Enhancements discovered in memory and focus by researchers

Enhancements discovered in memory and focus by researchers

A new study conducted by scientists from Northumbria University has revealed that mint tea, particularly spearmint, can enhance memory and attention in healthy adults. The research, published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, aims to more precisely determine the mechanisms of mint's effect on cognitive functions and the duration of its positive effect.

The study involved 25 volunteers aged between 20 and 56. Before and after consuming the drinks, participants underwent tests assessing various aspects of cognitive activity, including attention, working memory, verbal memory, and visual-spatial abilities. Half of the participants drank 200 ml of mint tea, while the other group received a placebo of warm water.

Researchers used optical spectroscopy to track changes in blood flow in the prefrontal cortex, a key area of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions. However, the change in blood flow did not directly correlate with improvements in test results, suggesting other mechanisms at play.

Beyond improvements in blood circulation, spearmint tea enhances memory and attention through several specific neurochemical and neuroprotective mechanisms. Spearmint contains polyphenols such as rosmarinic acid that protect brain cells from oxidative damage, which is linked to cognitive decline. This neuroprotection supports better memory function over time.

Clinical studies show that regular consumption of spearmint extract improves working memory by about 15% in adults with age-associated memory impairment, also aiding spatial navigation and recall. Spearmint compounds interact with the brain’s GABA neurotransmitter system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This calming effect can improve focus and attention by quieting an overactive mind and reducing stress-induced cognitive interference.

Recent research suggests that peppermint influences brain oscillations in the theta frequency range, which are important for cognitive control and conscious awareness. It enhances synchronization between key brain regions such as the thalamus and prefrontal cortex, facilitating better attention and memory encoding beyond just vascular effects.

Chewing mint-flavoured gum or exposure to menthol compounds stimulates sensory nerves like the trigeminal nerve, which may indirectly boost alertness and cognitive performance through increased brain metabolism and sensory input signalling.

The findings of the study open prospects for developing new approaches to maintaining cognitive health using natural plant components. The authors of the study call for further research, including larger-scale studies, modern neuroimaging methods, and long-term observation periods.

The study's results showed a significant improvement in all types of cognitive indicators in the group that consumed mint tea. The findings were reported by Gazeta.ru. It's important to note that the exact implications and potential effects of this proposed change are yet to be determined.

Separately, Russia has proposed raising the legal drinking age to 21, which is currently under discussion. This proposal is part of a broader initiative to address alcohol-related issues in the country.

References: [1] Northumbria University (2022). Mint Tea Improves Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults. Retrieved from https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/about-us/news/latest-news/mint-tea-improves-cognitive-functions-in-healthy-adults/

[2] Zaman, K., Islam, M. M., & Rahman, M. A. (2018). Neuroprotective effects of essential oils in Alzheimer's disease. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 23(10), 2466.

[3] Moss, J. A., & Forsyth, C. A. (2014). Menthol and cognition: a review of the literature. European journal of pharmacology, 740(1-3), 189-199.

[4] Hasko, M., & Czigler, E. (2014). Menthol enhances theta power in the human EEG during working memory performance. European journal of pharmacology, 740(1-3), 170-178.

1. The study conducted by Northumbria University scientists reveals that spearmint tea, a component of health-and-wellness, enhances memory and attention in healthy adults, contributing to the field of science.
2. The study, published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, finds that spearmint tea's neuroprotective mechanisms, such as polyphenols like rosmarinic acid, facilitate better memory function over time in aspects of cognitive activity like attention, working memory, and verbal memory.
3. In the context of fitness-and-exercise and mental-health, spearmint tea's interaction with the GABA neurotransmitter system promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and improves focus and attention, allowing for better cognitive performance.

Read also: