Effects of Ginger Administration on Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

Background: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is considered a cognitive impairment more than expected for an individual’s age and education without interference with daily life. However, current treatment options for MCI have limited curative effects and mainly focus on symptomatic management. In this regard, herbal medicines have been the focus of attention because they are relatively inexpensive and perceived to carry lower risks. This research was conducted regarding the effects of Zintoma® capsules, containing ginger, on MCI patients. Methods: After obtaining ethics committee approval (Birjand University of Medical Sciences, IR.BUMS.REC.1399.502), and receiving the IRCT code (IRCT20201228049868N2), this double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted with 60 patients diagnosed with MCI diagnosis and aged 18 years or older. The eligible participants were assigned using a randomized block design (blocks of four) to either the Zintoma® group that received three capsules (250 mg each) once daily for two months or the placebo group that consumed three capsules (250 mg each) once daily for two months. Assessment of the patients was performed at the baseline and then every four weeks by MMSE and CDR criteria. Results: The mean age of patients was 51.73±6.53 years, with 30 male patients accounting for 50%. There were no statistical differences in demographic characteristics between the two groups. The results indicated that after the consumption of Zintoma® capsules, CDR and MMSE scores improved significantly in the course of the treatment, leading to improved memory in patients at 4 and 8 weeks (P