Welcome to LADR.com and Modern Doctor Magazine.
Here are some additional professional product lines that are available through our office.
Dr. Comstock's patients may arrange to purchase these products through our office by contacting us via e-mail at cc@LADR.com.
Thank you.
HealthyHormones.com (also known as Aarise Health Care Products) is committed to the life sustaining qualities of natural healthful nutrients and supplements derived in whole from Mother Nature not Modern Labs. Its founders have many years of experience in the food and pharmaceutical processing and packing industry. They know, respect and hold dear the ideals that only good wholesome natural herbs, natural foods and natural ingredients bring about health and personal well being. HealthyHormones.com is dedicated to bringing you good health...Naturally.
HealthyHormones.com is the maker of Progesta Plus, created in an FDA laboratory in the US according to strict USP standards.Thousands of women since 1996 have discovered the benefits of Progesta Plus.
We produce a line of over 60 excellent nutritional items, all designed to keep you performing at your best! Our products can be found in all fine health food stores throughout the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. We can also be found in select U.S. stores such as Trader Joe's, Fred Meyers, GNC, Payless, Sav-On/Osco, Whole Foods Market, Von's, and Emerson Ecologics Inc. Ask for us by name!
Allergy Research Group®, established in 1979 is an innovative leader in research and the formulation of nutritional supplements, the Company is recognized worldwide for the quality, purity and efficacy of its targeted nutritional supplement line consisting of more than 300 products. Over 6,000 physicians and health care practitioners worldwide currently purchase Allergy Research Group's products and recommend these supplements to their patients.
Dr. Stephen Levine Allergy Research Group's research and development is led by Stephen Levine, Ph.D., who is recognized internationally for his mission of creating state-of-the-art supplements, especially designed for allergic individuals. Dr. Levine is also known worldwide as an author of the book, "Antioxidant Adaptation: Its Role in Free Radical Pathology," which is considered a leading resource on this subject. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Levine has collaborated with the medical community and states, "It has been my greatest pleasure working with progressive physicians to develop nutraceutical products which reduce suffering and improve the health of their patients."
Founded in 1978, by Dr. Robert Bradford, AB is a leader in developing proprietary metabolic nutraceuticals, nutritional supplements and biomedical diagnostic/monitoring equipment, technology and therapies. Manufacturer of the Bradford BVPM, High Resolution Microscopy System for peripheral blood assessments. Developer of proprietary products including: Dioxychlor, SulfoximeTM, Oxy-5000 Forte, and Infla-Zyme Forte.
Amrita is a manufacturer of a complete line of quality aromatherapy products and a leader in aromatherapy research and education. We sell wholesale to aromatherapy stores, health stores, salons, spas etc.
Our History
Amrita Aromatherapy was founded by Christoph Streicher in 1989. At that time Christoph was finishing his Ph.D. at Maharishi International University (MIU) in the USA. At MIU all fields of traditional western education are studied in the light of the deep eternal wisdom of the Vedas. One of the principal understandings of Vedic knowledge is that "the whole is greater then the sum of the parts." This is the critical concept behind the re-emerging wholistic paradigm, in which all true healing must be able to viewed.
When fate connected him to aromatherapy through his German background he felt immediately at home, seeing in aromatherapy (the use of true essential oils for healing) a way to effect profound and balanced changes in the direction of greater wholeness. Becoming quickly aware that most essential oils on the market are in some way denatured, he envisioned Amrita as a trustworthy source of nature's pure and true essential oils. He consistently upholds this vision each and every time he sources an essential oil.
Amrita now carries an extensive line of aromatherapy products, in most cases, imports oils directly from the distiller and, distributes many of products internationally.
Early in 1997 Sheryll Ryan joined Amrita's staff. A well-established aromatherapy teacher and clinician Sheryll was instrumental in initiating the Foundation for Aromatherapy Education and Research.
This research and teaching organization supports Amrita by:
thoroughly analyzing each essential oil for its authenticity;
conducting aromatherapy research ....; and elevating the level of aromatherapy knowledge in the community through structured classes.
Baar Products is an enterprise of medically oriented individuals that are dedicated to providing a wide variety of natural health care products. The company was founded as a concept by Bruce Baar, MS, ND (candidate) in 1986 when he was required to look outside the current accepted practices to recuperate from a car accident that occurred a year earlier. Through this research he developed many products specifically designed to maintain health.
Baar Products manufactures and provides health care products including The Baar™ Wet Cell Battery, The Radiac®, Violet Ray high frequency units, mind building systems, castor oil, supplements, skin care, longevity systems, massage oils, products for research, health and wellness, meditation, rejuvenation, mental/physical/spiritual awakening, stress reduction, enhanced sleep and many other unique and unusual items.
The Hair Care, Skin Care, and Beauty Products are created with all-natural ingredients. These natural formulations are designed with care for your whole family.
The Mind/Body products are in a classification all their own. The Radiac and the Baar Battery™ are creating history. These products are sold throughout the world and their performance is documented in books like "Hope Springs Eternal" by David Atkinson.
Baar Products is the World Wide Exclusive Licensed Supplier of Edgar Cayce Products . These CayceCare™ products are formulated to the specifications of the Edgar Cayce Readings. This special collection of natural products includes tonics, liniments, beneficial oils, rejuvenating remedies, and more. All of these products are made from natural ingredients and are intended to help stimulate and support the body's own healing mechanisms. For more than sixty years people have testified to the helpfulness of these products in resolving specific health concerns and restoring the body to balance and well being.
