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Peppermint Oil, often called the "world's oldest medicine" is commonly used to freshen breath but has a some amazing health benefits too.  Common things that Peppermint Oil is known to improve is indigestion, respiratory problems, headaches, nausea, fever, stomach and bowel spasms, and pain.

Peppermint oil can have a variety of health benefits. Some of the benefits often seen from using peppermint oil are:

• pain relief for sore muscles and joints
• reduced appetite
• boosted energy
• allergy relief
• improved focus and concentration
• anti-itch medication
• fever reduction
• headache relief
• nausea relief 
• respiratory relief
• muscle relaxation
• Stress Relief
• Improved circulation
• Boosted immunity
• Anti-microbial & anti-viral activity

Chromium Picolinate is an essential trace element that has been used to treat chromium deficiency, improve depression in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), lower cholesterol, or to aid in weight loss.

Chromium Picolinate is found in meats, whole grains, fruits, & veggies like broccoli, grapes, potatoes, garlic, basil, & more...

Common Symptoms of Chromium Deficiency are:

• poor blood glucose control
• worsened levels of weak bones and bone loss
• low energy, fatigue
• poor skin health
• higher risk for high cholesterol and heart complications
• low concentration and poor memory
• worsened eye health
• mood changes, like increases in anxiety
• changes in appetite
• changes in weight
• stunted growth and development
• delayed time in healing wounds or recovering from surgery

5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), commonly found in an African shrub, is an amino acid that serves as a precursor for the biosynthesis of serotonin and melatonin in the brain from the other amino acid tryptophan.

5-HTP is used in medicine for sleep disorders such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, migraine and tension-type headaches, fibromyalgia, obesity, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), seizure disorder, and Parkinson's disease.

5-HTP works in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of the chemical serotonin. Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. Since 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it is used for several diseases where serotonin is believed to play an important role including depression, insomnia, obesity, and many other conditions.

 

Guarana is a climbing plant in the maple family, Sapindaceae, native to the Amazon basin and commonly found in Brazil. Guarana has large leaves and clusters of flowers, and is best known for the seeds from its fruit, which are about the size of a coffee bean.

Used for centuries by Brazilian tribes for it's healing and energy-boosting properties, guarana seed is a common ingredient in sports and energy drinks. In addition to its ability to reduce fatigue, it can also improve mental performance and focus.

 

Biotin (Vitamin B7), commonly found in almonds, cheeses, mushrooms, sweet potato, and spinach, is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrate and fat.

Biotin has vital metabolic functions. Without biotin as a co-factor, many enzymes do not work properly, and serious complications can occur, including varied diseases of the skin, intestinal tract, and nervous system.

Biotin may be helpful in maintaining healthy hair and nails, and decreasing insulin resistance and improving glucose tolerance. It plays a role in energy metabolism, and has been used to treat alopecia, cancer, Crohn’s disease, hair loss, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy, and various other diseases.

Deficiency in Biotin can be caused by poor diet, leaky gut, prolonged antibiotic use, and eating raw egg whites on a regular basis. Syptoms of Biotin deficiency are dry skin, brittle hair/hair loss, fatigue, intestinal tract issues, muscle pains, and nervous system issues.

Gymnema sylvestre extract is derived from the leaves of the Gymnema sylvestre plant, found in the forests of central and south India. Nicknamed “the Destroyer of Sugar”, Gymnema Sylvestre Extract is  known for its remarkable ability to temporarily block the sweet taste of sugar and artificial sweeteners ^{1a, 1b} without affecting the taste of non-sugary foods.

Used in ancient traditional medicine, Gymnema Sylvestre’s health benefits extend beyond its sugar blocking properties - with studies showing promising benefits for weight loss as well as for diabetic and pre-diabetic patients.

HEALTH & WEIGHT LOSS BENEFITS

Studies show that Gymnema Sylvestre Extract can help maintain healthy sugar levels by increasing glucose uptake into the liver, kidney, and muscle ^2a. Healthy sugar levels help maintain energy and can prevent weight gain - by encouraging the body to keep burning fat rather than to start storing it.

Gymnemic Acid also reduces the absorption of some fats, cholesterol, and sugars. ^{2b, 2c, 2d}

In one study involving genetically obese rats, gymnemic acid improved fat metabolism by lowering the levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol and increasing the proportion of “good cholesterol".^2e

Another study showed that Gymnema Extract significantly decreased body weight, food consumption, triglyceride and cholesterol levels in cafeteria and diet-induced obese rats.^2f

DIABETES RESEARCH AND GYMNEMA SYLVESTRE EXTRACT

The ability of Gymnema Sylvestre Extract is showing promising benefits for those struggling with diabetes. Its ability to slow the absorption of glucose in the gut,^3a increase the release of insulin in insulin-resistant patients,^3b combined with its ability to regenerate insulin-producing cells in the pancreas^3c have researchers considering it as a potential treatment for type II Diabetes.

