compared with the individual treatment groups and placebo. The combination significantly reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) while increasing total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Improvements in bone turnover markers were also observed, suggesting enhanced overall therapeutic effects. The study suggests that curcumin and ginger combination proved to be statistically superior to the individual treatments across all outcomes
Clinical Study # 10 : Reducing Inflammation in Overweight Adults
Omega-3 Supplementation Lowers Inflammation in Healthy Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Summary:
Summary: 138 healthy, sedentary adults aged 40–85 years who were overweight or obese took part in a 4-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Participants were divided into three groups: a low-dose omega-3 group taking 1.25 g/day, a high-dose omega-3 group taking 2.5 g/day, and a placebo group. The researchers measured blood levels of inflammatory markers, including IL-6 (a protein involved in inflammation) and TNF-α (a protein that promotes inflammation), to see whether omega-3 supplementation affected inflammation.
Results: Participants taking omega-3 had lower levels of these inflammatory markers compared with those taking placebo. IL-6 decreased by 10% in the 1.25 g/day group and 12% in the 2.5 g/day group, while it increased by 36% in the placebo group. TNF-α changed by only 0.2% in the low-dose omega-3 group and decreased by 2.3% in the high-dose group, compared with a 12% increase in the placebo group. These differences between the omega-3 and placebo groups were statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the two omega-3 doses. A total of 133 of the 138 participants (96%) completed the study, and no significant differences in adverse events were found between the groups.
Mobility & Physical Recovery
Clinical Study # 11 : Reducing Exercise Induced Muscle sorness in Lower Limb
Reduction of delayed onset muscle soreness by a novel curcumin delivery system (Meriva®): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
Figure 3 Pain intensity: Patient-reported pain intensity in the right thigh (RT), left thigh (LT), right leg (RL), left leg (LL) and total pain score (the sum of the scores of each lower limb).
Summary: 19 healthy, moderately active men completed an intense downhill running test designed to cause muscle soreness. One group received placebo, while the other group took Meriva® curcumin phytosome twice daily for 4 days, starting 48 hours before exercise.
Results: Adults that took curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), reported less lower-limb pain compared with placebo, with significant reductions in both right and left anterior thigh pain. MRI results also showed fewer signs of muscle injury in the Meriva® group, especially in the posterior and medial thigh areas. The study suggests that curcumin phytosome (Meriva®), may help support post-exercise muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and protect against exercise-related muscle damage.
Clinical Study # 12 : Reducing Pain and Improving Mobility with IASTM
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain, function, and range of motion.
Summary:
Summary: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials involving 1,420 adults with musculoskeletal disorders evaluated instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), either alone or combined with conventional rehabilitation. The review examined its effects on pain, physical function, and range of motion across different musculoskeletal conditions.
Results: IASTM significantly reduced pain and improved range of motion, with large effects for both pain (SMD = −0.84) and range of motion (SMD = 0.80). Benefits were particularly consistent in spinal conditions, while combining IASTM with conventional rehabilitation produced more consistent pain relief than IASTM alone. Because IASTM uses handheld instruments to apply controlled pressure to soft tissues, these findings support the same tool-assisted approach used by our wooden massage tool, although the included studies used various IASTM instruments rather than our specific tool.
Clinical Study # 13 : Reducing Neck Pain in Cervical Disc Herniation
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and percussion massage therapy in cervical disc herniation: a randomized controlled study
fig : Vibration therapy applied with percussion massage device and Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization
Summary: 57 adults (mean age 45) with cervical disc herniation participated in a 3-week double-blind randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into three groups: conventional therapy (n=19), conventional therapy plus percussion massage therapy (n=19), or conventional therapy plus instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) (n=19). Treatments were given three times per week. Percussion massage was applied using a device at 33–40 Hz, while IASTM was performed using stainless-steel instruments. Researchers assessed pain, neck disability, fear of movement (kinesiophobia), and proprioception (the frbody’s ability to sense joint position and movement).
Results: All three groups showed significant improvements in pain, disability, kinesiophobia, and proprioception (P<0.001). Compared with conventional therapy alone, both IASTM and percussion massage produced greater improvements in pain, kinesiophobia, and proprioception. Pain at rest decreased by 4.00 points with IASTM, 3.38 points with percussion massage, and 2.13 points with conventional therapy. Neck disability scores improved by 11.47 points with IASTM and 12.11 points with percussion massage, compared with 6.63 points with conventional therapy. Improvements in proprioception were also greater with both techniques. Overall, IASTM and percussion massage produced comparable benefits, suggesting that instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques may help improve pain and function when added to conventional therapy.
Clinical Study # 14 : Reducing Joint Pain & Improving Function in Osteoarthritis
Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis
Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis combined results from 9 randomized controlled trials involving 2,070 adults (mean age 55 to 68 years) with osteoarthritis. Participants received omega-3 fatty acid supplementation or placebo/no additional treatment. Daily omega-3 doses ranged from 350 to 2,400 mg, with EPA and DHA amounts varying across studies. The studies followed participants for 1 to 63 months and evaluated arthritis pain, joint function, and treatment-related side effects.
