This review summarises adult curcumin RCTs, with some Longvida, Theracurmin and CurQfen trials reporting improvements in memory, attention, mood, cerebral blood flow or inflammatory markers, particularly in older adults. Results vary by formulation, dose, duration and population. The abstract gives no systematic search, trial count or pooled effect, so evidence is insufficient to recommend curcumin as a cognitive enhancer.
Key findings
- Some trials reported better working memory, attention, processing speed, mood and cerebral blood flow, with selected studies showing lower neuroinflammatory markers or amyloid/tau deposition. Heterogeneity spanned formulations, dose, duration and participants. No total sample, effect size or certainty grade is given.
Why this matters globally
Curcumin supplements are widespread and brain-health claims may outpace evidence. The review highlights formulation and outcome standardisation gaps relevant to consumers and regulators worldwide.
Thai researcher contribution
Chiang Mai University's holistic-health innovation, pharmacy and research-administration teams synthesised nutraceutical evidence for cognition.
Limitations to consider
The abstract does not establish a systematic PRISMA/protocol approach, risking positive-study selection. Source trials may be small, short and multi-outcome across non-equivalent products, with publication bias. Biomarker changes are not clinical benefit, and drug interactions/contraindications are not summarised.