Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Volume 2013 (2013), Article ID 238454, 10 pages

http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/238454

Research Article

Effects of SuperUlam on Supporting Concentration and Mood: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study

Jay K Udani1,2

¹Medicus Research, LLC, 18250 Roscoe Boulevard, Suite 240, Northridge, CA 91325, USA

²Northridge Hospital Integrative Medicine Program, Northridge, CA 91325, USA

Received 16 July 2013; Accepted 4 October 2013

Academic Editor: Mani Vasudevan

Copyright © 2013 Jay K Udani. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract.

Background. SuperUlam is a proprietary blend of natural ingredients aimed at supporting brain health. We aimed to evaluate the effect of SuperUlam on attention and mood in healthy adults. Methods. Twenty healthy individuals aged 35–65 were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Study duration was 3 weeks and consisted of 3 visits. Measurement of cognitive function included computer-based testing of reaction time, complex attention, working memory, sustained attention, and executive functioning. Mood testing was performed via the profile of mood states (POMS) survey and the Chalder fatigue scale. Results. Cognitive function testing demonstrated a significant improvement from baseline in executive functioning, cognitive flexibility, reaction time, and working memory in the product group only (). When comparing the study product to placebo, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in tension, depression, and anger (). There was no significant difference between the product and placebo in the other measures of mood, including vigor, fatigue, confusion, and total mood disturbance. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions. Supplementation with SuperUlam is safe to consume with potential benefits to cognitive function and mood.

1. Introduction

In the past several years, much attention has been paid to products aimed at increasing energy, attention, and concentration. Products such as energy drinks, herbal supplements, and teas are often marketed to healthy individuals who wish to improve their cognitive health. Although popular and readily available, these products are not without risks. While consumption of one serving by a healthy adult may prove no harm, adverse cardiovascular and neurologic effects have been reported [1]. This has led to an increasing interest by consumers for safe products that can acutely increase concentration and memory.

Ginkgo biloba is a tree leaf extract commonly used as a memory and concentration enhancement. It has been investigated extensively both in patients with dementia or cerebral insufficiency as well as in healthy adults [2–5]. Plant extracts such as sireh (Piper betle) are used traditionally as stimulants throughout Asia. The spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), commonly found in Asian curries, has been described to have antioxidant and has neuroprotective effects [6]. A recent study demonstrated that consumption of curry-spiced foods was associated with increased Mini-Mental State Examination scores in healthy elderly individuals [6]. Pegaga (Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola) and curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) have both been shown to have neuroprotective effects in laboratory research [7, 8]. In Ayurvedic medicine, pegaga is known as a rejuvenating herb for nerve and brain cells and is thought to increase intelligence, longevity, and memory [7, 8]. Both vitamin C and vitamin E have been reported to have potential benefits to cognitive function in elderly patients and those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease [9, 10]. Ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus) is an annual plant found in tropical regions and is traditionally used in Malaysian culture for antiaging and vascular health. Extracts from this plant have been found to be high in proanthocyanidins, which are a class of flavanols that have antioxidant properties [11].

SuperUlam is a proprietary product containing extracts of sireh (Piper betle), turmeric (Curcuma longa), pegaga (Centella asiatica), curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), selasih (Ocimum basilicum), kesum (Polygonum minus), ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus), and vitamins C and E. We aim to evaluate the effects of this proprietary blend on areas of cognitive function and mood.

Cognitive testing is aimed at making quantitative assessments of cognitive capabilities and degree of high-level thinking. The CNS Vital Signs Systems is a computerized neurocognitive test battery comprised of seven tests: verbal memory, visual memory, finger tapping, symbol digit coding, the Stroop test, a test of shifting attention, and the continuous performance test. The results of the CNS Vital Signs System have been shown to be reliable and valid, compared with conventional neuropsychological tests upon which they are based [12].

