The Honam National Institute of Biological Resources on Oct. 29 announced that the plant stachys affinis, aka artichoke betony, is effective in improving short-term memory. (Yonhap News)

By Kim Seon Ah

The Honam National Institute of Biological Resources (HNIBR) on Oct. 29 said the plant artichoke betony (stachys affinis) was confirmed to be effective in enhancing short-term memory.

Based in Mokpo, Jeollanam-do Province, the think tank said its research team administered 400 mg per kg of a high-concentration extract of artichoke betony to a genetically modified mouse for dementia research. The plant was found to improve short-term memory 10% more than donepezil, a drug commonly used to treat dementia.

Based on the results, the institute registered a patent in August for its development of a composition using artichoke betony extract as an active ingredient to improve short-term memory and cognitive functions.

The HNIBR will conduct follow-up research to develop functional food to improve brain health.

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