薬理と治療

Abstract

Objectives　We evaluated the effect of Kaempferia parviflora extract for 8 weeks on physical activity in Japanese healthy elderly subjects. Methods　We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial to evaluate the effect of the test food contained Kaempferia parviflora extract on physical activity. The subjects were 34 healthy elderly volunteers, and they were divided into two groups. They took a placebo food or active food contained Kaempferia parviflora extract for 8 weeks. Twenty nine subjects were eligible for analysis because 5 subjects were withdrawn from the study. 6-minute walk test was evaluated as the primary outcome. Additionally, Timed up and go test, chair stand test, handgrip strength, long seat forward bending were evaluated as secondary outcomes. The safety assessments were also performed by physical measurements, blood parameter measurements, urine analysis, and interview as secondary outcomes. Results　The distance of 6-minute walk test was increased significantly in active food group compared with those in placebo group. There were no significant differences in any other parameters related to physical activity. No adverse effects associated with Kaempferia parviflora extract were observed. Conclusion　The present study suggests that daily consumption of Kaempferia parviflora extract could maintain and╱or improve walking function in healthy elderly.