Efficacy and safety of a gut health product (Actbiome) prepared by incorporation of asafoetida-curcumin complex onto the turmeric dietary fiber in the management of gut health and intestinal microflora in healthy subjects: A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of a gut health product – Actbiome in the management of gut health and intestinal microflora in healthy subjects by a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study. The Actbiome was prepared by incorporation of Asafoetida (ASF)-curcumin (CUR) complex onto the turmeric dietary fiber (TDF) with complete natural matrix. The outcome measures included changes in the intestinal microbial profile (fecal bifidobacteria and fecal lactobacilli count), immunological marker interleukin-10 (IL-10), gastrointestinal symptoms rating scale (GSRS), Bristol stool form scale (BSS), hematological parameters and lipid profiles. The Actbiome group showed 27.16% and 23.97% increase in fecal bifidobacteria and fecal lactobacilli count from screening stage to end of study respectively, whereas the placebo group showed a slight increase as 7.14% and 7.02% respectively. The inter group analysis also showed a statistically significant difference. The decrease in levels of IL-10 levels denotes anti-inflammatory property of Actbiome. The Actbiome showed significant reduction in GSRS with mean change reduction recorded as −28.57% between the study period, whereas the placebo showed an increase in mean changes as 27.27%. The changes in stool frequency assessed by BSS, after treatment all subjects in Actbiome group were reported ideal stool form which clearly indicates an improvement in symptoms of gut health due to the administration of Actbiome. This study strongly suggested that the consumption of Actbiome would be a greater beneficial effect in the management of gut and gastrointestinal health without side effects.