Curcumin and EGCG supplements to improve mood and brain health
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Curcumin and Epigallocatechin Gallate Supplementation on Serum Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Mood Disturbance in Adults
This study is testing if taking curcumin and EGCG supplements can help improve mood and brain health in adults aged 18-50 who have moderate depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Auburn University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Auburn, Alabama) |
| Trial ID | NCT06531863 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized placebo-controlled trial investigates the effects of curcumin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) supplementation on mood disturbances and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in adults aged 18-50 with moderate depression. Participants will consume either the supplements or a placebo for eight weeks, with assessments of mood and BDNF levels conducted at the beginning and end of the trial. The study aims to determine if these natural compounds can alleviate mood symptoms and enhance brain health markers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-50 with a DASS-21 depression subscale score greater than 9.
Not a fit: Patients currently consuming curcumin or green tea daily, or those who are pregnant or nursing, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a natural supplement option for improving mood and brain health in individuals with mood disturbances.
How similar studies have performed: While there is some preliminary evidence supporting the benefits of curcumin and EGCG for mood disorders, this specific combination and approach is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults age 18-50 * Depression subscale score of \>9/21 on the DASS-21 * No change in medications or supplements over the past 3 months * Can read and speak English Exclusion Criteria: * Currently consume curcumin or green tea daily * Currently, pregnant, nursing, or trying to become pregnant * Currently diagnosed with a perimenopausal disorder
Where this trial is running
Auburn, Alabama
- Auburn University School of Kinesiology — Auburn, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew D Fruge, PhD — Auburn University
- Study coordinator: Aidan Cavanah, MSc
- Email: amc0108@auburn.edu
- Phone: 2057893258
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.