Unveiling the geroprotective potential of Monarda didyma L.: insights from in vitro studies and a randomized clinical trial on slowing biological aging and improving quality of life

• DOI: 10.1007/s11357-025-01580-2
• Publication Date: 2025-03-10T21:49:17Z
• Authors: Manuela Campisi; Luana Cannella; Omar Paccagnella; Alessandra R. Bra...; Alberto Agnolin; Torsten Grothe; Julia Baumann; Sofia Pavanello
• Keywords: Senescence

Abstract Aging is driven by fundamental mechanisms like oxidative stress, telomere shortening and changes in DNA methylation, which together prepare the ground for age-related diseases. Botanical extracts, rich bioactive phytoconstituents, represent a promising resource developing therapies that target these to promote healthy aging. This study explores geroprotective potential of Monarda didyma L. extract. In vitro analyses revealed extract’s strong antioxidant activity, ability reduce shortening, capacity protect against damage, thereby decreasing cellular senescence improving endothelial function. The randomized, double-blind clinical trial demonstrated daily oral supplementation with extract significantly improved leukocyte length (LTL) stabilized methylation age (DNAmAge) intervention group, while placebo group experienced accelerated epigenetic aging hypermethylation critical genes (ELOVL2 FHL2). also reported enhanced quality life, particularly physical domain, along movement sleep indices detected questionnaire wearable sensors. These compelling findings position as powerful candidate future therapies, impact