The supplement and vitamin line comes from the newest company, Nature's Blessing™. The purity and freshness of these products is our highest priority. Quality ingredients combined with great prices have positioned Baar as the value leader in the industry.
Bio-Botanical Research Inc. is the developer and distributor of high quality nutritional products for health professionals. Biocidin, Biotonic and Proflora are potent broad-spectrum formulations, which provide superior nutritional support for both intestinal dysbiosis and systemic conditions where fungal, bacterial or parasitic pathogens have been identified.
In 1980, after nearly ten years in the nutritional supplement industry, I founded NutriBiotic based on the principle that everyone deserves good health. Inspired by the research and recommendations of the world's only two-time Nobel Laureate, Linus Pauling, Ph.D., we began work on development of a variety of forms and dosages of Vitamin C and other nutrients. We felt that the public should have the best possible variety of the best possible nutrients at the best possible price, and our initial successes with our family of products showed that you thought so, too. Soon after we began filling the need for quality nutritional supplements, we found another need - the need for high quality, nutrient dense protein in a hypoallergenic form for the chemical and food sensitive individual. Our Rice Protein powder meets that need without soy, milk, egg, wheat or yeast.
In the early 1920's in Indochina, French microbiologist Henri Boulard was in search of a new strain of yeast that would withstand extreme heat in order to make good wine. There was an outbreak of Cholera in one of the villages he was traveling through, and he noticed that the local natives were stopping the diarrhea by drinking a certain tea. He found out they were taking the skins from the tropical fruit litchis and mangosteens and cooking them down and drinking the tea. He succeeded in isolating the agent responsible for treating the diarrhea: It was a special strain of yeast of the "Saccharomyces" genus, which he named after himself "Saccharomyces boulardii".
1947: Mr. Michel Hublot, doctor of pharmacy, founded the company along with Mr. Francois Vallet, graduate in law. Mr. Henri Boulard met with Biocodex and made arrangements with Biocodex to purchase the rights to his strain of Saccharomyces boulardii and the fermentation process. Biocodex holds the patents on this strain of saccharomyces and the fermentation process. All research and studies to date have been done on Biocodex's strain of Saccharomyces boulardii.
1966: Building of an ultra-modern factory and research center near Beauvais, France with the aim of centralizing production for the best pharmaceutical safety conditions.
1974: Creation of a new corporate office in Montrouge, France. Biocodex at this time has been successfully using Ultra-Levure (Florastor™) throughout Europe, and to date it is being used in over 60 countries worldwide.
1987: Biocodex Inc. the first research center in the United States is created in Seattle, Washington. Research and studies are done on Clostridium difficile disease, Antibiotic - associated diarrhea, and other intestinal health problems.
1990: Opening of a new state of the art Research Center located in Compiegne, France with modern facilities for research, development, and advancing further studies on this strain of non-pathogenic yeast.
In June of 2000 Biocodex's new corporate office and distribution center for Florastor™ is created in Creswell, Oregon.
BioGenesis wants to be your trusted name in nutraceutical products. We refuse to compromise when it comes to your patients needs. After all, you are in the business of healing and we are in the business of helping you succeed. Your patients rely on your advice. You must have a line of products that you can fully trust. It is your reputation and their health that is at stake. With this in mind, we ask you to consider BioGenesis Nutraceuticals. Each product is designed by clinically active health care providers, each with decades of experience. This is no small statement! Many companies hire doctors with little or no clinical experience to design their formulas. Some companies do not consult with physicians at all. At BioGenesis we believe that clinical experience is critical to developing each of our effective formulas.
We are not a “copy cat” company. As you review our extensive catalog of products you may find some formulas similar to those offered by other companies. On closer inspection you will see that even these formulas have been improved with clinically relevant quantities of therapeutic ingredients and additional ingredients that enhance the probability of favorable patient outcomes. While we cannot make medical claims, is seems obvious to us that in order to achieve the best outcomes your patients must have access to the best products.
We may not be the cheapest line of products available. However, we can say that you will not find products of higher quality, period. You can stop looking. BioGenesis stands for value. We offer our products to you at competitive prices with uncompromising quality. The most expensive formula is the one that doesn’t work.
It has been said that there is “nothing new under the sun”. However, our goal is to provide you, the clinician with cutting edge tools to enhance your patients well being. We bring to you the latest tested and safe therapeutic products as they become available. We use state of the art delivery systems such as transdermals, liposomal topicals and intraorals, fully bonded and reacted mineral chelates with proven superior absorption and delivery to target tissues, and biologically active B vitamins.
Our manufacturer is licensed as a food, nutritional and OTC drug manufacturer. Triple licensed! Very few manufacturers can meet these stringent state and federal FDA requirements. Our team includes clinically active physicians (who formulate our products), chemists, chemical engineers, microbiologists, food technologists, home economists, registered dieticians, and technicians. We use only the purest, highest quality, most biologically active ingredients available. Our herbs are the highest quality, standardized, organic or wild crafted (whenever possible). We use pharmaceutical grade pure biologically active vitamins and our minerals are bonded fully reacted “true chelates” with exceptional absorption and delivery to target tissues.
Our products are tested and verified through: HPLC (High Pressure Liquid Chromatography), Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrophotometry, Atomic Absorption and Flame Emission Spectrophotometry, Microbiological Laboratory Cultures, Assays and Dissolution testing.
