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A full-spectrum aqueous extract of black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) improves focus/alertness and executive function: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo- and active-controlled, comparative study in healthy working-class participants.

  • 2026-04-08
  • Frontiers in neuroscience 20
    • Jestin V Thomas
    • M E Mohan
    • Syam S Das
    • Nithyanandam Allimuthu
    • Sheena Devasia
    • P A Aneesa
    • Krishnakumar Illathu Madhavamenon
    • Baby Chakrapani Pulikkaparambil Sasidharan

Study Design

Type
Clinical Trial
Population
96 healthy adults (35-65 years)
Methods
Randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled four-arm study; single dose of placebo, MA2-24 (250 mg), caffeine (200 mg), or combination
Blinding
Double-blind
Duration
8 hours
Funding
Unclear

Background

Interest is increasing in natural, plant-based, food-grade nootropics that deliver sustained cognitive benefits without adverse effects. Caffeine remains the most widely consumed psychoactive substance, owing to its rapid, short-term enhancement of wakefulness, alertness, and overall performance. The present study investigated the nootropic effect of a full-spectrum aqueous extract of black cardamom fruits and its influence when combined with caffeine.

Methods

A randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled four-arm study assessed the acute cognitive effects of full-spectrum black cardamom extract (MA2-24) in comparison with caffeine. Ninety-six healthy adults (35-65 years) were randomized (n = 24/group) to receive placebo, MA2-24 (250 mg), caffeine (200 mg), or their combination (MA2-24 + caffeine). Cognitive performance was assessed at baseline and at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 8-h post-dose using CNS vital signs assessments.

Results

MA2-24 significantly improved reaction time, accuracy, and error rate in the Shifting Attention Test and increased correct responses while reducing errors in the Symbol Digit Coding Test. The Stroop Test also showed significant improvement in reaction time and a reduction in the number of errors. Effects were significant versus baseline and placebo, mainly through 3-h post-dose, and were comparable to caffeine. Co-supplementation of MA2-24 with caffeine produced greater and more sustained benefits, especially during the later phase (5-8-h post-dose).

Conclusion

The results indicate that black cardamom fruit extract MA2-24 exhibits nootropic properties across multiple domains of attention, working memory, and processing speed to support cognitive flexibility and executive function. When combined with caffeine, it showed the potential to augment and prolong caffeine's functional effects on mental performance and fatigue management.

Clinical trial registration

https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=MTE0NzIx&Enc=&userName=, identifier CTRI/2024/09/074472.

Research Insights

  • Cardamom→Improved Cognitive Function

    The Stroop Test also showed significant improvement in reaction time and a reduction in the number of errors

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    250 mg
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