There are a number of approaches toward testing of mood. POMS is a psychological rating scale used to assess transient, distinct mood states [13]. The moods included are tension, depression, anger, vigor, fatigue, confusion, and total mood disturbance. The Chalder fatigue scale is a self-rating measure for both physical and mental symptoms [14]. The scale consists of eight questions relating to physical symptoms and six questions relating to symptoms of mental fatigue. Items are scored in a Likert format, with response options ranging from “better than usual” to “much worse than usual.” Lower scores are preferable.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study aims to evaluate the effects of SuperUlam on cognitive function and mood in healthy adult subjects.

2. Methods

2.1. Subject Population

The study protocol and material were approved by an Institutional Review Board (Copernicus Group IRB, Cary, NC) and all subjects provided written informed consent prior to participation. This study was conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice Guidelines and the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Healthy volunteers were recruited from the general population by online recruiting, advertising, and available clinical trial databases. Recruitment and interventions were conducted at the StayWell Research study site located in Northridge, California. The inclusion and exclusion criteria are outlined in Table 1.

Table 1: Inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Inclusion criteria
Exclusion criteria

Age between 35–65 years
Active or history of substance or alcohol abuse

BMI between 18–30 kg/m²
History of major depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia

POMS score >15 at screening
Use of medications of ADD or ADHD

CNSVS score >6 at screening
Smoking

Caffeine intake of over four servings daily

(roughly 300–400 mg)

Use of any drugs or dietary supplements that may affect memory or mental performance

Pregnant or lactating

Any medical condition which in the opinion of the investigator might interfere with the subject’s participation in the trial

BMI: body mass index.

POMS: profile of mood states.

CNSVS: CNS vital signs.

2.2. Study Products

The intervention product tested was SuperUlam (Biotropics; Selangor, Malaysia). The product ingredients are listed in Table 2. The placebo, dispensed in a sensory identical, opaque capsule, was a combination of microcrystalline cellulose, calcium phosphate, and other inactive components. Both the study product and placebo product were provided by the sponsor and both were GMP certified.

Table 2: SuperUlam ingredients.

SuperUlam Capsule

Extracts

    Sireh extract
150 mg

    Turmeric extract
50 mg

    Pegaga extract
100 mg

    Curry leaf extract
50 mg

    Selasih extract
50 mg

    Kesum extract
150 mg

    Ulam Raja extract
25 mg

    Tocobeads
25 mg

    Ascorbic Acid
36 mg

    Vitamin E 50% CWS/S
8 mg

Other Ingredients

    Microcrystalline cellulose PH102
194 mg

    Calcium phosphate dibasic dihydrate
68 mg

    Sodium starch glycolate
25 mg

    Glyceryl behenate
37 mg

    Colloidal silicon dioxide
27 mg

Coating

    Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
14.9 mg

    Glycerin
5 mg

    Chlorophyll, sodium copper complex
0.56 mg

    Carnauba wax
0.12 mg

    Titanium oxide
8.9 mg

2.3. Study Design

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Simple randomization was prepared using a computer program based on the atmospheric noise method, and sequential assignment was used to determine group allocation. Group allocation was placed in individually numbered envelopes to maintain blinding of all individuals and study staff. Study subjects attended three visits, consisting of a screening visit followed by two visits where product is administered. Subjects were screened at visit 1 to determine study eligibility. This included detailed history and physical examination, questionnaires on alcohol use and compliance, POMS testing, and CNSVS testing. Prior to discharge, subjects were provided standardized food to consume prior to the next visit and instructed to fast for 10 hours and sleep between 4.5 and 5.5 hours the night before the next visit. Subjects were also asked to refrain from consuming caffeine 24 hours prior to baseline visit. On visit 2, subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of either the SuperUlam product or placebo. Testing consisted of CNSVS testing, the Chalder fatigue scale, and POMS scoring. After baseline testing was completed, the subject consumed the study product in clinic, and testing was then repeated every hour for five hours. Standardized food was provided during this time. Between visit 2 and visit 3, subjects underwent a seven-day washout period of any related supplements or stimulants. Crossover of study product was performed at visit 3, where subjects who had received placebo at visit 2 would receive product at visit 3, and those who received product at visit 2 would receive placebo at visit 2. Otherwise, previsit preparation and visit procedures were conducted in a manner identical to visit 2. Product was only consumed in clinic and no product was dispensed for home consumption.