The world is experiencing rapid global industrialization and the production and widespread distribution of trillions of particles of toxins that undermine the health and well being of people of all nations. The World Health Organization acknowledged, in 1974, environmental pollution as the underlying cause of 80% of all chronic degenerative diseases. Since then the Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients has identified 76 health concerns directly associated with just heavy metal toxicity-not to mention chemicals and myco toxins.
So, who is BioRay?
BioRay dedicates all of its research and clinical resources to combating the negative health effects caused by toxic levels of heavy metals, chemical and myco toxins once they take root in the human body. BioRay seeks to research, develop and market remedies, using only natural ingredients that mitigate the ill effects of major health ailments arising from the presence of toxins that are absorbed into the body and its cells.
BioRay at Work
BioRay provides remedies for the negative health impact of heavy metals and other toxins that are extant in today's environment, invading the body and ultimately the cells themselves thereby causing chronic illnesses that are destructive and debilitating. BioRay combines empirical laboratory research into the molecular size, structure and properties of its natural ingredients with the clinical treatment of research patients to formulate BioRay's NDF line of detoxification products. The NDF product line is available to the public only from certified health professionals such as medical doctors, osteopathic doctors, chiropractors, dentists, naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists and registered nurses in the U.S. Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Europe. The letters "NDF" represent nanocolloidal detox factors, emphasizing the biotech procedure of decimating cell walls to create an even smaller, more bio-available nutritive substance. BioRay has pioneered the use of nanocolloidal detox factors, or properties, with certain ingredients to cause heavy metals and other toxins, once extracted from cells, to be excreted via urine instead of the bowels where the toxins are likely to be re-absorbed.
On the Cutting Edge
BioRay has won medical and professional acclaim for its research in detoxification. The Company's most recent achievements have garnered significant attention, including features in the Townsend Letter, Natural HealthLink's international professional teleconference on health issues, Women and Thyroid Health and Explore, The magazine for health professionals. BioRay's research laboratory and clinic are located in Los Angeles, CA. More information about BioRay can be found at www.bioray2000.com
Biosyntrx, in concert with ophthalmologists, optometrists, PhD biochemists, molecular biologists, and nutrition educators, develops nutraceutical formulations that support optimal health - specifically the exquisitely engineered functions of the eyes, which reveal some of the earliest signs of degeneration affecting the entire body. Nutrients, which have been proven to be good for the eyes, have also been proven good for the entire body.
Science: Biosyntrx multiple formulations are based on solid, scientific scrutiny of peer-reviewed published data that supports the inclusion of each active ingredient. Please visit our scientific rationale link under each Biosyntrx product for verification.
We are committed to proving the science that supports our indication-specific formulations with cohort studies. The evidence-based success of thousands of dry eye customers coupled with the fall 2003 publication of a ten-site BioTears Oral GelCaps study designed around standard dry eye clinical markers speaks to the efficacy of our BioTears Oral GelCaps.
Manufacturing: Biosyntrx products are manufactured to cGMP's (Current Good Manufacturing Principles). Quality assurance checkpoints are built into the entire process, including multiple checks on raw material weight, proper grinding and mixing of raw material blend to assure uniform dispersion, multiple capsule weight checks throughout the encapsulation process, accurately filling the bottles with the proper number of capsules or softgels, and final testing of finished product for quality and label claims. All these check- points guarantee that what's indicated on the label, matches the content of the bottle. A VRP certificate of composition accompanies each product batch, which ensures that potency meets stated label claims of potency.
Our manufacturers acquisition of state-of-the-art, high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipment, in conjunction with a unique, landmark alliance with the Biochemistry Department, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) assures our customers unsurpassed quality control, and safe products that are what they claim to be.
Our manufacturers seal, found on the bottom of the supplement fact box on every label, speaks to authentic quality control through their alliance with the Biochemistry Department, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR).
BIO-TECH Pharmacal, Inc. is a fully insured, state and federally licensed, FDA registered and cGMP compliant pharmaceutical manufacturer, marketer, wholesaler and distributor specializing in high quality hypoallergenic products, cutting edge nutriceuticals, alternative health care products, and pharmaceuticals, Rx and non-Rx, formulated for even the most chemically sensitive individuals. BIO-TECH is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of product and service. We provide quality, competitively priced prescriptive and non-prescriptive products to physicians, hospitals, HMOs, pharmacies, retirement centers, and health care providers worldwide.
Boericke & Tafel - Heal Yourself Naturally. B&T was founded in 1835 and is the leading manufacturer of natural homeopathic medicines.
According to the National Center for Homeopathy, "Homeopathy is a system of medicine that is based on the Law of Similars. The truth of this law has been verified experimentally and clinically for the last 200 years. How does the concept of homeopathy differ from that of conventional medicine? Very simply, homeopathy attempts to stimulate the body to recover itself."
Carlson Laboratories is an NNFA GMP certified company.
To see the NNFA website click here!
Founded by John and Susan Carlson in 1965, Carlson Labs has been a family owned and operated business for over 30 years. Since no one cares more about quality than the people who put their names on it, Carlson Laboratories is dedicated to providing only the highest quality natural supplements.
Carlson Laboratories goes beyond the ethical standards that are required by the FDA to provide the highest quality products and educational services possible.
