The effects of sage (Salvia officinalis) on cognitive and vascular function in healthy young adults
Citation
Lee, D. (2017) The effects of sage (Salvia officinalis) on cognitive and vascular function in healthy young adults, no. 71.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sage (Salvia officinalis) has been shown to have pharmacological
properties that can improve memory and lower blood pressure due to its phytochemicals that
contain anticholinesterase, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite
recognition of its acute effects associated with Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular
disease in older populations, the effect of sage on cognitive and vascular function in healthy
young adults is not yet established.
AIMS: This study aimed to explore the antioxidant and phenolic content of the Menoforce
sage tablet. The within-subject study design was conducted to examine the effect of sage on
cognitive performance and vascular function at baseline, midpoint and endpoint over a fourweek
treatment.
METHODS: The sage extracts were obtained by methods of ethanol extractions and the
measurement of its antioxidant level and total phenolic content were determined using the
electron-transfer based assay. The cognitive function was measured using three
computerised tests- Stroop, Corsi block-tapping and digit span test, whereas the vascular
function was assessed using a non-invasive Vicorder to measure arterial stiffness with pulse
wave velocity.
RESULTS: Statistical outcomes show that sage did not produce significant differences from
baseline to endpoint for both cognitive and vascular function, and they were the Stroop
correct task (p = 0.819), Corsi block-tapping (p = 0.197), digit span (p = 0.914), pulse wave
velocity (p = 0.93). However, there were significant outcomes for Stroop reaction time (p =
0.001) and time effects (p < 0.0005), as well as a correlation between weight and pulse wave
velocity at endpoint (p = 0.008). Overall cognitive scores improved and pulse wave velocity
reduced at endpoint.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate improved cognitive and vascular function
over the four-week sage intake in healthy young adults. Evidence suggested that longer sage
intake might enhance cognitive and vascular function.
Key words: Sage, antioxidant, cognitive, vascular, young adults