Italy’s PhenoFarm has developed several new ingredients based on olives, a major component of Mediterranean diet.

One is Phenolea® Active Complex, a natural olive juice concentrate that aids brain health and anti-aging. Recent clinical research shows it can increase the levels of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the mouse limbic system and in the olfactory bulbs. NGF, a soluble protein that promotes the growth of nerve cell processes and survival of neurons, was first discovered in Italy by Rita Levi-Montalcini, who received a Nobel Prize in 1986.

Phenolea Active Complex is able to potentiate brain neurogenesis, protect the brain against age-related neurodegeneration and function as a brain “anti-aging” agent.

EFSA and the FDA have recognized the properties of olive oil and suggest its daily consumption: two tablespoons of raw oil per day may prevent cardiovascular diseases, protect against inflammation and especially counteract oxidative damage induced by free radicals.