Carlson Laboratories began with one Vitamin E formula. Since then, the line has grown to be the most complete line of vitamin E products in the world and includes over 100 other highly developed formulas designed to meet a wide variety of nutritional needs.
Each of Carlson Laboratories vitamin E products carries a guarantee of 100% natural source vitamin E and 100% potency. Every batch is assayed for potency and source by an independent testing firm which is registered with the FDA as following good manufacturing practices. Because Carlson Laboratories believes that every consumer has the right to know the complete ingredients of every supplement, all products have full disclosure labels that list all active and all inert ingredients.
With more than $70 million in basic and clinical research, Carrington Laboratories has accomplished the centuries-old goal of producing proven, quality products from the inner-leaf gel of the Aloe vera plant. Carrington's scientific, patented process guarantees that specific measured amounts of Aloe vera can be found in every Carrington product. Carrington grows its Aloe vera on the company's plantation in Costa Rica, ensuring an organic environment of fresh sunshine, warm temperatures, and volcanic soil. The Aloe vera is harvested and freeze dried using a patented process and then shipped to the company's modern manufacturing facility in Texas. Carrington formulates the aloe raw materials into a variety of FDA or USDA regulated devices, biologics, drugs in development, adjuvants, and various cosmetic and food grade products.
Celtic Sea Salts are naturally harvested by a cooperative of farmers in Brittany, France. The method used for gathering these nutritional salts follows a 2,000 year-old Celtic tradition and is supported by modern quality control standards. The French Government prides itself in this unique resource and has preserved thousands of acres of pristine wild marsh, as a "National Treasure" and "Protected Site" so that these areas will continue to produce Celtic Sea Salts for centuries more. In 1991, the French Ministry of Forests and Agriculture gave its most honorable "Superior Quality Food" mention to Celtic Sea Salt.
ChildLife is proud to offer our complete nutritional supplement programs to the natural products marketplace. Our experience with infants and children's healthcare is extensive. Dr. Murray C. Clarke, who founded the company and developed the product line, has been specializing in pediatrics in his homeopathic and clinical nutrition practice for the past ten years. The ChildLife Essentials line is literally the product of that experience. The six products we offer are those which have proven most necessary and beneficial in supporting healthy development and promoting natural immune strength in infants and children.
Foremost among our innovations are the two supplement programs developed to support children's needs. The Daily Maintenance Group provides a foundation of the essential nutrients needed on a daily basis for growth and healthy development. The Extra Support Group provides immune support, as well as anti-bacterial and anti-viral action, to be used at the first sign of a cold or infection and also periodically to increase natural defense protection.
ChildLife Essentials are made from the highest quality natural ingredients. The good taste of the products makes taking nutritional supplements an easy part of a child's daily routine. We are very proud of this product line and are deeply committed to promoting improved nutrition for children as a foundation for good health and well-being.
Minter Dopson, president of Chisolm Biological Laboratory (CBL) in South Carolina, has been a pioneer in the Transfer Factor field for more than two decades, and his lab produces high-quality Transfer Factor products that are on the forefront of a bright new era in immune system therapy.
According to Crayhon Research (makers of the new Crayhon Research brand of nutritional supplements:
Crayhon Research has been created in order to:
Foster a knowledge among health professionals and the public that natural therapies exist which can prevent and treat a wide range of ailments, both chronic and acute
Integrate with what is proven in studies as well as in clinical practice, respecting both sources of information equally
Create a critical but open-minded stance towards natural healing, so that all new therapies can be examined in light of their efficacy without bias
Cultivate a camaraderie among health care practitioners so that they can share their clinical findings and together create new solutions for treating a wide variety of health conditions
Perform human clinical research to document the benefits of natural therapies
We believe there is something called optimal health that is more than the
mere absence of disease. We believe that optimal health is a goal that is
worth achieving. We believe that optimal health is the best defense against
degenerative diseases such as heart disease and cancer, and that no one
nutrient, lifestyle parameter, or diagnostic marker can match the overall
disease protective power of optimal health.
We believe that the road to optimal health is a highly individual one. What
may make one person healthy may make another person sick. We all need an
individual program to make and keep us healthy.
We believe that any form of healing has both strengths and weaknesses.
There is no one form of healing that is inherently better than any other.
We believe that integrating many systems of healing is the greatest cause
facing medicine today. Only the successful integration of all healing
systems will allow patients to receive the highest quality care.
Desert Lake Technologies (DLT) is a leading harvester, processor, and
worldwide supplier of premium quality Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA)
blue-green algae originating from Klamath Lake, Oregon. AFA is a unique,
dietary, scientifically validated product containing vital nutrients and
antioxidants to help nourish and protect the body, including chlorophyll,
carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids and phycocyanin. DLT's innovative
technologies in the collection and processing of wild microalgae have
revolutionized the Klamath Lake harvesting business. Our proprietary,
on-site Refractance Window(tm) drying technology, a new process to the
industry, results in cost-efficient production of superior products.
Designs for Health products may only be purchased by Health Care Professionals. Patients who want to buy Designs for Health products may obtain them from their Health Care Professional.
Designs for Health was founded in 1989 by nutritionist Linda Lizotte, R.D, CDN and Jonathan Lizotte, company CFO. Designs for Health originally was composed of a team of nutritionists who focused exclusively on providing nutrition counseling services for the treatment of a variety of health conditions. The logical expansion of individual counseling success was the creation of an advanced nutrition training program for practitioners who desired to integrate nutrition into their traditional practices. Finally, DFH developed their extensive supplement line to service their growing client base.