In one trial - 22 patients with type 2 diabetes took 400 mg of a Gymnema supplement along with their medication for 18-20 months. 5 patients could stop their conventional treatment altogether for the duration of the trial.^3d

In another clinical trial, when 27 diabetic patients on insulin therapy took 400 mg a day of Gymnema  for up to 30 months, their required insulin dose was reduced to almost half. ^3e 

OTHER BENEFITS OF GYMNEMA SYLVESTRE EXTRACT

Phytochemical screening of Gymnema Sylvestre extract show the presence of alkaloids, triterpenes, and flavenoids that demonstrate antioxidant, anti-stress, and anti-ulcer properties. ^4a

Gymnema Sylvestre extract has also been shown to exhibit antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits - killing harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, S Pyogenes, and Candida albicans.^4b

 

Resources

1a. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7564423

1b. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10480675/

2a. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6865451

2b. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9152931

2c. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10100884

2d. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10356090

2e. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16691318

2f. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22486040

3a. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9152931

3b. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19255507

3c. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20537514

3d. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2259217

3e.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2259216

4a. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20102328

4b. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28587443

Cissus Quadrangularis, (a key ingredient in IGNITE) is a perennial plant that is part of the grape family. It is believed to be native to either Sri Lanka or India but is also found within Arabia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. It has also been imported to the southern United States and Brazil. Nicknamed “bone-setter”, it has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. In Ayurvedic and Siddha medicines it is popularly used for pain relief, and to help heal injured tendons, bones, and ligaments.

Benefits of Cissus

Weight Loss Benefits - Several studies have confirmed the remarkable weight loss potential of Cissus Quadrangularis supplements:

• Study 1) Those who took Cissus Quadrangularis lost 187 percent more weight in comparison to the placebo group. Researchers believe that this supplement can help burn fat, reduce appetite, and increase lean muscle mass. Since lean muscle mass supports a higher metabolism, you can burn more calories, even at rest.
• Study 2) Another study compared the different effects of taking Cissus Quadranularis, a placebo, and using Cissus Quadrangularis in combination with a diet plan. After eight weeks, it was found that both groups taking Cissus Quadrangularis lost a significant amount of weight in addition to reducing their blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides, while better balancing their blood sugar.

While these particular studies have some impressive findings, its also important to know how Cissus promotes weight loss.

1. It may help balance blood sugar levels.¹
   
   High blood sugar levels result in the body releasing insulin. Several studies have confirmed that the presence of insulin encourages the body to start storing fat. The higher the insulin levels – the more significant the weight gain can become. In a study where type 2 diabetic rats were administered Cissus Quadrangularis for 60 days, the treated rats showed a significant improvement in blood glucose levels¹, liver toxicity markers, inflammatory and lipid peroxidation markers, as well as an increase in antioxidant activity. Since Cissus Quadrangularis helps control one’s blood sugar, it can also reduce one’s risk of becoming pre-diabetic and then developing type II diabetes, which is highly correlated with obesity.
   
   
2. Cissus Quadrangularis can help improve gut health & trigger weight loss.^2,4
   
   The latest research confirms that overweight and obese people tend to have bacterial imbalances in the digestive tract – which can ultimately have a negative effect on metabolism. Recent studies have confirmed Cissus’s long purported gut healing benefits – showing its ability to help heal the lining of the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, enhance antioxidant defenses, and control bacterial imbalances². In a study involving rats with induce ulcers, Cissus Quandrangularis decreased gastric secretions and increased gastric mucin content and glycoprotein levels (R).In another study, rats with aspirin-induced ulcers were given cissus quadrangularis extract. Treated rats showed a reduction in the ulcer size and a restored protective mucus layer³. Further showing cissus’s shows antiulcer and gastroprotective benefits, another study showed that in rats that were given cissus quadrangularis, aspirin did not significantly affect the gastric mucosa in the ulcers of rats, whereas non treated rates showed depletion of gastric wall mucus, glycoproteins and gastric mucosal NPSH concentration³.
   
