Robuvit French oak wood extract found to improve energy, mood

Robuvit is a patented extract derived from the wood of Quercus robur,​ a species of French oak trees. Previous clinical studies on the antioxidant suggest it combats oxidative stress and improves symptoms related to chronic fatigue syndrome, PTSD and mononucleosis. 

Study details

The study examined  40 male participants between the ages of 50 and 65 who reported decreased vigor and stamina in addition to high levels of oxidative stress. Researchers evaluated participant characteristics associated with diminished vigor such as fatigue, apathy and weakness. The men were split into two groups. The control group following a standard management regimen of healthy diet, exercise and supplementation with potassium gluconate and vitamin C,  and the Robuvit group supplemented with 300 mg of Robuvit daily in addition to standard management.

After four weeks, participants in the Robuvit group reported improved vigor, mental and mood states compared to the control group. 

Key findings

• 55% increase in energy (compared to 5% increase in the control group) 
• 75% improvement in activity level (compared to 35% in the control group)
• 67% increase in enthusiasm (compared to no increase in the control group)
• 80% reduction in feelings of apathy (compared to 40 percent reduction in the control group)
• 45% increase in physical and mental health (compared to no increase in the control group)
• Participants in the Robuvit group also showed a 15% reduction in oxidative stress

The research was published in the Panminerva Medica​ journal. Sébastien Bornet, VP Global Sales & Marketing at Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide supplier of Robuvit, told NutraIngredients-USA​ that having science behind a product is vital. 

“Scientific publications, including clinical trials are absolutely essential to ensure the safety, efficacy and quality of our ingredients. Research is part of our company’s DNA, and more than ever, our clients, and ultimately end consumers, need to be able to rely on solid scientific background when purchasing a branded ingredient. This will then translate to success in the marketplace. Our team has dedicated years of research to build the science behind Robuvit. In fact, it took several years to build the necessary body of research before launching Robuvit. Today, there are more than 20 clinical studies on the extract and its health benefits for both mental and physical energy,”​ explained Bornet. 

Caffeine-free energy

“Nowadays, consumers are interested in natural ways to help them stay energized and fight fatigue. Robuvit fills that very unique purpose as a natural, caffeine-free energy booster," ​said Bornet. “Currently, French oak wood extract is unlike any other ingredient in the marketplace. Consumer purchase habits also show the need for research to support supplement claims. Consumers are spending more time researching evidence-based, safe products and branded ingredients to meet their health needs.”​

French roots

The Quercus robur​ oak species grows in the Massif Central region in France.  It is harvested under strict sustainability rules and is extracted using water for a safe and environmentally friendly production process.

Despite the pandemic, Bornet told us that the company did not experience any major hiccups in the supply chain. “Horphag Research has dedicated production and extraction lines to meet the demands of our customers. So far, our supply chain was minimally affected by the pandemic.”​

However, the University of Michigan did find the pandemic is taking its toll on Americans. According to a recent survey, 38% of Americans reported feeling tired with little energy as a result of the pandemic and current events, and 23% reported feeling little interest in daily activities. 

Further research planned

The study authors noted, “​The concept of vigor, partially associated with premature aging, decreased level of activity and exercise, a sedentary lifestyle, appears to be a quantifiable entity. Robuvit supplementation - previously shown to be effective in chronic fatigue syndrome, convalescence, post-mononucleosis, PTSD or in liver failure - improves vigor; further evaluations need to be planned according to the concept of this pilot registry.”​

Indeed, Bornet told us that he sees exciting opportunities to build on this pilot study, adding “Research and development are core components of our company’s mission, and it sets our branded ingredients apart in the industry. We certainly anticipate more studies on Robuvit in the future.”​

Source:​ Panminerva Medica ​

2020 September;62(3):131-4 DOI: 10.23736/S0031-0808.19.03795-9​

“Exploring the concept of vigor and dys-vigor in men of 50-65 years: effects of Robuvit”​

Authors: A. Ledda et al.