Neurophysiological effects of a special extract of Cyperus esculentus L. (Cyperol)

The tuberous rhizomes of Cyperus esculentus L. have been used as a food by hunter-gatherer and agricultural societies for millennia. Varieties and selections of the plant are cultivated in southern Europe, north Africa and west Africa. There is popular food and beverage uses, and traditional medicinal uses suggest that the “tubers” may have functional food potential. The first standardized extract of Cyperus esculentus, Cyperol, has been developed and commercialized. In order to characterize the central nervous system activity of this extract a series of neurophysiological studies were undertaken in-vitro, in-vivo and in a pilot clinical study. The results of the studies indicate that Cyperol induces changes in brain electrical activity (EEG), demonstrating that bioactive compounds from the extract are absorbed, are bioavailable, and that these compounds or their metabolites cross the blood brain barrier. Taken overall, the results of the reported studies indicate calming activity without sedation. This extract does indeed have functional food potential and could be used to maintain a calm state of mind while dealing with cognitively demanding work. Preliminary indications suggest that the extract may have anxiolytic potential which should be explored in future clinical studies.