Because DFH was founded on the successes of patient treatment outcomes, before they ever developed products to produce those outcomes, the company’s motto has always been Science First. To this day nutritionists with ongoing clinical experiences still shape the direction of Designs for Health.
The DFH mission statement is to foster knowledge among health professionals and the public that natural therapies exist to prevent and treat a wide range of ailments, and to facilitate the integration of scientifically valid research supporting these therapies in clinical practice.
Product Specialization
Few single manufacturing facilities can provide the level of proficiency mandated by Designs for Health for the production of capsules, tablets, softgels, powders, liquids, bars, and specialty items (e.g. sours, creams). Each of these different product forms requires unique machinery, expertise, quality control measures, and raw materials handling. Producing a nutrition bar that holds together, a powder that mixes well, a tablet that dissolves well, and a softgel that doesn’t leak, all require unique levels of specialization. Only by contracting with the “best of breed” in each product-manufacturing category, can Designs for Health meet their high level of production standards.
Quality Control
The FDA has yet to set a firm standard of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) for nutritional supplements. Designs for Health routinely inspects our manufacturing partners’ facilities and insists that each meet or exceed the most current GMP standards. Designs for Health requires their manufacturers to supply them with a list of Standard Operating Procedures, which are then reviewed by a Designs for Health Director of Quality Control. The current lack of mandated government standards may result in some nutritional supplement companies delivering products that are inferior to those of Designs for Health. By choosing Designs for Health a client also chooses to receive a consistent, quality product every time an order is placed.
Government Regulation and GMPs (Good Manufacturing Processes)
The objectives of the GMPs are to provide the consumer with unadulterated products, which are correctly branded and meet their respective label claims. In the nutritional supplement industry, manufacturing operations are governed by food GMPs and enforced by local and state health departments. Although food GMPs require cleanliness of facility grounds and equipment, the proposed FDA dietary supplement GMPs are far more comprehensive and are based on the more stringent drug GMPs. Designs for Health standards require that all of their contracted manufacturers follow a GMP standard based on drug GMPs TODAY, because that is what Designs for Health clients expect and deserve.
Quality Control
From raw material selection, through manufacturing, to shipping of the finished product, Designs for Health has strict quality control standards. We have made quality control a top priority so that our customers are assured of getting potent and effective nutritional supplements every time they order.
Raw Material Selection
At Designs for Health we pride ourselves on our extremely high standards for the raw material that goes into our supplements. Each raw material vendor is chosen based on a variety of criteria designed to quantify the quality parameters we insist upon. We buy our raw materials only from those vendors who are able to meet our stringent requirements.
Certificates of Analysis
Designs for Health requires that all raw materials arrive with a Certificate of Analysis from the supplier for every lot sent. A Certificate of Analysis documents the identity of the material, as well as the material’s potency and purity. Designs for Health has reserved the right with our manufacturers to return any finished product that is received without a Certificate of Analysis.
All Certificates of Analysis are kept on file and are available to our customers at any time.
Raw Material Testing
Much of the raw material used in Designs for Health supplements are also tested in house, for identification, potency and for microbial contamination. We also test a select group of raw materials for heavy metals. While the Certificate of Analysis is an important tool in quality control, Designs for Health tests our raw material as an extra measure of quality for our customers. A great deal of time and intellectual capital has been invested in developing Designs for Health formulas and we strongly believe in using only top quality ingredients.
Manufacturer Selection
Designs for Health uses the same high standards for choosing the manufacturers of their supplements as they do for raw material selection.
Designs for Health uses only those manufacturers who follow the FDA proposed Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). By choosing to use only these manufacturers, Designs for Health can assure that consistent, quality products go into every order.
All of the manufacturers chosen are inspected by the Designs for Health Director of Quality Control before they are approved to produce any products. They are also periodically audited to ensure that they are consistently following the guidelines of the FDA proposed GMP’s. All manufacturers must also agree to full and open disclosure, and to supply Designs for Health with a list of their Standard Operating Procedures.
Finished Products
All finished products that arrive at the Designs for Health warehouse are quarantined until they are inspected and approved by the Quality Control Department. Once received at the warehouse, the finished product goes through rigorous testing to ensure that it meets the specifications set forth by Designs for Health. If the product does not meet the specifications of Designs for Health, it is not released for sale.
Designs for Health prides itself on providing their clients with only the most pure and potent supplements available. Designs for Health clients can be assured that when they order from Designs for Health they are receiving a top quality, professional grade supplement, based on a "science first" approach.
Click here to view Designs for Health's wholesaler statement of policy.
The Professional’s Choice for Half a Century For 50 years, Douglas Laboratories has been dedicated to “Raising the Standard for Nutrition and Wellness” and is the recognized industry leader. Tens of thousands of healthcare professionals and their patients have come to rely upon Douglas Laboratories supplements. We demonstrate our commitment to improving patient wellness by offering the broadest product line within the industry. We also continually introduce new products utilizing cutting edge delivery-forms and manufacturing technologies.
Innovative Products Delivering Clinically Backed Results As the industry leader, Douglas Laboratories continues to offer new and innovative products utilizing state-of-the-art delivery technology and backed by the latest scientific and clinical research. This innovative spirit is exemplified by our featured product, CoQmelt, which employs a new and patented fast-melt technology to rapidly deliver fat-soluble nutrients to the body. Each delicious orange-flavored fast-melt tablet begins to melt upon contact with saliva and delivers 100 mg of natural coenzyme Q10. A recent clinical trial published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics indicated that CoQ10 delivered in a fast-melt tablet is absorbed in the bloodstream more than three times faster than hard shell gelatin, and over twice as fast as soft gelatin formulas.
