Researchers studied a traditional Chinese herb called Polygonatum cyrtonema that’s been used for centuries to boost memory and brain health. They tested a special wine-processed version of this herb on mice experiencing stress-related memory problems. The herb appeared to work by changing the bacteria in the mice’s stomachs in helpful ways, which then improved brain function and reduced damage from stress. This research suggests the herb could become a natural supplement to help prevent memory loss, though more human studies are needed before we know if it works the same way in people.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a wine-processed version of an ancient Chinese herb could improve memory and thinking skills in mice that were experiencing stress-related brain problems
  • Who participated: Laboratory mice that were exposed to chronic mild stress to mimic memory problems seen in humans. The study compared the herb-treated mice to control groups and mice treated with a known beneficial fiber called inulin
  • Key finding: The wine-processed herb significantly improved memory and thinking in stressed mice by increasing beneficial bacteria (especially Lactobacillus murinus) in their guts and reducing brain damage from stress. It worked better than inulin, a well-known gut-healthy fiber
  • What it means for you: This research suggests a natural supplement made from this herb might help prevent memory loss and cognitive problems, but this is early-stage research in mice. Much more testing in humans is needed before we can recommend it as a treatment. Talk to your doctor before trying any new supplements

The Research Details

Scientists extracted polysaccharides (a type of carbohydrate) from the traditional Chinese herb Polygonatum cyrtonema in two forms: a regular version and a wine-processed version. They then tested these extracts on mice that had been put under chronic mild stress—a way to create memory and thinking problems similar to what humans experience. The researchers measured changes in the mice’s gut bacteria, brain tissue damage, stress markers, and memory performance.

The study involved detailed analysis of the herb’s chemical structure and how it changed when processed with wine. The researchers also compared the herb’s effects to inulin, a well-known fiber that’s good for gut health, to see which worked better at promoting beneficial bacteria and improving brain function.

This type of study is important because it helps researchers understand the mechanisms—the ‘how’ and ‘why’—behind traditional remedies before testing them in humans. By studying the brain-gut connection, scientists can figure out exactly what’s happening in the body when someone takes this herb.

This research matters because it bridges traditional medicine with modern science. For thousands of years, people have used this herb to improve memory, but we didn’t understand how it actually worked. This study shows that the herb’s benefits might come from improving gut bacteria, which then helps the brain. This ‘brain-gut axis’ is an exciting area of science that could lead to new ways to prevent memory loss and cognitive problems using natural foods and supplements.

This is laboratory research in mice, which is an important first step but has limitations. The study was well-designed with proper control groups and measured multiple outcomes (bacteria types, brain damage, stress markers, and memory). However, results in mice don’t always translate directly to humans. The study doesn’t specify exact sample sizes for the mouse groups, which makes it harder to evaluate the strength of the findings. The research appears to be original and thorough in its analysis of the herb’s chemical properties and mechanisms

What the Results Show

The wine-processed herb (JP3) significantly improved memory and thinking abilities in stressed mice compared to untreated stressed mice. The herb worked by increasing the amount of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus murinus in the mice’s guts. This increase in good bacteria appeared to strengthen the intestinal barrier (the lining of the gut), which then reduced inflammation and damage in the brain’s memory center, called the hippocampus.

The herb also reduced oxidative stress in the brain—think of oxidative stress as harmful molecules that damage brain cells, like rust damaging metal. By reducing this damage, the herb helped protect brain function. The wine-processed version worked better than the regular version, suggesting that the wine processing changed the herb’s structure in beneficial ways.

When compared directly to inulin (a well-known prebiotic fiber that feeds good bacteria), the wine-processed herb was more effective at promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and producing short-chain fatty acids like butyric acid. These fatty acids are important for brain health and gut function.

The study found that the wine-processed herb and regular herb had different chemical structures and compositions. The wine processing changed the molecular weight and the types of sugars in the herb, which appeared to make it more effective. The herb also improved the overall health of the intestinal barrier, not just the bacteria count. Additionally, the herb reduced markers of stress and inflammation throughout the body, suggesting benefits beyond just the brain and gut

This research builds on centuries of traditional use of this herb in Chinese medicine for memory and nerve health. Modern studies have shown that gut bacteria play a crucial role in brain health—a concept that’s relatively new in Western science but aligns with traditional medicine’s focus on digestive health. This study is one of the first to specifically examine the wine-processed form of this herb and explain how it works through the gut-brain connection. It adds to growing evidence that natural compounds can influence brain health by changing gut bacteria

This study was conducted in mice, not humans, so we can’t be certain the results will be the same in people. The study doesn’t specify how many mice were used in each group, making it harder to judge how reliable the findings are. The research was done in a laboratory setting with controlled stress, which may not perfectly match real-world stress in humans. We don’t know the optimal dose for humans or if there are any side effects. Long-term effects weren’t studied. Additionally, this appears to be a single study, so the findings need to be confirmed by other independent researchers before we can be confident in the results

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, we cannot yet recommend this herb as a treatment for memory problems in humans. This is early-stage research that shows promise but requires human clinical trials first. If you’re interested in supporting brain health naturally, current evidence supports proven approaches: managing stress, regular exercise, quality sleep, a Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables and fish, and staying mentally active. If you’re experiencing memory problems, consult your doctor for proper evaluation and evidence-based treatment options. Confidence level: Low (animal study only)

This research is most relevant to people interested in natural approaches to brain health and memory support, researchers studying traditional Chinese medicine, and scientists investigating the gut-brain connection. People with cognitive concerns should consult healthcare providers rather than self-treating with unproven supplements. This research is not yet applicable to clinical practice in humans

In the mice studied, improvements appeared within the timeframe of the experiment, but we don’t know how long it would take to see benefits in humans or how long those benefits would last. Any human studies would likely take months to years to complete before we’d have realistic timelines for people

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If and when this herb becomes available as a supplement and you choose to try it under medical supervision, track weekly memory performance using simple tests (like remembering a shopping list or recalling details from conversations) and note any changes in mental clarity or focus
  • Once human studies confirm safety and effectiveness, users could log daily supplement intake alongside other brain-healthy habits like exercise, sleep quality, and stress levels to see which combination works best for their cognitive function
  • Establish a baseline of memory and thinking abilities before starting any supplement, then track monthly using consistent methods (like timed memory tests or cognitive apps). Monitor for any side effects or changes in digestion, since this herb affects gut bacteria. Share results with your healthcare provider

This research is preliminary laboratory work in mice and has not been tested in humans. The findings do not constitute medical advice or approval for human use. Do not use this herb or any supplement to treat, prevent, or cure cognitive problems without consulting your healthcare provider first. Supplements are not regulated the same way as medications and may interact with other drugs or conditions. If you’re experiencing memory problems or cognitive changes, seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional. Always inform your doctor about any supplements you’re considering or taking