   
3. Cissus Quadrangularis has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
   
   We all know that antioxidants and anti-inflammatories are a good thing health-wise, but you may not know how this pertains to weight loss. Inflammation sends a signal to the brain telling it that there is an injury or malfunction somewhere. For our ancestors, who relied on their hunting and gathering skills to survive, an injury could be catastrophic to their ability to gather food. To help ensure survival during a period where food may be scarce, the body evolved to slow the metabolism down and start storing any excess energy it can. The body does not differentiate between inflammation caused by a crippling injury versus inflammation caused by a weak gut lining, stress, or a poor diet – they can all trigger the body into going into survival mode. Packed with vitamin C, Cissus is a natural antioxidant. Its ability to fight inflammation, which can reduce pain and swelling is probably a large part of its popularity for use as a pain killer in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicines. It has also been shown to help reduce LPS-induced free radical damage⁶, by helping reduce both inflammatory nitric oxide (iNOS) and the core inflammatory gene signal NF-kappaB. In a study determining Cissus’s protective qualities, liver damage was induced in rats – creating elevated levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin - all toxic to the blood in high levels. Rats treated with methanol extract of Cissus Quadangularis showed a significant lowering of these levels, decreased lipid peroxidation and increased activity. Another recent study showed cissus quadrangularis to be highly protective of the liver³, offsetting the toxic effects of a TB drug by drastically reducing free radical damage. This is relevant to weight management, as the liver is often subject to inflammatory and free radical-producing insults coming from both the digestive tract and white adipose tissue. Thus, cissus quadrangularis helps offset metabolic stress associated with gut imbalance by a variety of mechanisms.

Additional Benefits:

In addition to its fat-burning benefits, Cissus has been shown to be extremely beneficial to bone and joint health. Today, it’s currently used by athletes for exercise-related joint pain. When studying rats, it appeared to be an effective painkiller. Many health experts in the field have compared cissus quadrangularis to the same pain-relieving effects as aspirin.

Although few human studies have been conducted, one study focused on athletes and yielding positive effects. Those who took Cissus Quadrangularis experienced a reduction in joint pain by a third. This could be promising for athletes, as most joint health supplements do not report much athlete-based evidence, as most research is conducted on people with osteoarthritis.

Cissus Quadrangularis is best known for its potential ability to heal broken bones faster than normal – earning it its nickname, the Bone Setter. When studying dogs, it was proven that Cissus Quadrangularis offered healing effects. One group of dogs were given Cissus Quadrangularis while the other were given a placebo. After 21 days, those who were given a placebo had not healed, yet those who ingested Cissus Quadrangularis had healed completely.

A similar study was conducted in rats, as those who were given Cissus Quadrangularis healed 50 percent faster. While studying these effects, researchers believe that Cissus Quadrangularis may help increase the uptake of calcium. This makes sense, as calcium is one of the key nutrients that’s required for optimal bone strength. There’s also evidence suggesting that Cissus Quadrangularis taken every day could reduce the risk of fracturing a bone by up to 40 percent.

One study on cissus quadrangularis and bones shows that cissus quadrangularis works at the level of gene transcription to turn on osteoblasts and to specifically boost their production of osteocalcin¹. This is a powerful finding, as it means that the nutrient is a bone-building gene regulator, elevating it to a new status of usefulness. Additionally, osteocalcin² acts as a hormone elsewhere in your body by boosting adiponectin,3 production in your white adipose tissue, in turn helping protect against insulin resistance and cardiovascular inflammation⁴.

What are the Potential Side Effects?

Since cissus quadrangularis is an all-natural supplement, it’s considered to be highly safe and side effects are rare. Within clinical studies, most participants did not experience any adverse effects at all. For those who did report side effects, they were mild in nature and included flatulence, headaches, and nausea.

Do not take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there’s not enough information and research to confirm whether this is safe or not. Like most supplements, it may interfere with certain medications. Please discuss proper dosing with your doctor before taking cissus quadrangularis.

If you’re diabetic, speak with your doctor before taking cissus quadrangularis. Since it naturally lowers blood sugar, taking cissus quadrangularis along with your regular diabetic medications could cause your blood sugar to dip too low.

Irvingia Gabonensis (African Mango)

Irvingia Gabonesis, also know as African Mango, is a West Aftrican tree whose fruit is sweet, edible, and similar to a mango. Prized for its many uses, the bark, pulp, and seeds of the fruit are often used for medicinal purposes. Irvingia gabonensis is also known as Ogbono, dika, sweet bush mango, odika, iba-tree, chocolatier, African mango, dika nut, duiker nut, manguier sauvage, wild mango, and dika bread tree. 

Benefits of African Mango/Irvingia Gabonesis

Extract from the seeds of the fruit of Irvingia Gabonesis is proving to be useful in the fight against unwanted weight gain. It also helps promote healthy cholesterol, adiponectin, and leptin levels.

According to one study involving 40 obese subjects, those who took 150mg of this African mango seed extract twice a day showed "significant improvements" in their body weight, body fat, and waist size. The treated patients also had a significant decrease of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, an increase of HDL-cholesterol, improved levels of blood glucose, C-reactive protein, adiponectin, and leptin levels – all without changing their diet or exercise routine. On the other hand, the placebo group did not manifest any changes in blood lipid components. Additional studies have shown similar results, with subjects losing weight (about 8-10 pounds) without making other lifestyle changes.

