Fenugreek

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Fenugreek

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What can Fenugreek do for you?

Our Fenugreek extract utilises the power of the seed powder which is rich in the bioactive saponin glycosides. Our Fenugreek extract contains these bioactive compounds at a uniquely high strength of 60%.

Clinical trials have shown fenugreek extract helps regulate hormones (such as oestradiol and testosterone) and improve symptoms of low libido, energy and exercise endurance. Fenugreek is also particularly beneficial for managing symptoms such as hot flushes, low mood, night, sweats and poor sleep.

If you’d like more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of fenugreek, follow the links below.


The Studies

Influence of a Specialized Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract (Libifem), on Testosterone, Estradiol and Sexual Function in Healthy Menstruating Women, a Randomised Placebo Controlled Study - PubMed (nih.gov)

Rao A., Steels E., Beccaria G., Inder W., Vitetta L., 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extract on sex hormones and sexual function in healthy menstruating women who reported low sexual drive. This double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 80 women, aged 20 to 49 years. Participants were randomised to either an oral dose of a standardised T. foenum-graecum seed extract or a placebo daily over two menstrual cycles.

There was a significant increase in free testosterone and oestradiol in the treatment group as well as sexual desire, arousal, sexual cognition, arousal, experience, and relationship compared with the placebo group. The results indicate that this extract of T. foenum-graecum may be a useful treatment for increasing sexual arousal and desire in women.

 

Efficacy of a Proprietary Trigonella foenum-graecum L. De-Husked Seed Extract in Reducing Menopausal Symptoms in Otherwise Healthy Women: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study - PubMed (nih.gov)

E Steels, M L Steele, M Harold, S Coulson. 2017

A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial that recruited 115 women aged 40 to 65 years. 59 participants received treatment with T. foenum-graecum (fenugreek) de-husked seed extract daily for 12 weeks and 54 participants received a placebo.

There was a significant reduction in menopausal symptoms in the treatment group compared with placebo as assessed by total MENQOL score; reflected by statistically significant improvements in the vasomotor, psychosocial, physical and sexual symptom domains. Vasomotor outcomes correlated with hot flushes, with the treatment group reporting significantly less daytime hot flushes and night sweats at 12 weeks.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:

Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results. Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Ginkgo Biloba

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Ginkgo Biloba

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer reviewed journals.


What can Ginkgo Biloba do for you?

Ginkgo Biloba is effective for inflammation, blood flow, cognition and libido.

Ginkgo Biloba is made up of terpenes, flavonoid glycosides and phytoestrogens. These bioactive compounds inhibit platelet activating factors which induces direct effects on prostaglandins, causing relaxation in the smooth muscle. This influences nitric oxide (NO) production, which plays a critical role in blood vessel dilation and increasing blood flow.

Through this mechanism, Ginkgo Biloba also allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach tissues, including the brain, which may contribute to improved cognitive function such as memory and focus.


The Studies

Triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba extract on sexual desire in postmenopausal women

Mina Amiri Pebdani, Simin Taavoni, Naima Seyedfatemi, Hamid Haghani. 2014

A triple-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of 80 healthy female volunteers. The participants received Ginkgo Biloba extract at a dose of 120-240 mg (n = 40) or received a placebo (n = 40) daily for 30 days

The aim of the study was to examine the effect of Ginkgo Biloba extract on sexual desire in postmenopausal women.

The study was categorised into two parts. The first part covered the personal characteristics of volunteers, and the second part used the Sabbatsbery Sexual Rating Scale to subjectively evaluate sexual desire before and after intervention after 30 days. Results showed there was a significant increase in sexual desire in the treatment group compared to the placebo, concluding that Ginkgo Biloba had a positive effect on sexual desire in women.

 

A systematic review of clinical trials on Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) effectiveness on sexual function and its safety

Zahra Niazi Mashhadi, Morvarid Irani, Mahin Kiyani Mask and Clara Methie. 2021

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the current evidence for Ginkgo Biloba extract for treating sexual dysfunction.

5 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with 475 participants were selected for this study. A meticulous review of the RCTs found there were significant improvements in sexual functioning in postmenopausal women.

 

The impact of Ginkgo biloba tablet and aromatherapy inhaler combination on sexual function in females during postmenopausal period: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

Malakouti J, Jabbari F, Asghari-Jafarabadi M, Javadzadeh Y, Farshbaf-Khalili A. 2017.

