A plant called Napiergrass (or "Elephant Grass" in Hebrew, scientific name Pennisetum purpureum) grows in massive quantities in Taiwan and is mainly used as cattle feed. But in recent years, researchers have begun to study it for human use, primarily due to its antioxidant properties. Now, a new RCT (randomized controlled trial) published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences presents promising results: Napiergrass supplement may help older adults with early-stage sarcopenia strengthen their muscle power.
What is Sarcopenia?
Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass and function with age. It begins as early as age 30 but accelerates after 60. About 10% of people aged 60+ suffer from it, and nearly half of those aged 80+. The consequences include:
- Increased risk of falls and fractures
- Loss of independence
- Declining metabolic function
- Premature mortality
Standard treatments are physical activity (resistance training) and a protein-rich diet. But not everyone can adhere to these, so there is a search for supplements that can help.
About the Study
A team including researchers from Taipei Medical University, Tungnan University, and Japan's Hosei University recruited 35 participants aged 60+ with signs of early sarcopenia. They were randomly divided into two groups:
- Treatment group: 300 mg of Napiergrass extract in a capsule, 3 times daily (total 900 mg per day)
- Control group: Identical-looking placebo
The follow-up lasted 12 weeks. Measurements included: handgrip strength, 10-meter walk test, and additional metabolic markers.
Main Finding: Significant Improvement in Grip Strength
Handgrip strength is one of the most important markers of health in older adults. It is directly linked to mortality risk, cardiovascular disease risk, and daily independence. What did the Napiergrass-treated group show?
| Period | Napiergrass Group (kg) | Placebo Group (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Baseline | 18.74 ± 5.61 | ~ Similar |
| Week 8 | 22.48 ± 5.61 | No change |
| Week 12 | 23.51 ± 6.38 | No change |
This is an improvement of ~25% in grip strength over 12 weeks. This is a very large increase that could be the difference between independence and dependence in older adults.
What Didn't Work
It's important to also present what didn't work. In the 10-meter walk test (a measure of mobility function), there was no significant difference between the groups. That is, the supplement helped with strength, but not directly with walking function. This could indicate:
- A specific effect on arm muscles (where they measured)
- A need for a longer treatment period to see improvement in walking
- The current dosage is insufficient for complex muscle functions
Why Napiergrass?
The plant is rich in:
- Polyphenols: Antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage
- Flavonoids: Anti-inflammatory molecules
- Amino acids: Building blocks for proteins
The combination of antioxidants and polyphenols likely explains the effect. They reduce oxidative stress in muscles, allowing muscle cells to function better.
Important Limitations
Before you rush to find a Napiergrass supplement, it's important to recognize the limitations:
- Only 35 participants. Relatively small sample size
- Only 12 weeks. Long-term effects are unknown
- Studied only in early sarcopenia. It's unclear if it works in advanced sarcopenia
- No data on interaction with medications
- Napiergrass supplements are not yet common in the US/Israel. You would need to search for them
Alternatives
If Napiergrass is not available to you, there are other supplements that show a similar effect for sarcopenia:
- Creatine Monohydrate: 5 grams per day, supported by extensive research
- HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate): 3 grams per day
- Amino acid Leucine: 2-3 grams with meals
- Vitamin D: Blood level of 30+ ng/mL
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 2-3 grams per day
The Bottom Line
Napiergrass is an example of what aging research has been doing in recent years: testing traditional plants with modern scientific methods. The results are encouraging, but this is only the first step. Until the evidence strengthens, the foundation remains the same: resistance training, adequate protein, and vitamin D. If you've added all these and are still looking, Napiergrass could be a complementary supplement.
💬 Comments (0)
Be the first to comment on the article.