2.4. Outcome Measures

The primary objective of this study was to assess the effects of the SuperUlam product compared to placebo on the ability to improve attention and memory. Endpoints included cognitive function measurements, which were assessed using the computer-based CNS Vital Signs System (CNSVSS) (Morrisville, NC). The secondary objective of this study was to assess the effects of the SuperUlam product compared to placebo on mood state which were measured by the POMS and the Chalder scales. Table 3 outlines the scoring system and definitions for the CNSVSS, POMS, and Chalder scales. The tertiary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of SuperUlam. Safety endpoints included vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate) and adverse event (AE) reporting.

Table 3: Scoring system for CNSVSS, POMS, and Chalder scales.

Scales and scoring
Definition
Units and normal range
Explanation

CNS vital signs

Cognitive flexibility
Measure of frontal lobe functioning
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher value represents a higher level of functioning

Reaction time
Average measure of two distinct attention components
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a longer reaction time

Complex attention
Combined measure of simple, choice, and shifting attention elements
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a higher level of attention

Working memory
Measures well-known “2-back” working memory
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a higher level of working memory

Sustained attention
Combined measure of three cascading attention tests each slightly more difficult than the previous.
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a higher level of sustained attention

Executive functioning
Measure of how well a subject deals with making correct decisions in a shifting rule and target environment
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a higher level of executive functioning

Processing speed
Scores how well a subject deals with moving across a keyboard based on keys and stimuli
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a longer processing speed

Average standard score
Composite score of overall cognitive function
Milliseconds Age-dependent
A higher score represents a higher level of overall cognitive function

POMS scoring

Tension
Assess transient, distinct mood state of tension
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates that subject tends to be fidgety, restless, and quickly frustrated with people

Depression
Assess transient, distinct mood state of depression
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates that subject feels complete and utter loss of hope and unable to carry out normal activities

Anger
Assess transient, distinct mood state of anger
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates the subject’s intensity of expressing anger at a particular time

Vigor
Assess transient, distinct mood state of vigor
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates that the subject is feeling cheerful, lively, alert, active, and carefree

Fatigue
Assess transient, distinct mood state of fatigue
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates more severe fatigue, fatigue distress, or impact on activities of daily living

Confusion
Assess transient, distinct mood state of confusion
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates that subject tends to feel mixed up and confused either with instructions or surrounding environment

Total mood disturbance
Composite score of distressed mood states
0–4 Likert scale No normal range
A higher score indicates anxiety, emotional suppression, and psychological distress

Chalder scales

Total physical
Self-rated 8-question scale of physical symptoms
0–3 Likert scale No normal range
High scores indicate an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases

Total mental
Self-rated 6-question scale regarding mental fatigue
0–3 Likert scale No normal range
High scores indicate presence of anxiety and depression

2.5. Statistical Analysis

Paired sample -tests were used for within subject means comparisons and independent sample -tests for between group comparisons (placebo versus active group). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Base System ver. 1.8 (IBM, Chicago IL, USA). values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

3. Results

Twenty-four subjects were screened to take part in this study. Of these, 20 were randomized and all 20 completed the study (Figure 1). Compliance was 100% for both placebo and product. Demographic data for the study participants is outlined in Table 4.

Table 4: Demographic data.

Baseline characteristics
Male
Female

10
10

Age (mean)
47.7
47.6

Age (range)
36–65
43–54

Weight in lbs (mean)
193.1
155.3

Weight in lbs (range)
169–216
120–190

BMI (mean)
27.2
26.4

BMI (range)
25–30
24–30

Menopausal %
NA
20%

Marital status

    Single
1
0

    Married
7
8

    Divorced
0
2

    Separated
2
0

    Widowed
0
0

    Domestic partner
0
0

Ethnicity

    White
3
2

    Asian
0
0

    African-American
1
0

    Hispanic/Latino
6
8

    American Indian/Alaska Native
0
0

    Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
0
0

    Other
0
0

Figure 1: Study attrition chart.