Aim: To evaluate the use of aroma therapy alongside Ginkgo Biloba combination on the decrement of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women.

This study was a double-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial with 180 postmenopausal women which were categorised into three groups. One group was given Ginkgo Biloba on its own and placebo aroma, the second group was given the aroma and Ginkgo Biloba together and the third group had placebo aroma and placebo Ginkgo Biloba. The results showed there was a positive impact on sexual function with the Ginkgo Biloba tablet alone.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:

Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results. Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p-value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Saffron

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Saffron

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer-reviewed journals.


What can Saffron do for you? (Saffrosun Calm and Saffrosun Energy)

Research is now showing that a variety of mental health conditions are affected by the health of the gut, not just the central nervous system. Saffron helps reduce the reactivity of the nervous system to stress because it helps the body to cope better, sleep better and react better to nervousness and mood imbalance. 

Safranal is the primary bioactive in saffron. We know it’s most effective at a concentration of 3.5% so that’s what you’ll find in our Saffrosun supplement. Saffron has multiple polyphenolic and flavonoid bioactives within its flower. It has three bioactives that are carotenoid type compounds, related to the carotenoids found in carrots, but with a different chemical structure.

The primary bioactives are Safranal, Crocin, and Picrocrocin and are compounds with multiple effects on different bodily systems. Research shows that saffron bioactives work on serotonin production in the gut, where 90% of the happy hormone is produced.

What can Saffron do for you? (Ashwadisiac for Women)

The primary bioactives are Safranal, Crocin and Picrocrocin, these compounds have multiple effects on different bodily systems. Research shows that saffron bioactives work on serotonin production in the gut, where 90% of the happy hormone is produced.

The Saffron used in our Ashwadisiac for Women contains the highest concentration of the three bioactives at 10.5%. 

If you’d like more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of saffron, follow the links below.


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on saffron are published in the following peer reviewed journals:


Study: The Effects of a Saffron Extract on Menopausal Symptoms in Women during Perimenopause: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study 12-week, parallel-group, double-blind, randomised controlled trial 86 female participants.

The aim of this study was to examine the tolerability and efficacy of a standardised saffron extract on menopausal complaints in perimenopausal women. Based on data collected from 82 participants, saffron was associated with greater improvements in mood and psychological symptoms compared to the placebo.

There was also a significantly greater reduction in the PANAS negative affect score (P = 0.043) compared to the placebo. Saffron intake was well tolerated with no reported major adverse events.

The authors concluded that the saffron extract, administered for 12 weeks at a dose of 14 mg twice daily was associated with greater improvements in psychological symptoms.

Further studies in perimenopausal women presenting with varying severity of menopausal symptoms, using different doses of saffron will be useful to examine in future clinical trials.

Study: Comparison of petal of Crocus sativus L. and fluoxetine in the treatment of depressed outpatients: a pilot DB RCT by Akhondzadeh Basti A et al, 2007RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 40 Human participants— P value: <0.0001.

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the petal of C. sativus with fluoxetine in the treatment of depressed outpatients in an 8-week pilot double-blind randomized trial.

The authors concluded that the petal of C. sativus was found to be similarly effective as fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression and the study is supportive of other clinical trial studies which demonstrate the antidepressant effect of C. sativus.

Study: A DB, RCT, placebo-controlled trial of saffron stigma (Crocus sativus L.) in mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depression by Tabeshpour J et al, 2017— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 60 Human participants— P value: <0.01.

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depressive disorder (PPD). The authors concluded that the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) when administered to treat minor PPD in breastfeeding mothers, had a more significant impact on the BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition) than the placebo.

Study: Crocin, the main active saffron constituent, as an adjunctive treatment in major depressive disorder: RCT, DB, pilot clinical trial by Talaei A et al, 2014— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 40 Human participants— P value: <0.0001.

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of crocin, the main active constituent of saffron, as an adjunctive treatment in major depressive disorder (MDD). The authors concluded that the effect of crocin had a positive impact on symptoms of depression and could be considered for administration in the treatment of  MDD.

Study: A DB, RCT and placebo-controlled trial of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in the treatment of anxiety and depression by Mazidi M et al, 2016— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 60 Human participants— P value: <0.001.