Thea-Stat™, a Douglas Laboratories exclusive, is a unique patent-pending extract of green tea standardized to a family of catechin-derivatives called theaflavins. This particular extract of green tea has been clinically studied in humans for its ability to significantly lower cholesterol levels.* In addition to its theaflavin content, Thea-Stat also contains other compounds typically found in green tea including epigallocatechin gallate, a powerful antioxidant.
These two formulas represent just a portion of the rich pipeline of new clinically supported products at Douglas Laboratories. Our continuing commitment to provide innovative products toward improving patient wellness is our core goal.
At Douglas Laboratories, there is no greater mission than assuring that each and every supplement produced is of the highest quality. When you see the Douglas Laboratories ÔQuality Emblem,’ be assured that only the finest raw materials are being used, and that all manufacturing is performed under the strictest of guidelines. Because these products are developed specifically for exclusive distribution by healthcare professionals, our emblem has become a recognized symbol of quality that patients around the world have come to rely upon and trust.
Manufacturing Practices and Certifications Douglas Laboratories’ rigid manufacturing practices and procedures are designed to monitor and verify quality throughout every step of the production process.
cGMPs (current Good Manufacturing Practices) in accordance with USPXXVI
SOPs (written Standard Operating Procedures) in accordance with cGMPs
VCP (Vendor Certification Program) ensuring raw material quality
ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 accreditation/in-house laboratory certification
In-house Ôuniversity’ training and ongoing educational program
In-House Laboratories Ensure Overall Product Quality Our in-house laboratories, under the supervision of our staff Ph.D.s, constantly monitor quality. From raw materials entering our facility through testing dosage potency and tablet/capsule disintegration, our in-house labs ensure product quality and consistency.
Chemical Analysis Laboratory — ensuring potency of formula components
Physical Analysis Laboratory — ensuring dosage weight, hardness, disintegration, and overall consistency and appearance
Microbiology Laboratory — testing all raw materials and products for yeast, mold, and bacterial purity in accordance with USPXXVI
ISO 9001 Certification and ISO 17025 Accreditation Douglas Laboratories is proud to announce that our in-house laboratory certification and accreditation meet both the ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 standards. These standards mean that we are compliant with one of the highest and most recognized standards of quality in the world. When comparing supplement suppliers, ask them for verification of their laboratories’ ISO certification.
Facilities… International Regulatory Compliance Our world-class manufacturing facilities comply with federal and other worldwide regulatory bodies.
FDA
Canadian Ministry of Health
European Ministry of Health
Dr. Garber's Natural SolutionsR are condition specific biotherapy formulas that exclusively combine the three homeopathic biotherapies (Gemmotherapy, Lithotherapy and Organotherapy) in a special synergy critical to their effectiveness. The genesis of Dr. Garber's formulas came out of a desire in his private practice to address certain patient concerns quickly and effectively, often well before he prescribed a constitutional remedy. As a homeopathist, it is important to Dr. Garber that patients not take anything that might disturb the action of the constitutionally remedy he had prescribed for them. The homeopathic biotherapies have been proven over the years to not interfere with constitutional prescribing and, in fact, work synergistically with them by eliminating many so-called "obstacles to cure."
Gemmotherapy remedies are extracts of the actively growing parts of plants such as the buds, rootlets, young shoots and seeds. They are drainage remedies, that is, they flush toxins from the body by stimulating the normal elimination pathways.
Lithotherapy is the use of homeopathic preparations of mineral rocks. They detoxify at the cellular level by removing toxins from their binding sites and optimize mineral balance, thus restoring enzymatic function.
Organotherapy remedies are made from homeopathic preparations of healthy tissue, also known as sarcodes. They regulate the function of organs and glands to normalize their activity.
The organotherapy directs the formula to the specific organ, gland or tissue to be treated. The lithotherapy detoxifies the target cells by liberating the toxins and replacing them with appropriate minerals. The gemmotherapy effectively drains away the released toxins, resulting in optimum healthy function.
By combining the cellular detoxification action of lithotherapy with the systemic drainage offered by gemmotherapy and the organ regulatory effect of organotherapy, Dr. Garber has been able to target specific conditions in a unique and previously unattainable way. Dr. Garber's Professional Line formulas are an excellent stand-alone treatment modality yet are compatible with many different therapies as well. The fact that they are easy to administer and taste so good is an added benefit to increased patient compliance.
Our natural products and holistic philosophy will make your skin healthier and more radiant.
We put all our resources into the very purest ingredients, because they make the most potent and effective skin care products.
We use certified organic oils, aloe and herbs, pure essential oils, and natural minerals, all gifts from the earth. We refuse to use the cheap, potentially toxic petrochemical mix found in many leading commercial brands. Your skin deserves better ingredients than those derived from lifeless mineral oil, propylene glycol, and alcohol.
And the good news is, not only are our natural products better for your skin, they’re pampering, and smell delightful.
Why spray synthetic fragrances into the air you breath when you can use a natural air freshener? Ecco Mists are natural, healthful and contain over 2,000 sprays.
