Evidence supporting the use of: Phthalides
For the health condition: Memory and Brain Function

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phthalides are a group of compounds primarily found in plants like celery (Apium graveolens) and Ligusticum chuanxiong (commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM). Their use for supporting memory and brain function is predominantly rooted in traditional practices, especially within TCM, where extracts containing phthalides have been used in herbal formulations to "invigorate blood circulation" and "dispel wind," concepts loosely associated with neurological health and cognitive function. However, the direct association of phthalides themselves with cognitive enhancement is indirect and mainly extrapolated from their use in multi-herb formulas like Danggui Shaoyao San or Chuanxiong preparations.

Scientific evidence supporting the use of phthalides specifically for memory or brain function in humans is limited and mostly preclinical. Some animal studies have suggested that certain phthalides (e.g., ligustilide) may have neuroprotective effects, possibly due to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or vasodilatory properties. These mechanisms could hypothetically contribute to cognitive health, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Therefore, while traditional use exists, the current scientific validation is preliminary and insufficient for strong recommendations. Further research, especially well-designed human trials, is necessary to substantiate any cognitive benefits of phthalides.

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alpha-pinene
amino acids
anchovies
anthocyanins
ashwagandha
asparagus
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beta caryophyllene
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bilberry
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choline
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citicoline
coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
coffee fruit
cordyceps
creatine monohydrate
turmeric
curcumin
d-alpha tocopherol
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
diallyl disulfide (DADS)
DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)
eleuthero
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
fisetin
fish protein
folate
fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
fruit blend (proprietary)
ginkgo biloba
glycerophosphocholine (GPC)
gooseberry
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grape
green tea
guarana
guayusa
hesperetin
huperzine A
inositol
jujube
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kudzu
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l-carnitine
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l-serine
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l-theanine
l-tyrosine
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lecithin
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lutein
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maca
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Products containing Phthalides

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.