On average, participants in clinical studies saw a ten percent decrease in weight and waist measurements as well as a 50% increase in good cholesterol and 50% decrease in the inflammatory c-reactive protein.

One of the ways that Irvingia Gabonesis promotes weight loss is through its ability to boost leptin levels. Leptin is a hormone that helps suppress appetite as well as let our brain know when we have eaten enough. It also helps break down stored triglycerides in fat cells via lipolysis and delays stomach emptying – which helps prevent food cravings.

It also helps improve leptin sensitivity. Obese individuals have high blood levels of leptin, which is a sign that their cells have become resistant to the hormone that is supposed to prevent them from gaining so much weight. Irvingia has demonstrated beneficial effects on leptin blood levels, followed by both fat loss and acreduced waistline.^2,3

Irvingia also benefits key aspects of healthy metabolism:

• Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase — when we eat sugar or starchy foods, this enzyme is involved in converting those calories to body fat. Irvingia has been shown to reduce the activity of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase,2,4 helping to reduce starch and sugar calorie impact on body fat. ¹⁰
• Alpha-amylase — scientific research suggests that irvingia can inhibit the alpha-amylase enzyme.5 This can help support a slower rate of carbohydrate absorption and reduce the caloric impact of starchy and sugary foods. ¹¹
• Adiponectin — irvingia helps support healthy levels of adiponectin,3 a hormone that helps maintain insulin sensitivity on the membranes of energy-producing cells. Large fat cells produce less adiponectin, which can put the system at risk of developing insulin resistance. Insulin resistance leads to excess insulin in the bloodstream, resulting in additional weight gain. Healthy levels of adiponectin are necessary to maintain a healthy weight.

 

 

Curcumin is known to be a strong anti-inflammatory, it is so powerful that it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19594223) by targeting multiple steps in the inflammatory pathway, and the molecular level.  Curcumin blocks NF-kB, a molecule that travels into the nuclei of cells and turns on genes related to inflammation. NF-kB is believed to play a major role in many chronic diseases.

Co-Q10 – Found in every cell of our body, CoQ10 is used to convert food into energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance. This is due to its role in the creation of adenosine triphosate (ATP), which helps direct energy where it is needed within a cell or with the human body. Its potent antioxidant capabilities are well known – often prescribed for use by those with heart conditions because of its effectiveness at treating oxidative stress – which in turn helps protect the heart and blood vessels. It can also help increase the absorption of other vitamins.

Co-Q10 is found in many natural foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach. 

Manganese – A naturally occurring nutrient found in various plants and foods such as raspberries, beetroot, garlic, leeks, bananas, coconut, and almonds, manganese is crucial for bone health and thyroid function as well as a component of the powerful antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase which scours the body, neutralizing cell damaging free radicals. It helps control the level of sugar in human blood by normalizing insulin synthesis and secretion; is an essential component of thyroxine (a hormone in the thyroid that is crucial to its health); displays significant anti-inflammatory benefits; and it plays a part in the regulation of the metabolism – activating enzymes that help metabolize cholesterol, amino acids, and carbohydrates. Manganese also helps with vitamin absorption in the body – vitamins like Vitamin B and E as well as minerals like magnesium rely on Manganese for the enzymatic reactions that are required to absorb and utilize the vitamins found in food.

Selenium - Selenium, discovered in the 1950’s to be nutritionally essential, plays a critical role in numerous processes regarding oxidative protection, immunity,  cardiovascular health, and brain function. One of its key benefits is its crucial role it plays in the production and proliferation of glutathione peroxidase. One of the most extensively studied protections against oxidative stress, this enzyme requires selenium for proper function. Numerous studies have shown that decreased Selenium levels lead to decreased glutathione peroxidase activity – contributing to increased oxidative damage that can impair or damage DNA, heart tissue, and brain tissue – potentially leading to heart disease, stroke-induced brain damage, as well as cancer.

Selenium also can help the immune response due to its immune-activating properties. Selenium has been shown to elevate cancer and virus-quenching T immune cell presence in addition to their critical role in neutrophils function. Neutrophils are white blood cells that fight infection by ingesting and destroying invading microorganisms.

One study found that Selenium supplementation created an increased production of interferon gamma (which inhibit viral replication and activate macrophages), an earlier peak T Cell proliferation and an increase in T helper cells. Those patients who were given the Selenium showed a faster recovery and more rapid clearance of the live virus that was injected during the study.