Baseline values for CNS Vital Signs testing found no significant difference between product and placebo groups. A significant increase in executive functioning was noted at hour 1 in the SuperUlam group compared with the placebo group () (Table 5). Otherwise, there was no significant difference in any of the other components of CNS Vital signs testing between product and placebo.

Table 5: Effect of treatment on CNS vital signs testing.

Units (ms)
Baseline (mean ± SE)
Hour 1 (mean ± SE)
Hour 2 (mean ± SE)
Hour 3 (mean ± SE)
Hour 4 (mean ± SE)
Hour 5 (mean ± SE)

SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo

Cognitive flexibility

Reaction time

Complex attention

Working memory

Sustained attention

Executive functioning

Processing speed

Average standard score

P < 0.05 versus placebo at this time point.

When comparing hour 5 to baseline, subjects receiving active study product demonstrated statistically significant improvement in cognitive flexibility (), reaction time (), working memory (), sustained attention (), and executive functioning (). Subject in the active group did show an increase in processing speed from baseline to hour 5 (), a higher speed meaning that the subject took longer to take the test. The overall composite score or the average standard score across all tests showed a statistically significant improvement from baseline to hour 5 ().

When comparing hour 5 to baseline, subjects receiving the placebo product demonstrated statistically significant worsening in reaction time () and processing speed (). Additionally, a significant worsening in working memory among the placebo group was noted when comparing baseline to hours 1 (), 2 (), 3 (), and 4 (). Subjects in the placebo group demonstrated improvement from baseline to hour 5 in sustained attention (). There was no statistically significant change in the average standard score between baseline and hour 5 in the placebo group.

Of the components of the POMS score at hour 5, when compared to placebo, the active product group demonstrated a significant improvement in depression () and anger (). Otherwise, there was no significant difference in any of the other components of POMS scoring between product and placebo at hour 5.

When comparing hour 5 to baseline, subjects receiving active study product demonstrated statistically significant improvement in tension (), depression (), anger (), vigor (), confusion (), and total mood disturbance (). Subjects receiving placebo demonstrated significant improvement in anger (), vigor (), confusion (), and total mood disturbance () (Table 6).

Table 6: Effect of treatment on POMS.

POMS
Baseline (mean ± SE)
Hour 1 (mean ± SE)
Hour 2 (mean ± SE)
Hour 3 (mean ± SE)
Hour 4 (mean ± SE)
Hour 5 (mean ± SE)

SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo

Tension

Depression

Anger

Vigor

Fatigue

Confusion

Total mood disturbance

P < 0.01 versus placebo at this time point; P < 0.05 versus placebo at this time point.

There were no significant differences between groups at any time point for the total physical or total mental scores on the Chalder fatigue scale (Table 7). There were no serious or other adverse events reported in this study, and safety laboratory parameters were not investigated.

Table 7: Effect of treatment on the Chalder fatigue scale.

Baseline (mean ± SE)
Hour 1 (mean ± SE)
Hour 2 (mean ± SE)
Hour 3 (mean ± SE)
Hour 4 (mean ± SE)
Hour 5 (mean ± SE)

SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo
SuperUlam
Placebo

Total physical

Total mental

4. Discussion

Interest in products aimed at improving cognitive performance and mood is steadily increasing. Younger individuals are interested in products that allow them to both study longer and increase energy for social life. As pharmaceutical agents are often plagued with side effects [15], many individuals are in search of a natural option for improving cognitive functioning and mood. Products containing Ginkgo biloba and natural sources of caffeine such as tea and guarana have been investigated in clinical trials and are readily commercially available [2–5, 16, 17]. Other products, such as energy drinks, may not be well researched, may be costly, may require large amounts, or may contain caffeine or other stimulants.