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of saffron extract for the treatment of anxiety and depression using a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial design. The authors concluded that saffron supplements had a significantly positive effect on the BDI and BAI scores of subjects in comparison to the placebo, and that saffron appears to have a significant impact in the treatment of anxiety and depression disorder.

Study: Efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) in treatment of major depressive disorder associated with post-menopausal hot flashes: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 60 Human participants— P value: <0.001.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of saffron (stigma of Crocus sativus) in the treatment of major depressive disorder associated with post-menopausal hot flashes. Fifty-six patients completed the trial.

Results from this study revealed that saffron is a safe and effective treatment in improving hot flashes and depressive symptoms in post-menopausal healthy women. On the other hand, saffron, with fewer side effects, may provide a non-hormonal and alternative herbal medicine option in the treatment of women with hot flashes.

Study: An investigation into an evening intake of a saffron extract on sleep quality, cortisol, and melatonin concentrations in adults with poor sleep: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-dose study. Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Drummond PD (published 14 Jan 2022)— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 102 Human participants— P value: <0.001.

The aim of this study was to assess the the effect of saffron extract on sleep quality and melatonin concentrations in participants with poor sleep quality. The active treatment contained 14 mg (low-dose) or 28 mg (high-dose) of saffron product, standardized to more than 3.5% lepticrosalides, a measure of the bioactive compounds in saffron (including safranal and crocin isomers). The placebo tablets contained microcrystalline cellulose and calcium hydrogen phosphate.

All participants took one tablet daily, one hour before bedtime, with or without food, for 28 days. Forty participants were randomly assigned each the low-dose saffron extract, high-dose saffron extract, and placebo groups.

The authors concluded that saffron extract supplementation was associated with improved sleep quality ratings and mood upon awakening and increases in evening salivary melatonin concentrations in participants with poor sleep quality.

Study: Saffron for treatment of fluoxetine-induced sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study Ladan Kashani et al. 2012

Thirty-eight women with major depression who were stabilised on fluoxetine 40mg/day for a minimum of 6 weeks and had experienced subjective feelings of sexual dysfunction entered the study. The patients were randomly assigned to saffron or placebo for 4 weeks. Results showed that the patients receiving saffron therapy experienced statistically significant improvements in sexual problems including arousal, lubrication, and pain. 


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:

Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results.

Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI, BDI-1A, BDI-II): A 21-question multiple-choice self-report inventory created by Aaron T. It’s one of the most widely used psychometric tests for measuring the severity of depression.

Ashwagandha

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Ashwagandha

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer reviewed journals.


What can Ashwagandha do for you?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a popular herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is native to India and has been researched for its unique abilities to help our bodies manage stress, support emotional well-being and promote athletic performance.

Ashwagandha has adaptogenic properties, which means that it supports our nervous system to better cope with stress and nervousness. This is achieved by helping to reduce our body’s natural cortisol levels (the stress hormone). It has aphrodisiac qualities that can have a positive impact on our overall sexual wellness: improving libido, arousal and overall sexual satisfaction.

Research shows that ashwagandha supports the nervous system by acting on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are located at the base of our brain, and the adrenal glands are located on top of our kidneys. These three glands communicate with each other to regulate hormones in our bodies. When our bodies sense a threat or stressor, the hypothalamus starts a cascade of steps to initiate a stress response which leads to the adrenal gland producing more cortisol.

The primary bioactive found in Ashwagandha is Withanolide glycosides which are responsible for the physiological benefits in our body. In Ashwadisiac for Women, you’ll find the standardised strength of 35% Withanolide glycosides, making it the strongest Ashwagandha on the market as most other supplements only contain 5%. This enables us to use a lower, safe and effective dose of Ashwagandha in our supplements.

Our Ashwagandha has been clinically tested to ensure high bioavailability and safety to guarantee results.

If you’d like more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of Ashwagandha, follow the links below.


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims are published in the following peer review journals:

Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract for Improvement of Sexual Health in Healthy Women: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

Ashutosh Ajgaonkar, Mukta Jain, Khokan Debnath. 2022

In this prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled study, 80 women between 18 and 50 years of age without any hormonal disturbances with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) were included. It was concluded in the study above that regular administration of Ashwagandha twice daily for eight weeks improves the female sexual health in otherwise healthy women who do not have any hormonal disturbances. Ashwagandha is a known adaptogen, that maintains general well-being and improves vitality.

Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study - PMC

Alexander Muacevic and John R Adler. 2019

In this eight-week, prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the stress-relieving effect of Ashwagandha root extract was investigated in 60 stressed healthy adults. Serum cortisol levels were reduced with both Ashwagandha supplementation when compared to the placebo group participants. The participants receiving Ashwagandha had significant improvement in sleep quality.

Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study - PubMed (nih.gov)

Swati Dongre, Deepak Langade, Sauvik Bhattacharyya, 2015

Aim: To determine the efficacy and safety of a high concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract is improving sexual function in healthy women. Measured by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFH) questionnaire and Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS).

A prospective, double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial with 50 women was conducted. One group was given Ashwagandha (n=25) at high concentration full-spectrum root twice daily for 8 weeks and the other group who were given a placebo (n=25) at the same dosage. The results concluded Ashwagandha root extract resulted in a 122.6% improvement in FSFI scores with baseline difficulties with desire, arousal, orgasm, satisfaction and pain have significant improvement.

A Standardized Withania Somnifera Extract Significantly Reduces Stress-Related Parameters in Chronically Stressed Humans: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study (researchgate.net)

This study investigated the effects of standardised WS (Withania Somnifera) root and leaf extract in 98 chronically stressed humans in a clinical trial. Participants were randomly assigned to WSE (125 mg four times daily, 125 mg twice daily, or 250 mg twice daily) or placebo groups. Stress levels were assessed at Days 0, 30, and 60 using a modified Hamilton anxiety (mHAM-A) scale and biochemical and clinical variables were measured at Days 0 and 60.

The WSE 125 mg four times daily group decreased significantly more than placebo for mean mHAM-A score, serum cortisol, serum C-reactive protein, pulse rate and blood pressure. Therefore, this study provides evidence that the consumption of WS root and leaf extract significantly reduces experiential and biochemical indicators of stress without adverse effects.

Can Ashwagandha Leaf be Replaced with its Root in Therapeutics? A Review through Published Literature - (www.phcogres.com)

A review looking at 42 papers on the use of ashwagandha leaf and root extracts. Ashwagandha leaf studies shows numerous bioactive compounds as present in its root. It can become a lead for neurodegenerative, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory purposes.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:

Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results. Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p-value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Bergamot

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Bergamot

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.


We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the exact same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What can Bergamot do for you?

Research is now showing that the four specific polyphenols in high strength organic bergamot fruit extract provide effective support for managing weight and cholesterol, by binding to bad fats in the gut.

Naringin, Neohesperidin, Melitidine and Bruteridin are the primary bioactives in bergamot. We know they’re most effective at a concentration of 35% so that’s what you’ll find in our Metabolic Gold supplement.

Research has shown that these bioactives directly block cholesterol production. They also influence the enzymes in the liver when processing fats, without causing interactions with conventional medications. Studies have shown that using Bergamot extract alongside a statin enables the statins to be effective at lower doses.If you’d like for more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of bergamot, follow the links below.

Metabolic Gold

 


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on bergamot are published in the following peer review journals:


Study: Bergamot polyphenolic fraction enhances rosuvastatin-induced effect on LDL-cholesterol, LOX-1 expression and protein kinase B phosphorylation in patients with hyperlipidemia by Gliozzi M et al, 2013 RCT Randomised placebo controlled 77 Human participants.

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of an enhanced effect of bergamot-derived polyphenolic fraction (BPF) on rosuvastatin-induced hypolipidemic and vasoprotective response in patients with mixed hyperlipidemia.

The authors concluded that the addition of BPF to rosuvastatin significantly enhanced the effect of rosuvastatin on serum lipemic profile, compared to rosuvastatin alone. This lipid-lowering effect was associated with significant reductions of biomarkers used for detecting oxidative vascular damage, suggesting a multi-action enhanced potential for BPF in patients on statin therapy.

 

Study: Bergamot Reduces Plasma Lipids, Atherogenic Small Dense LDL, and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Subjects with Moderate Hypercholesterolemia: 6 Months Prospective Study by Peter P. Toth et al, 2016 RCT Randomised placebo controlled 80 Human participants.