From Sally Malanga, Founder
When I started Ecco Bella in 1992, I took a long, hard look at the ingredients women were using in their commercial body care products. I found many of the ingredients were potentially toxic, including talc, mercury, synthetic colors, fragrance, formaldehyde releasing preservatives, and a wide range of ingredients derived from petroleum.
As bad as this was, I was also horrified by the cruelty of animal testing, which all the major cosmetic companies participated in. Many still do. The FDA does not require that ingredients be tested on animals. Yet, thousands of innocent animals are maimed and killed every year in the name of beauty.
If a product is intended for human use, it makes sense to test it on people. If a product is going to be beneficial to human skin, it makes sense to use gentle natural ingredients that have been shown to be safe over time.
These are the two guiding principles that led me to start Ecco Bella in my townhouse in North Caldwell, NJ. My one-car garage was the warehouse. When I needed to make copies, I had to move my two sleeping Siamese cats off the copier.
Today, we operate from a large, modern warehouse, sending our products to health-oriented consumers around the world.
Our primary mission, however, remains the same: To provide you with high quality, healthful products that are never tested on animals. Through the support of conscientious consumers like you, the company continues to grow, allowing us to support a wide variety of good causes. Please see the Quick Facts section for more details.
EcoNugenics has been a leader in developing and marketing innovative nutritional supplements for people with cancer and immune disorders. PectaSol® Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) is a unique low-molecular weight citrus pectin which is absorbed into the bloodstream more easily than other citrus pectins. It is the only MCP available that has been proven effective in both laboratory studies and human clinical trials. EcoGen® Fermented Soy Drink is the only fermented soy isoflavone concentrate produced in the U.S. in a GMP certified plant. MycoCeutics® Ten Mushroom Combination combines centuries-old wisdom with the latest scientific findings to deliver broad and powerful immune support. Thymic Longevity Compound stimulates T-4 lymphocytes and natural killer cells, critical elements of the immune system. InosoPhate IP-6® combines IP-6 and inositol in the ideal ratios for immune support. Conjugated Linoleic Acid has been shown to be an effective nutritional support for women with breast cancer and also has broad beneficial effects on immune function and metabolism.
In addition to our unique nutraceutical products, we offer several high quality nutritional supplements that can be important parts of an overall program for health and longevity. CoQsol is a special formulation of co-enzyme Q10 that has been shown in studies to be more effectively absorbed by the body. Pure Bovine Cartilage can provide nutritional support for the immune system and also for health joints. In addition, we have chosen supplements that can work together with our Cancer and Immunity products and our Menís and Womenís product lines.
Also in the EcoNugenics family of products is Padma Basic®. The dried and ground natural ingredients are carefully combined and compressed into tablets. Some of the herbs are grown in Switzerland and the Himalayan Region in conformity with organic farming principles, others are harvested in other regions of Europe, and in India. Thorough quality control ensures that only clean, top quality, uncontaminated plants and plant substances are used. Padma's good reputation has spread through Europe, where its products are widely available.
Today, more and more people are seeking natural ways to maintain and restore health. Unfortunately, many "natural" products aren't backed by the kind of rigorous scientific research and validation required of pharmaceutical products.
That's where Efamol comes in. All Efamol products begin in nature -- in botanical and marine oils, for example -- but then are subjected to scientific research and clinical trials to establish their nutritional benefits. Once the products are in production, they are subjected to the same types of quality control and standards for purity that are required of the pharmaceutical industry.
E-lyte Inc. was founded in 1998 in New Jersey as a result of customer demand. Numerous practitioners and thousands of health conscious consumers were seeking a true electrolyte supplement that had applications for both sick and healthy bodies. After much testing and formulation, the first product E-lyte Electrolyte Concentrate went to market. This initial product has had tremendous success for health care practitioners who were treating patients who were deficient in electrolyte levels due to medications, disease, medical treatments, and other disorders. Additionally, the interest from healthy active individuals has also been significant. They use E-lyte Electrolyte Concentrate to keep their electrolyte levels balanced when dealing with: colds and flu, severe climate changes, stress, or the rigors of an active lifestyle like running or cycling. In 2001 E-Lyte introduced ElyteSport which has the ability to rid the body of cramping, which for those pushing the envelope has proved a giant leap forward.
E-lyte Inc. has also expanded its product line with Liquid Minerals that answers the most important question of all..do I need this nutrient? E-lyte Liquid Minerals permit each individual to test themselves with each mineral to make that decision before taking them. Minerals are the beginning of life and the ability to know what each one needs is a breakthrough in the world of supplements. This is an experience you should take advantage of. Your body knows what it needs.you only have to ask.
Emerson Ecologics provides healthcare professionals with the highest quality nutritional supplements, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, herbs, standardized herbal extracts, green foods, and essential fatty acids - from the world's leading manufacturers of professional supplements, such as Allergy Research Group, Amni, Ecological Formulas, MMS Pro, NF Formulas, Progressive Laboratories, Rx Vitamins, Pure Encapsulations and over 100 more product lines from industry leading manufacturers. We currently offer over 5000 quality natural products, so that healthcare professionals can meet all their supplement needs with one phone, fax, e-mail or internet order; and we provide state of the art customer service and technical support.
WHY GAIA? We strive to create the best possible product for you and your customer. From our own organic farm to careful analysis of the plants and our thorough labeling process, we give you a product with the highest quality and efficacy available.
