In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 68 Japanese elders between the ages of 60 and 79 were given six capsules per day of a propolis extract or placebo for 24 weeks. Primary outcomes included improvements in cognitive functioning as measured by various cognitive tests, in addition to cholesterol and lipid levels via blood analysis. By the end of the study, those receiving propolis had significant improvements in verbal memory and processing speed (or the ability to process information more quickly). Significant reductions in total and LDL cholesterol were also observed. Propolis is a waxy substance that bees produce using materials collected from surrounding plants and trees to support the structural integrity and cleanliness of the hive. Research shows it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help preserve and protect brain cells. Propolis may also reduce the deposition of beta-amyloid plaques, toxic proteins that collect in the spaces between nerve cells, disrupting the cells’ ability to function and communicate. Both high total and LDL cholesterol, coupled with low HDL cholesterol, have been associated with greater amounts of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. Thus, through its cholesterol lowering effects, propolis may reduce beta-amyloid plaques and indirectly support brain and cognitive health.

Curcumin Supports Cognitive Function by Enhancing Brain Plasticity

A recent meta-analysis showed a significant positive effect of curcumin supplementation on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, indicating its ability to improve cognitive function through supporting brain plasticity, or the brain’s ability to adapt and learn new things throughout a lifetime. BDNF stimulates brain cell growth and new connections between brain cells, a process crucial for neuronal plasticity.

For the meta-analysis, published in 2019 in the journal Nutrition Research, researchers examined data from several randomized controlled trials in humans on curcumin supplementation and BDNF. The authors concluded that curcumin supplements significantly increased BDNF levels. Especially strong results were seen in women, participants over 40 years old, those with higher doses of curcumin (greater than or equal to 500 milligrams per day), and those who supplemented with curcumin for at least eight weeks.

BDNF production decreases with age and contributes to the typical indicators seen in age-related cognitive decline, but can be optimized through exercise, reducing stress, nutrition, and supplements such as curcumin.

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