1. Broome CS, McArdle F, Kyle JA, et al. An increase in selenium intake improves immune function and poliovirus handling in adults with marginal selenium status.
2. Rose AH, Hoffmann PR. Selenoproteins and cardiovascular stress. Throm Haemost. 2015 Mar;113(3):494-504.
3. Mocchegiani E, Malavolta M. Role of zinc and Selenium in Oxidative Stress and Immunosenescence: Implications for Healthy Ageing and Longevity. In: Fulop T, ed. Handbook on Immunosenescence: Basic Understanding And Clinical Applications: Springer Science and Business Media; 2009:1368-88.
4. Eaton CB, Abdul Baki AR, Waring ME, Roberts MB, Lu B. The association of low selenium and renal insufficiency with coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality: NHANES III follow-up study. Atherosclerosis. 2010 Oct;212(2):689-94.
5. Richie JP, Das A, Calcagnotto AM, et al. Comparative effects of two different forms of selenium on oxidative stress biomarkers in healthy men: a randomized clinical trial. Cancer Prev Res. 2014;7(8):796-804.
6. Zachara BA, Gromadzinska J, Palus J, et al. The effect of selenium supplementation in the prevention of DNA damage in white blood cells of hemodialyzed patients: a pilot study. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2011 Sep;142(3):274-83.
7. Solana R, Tarazona R, Gayoso I, Lesur O, Dupuis G, Fulop T. Innate immunosenescence: effect of aging on cells and receptors of the innate immune system in humans. Semin Immunol. 2012 Oct;24(5):331-41.
8. Arthur JR, McKenzie RC, Beckett GJ. Selenium in the immune system. J Nutr. 2003 May;133(5 Suppl 1):1457S-9S.

Zinc – An essential nutrient required for everyday functions and optimal health – over 300 different enzymes within the human body require zinc to function normally. It ensures the proper functioning of the immune and digestive systems, helps with hormone production, growth and repair, and provides both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to the body. Zinc is essential for proper hormone balance and immune function – even a small deficiency can increase risk of infertility or diabetes as well as increase susceptibility to infection or illness.  Its ability to stimulate white blood cell activity contributes to its ability to shorten the severity and duration of colds and other minor illnesses. Zinc has also been useful for helping obese people lose weight due to its manipulation of the ghreline hormone, which tells the body when to eat. Zinc is integral for normal muscle function and a deficiency can result in chronic fatigue.

Rhodiola Rosea – The most potent and effective member of the Adaptogen plant group, Rhodiola Rosea helps your body adapt to chemical, physical, and environmental stresses. When the body is in a state of stress, it is believed that adaptogens increase the ability of the cell to create fuel and operate more efficiently. It can also enhance our body’s tolerance to stress by its potential to influence the production of key brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine as well as feel-good beta-endorphins. It provides both cognitive stimulation and emotional contentment – enhancing the healing process of the nervous system and contributing to long-term maintenance of brain function.

It can increase attention to detail-oriented tasks by increasing the bioelectrical activity of the brain - improving concentration, comprehension, and memorization. A number of studies have shown that rhodiola can dramatically reduce mental fatigue under stressful conditions. In one study, forty students were selected to receive either 50 mg Rhodiola extract or placebo twice daily for a period of 20 days. The students receiving the standardised extract demonstrated significant improvements in physical fitness, psychomotor function, mental performance, and general wellbeing. Subjects receiving the Rhodiola rosea extract also reported statistically significant reductions in mental fatigue, improved sleep patterns, a reduced need for sleep, greater mood stability, and a greater motivation to study. The average exam scores between students receiving the Rhodiola rosea extract and placebo were 3.47 and 3.20, respectively.

Rhodiola also can improve strength and resiliency during particularly exhaustive or strenuous physical tasks.

In one study, the energy-boosting effect of small and medium doses of rhodiola was observed in animals during a “swim test”—a physically challenging test in which a rodent is put into a beaker of water and observed to see how long it can keep its head above water. Rhodiola-treated rats were able to swim for 25% longer before becoming exhausted, compared with animals that did not receive rhodiola. The researchers concluded that rhodiola enhances exercise capacity by activating the synthesis or re-synthesis of Adenosine triphosate (ATP), a vital energy source, as well as increasing the level of enzymes, RNA, and proteins important to muscle recovery after exhaustion.

Rhodiola may even hold benefits for those challenged with elevated blood sugar or diabetes, - significantly decreasing blood glucose, and improving levels of glutathione and the activities of glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in the liver.”

Olive Leaf Extract – Olive Leaf Extract exhibits multiple impressive characteristics – as an antioxidant it is more potent than Green Tea, is a powerful anti-inflammatory,  promotes healthy blood pressure levels, is a good source of anti-cancer compounds and it exhibits antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal attributes.  It differs from immune boosters because it provides its own benefits rather than stimulating the immune system and making it do all the work. It acts as a buffer for the immune system, dulling or obstructing an attack, giving your immune system time to produce antibodies and finish off the attackers before they have time to spread. It also has the ability to inactivate pathogens without harming “good” bacteria – allowing your gut to keep its beneficial bacteria content intact.