The aim of this study was to fully investigate the effects of a Bergamot extract on cardio-metabolic parameters, including plasma lipids, atherogenic lipoproteins and subclinical atherosclerosis. The authors concluded that bergamot fruit extract supplementation significantly reduced plasma lipids and improved the lipoprotein profile. Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was also reduced significantly over a relatively short time frame of 6 months.

 

Study: Hypoglycemic and Hypolipemic effects of a New Lecithin Formulation of Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction: A Double Blind Randomised, PLacebo Controlled Study by V. MOLLACE ET AL, 2018 Randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled trial 60 human participants.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of standard bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF®) as well as of its phytosomal formulation (BPF Phyto), in patients with type 2 DM and hyperlipemia.

Results

In the groups receiving BPF and BPF Phyto, a significant reduction of fasting plasma glucose, serum LDL cholesterol and triglycerides accompanied by increased HDL cholesterol was observed. This effect was associated with significant reduction of small dense atherogenic LDL particles, as detected by means of proton NMR Spectroscopy, thus confirming the hypolipemic and hypoglycemic effect of bergamot extract both when using standard formulation as well as BPF Phyto.

 

Study: The Effect of Bergamot derived Polyphenolic Fraction on LDL Small Dense Particles and Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Patients with Metabolic syndrome. Micaela Gliozzi, Cristina Carresi, Vincenzo Musolino, Ernesto Palma, Carolina Muscoli, Cristiana Vitale, Santo Gratteri, Giuseppe Muscianisi, Elzbieta Janda, Saverio Muscoli, Francesco Romeo, Salvatore Ragusa, Rocco Mollace, Ross Walker, James Ehrlich, Vincenzo Mollace*Randomised, placebo controlled 107 human participants

Results

In this study, the group receiving BPF 650 mg twice a day showed a significant reduction of fasting plasma glucose, serum LDL cholesterol and triglycerides alongside with an increase of HDL cholesterol. This effect was accompanied by significant reduction of both ultrasonographic and metabolic biomarkers of NAFLD. Moreover, a significant reduction of small dense LDL particles, as detected via proton NMR Spectroscopy, was found.

 

Turmeric

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Turmeric

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the exact same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What can Turmeric do for you?

Research is now showing that the bioactives in turmeric have produced significantly beneficial effects on joint and muscle discomfort and long term joint conditions, as well as sports performance and recovery.

 

 


Curcuminoids are the primary bioactives in turmeric. We know they’re most effective at a concentration of 95% so that’s what you’ll find in our Natruflex supplement. Curcuminoids are chemicals that are bioactive, which means they influence biochemical systems in the body. There are seven curcuminoid-type compounds in turmeric, and curcumin is just one of them.If you’d like for more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of turmeric, follow the links below.


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on turmeric are published in the following peer review journals:


Study: A randomized, pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis by Chandran B et al, 2012— RCT Randomised placebo controlled, 45 Human participants.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of curcumin alone, and in combination with diclofenac sodium in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The authors concluded that patients in all three treatment groups showed statistically significant changes in their Disease Activity Score (DAS) scores.

Interestingly, the curcumin group showed the highest percentage of improvement. Their results were significantly better than the patients in the diclofenac sodium group. More importantly, curcumin treatment was found to be safe and did not relate with any adverse events.

Study: Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in patients with knee osteoarthritis by Kuptniratsaikul V et al, 2009— RCT Randomised placebo controlled,— 107 Human participants— P value: 0.016.

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with knee osteoarthritis.The authors concluded that C. domestica extracts seem to be similarly efficacious and as safe as ibuprofen for the treatment of knee OA.

Study: Safety and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin: a component of tumeric (Curcuma longa) by Chainani-Wu N, 2003.

The aim of this study was to summarise the literature on the safety and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin. A large number of studies on curcumin were identified. These included studies on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties of curcuminoids.

The laboratory studies have identified a number of different molecules involved in inflammation that are inhibited by curcumin including phospholipase, lipooxygenase, cyclooxygenase 2, leukotrienes, thromboxane, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), interferon-inducible protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin-12 (IL-12).

Curcumin has been demonstrated to be safe in six human trials and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity. It may exert its anti-inflammatory activity by inhibition of a number of different molecules that play a role in inflammation.

Study: Evaluation of anti-inflammatory property of curcumin (diferuloyl methane) in patients with postoperative inflammation by Satoskar RR et al, 1986

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin (diferuloyl methane) in comparison with phenylbutazone and a placebo.

