Neuravena® and the brain: first clinical data

Preparations from green oat have traditionally been used to support mental health and cognitive function [1, 2]. This includes anxiety, tension, stress, excitation and neurasthenia, although the effectiveness has not been documented so far [3]. Using a bioactivity-guided approach a hydroalcoholic extract from wild green oat herb, Neuravena®, was developed. First proof of the efficacy of the extract on CNS indications was obtained in a behavioural rat study [4]. In a second stage the direct effects of Neuravena® on the brain were investigated, using a quantitative assessment of electric brain activity in freely moving rats. Here it could be shown that the extract changed electrical brain activity in all regions of the brain, especially in the area of the hippocampus. As the hippocampus is known to be closely connected to memory this finding was an important indication for the therapeutic activity of the extract.

Based on these findings the acute effect of Neuravena® on mental health and cognitive function in humans was investigated, using a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design with quantitative assessment of electric brain activity. 20 Healthy volunteers were included in the study that comprised of EEG recording during eyes open, eyes closed, performance of a concentration test and performance of mental arithmetic. Main effects were observed in the left fronto-temporal area, known to be involved in cognitive tasks. Statistically significant differences were observed during resting (lowering of spectral delta power) and during performance of the concentration test (enhancement of spectral theta power). A trend was seen towards an enhancement of theta power during performance of mental arithmetic.

Taken together, these changes suggest that oat herb extract might be effective in healthy subjects, resulting in a positive impact on cognitive performance.

References: [1] Müller I. Die pflanzlichen Heilmittel der Hildegard von Bingen. Salzburg: Otto Müller Verlag; 1990.

[2] Wichtl M. Teedrogen und Phytopharmaka, 4. Aufl. Stuttgart: Wissenschaftl. Verlagsges.; 2002

[3] Klein J, Blumenthal M, eds. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Austin TX: American Botanical Council; 1998

[4] Schellekens C et al. An extract from wild green oat improves rat behaviour. Phytother Res. Epub ahead of print; 2009