Yeast Betaglucans / Baker’s yeast – In the last 20 years since the discovery of the immunological activity of Beta Glucans, more than 6000 publications have investigated its benefits and potential. A group of natural polysaccharides, Beta Glucans are found in the cell walls of various bacteria and fungi such as baker’s yeast, shiitake mushrooms, and cereal grains. Classed as immunomodulators, Beta-Glucans regulate and/or activate the immune system – showing an increased presence of phagocytes (cells that ingest or absorb foreign particles and bacteria) as well as increased oxidative bursts (used to kill bacteria or larger parasites). Importantly, Beta-Glucans make the Immune system smarter and more efficient, but never overactive – which prevents complications in those suffering from autoimmune illnesses.

Reishi Mushroom has been used in traditional Eastern medicine for thousands of years to improve longevity, Scientists have discovered that the possible health expansion ability of reishi mushrooms may be due to their substantial polysaccharide content. These polysaccharides help boost the health of the immune system and prevent certain abnormal blood vessel formations. It has also been linked with improving liver health, which aids in ridding the body of unwanted toxins.

Cordyseps Sinesis is a nutritionally rich mushroom that is harvested in high mountain regions, Cordyseps Sinesis have been used for centuries in herbal remedies designed to help combat respiratory disorders, colds, and liver damage among other things. It can help to relax the smooth muscles of the blood vessels allowing them to expand more freely, improving blood flow and the functioning of the heart and lungs. This ability, combined with its capability to improve oxygen utilization (by up to 40%), contributes to its ability to reduce fatigue, shortness of breath, alleviate asthma symptoms, and reduce muscle soreness. It has been shown to improve Liver Function and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Several scientific studies have confirmed Cordyceps ability to significantly enhance Natural Killer (NK) cell activity in both normal as well as leukemia-stricken patients. Its impressive influence on immune functions have led to the widespread clinical use of Cordyceps products in patients with altered immune functions.

 

1. Zhu, J.S., Halpern, G.M., and Jones, K. (1998): The Scientific Rediscovery of an Ancient Chinese Herbal Medicine: Cordyceps sinensis. Part I. Journal of Alternative and complementary Medicine 4(3), pp 289-303.
2. Zhu, J.S., Halpern, G.M., and Jones, K. (1998): The Scientific Rediscovery of a Precious Ancient Chinese Herbal Regimen: Cordyceps sinensis. Part II. Journal of Alternative and complementary Medicine 4(4), pp 429-457.
3. Mizuno T. (1999): Medicinal effects and utilization of Cordyceps (Fr.) Link (Ascomycetes) and Isaria Fr. (Mitosporic Fungi) Chinese Caterpillar Fungi, “Tochukaso” (Review). International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms 1 (3), pp 251-261.
4. Xiao Y., Huang X.Z., Chen G.,Wang M.B., Zhu J.S., Cooper C.B.: Increased Aerobic Capacity in Healthy Elderly Humans given fermented Cordyceps Cs-4: a Placebo controlled Trial. Ann. Meeting American College of Sports Medicine, Seattle, WA, June 3-5, 1999.

In order for your immune system to adequately protect you from illness, it must be able to recognize threats, respond to threats, and remember past threats. Once the immune system has recognized and defeated an invader, it has the ability to store the identity of the invader by creating a memory cell – which will allow the immune system to immediately recognize and quickly defeat any repeat offenders before they are able to make us sick. This is what we know as “immunity”. Immunity means we have protection – usually obtained either as a result of becoming sick or by receiving a vaccination. Another method for receiving immunity is through Transfer Factors.

Found in colustrum and eggs, they are responsible for passing immunity from the mother to the infant. Transfer Factors are molecules that are filled with memory cells complete with all the information our immune system needs to instantly recognize and defeat the numerous viral and bacterial threats that we encounter on a daily basis. The discovery of transfer factors has proven to be invaluable in bolstering the immune system of immuno-compromised patients – protecting them from illnesses that would normally render them extremely ill. They can also be used safely and with favorable results by those with Auto-Immune diseases -  who are often treated with Immune-supressing drugs, rendering them more susceptible to illness.

Resveratrol is Classified as a polyphenol, a compound that acts like an antioxidant and found primarily in the skin of red grapes/red wine, resveratrol’s anti-inflammatory and protective benefits may be important to preserving and restoring good health.

Its effects on the sirtuin family of enzymes are a key component of resveratrol's reputation as a powerful agent in the fight against aging and oxidative damage. Sirtuin enzymes play multiple roles in processes that are key to a cell’s survival: facilitating DNA repair, reducing inflammation, and protecting against oxidative stress. The lifespan increasing benefits of a calorie-restricted diet are in large part due to sirtuins. Calorie restriction switches on the genes that activate these enzymes – ensuring survival during times of famine and food deprivation.

