Akay Bioactives, a global leader in natural bioactive ingredients, announces new clinical data published in Medicine demonstrating the efficacy of Asafin®, a proprietary formulation of Ferula asafoetida oleo-gum resin complex. Utilising FenuMat®, a patented self-emulsifying hydrogel technology, Asafin’s bioavailability is enhanced to offer rapid gut and microbiome support through the gut-brain axis.
Clinical study: Rapid digestive comfort
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (62 participants, 14 days) found that Asafin at a low dosage of 250 mg/day significantly improved occasional GI symptoms.
Participants experienced:
- Noticeable relief after a single dose in 60% of participants
- Intergroup comparison showed significant symptom reduction in just two weeks, revealing reductions in:
- Early satiety (81%)
- Postprandial fullness (53%)
- Bloating (60%)
- Belching (33%)
- Heartburn (59%)
- Improved digestion reflected in Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) data, shifting from constipated to healthy stool types.
Unlike the placebo group, which saw little improvement, Asafin consistently relieved symptoms across the study duration.
Gut-Brain Axis: Cognitive and sleep benefits
The study also assessed cognitive and sleep health, recognising the deep connection between gut health and brain function.
- Choice Reaction Time (CRT) tests showed a 44% reduction in reaction time, indicating enhanced attention and focus in the Asafin group.
- Sleep quality significantly improved, with participants experiencing a 45% reduction in Bergen Insomnia Scale (BIS) scores, while the placebo group showed no significant changes.
Microbiome modulation
Metagenomic profiling revealed that Asafin supplementation produced significant shifts in gut community structure, with higher alpha diversity (p <0.05) among participants.
- Firmicutes: Bacteroidetes ratio decreased 71.9% (p <0.001) (≈ 3.6× lower than baseline), a commonly referenced compositional marker of gut balance.
- Relative abundance increased for beneficial genera (e.g., Bacteroides, Prevotella).
- Relative abundance decreased for taxa often linked with dysbiosis (e.g., Escherichia, certain Clostridia).
These findings further support Asafin’s role in supporting a balanced microbiome, which positively influences digestion, cognition, sleep, and overall quality of life.
Safe, well-tolerated, and effective
The study affirmed Asafin’s excellent safety profile, with no significant adverse effects on liver, kidney, or hematological parameters. While a few participants noted a mild taste of asafoetida, this was minor compared to the significant relief experienced.
Expert insights and future potential
These findings mark a breakthrough in gut health research
“Asafin not only alleviates digestive discomfort but also enhances cognitive function and improves sleep outcomes via the gut-brain axis, reaffirming our commitment to innovative, science-backed bioactive solutions that offer real-world benefits" said Dr. Krishnakumar IM, Chief Research Officer at Akay Bioactives.
Asafin stands out as a clinically substantiated, plant-based solution for those struggling with gut discomfort, along with cognitive and sleep health issues. By targeting the gut-brain axis, it provides a comprehensive approach to improving digestive health, attention/focus, sleep satisfaction, and overall well-being.
Akay Bioactives remains at the forefront of bioactive ingredient research, continuing to innovate and redefine the boundaries of health and wellness.