Phenylbutazone and curcumin produced a better anti-inflammatory response than the placebo.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:


Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results.

Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Olive Leaf

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Olive Leaf

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the exact same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What can olive leaf do for you?

Research is now showing that Olive Leaf with Elenolic Acid (ELA) is a safe and effective natural supplement which has been clinically proven to help protect and support your immune system.

It can be taken either to help prevent you getting ill or during periods of illness to aid recovery. Olive leaf that is grown in optimum climatic conditions, such as in Northern Spain, has been shown to contain unusually high active oleuropein levels which are then converted to a high concentration of the bioactive elenolic acid (ELA).

ELA is the primary bioactive in our Olive Leaf supplement. We know it’s most effective at a concentration of 4% so that’s what you’ll find in our supplement. If you’d like for more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of olive leaf, follow the links below.


 The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on olive leaf and elenolic acid are published in the following peer review journals:

Role of oleic acid in immune system; mechanism of action; a review by Carrillo C et al, 2012.

The aim of this study was to collate all the reports available in order to analyse as well as summarise all the knowledge concerning oleic acid.

The authors concluded that oleic acid could be reported as an anti-inflammatory fatty acid playing a role in the activation of different pathways of immune competent cells.


 

Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:

Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results. Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Artichoke Leaf

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Artichoke Leaf

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.

We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the exact same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What Can Artichoke Leaf Extract do for you?

Research is now showing that Artichoke Leaf Extract is a safe and effective natural supplement which has been clinically proven to help balance cholesterol and sugar levels.


Cynarin, the bioactive in artichoke leaf extract, is most effective at a concentration of 5% so that’s what you’ll find in our supplement, Metabolic Gold. Research shows that cynarin is effective in stimulating bile acid production which will lead to lower cholesterol levels, accelerating gut movement and improving the digestion of certain fats. Cynarin has also been proven to modulate the activity of the enzyme, alpha-glucosidase, which helps with sugar metabolism and also demonstrates significant liver protective and regenerating effects.If you’d like for more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of artichoke leaf extract, follow the links below.


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on artichoke leaf extract are published in the following peer review journals:


STUDY: The Metabolic Effects of Cynara Supplementation in Overweight and Obese Class I Subjects with Newly Detected Impaired Fasting Glycemia. M Rondanelli et al, 2020. Double blind randomised placebo controlled trial, 54 human participants.

AIM: To investigate whether a new highly standardised artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus) could improve glycemic control, insulin sensitivity and other metabolic parameters (total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) Triglycerides and waist circumference in overweight subjects with newly diagnosed impaired fasting glucose (IFG).

CONCLUSION: Artichoke leaf extract supplementation had a significant effect on metabolic parameters in impaired fasting glucose patients.

 

STUDY: Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Y Panahi et al, 2018. Double blind randomised placebo controlled trial, 100 human participants.

AIM: This study sought to determine if artichoke leaf extract had therapeutic utility in patients with established non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

CONCLUSION: Artichoke leaf extract supplementation reduced total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations.

 

STUDY: Artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus) reduces plasma cholesterol in otherwise healthy hypercholesterolemic adults. R. Bundy et al, 2008. Double blind randomised placebo controlled trial, 75 human participants.

AIM: The objective of this trial was to assess the effect of artichoke leaf extract on plasma lipid levels in otherwise healthy adults with mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia.

CONCLUSION: Plasma total cholesterol decreased in the treatment group by an average of 4.2% and increased in the control group by an average of 1.9%, the difference between groups being statistically significant.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:


Randomised clinical trial: a clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: a study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilised to prevent bias in research results.

Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: an inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: the probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.

Black Garlic

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Black Garlic

Read More

At The Naked Pharmacy, we ensure that all of our supplements are made with effective strength bioactives, so they are clinically proven to work.


We aim for each supplement to be scientifically supported by multiple randomised placebo-controlled studies. All clinical trial studies we use to support our supplements are undertaken on human patients, using the exact same dosage and formulation of the product. The scientific studies are published in peer review journals.


What can Black Garlic do for you?

Research is now showing that black garlic is a natural remedy for helping to maintain healthy blood pressure, as well as protecting the cardiovascular system.