Results: Participants receiving omega-3 supplementation experienced significantly less arthritis pain compared with those receiving placebo or no additional treatment (P = 0.002). Omega-3 supplementation also significantly improved joint function (P = 0.002) in 8 out of 9 studies. The improvement in pain was consistent across different pain assessment methods, omega-3 doses, EPA and DHA doses, and follow-up durations. The analysis also found that the benefits for pain were more pronounced among participants younger than 65 years. No severe treatment-related side effects were reported, and overall side effects were similar between the omega-3 and control groups.
Clinical Study # 15 : Relieving Upper Back Pain With a Massage Stick
Effects of traditional Thai self-massage using a Wilai massage stick(TM) versus ibuprofen in patients with upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points: a randomized controlled trial
Summary: 60 patients (mean age 42 years) with upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points were randomly assigned to a traditional Thai self-massage group using a Wilai massage stick™ or an ibuprofen group for 5 days. Both groups also performed the same daily stretching exercises. In the massage group, participants applied pressure to eight points along each of two massage lines on both sides of the upper back, gradually increasing pressure until mild pain was felt and holding it for 5 seconds at each point. Each session lasted approximately 12 minutes, including 10 minutes of massage and 2 minutes of stretching. Pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, tissue hardness, and cervical range of motion were assessed at baseline, immediately after the first treatment, and after 5 days.
Results: The massage-stick group showed significant improvements in pain, pressure pain threshold, tissue hardness, and cervical range of motion after treatment. The ibuprofen group also improved in most outcomes, but the massage group had significantly better adjusted post-test results than the ibuprofen group. The findings support a handheld massage stick as a practical tool for targeted self-massage of myofascial trigger points. This study closely aligns with our wooden massage tool, which is also designed for controlled, targeted pressure during self-massage.
Clinical Study # 16 : Gua Sha for Chronic Neck Pain
Effectiveness of traditional Chinese "gua sha" therapy in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial
Fig : Pain score. Means standard deviation of the visual analog scale pain score in the Gua sha and the control intervention groups during the 7-day course of the study
Summary: 48 outpatients with chronic mechanical neck pain, with an average age of 58.5 years, participated in an open randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into two groups: a gua sha group (n=24) and a control group (n=24). The gua sha group received one treatment using a smooth-edged instrument, while the control group received a local thermal heat pad. Participants were followed for 7 days. Researchers assessed neck pain as the primary outcome, along with pain during movement, neck disability, and quality of life.
Results: After 1 week, neck pain improved significantly more in the gua sha group than in the heat-pad group, with a between-group difference of −29.9 mm on the visual analog scale (95% CI: −43.3 to −16.6; P<0.001). Significant improvements were also found in pain during movement, neck disability, and several quality-of-life measures. The treatment was reported to be safe and well tolerated. The findings are particularly relevant to the scraping edge of the wooden massage tool, as gua sha uses a smooth-edged handheld instrument to apply repeated strokes to the body surface. This provides research evidence for the use of a shaped tool for targeted soft-tissue stimulation and supports the relevance of a scraping edge as a feature of the wooden massage tool.
Clinical Study # 17 : Reducing Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness After Exercise
Acute Effects of Manual Myofascial Release Alone or in Combination with Instrument or Percussion Device on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness
Summary:
Summary: 159 amateur athletes with delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) participated in a randomized controlled trial. Participants were assigned to three groups: manual myofascial release (MMR, n=73), MMR combined with instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (MMR+IASTM, n=47), or MMR combined with a percussion device massager (MMR+PDM, n=39). Each group received a single 40-minute treatment session, and pain was measured using a 0–10 visual analog scale immediately after treatment and again 24 hours later.
Results: Before treatment, pain scores were 4.63 for MMR, 4.79 for MMR+IASTM, and 5.59 for MMR+PDM, with no significant difference between groups (P=0.099). Immediately after treatment, pain decreased to 2.30 with MMR, 2.34 with MMR+IASTM, and 5.28 with MMR+PDM. At 24 hours, scores were 2.38, 2.82, and 4.44, respectively. MMR and MMR+IASTM both produced significantly better pain outcomes than MMR+PDM (P<0.001), while there was no significant difference between MMR and MMR+IASTM (P=0.714). These findings suggest that adding an instrument-assisted technique to manual massage produced similar short-term pain relief to manual massage alone, while adding a percussion device did not provide the same benefit. The findings are relevant to a non-percussive wooden massage tool designed for targeted soft-tissue work alongside manual massage.