SuperUlam is a proprietary mixture of vitamins C and E as well as extracts from plants shown in laboratory research or traditional use to improve concentration, mood, and/or energy. Extracts of sireh (Piper betle), turmeric (Curcuma longa), pegaga (Centella asiatica), curry leaf (Murraya koenigii), selasih (Ocimum basilicum), kesum (Polygonum minus), and ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus) are included. Although the potential mechanisms of action for cognitive and mood improvements of these agents are not completely clear, there is evidence of neuroprotective effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and its constituent curcuminoids [18–21], as well as vitamins C and E (tocotrienols and tocopherols) [22–29] in animal models. Tocotrienols have been shown to reduce tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta in brain regions of ethanol-treated animals [24]. A recent review described in vitro in cell culture studies that suggest the signal transduction mechanisms that may be involved in the neuroprotective effects of curcumin in turmeric (Curcuma longa) [30].

Centella asiatica is used traditionally in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines as a brain tonic [7, 31–34]. The neuroprotective effects of Centella asiatica have been shown in various animal models [31, 32, 35], and the learning and memory-enhancing effects of a Centella asiatica extract were shown in a labyrinth test [36]. In an animal model, Centella asiatica also had antidepressant effects, reducing corticosterone levels and increasing levels of monoamine-related neurotransmitters [37].

Murraya koenigii (curry leaf extract) has also been shown to improve memory in animal models, perhaps by reducing cholinesterase activity [8, 38]. Ocimum basilicum has been traditionally used to support neuroprotection. An animal model has shown that extracts of Ocimum basilicum extract can improve memory and also have antioxidant effects [39]. Other constituents of SuperUlam with known antioxidant potential include Polygonum minus (kesum) [40], Cosmos caudatus (ulam raja), traditionally used to improve blood circulation, [11] and vitamins C and E [23, 25, 26, 41].

While this the first published human trial demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the proprietary SuperUlam product, evidence from other clinical trials demonstrates the effects of many of the individual ingredients found in SuperUlam. Early clinical evidence suggests improvement in cognitive function associated with Centella asiatica [42]. More recently, an aqueous extract of Centella asiatica standardized to constituent tannic acids, as well as asiaticoside and asiatic acid, improved cognitive performance in healthy men and women [43, 44] and in elderly subjects with mild cognitive impairment [45, 46].

In this study, SuperUlam was investigated for its ability to improve concentration and mood in healthy adults aged 35–65 years. Significant improvements were noted in multiple aspects of cognitive function and mood state. Of note, the data did demonstrate a worsening in processing speed in both active and placebo groups. We attribute this to fatigue related to performing the testing itself. This is of interest given that these subjects were all partially sleep deprived and had already experienced hours of testing. A loss of vigor and increased confusion would be expected at this stage. A reduction in confusion at this stage may be related to a higher level of mental clarity. Overall, the results suggest that SuperUlam improved concentration earlier in the study (approximately hours 1-2) and mood later in the study (hours 3–5) in healthy adults.

In conclusion, the SuperUlam product appears to have a neurostimulatory and neurocognitive performance enhancement effect, impacting various aspects of cognition and memory at different times between one and five hours after a single dose. The product also appears to induce a state of relaxation as evidenced by reductions in tension, anger, and depression between hour four and five after dosing. The results of this study suggest that this product may be of interest to generally healthy middle-aged adults.

We attribute the lack of statistical significance in our study to small sample size. A future higher-powered study is needed to investigate an appropriate number of individuals to generate further statistically significant results. Further animal and in vitro studies are needed in order to fully determine the mechanism of action. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic testing may be required to understand the dissolution, absorption, and activity characteristics of this product. There is also need for investigation in older individuals and young adults, as well as in adults using medications or with disorders that may increase the risk of cognitive impairment.

Acknowledgments

Medicus Research would like to thank Biotropics Malaysia Berhad for supporting this clinical trial and providing the treatment and placebo products. This study was conducted under the sponsorship of Biotropics Malaysia Berhad. The study design and protocol writing were a collaborative effort between Biotropics Malaysia Berhad and Medicus Research LLC; the Contract Research Organization (CRO) was chosen to run the clinical operations of this study. Medicus Research has ongoing research support grants from Biotropics Malaysia (Berhad, Malaysia). Jay K Udani has provided consulting services to Biotropics. Medicus Research does not endorse any brand or product.

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