S-Allyl cysteine has been clinically proven to effectively reduce cardiovascular risks and circulatory problems as well as support immune and gut health.(SAC) s-allyl cysteine is the primary bioactives in aged black garlic. It is an organic compound that is produced when white garlic is fermented over several months. It is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine in which an allyl group has been added to the sulphur atom.If you’d like for more information on the available evidence which details and supports the efficacy of aged black garlic, follow the links below.


The Studies

The scientific studies to support our claims on aged black garlic are published in the following peer review journals:


Study: The effect of aged garlic extract on blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors in uncontrolled hypertensives: the AGE at Heart trial by Ried K et al, 2016— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 88 Human participants— P value: <0.001.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of aged garlic extract on central blood pressure and arterial stiffness, both regarded as important risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity.

The authors concluded that aged black garlic extract is effective in reducing peripheral and central blood pressure in a large proportion of patients with uncontrolled hypertension, and has the potential to improve arterial stiffness, inflammation, and other cardiovascular markers in patients with elevated levels. Aged black garlic extract was highly tolerable with a high safety profile as a stand-alone or adjunctive antihypertensive treatment.

Study: Aged garlic extract reduces blood pressure in hypertensives: a dose-response trial by Ried K et al, 2012— RCT Randomised placebo controlled— Double Blind— 79 Human participants— P value: 0.006.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect, dose-response, tolerability and acceptability of different doses of aged garlic extract as an adjunct treatment to existing antihypertensive medication in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.

The authors concluded that aged black garlic extract is an effective and tolerable treatment in uncontrolled hypertension, and may be considered as a safe adjunct treatment to conventional antihypertensive therapy.

Study: Effects of an optimised aged garlic extract on cardiovascular disease risk factors in moderate hypercholesterolemic subjects by Valls RM et al., 2022-RCT Crossover Randomised Placebo Controlled-Double Blind-67 Human participants-DBP p=0.007.

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of daily intake of a well-characterised Aged Black Garlic (ABG) extract with a standardized S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) yield in combination with dietary recommendations regarding CVD risk factors in individuals with moderate hypercholesterolemia.

The participants consumed 250 mg (1.25 mg SAC) of ABG a day or a placebo for 6 weeks, with 3 weeks of washout.At 6 weeks, ABG extract reduced diastolic blood pressure (DBP) compared to the placebo, particularly in men with a DBP > 75 mm Hg.

The authors concluded that the consumption of an improved ABG extract with 1.25 mg of SAC decreased DBP, particularly in men with moderate hypercholesterolemia. The potential beneficial effects of ABG may contribute to obtaining an optimal DBP.

Study: Aged Garlic Extract Prevents a Decline of NK Cell Number and Activity in Patients with Advanced Cancer by Hideki Ishikawa et al.2006-Randomised double-blind controlled trial-50 Human participants- NK activity % P < 0.01 after 3 months compared with the value before treatment.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) on the Quality Of Life (QOL) and immune functions of patients with advanced cancer. The study's subjects were patients with inoperable colorectal, liver, or pancreatic cancer. AGE was administered to one group and a placebo was administered to another for 6 months. The daily dose (4 capsules), contained 500 mg of AGE, the placebo capsules contained 951.5 mg of crystalline cellulose and 8.5 mg of sucrose fatty acid ester per 4 capsules.

The authors concluded that administering AGE did not improve QOL but caused improvements in the NK cell activity in patients with advanced cancer of the digestive system; this study shows AGE has immunomodulative and antioxidative properties.


Glossary of Terms

There are a few key terms to be aware of when reviewing these studies:


Randomised clinical trial: A clinical trial in which the participants are assigned randomly (by chance alone) to different treatments.

Double-blind study: A study in which neither the participants nor the experimenters know who is receiving a particular treatment. This procedure is utilized to prevent bias in research results.

Double-blind studies are particularly useful for preventing bias due to demand characteristics or the placebo effect.

Placebo: An inactive treatment used in a clinical trial, sometimes referred to as a “sugar pill.” A placebo-controlled trial compares a new treatment with a placebo, in order to give greater confidence that the result is only due to the test/active ingredient.

P-value: The probability of obtaining the observed results of a test. The lower the p-value is, the more confident we can be of a true result. For example, a p- value of 0.001 confirms a result as 99.9% accurate.