A particular study performed in 2006 at Harvard University tested the effects of resveratrol on middle-aged mice with high-calorie diets. While all of the mice in the study gained weight, the resveratrol group lived about 30% longer, had enhanced Insulin sensitivity, fewer fatty deposits in the arteries and liver, lower levels of inflammation, and better balance and coordination. The ability of Resveratrol to counteract the damaging effects of a poor diet, aging, and obesity can be important for anyone looking to optimize their health – but who don’t always happen to live or eat perfectly.

Found in many sources in nature, such as red grapes, peanut butter, and blueberries.

Quercitin is a plant pigment found in various fruits and vegetables with potent antioxidant capabilities quercitin helps counteract the effects of aging and inflammation. Its potent anti-inflammatory benefits can help effectively fight conditions linked to inflammation such as heart disease, arthritis, stomach ulcers, chronic fatigue syndrome, and diabetes.

Quercitin provides natural allergy relief by stabilizing the release of histamines from certain immune cells – resulting in decreased symptoms like watery eyes, runny rose, swollen lips or tongue, and indigestion.

It also helps protect against damage caused by excessive stress levels by suppressing the enzyme necessary for cortisol release, a hormone that produces the “fight or flight” response. During ongoing stress, extended exposure to cortisol can lead to protein breakdown and muscle tissue damage. This combined with its ability to positively affect blood flow and decrease susceptibility to illness after periods of heavy exercise have made it a popular supplement for athletes. In fact, researchers from the School of Applied Physiology at the Georgia Institute of Technology found that, on average, “quercetin provides a statistically significant benefit in human endurance exercise capacity and endurance exercise performance.”

Some foods with the highest concentration of Quercitin in nature are Capers, Onions, Cranberries, and Blueberries.

An ingredient found in tea, L-theanine is the key reason behind tea’s ability to smooth out and calm the caffeine’s speedy, jolting punch of energy without reducing its accompanying mind-energizing, focus-building, and fat-burning features. It relaxes the body and calms the mind without causing drowsiness – a feature that has been found to improve sleep quality in volunteers during a study performed in Japan.

The subjects were given 200 mg of theanine daily and wore devices around their wrists that recorded sleep patterns. The L-theanine didn’t cause the subjects to sleep longer, but it did cause them to sleep better. Recovery from exhaustion, sleep quality, and refreshed feelings were all enhanced – making the subjects feel like they had slept longer than they actually had.

Another benefit of L-theanine is that it leaves people in a better mood – improving the volume of amino acids, elevating seratonin and suppressing glucocorticoids – stress hormones that can play a role in depression as well as negatively affect memory and learning.

Acetyl L-Carnitine is an amino acid that the body uses to turn fat into energy, Acetyl L-Carnotine may improve the ability of certain issues to produce energy – particularly in the brain. A natural super antioxidant, it supplies energy by facilitating the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria – the energy-generating portion of the cell.

The ability of Acetyl L-Carnitine to increase the mitochondria’s ability to generate Adenosine Triphosate makes it particularly beneficial to heart-muscle cells - which require a constant source of energy. It promotes the production of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter that is used to activate muscles.

Clinical studies have also shown it to improve cognitive ability, memory, and mood. When used it conjunction with alpha lipoid acid – the Acetyl L-Carnosine boosting mitochondrial activity while the Alpha Lipoic Acid serves to protect it from the resulting free radicals the energy production process creates – the result is a potent combination which may result in a significant step in fighting age-related decline.

Some of the highest natural sources of Acetyl L-Carnitine can be found in foods such as red meat, fish, cheese, and chicken.

Found in highest concentration in Spinach, Alpha-Lipoic Acid's ground-breaking discovery of this antioxidant’s potent health benefits, alpha lipoic acid’s unique capabilities are due to its dual solubility – acting in both water-soluble and fat-soluble domains within the cells and tissues. This allows is to be easily absorbed and transported into many organs and systems within the body including the brain, liver, and nerves. When combined with the antioxidants Vitamins C and E, the body’s ability to combat free radicals is notably enhanced as lipoic acid recycles and regenerates them – prolonging and improving their protective capabilities. It amplifies the benefits of the important antioxidants glutathione and Coenzyme Q10 and actively protects cellular mitochondria, the energy-producing factories of cells, from being damaged by oxidative stress – ensuring that energy production in the body remains efficient.

As well known and widely studied its antioxidant benefits are, the recent discovery of its ability to reduce elements contributing to metabolic syndrome – a series of risk factors that often precedes type 2 diabetes, has once again thrust alpha lipoic acid into the spotlight and reexamined for possible weight loss and diabetic benefits. The release of a review of various experimental studies showed that alpha lipoic acid reduces blood pressure as well as insulin resistance – providing significant improvement in overweight type 2 diabetics within four weeks of supplementation. This ability to lower blood sugar levels has made it a popular supplement by body builders as a way to further drop fat levels without losing muscle mass.

