UEA launches study after supplement shows promise in professional racing drivers
By: Communications
Researchers at the UEA are launching a new study to see whether American ginseng extract could boost brain health.
The supplement, native to North America, is known for its calming properties and often used to reduce stress and support focus.
It has already shown impressive results in professional race‑car drivers – helping them react faster and stay mentally sharp under pressure.
Now, the team will investigate how a standardised form of the supplement called Cereboost, works in everyday life to boost concentration and process information.
And they are looking for people aged 18-40 in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire to take part.
Lead researcher, Dr David Vauzour from Norwich Medical School, said: “American ginseng has long been associated with potential benefits for brain health. People often take it to help manage stress and promote relaxation, boost the immune system, reduce fatigue and enhance concentration.
“It is different to Asian ginseng, which is known for its stimulating effects.
“At the moment, very little is known about how American ginseng affects brain function. We want to change that.”
What will participation involve?
People taking part will complete an online screening before attending two appointments at the Quadram Institute’s Clinical Research Facility. They will be randomly assigned to take a capsule containing either American ginseng or a placebo.
Volunteers will complete a series of online cognitive tasks and provide a small blood sample to help researchers understand how the supplement interacts with the body and brain.
Participants will be given the capsule on the day of testing and their cognitive functions will be assessed over a 6-hour period.
Dr Vauzour said: "People taking part don't need to change their lifestyle at all, which means this study can fit around everyday life."
Who can take part?
The research team is seeking healthy people aged 18–40 and participants will receive a £50 voucher as a thank you for their time.
Dr Vauzour said: “As interest grows in natural compounds that may support brain performance, understanding the real impact of supplements like American ginseng has become increasingly important
"We hope our study will shed light on whether American ginseng offers cognitive benefits and also help guide future research into nutrition and brain health - an area of growing global interest."
The project is being carried out at the Quadram Institute’s Clinical Research Facility on the Norwich Research Park.
To find out more or take part, contact REACT.study@uea.ac.uk or visit their website.
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