Absorption & Bioavailability
Clinical Study # 18 : Improved Curcumin Absorption in the Body
Comparative Absorption of a Standardized Curcuminoid Mixture and Its Lecithin Formulation
Figure Caption: The x-axis shows time after supplementation (hours), while the y-axis shows the concentration of total curcuminoids in the blood (ng/mL). High-dose curcumin phytosome (◆) and low-dose curcumin phytosome (■) achieved substantially higher blood curcuminoid levels than the unformulated curcuminoid mixture (▲), demonstrating improved absorption.
Summary: Nine healthy adults participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study comparing curcumin phytosome (a curcumin-phospholipid complex) with an unformulated curcuminoid mixture. Each participant received three treatments on separate study days, including low-dose curcumin phytosome (209 mg curcuminoids), high-dose curcumin phytosome (376 mg curcuminoids), and an unformulated curcuminoid mixture (1,799 mg). Blood samples were collected over 24 hours to compare the absorption of curcuminoids into the bloodstream.
Results: Adults who received curcumin phytosome demonstrated approximately 29-fold greater curcuminoid absorption than those receiving the unformulated curcuminoid mixture. The phytosome formulation also achieved significantly higher blood concentrations of curcumin despite delivering lower doses. The study suggests that curcumin phytosome significantly improves the bioavailability of curcumin compared with raw curcuminoids, enhancing its absorption and bioavailability within the body.
Stress & Cortisol
Clinical Study # 19 : Reducing Stress & Anxiety in Adults
A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults.
Figure caption: Percentage reduction in stress, anxiety, and cortisol after 60 days — the larger the drop (more negative), the greater the improvement. Ashwagandha outperformed placebo across all four measures: Perceived Stress Scale (-44% vs. -5.5%), GHQ-28 (-72.3% vs. -2.3%), DASS (-71.6% vs. -5%), and serum cortisol (-27.9% vs. -7.9%)
Summary: Sixty-four adults with a history of chronic stress participated in a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants received either 300 mg of a high-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract twice daily or placebo for 60 days. The study evaluated whether Ashwagandha supplementation could reduce stress, anxiety, and serum cortisol levels while assessing its safety and overall tolerability.
Results: Adults who received Ashwagandha root extract showed significantly greater reductions in stress and anxiety scores compared with placebo. The Ashwagandha group also experienced a significant decrease in serum cortisol, a key marker of physiological stress, while reporting improvements in self reported well-being. The supplement was well tolerated, with only mild adverse effects reported. The study suggests that Ashwagandha may help support stress resilience, emotional well-being, and healthy cortisol levels in adults.
Cognition & Healthy Aging
Clinical Study # 20 : Improving Cognitive Function In Older Adults
Evaluation of Cognitive Performance following Fish-Oil and Curcumin Supplementation in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Overweight or Obesity
Summary: 152 adults aged 50–80 years with overweight or obesity participated in a 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were assigned to four groups: fish oil, curcumin, fish oil + curcumin, or placebo. The fish-oil group received 400 mg EPA + 2,000 mg DHA per day. Researchers assessed several areas of cognitive function, including processing speed, memory, language, cognitive flexibility, and overall cognitive performance.
Results: Participants receiving fish oil showed a significant improvement in processing speed in men compared with placebo after 16 weeks (P = 0.043). The improvement was also significant compared with the curcumin group (P = 0.008) and the fish oil + curcumin group (P = 0.012). In a specific processing-speed test, the fish-oil group also performed significantly better than placebo (P = 0.027). The study also found improvements in several cardiovascular risk factors, including systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and C-reactive protein (CRP), as well as improved cerebrovascular function. As shown in the figure, fish oil supplementation provided 2,000 mg DHA + 400 mg EPA per day, with changes in cardiovascular risk factors and cerebrovascular function being associated with improved cognitive function, specifically processing speed.
Clinical Study # 21 : Slowing Biological Aging with Omega-3
Individual and additive effects of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise on DNA methylation clocks of biological aging in older adults from the DO-HEALTH trial
Summary: 777 adults aged 70 years and older participated in this 3-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The study used an eight-group factorial design to examine vitamin D, omega-3, and exercise separately and in combination. Participants received 1 g/day of omega-3 (330 mg EPA + 660 mg DHA), 2,000 IU/day of vitamin D, a home exercise program, or combinations of these treatments, with a placebo group for comparison. Researchers measured four DNA methylation-based markers of biological aging: PhenoAge, GrimAge, GrimAge2, and DunedinPACE
Results: Participants taking omega-3 showed slower biological aging over the 3-year study, with improvements seen in 3 of the 4 biological-aging measures studied. The changes were equivalent to approximately 2.9–3.8 months of slower biological aging over the 3-year period. Vitamin D or exercise alone did not significantly change these measures. However, when omega-3 was combined with vitamin D and/or exercise, the benefit was greater for one of the aging measures (PhenoAge). As shown in the figure, omega-3 produced a consistent effect toward slower biological aging, while combining the treatments provided an additional benefit for PhenoAge.