Nutrient-rich brown algae is high in potassium, calcium, B-Vitamins, and as Iodine – an essential nutrient that helps balance hormones and protects against thyroid issues. Studies have shown that brown algae can help regulate carbohydrate metabolism. It helps manage appetite in a manner similar to Fiber, since it works by keeping your body feeling full. The Fucoidan content in brown algae also makes it a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Berberine, touted as one of the most potent weight loss supplements currently on the market, is one of the few compounds known to activate AMPK (resveratrol is another one). One of the other ways to activate AMPK is with the hormones leptin and adiponective – hormones that are positively stimulated and increased during moderate to intense exercise, and one of the reasons behind exercise-related weight loss. In other words,  stimulating AMPK can produce some of the same weight regulating benefits as exercise and dieting. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an enzyme known as the “metabolic master switch” due to its important role in regulating metabolism (1) AMPK increases insulin sensitivity by stimulating glucose uptake by muscles – inhibiting excess insulin secretion.

The importance of berberine’s influence has a direct influence on weight management. Indeed, several studies confirm that berberine intake does result in weight loss – one in particular found that treatment with berberine resulted in the loss of 5 pounds on average, compared to placebo groups. There are a number of reasons for this – number one levels can prevent weight gain. It can result in fatigue and cravings for sugar and carbs; too high and the surge of insulin is a sign that plenty of energy is readily available and that the body should stop burning fat and start storing it. Steady sugar levels result in the continuous burning of fat for an energy source as well as reduced cravings.

Berberine’s anti-inflammatory benefits also prove beneficial to cardiovascular health – encouraging healthy lining  of the blood vessels and decreasing cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.

Berberine also has potential as an agent in the next wave of defense against the threat of increasing antibiotic resistance. It has a long history of use in treating infections – including some cases of MRSA. It destroys bacteria by accumulating in its cells and damaging its DNA – halting growth and ultimately causing its death.

(1) 1, 3, 20, 21, 22 Natural Medicine Journal December 2012 Vol. 4 Issue 12

Sinetrol citrus extract is a patented, proprietary blend of several polyphenolic compounds extracted from various citrus fruits including orange, blood orange, and grapefruit. It combines these bioactive polyphenols, which include narigin, hesperedin and neohesperidin, with guarana extract – whose caffeine content can boost energy and focus. Sinetrol is designed to reduce body fat levels, enhance Lipolysis, reduce waist and hip circumference, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Sinetrol helps to reduce body fat percentage by inhibiting the PDE-4 enzyme, which is responsible for the breakdown of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). When a hormone like adrenaline interacts with fat cells, cAMP ensures the proper signal is sent to the enzymes- triggering the release of fatty acids from the cells into the bloodstream to be used for energy. Higher concentrations of cAMP mean more efficient fatty acid release, resulting in improved fat burning and an increase in energy levels.

Piperine in black pepper has been shown to reduce fat levels in the bloodstream as well as antioxidant benefits. It has a long history of use in Eastern medicine for treating gastrointestinal issues and inflammation, but it is its ability to interfere with the activity of genes that are responsible for fat formation that has scientists claiming it has weight-loss potential. Piperine has also been shown to significantly improve the absorption and bioavailability of the nutrients in food and supplements.

Bitter Orange Extract is a patented complex that contains p-synephrine, n-methyltyramine, hordenine, octopamine, and tyramine and is designed to boost the metabolism, suppress hunger, and encourage fat breakdown. Advantra-Z works as a thermogenic, which increases the internal heat of the body, resulting in increased energy and metabolic rate. It has been shown to increase lipolysis – the breakdown of fats and other lipids, resulting in weight loss and improved energy levels. The fat-burning benefits are given a substantial boost when combined with green tea extract or caffeine.

An effective fat-burner and focus-enhancer, green tea extract works due to the mix of caffeine and catechins ; effectively revving up your production of noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter that affects the levels of vigilance, attention, motivation, reward, learning, and memory.

Adequate Vitamin D3 levels are essential for optimal health, however millions of individuals are severely deficient and thus deprived of its life-sustaining, bone-building, and immune modulating properties. Research shows that Vitamin D3 deficiency is linked to a variety of health conditions such as depression, back pain, cancer, insulin resistance, decreased immunity, osteopenia, and fibromyalgia. In addition to its long-established benefits for improving bone health, Vitamin D3 has been shown to improve cognitive function and symptoms of depression. Recent data has linked a correlation between Vitamin D3 deficiency and obesity – prompting researchers to suggest all overweight and obese people to have their levels tested.