Curcumin and BDNF: the science of neuroprotection

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) is a protein essential for memory, learning and neuronal survival. Low levels of BDNF are associated with Alzheimer's, depression and cognitive decline. Curcumin increases BDNF.

BDNF: why it matters

• Neuroplasticity: BDNF allows the brain to create new synaptic connections
• Memory: essential for long-term memory (hippocampus)
• Neural protection: protects neurons against apoptosis
• Mood: antidepressants increase BDNF — this is one of their mechanisms of action

Clinical studies

Cox et al. (Journal of Psychopharmacology, 2015) showed in a double-blind randomized trial that curcumin (400 mg/day):

• Improves working memory after 4 weeks
• Reduces mental fatigue
• Improves mood and alertness

Small et al. (American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 2018) showed that 90mg of curcumin 2x/day for 18 months:

• Improves memory by 28%
• Reduces amyloid and tau plaques (Alzheimer's markers) in the brain

Neuroprotective mechanisms

Mechanism	Compound	Cerebral effect
↑ BDNF	Curcumin	Neuroplasticity, memory, neuronal protection
↓ cerebral NF-κB	Gingerol + Curcumin	↓ Neuroinflammation (Alzheimer’s factor)
↓ Amyloid plaques	Curcumin	Slows Alzheimer's progression
Brain Antioxidant	Curcumin	↓ Neuronal oxidative stress

The bioavailability barrier

Curcumin has two problems: very low intestinal absorption (<1%) and difficulty crossing the blood-brain barrier. Solutions:

• Piperine (black pepper): increases bioavailability by 2000% (Shoba et al., 1998)
• Liquid form: better absorption than capsules
• Regular intake: neuroprotective effect requires continuous exposure

In practice

TheINTI Essence combines organic turmeric + black pepper (bioavailability ×20) + ginger (anti-neuroinflammation) in a liquid format. A daily shot contributes to long-term cognitive support.