Zynamite (Mangifera indica)
The largest and most independent trial (Dodd et al., 2024, n=114, Northumbria University with a PepsiCo co-author) gave a single 300mg dose of mango leaf extract and found no cognitive benefit — participants made more subtraction errors than on placebo. An earlier pilot (López-Ríos et al., 2020, n=16, all four authors Nektium employees) used 500mg, not 300mg, and found only a marginal reaction-time signal. Two sprint trials (2018, 2019; lead authors affiliated with Nektium, the manufacturer) combined 140mg with quercetin or luteolin and improved sprint power output, but measured no cognitive outcome. Three of the four trials are manufacturer-authored.
Evidence reviewed:
Mechanism of action
Zynamite is a patented extract of Mangifera indica (mango leaf) standardised to >60% mangiferin. Mangiferin is a potent polyphenol that inhibits catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), slowing the breakdown of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex. This extends the active duration of catecholamines without increasing their production — a unique mechanism distinct from precursor-loading (L-Tyrosine) or synthesis-boosting (caffeine) approaches. Additionally, mangiferin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Clinical evidence summary
The largest and most independent trial (Dodd et al., 2024, n=114, Northumbria University with a PepsiCo co-author) gave a single 300mg dose of mango leaf extract and found no cognitive benefit — participants made more subtraction errors than on placebo. An earlier pilot (López-Ríos et al., 2020, n=16, all four authors Nektium employees) used 500mg, not 300mg, and found only a marginal reaction-time signal. Two sprint trials (2018, 2019; lead authors affiliated with Nektium, the manufacturer) combined 140mg with quercetin or luteolin and improved sprint power output, but measured no cognitive outcome. Three of the four trials are manufacturer-authored.
Human effect matrix
Based on human clinical trials only. Animal and in-vitro data excluded.
| Effect | Evidence | Magnitude | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reaction Time | mixed | Negligible | 2 |
| Sprint Power Output | preliminary | Small | 2 |
Evidence key: Strong = multiple consistent RCTs · Moderate = smaller/fewer RCTs · Preliminary = early trials or small n · Mixed = conflicting results
Documented benefits
- Sprint power output when combined with quercetin or luteolin (manufacturer-authored trials)
- COMT inhibition (mechanism)
Side effects & cautions
- Generally well tolerated — no serious adverse events in the four trials reviewed
- Mild GI discomfort rare
- Limited long-term safety data
- MAO inhibitors: theoretical interaction only — mangiferin inhibits COMT rather than MAO, and no clinical reports were found
How to take
Stacking recommendations
Ingredients that pair well with Zynamite (Mangifera indica) and why.
Caffeine increases catecholamine release; Zynamite is proposed to slow their breakdown via COMT inhibition. The combination has not been tested in a cognitive trial.
Tyrosine provides dopamine precursor; Zynamite slows dopamine metabolism. Supply + preservation for sustained catecholamine levels.
L-Theanine smooths out any overstimulation from Zynamite's catecholamine-preserving effects. Balanced energy without agitation.
Frequently asked questions
Is Zynamite just mango leaf extract?
Zynamite is a specific patented extract of Mangifera indica standardised to >60% mangiferin. Generic mango leaf supplements may contain far less mangiferin and are not equivalent. The sprint trials name Zynamite; the cognitive trials used mango leaf extract standardised to at least 60% mangiferin.
Is the evidence independent or manufacturer-funded?
Three of the four human trials were authored by Nektium, the manufacturer. The only trial led by an independent academic group (Dodd 2024, n=114) tested the 300mg dose and found no cognitive benefit, with more subtraction errors than placebo.
Can I take Zynamite with caffeine?
No trial has tested Zynamite with caffeine — the sports trials combined it with quercetin or luteolin. If you combine them, monitor your total stimulant load.
Zynamite (Mangifera indica) in the EU
Products in the EU
None of the stacks we have audited are listed in our catalogue in the EU yet.
EU food supplement (Reg. 1924/2006 claims)
EU country guides
Regulatory note
Cognitive-effect language on this page describes ingredient mechanisms studied in clinical trials. Health claims on supplements sold in the EU are governed by Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006; only European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved claims may appear on product labelling. This page is editorial, not promotional, and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
Sources (4)expand
- PMID 32473365Central nervous system activities of extract Mangifera indica L. (2020)
- PMID 38665302Acute effects of mango leaf extract on cognitive function in healthy adults: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study (2024)
- PMID 31661850A Single Dose of The Mango Leaf Extract Zynamite in Combination with Quercetin Enhances Peak Power Output During Repeated Sprint Exercise in Men and Women (2019)
- PMID 29937737Mangifera indica L. Leaf Extract in Combination With Luteolin or Quercetin Enhances VO2peak and Peak Power Output, and Preserves Skeletal Muscle Function During Ischemia-Reperfusion in Humans (2018)