WHY ORGANIC? Organic agriculture is an environmentally sound approach that matches our own goals - pure and unadulterated products for your health and the health of your customers.
WHY LIQUIDS? Medical texts clearly state that liquid is the best oral dosage absorption. Advantages include smaller dozes and quicker reactions than dry herb capsules or tablets.
Global Sweet Polyols - makers of quality polyol products such as xylitol.
What are polyols?
Polyols are sugar-free sweeteners. Polyols are carbohydrates but they are not sugars. They are used cup-for-cup [volume-for-volume] in the same amount as sugar is used unlike acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose which are used in very small amounts.
What other names are used for polyols?
Since "polyols" is not a consumer friendly term, many nutritionists and health educators refer to polyols as "sugar replacers" when communicating with consumers. Scientists call them sugar alcohols because part of their structure chemically resembles sugar and part is similar to alcohols. However, these sugar-free sweeteners are neither sugars nor alcohols, as these words are commonly used. Other terms used primarily by scientists are polyhydric alcohols and polyalcohols.
After starting its operation in 1983 in Milan, Italy, GUNA began international expansion in 1995 into both European countries and South America. GUNA has registered products in over 20 countries. The decision to explore opportunities in North America has come from the increasing interest of Physicians in natural medicine as well as negative implications of the rising health costs.
GUNA has become well-known for its focus on research and development as well as sharing its knowledge and experience in over 800 seminars per year within the medical community.
Due to GUNA’s international connection with Universities and academic leaders, GUNA stays on the leading edge of medical science and development. In early 1990, a group of international Doctors, all with substantial clinical and research experience, glimpsed the possibility of using small doses of biological molecules such as Neuropeptides, Hormones, Cytokines and Growth Factors to commence a new area for innovative homeopathy.
GUNA was instrumental in coordinating and steering all scientific and medical efforts of this international academic group of professionals to research, analyze and document the clinical and scientific evidence of the latest generation of GUNA Products. It is now clear that a new common ground is emerging.
Recent achievements in the field of Psycho-Neuro-Endocrine-Immunology (PNEI) have created both the climate and fertile ground for cutting edge innovations in Integrative Medicine in the form of Physiological Regulation Medicine. GUNA has numerous Clinical Studies and expert reports indicating efficacy of its medicine.
The formulation of Healing Botanicals products derived from the concept of the European moor therapeutics, it was invented by Dr. Michael Schirmer in 1979 after intense and lengthy research. Statistics, scientific research, supported by the medical community and millions of dollars invested by the government reinforce the benefits of moor therapeutics. German medical spas utilize sophisticated equipment for harvesting, recycling and supplying large amounts to its spa stations. Dr. Schirmer's formula was invented as an alternative to this expensive and complicated process, which transformed the original concept into a far more superior product.
Healing Botanicals products are unique in the way that they have multiple applications.
+ Cosmetic as well as therapeutic effects.
+ Recreational as well as passive exercise.
+ Preventative as well as curative.
+ Hygienic as well as soothing.
+ Healing Botanicals products were applied in over 80.000 positive treatments in clinics and medical Universities alone in the past five years.
+ Healing Botanical products and the technique of applications are taught both in practice and academically in leading medical institutions.
+ Healing Botanicals products and technique of application are published in the Text Book of Natural Medicine in 1999 Vol.1 PP 381-387.
+ NFL and Collegiate sports teams utilize healing Botanicals products.
+ Healing Botanicals are successfully used in veterinarian clinics.
+ Healing Botanicals are used worldwide in spas, clinics and for home use.
+ Healing Botanicals products are of the finest botanical ingredients that fulfill all expectations.
Health Concerns was the first company to manufacture Chinese herbal products in the United States for practitioners. For twelve years Health Concerns has established a reputation for excellence. Most of our products are available in tablet form, which is the preferred method of administration for American patients. There are over 90 formulas available for a wide range of patterns. Health Concerns' formulas are created on the basis of traditional Chinese Medicine and modern biochemistry and developed by experienced practitioners such as Dr. Fung Fung, Andrew Gaeddert, Misha Cohen, Bob Flaws, and Jake Fratkin.
Health Concerns is dedicated to promoting the benefits of herbal therapies by providing the highest quality herbal products available today. We understand that the traditional means of administering Traditional Chinese Medicine, through the brewing and drinking of teas is not often effective for Western patients and have therefore developed a wide range of products based on TCM formulas in a tablet form.
We also know that much of the benefit of herbal therapies relies on a sophisticated use of combinations of herbs tailored to the specific symptoms and aliments of the patient. Therefore, almost all of our products are sold to and distributed through professional health practitioners.
According to Health Products Distributors (Pathway):
We serve customers who search out the most pure and bioavailable supplements
We offer primarily hypoallergenic formulas
We offer you low prices for the highest quality nutritional supplements
We maintain a searchable online database of medical abstracts and detailed product rationale.
When you purchase our supplements and other natural products, you receive our experience and expertise. Our supplements are designed to work rather than to target price points. We are involved in all aspects of product design, materials specification, and distribution. We supply health care professionals with the highest quality most bioavailable nutritional supplements available. The same pure and potent supplements that we supply to doctors are available to you.
WE ARE DEDICATED TO PROVIDING THE FINEST:
Competent, courteous, and caring customer service
Nutritional supplementation and other natural products. We design nutritional supplements for maximal body functioning. We use only the best materials available.
Design formulas. Our formula designs reflect that we remain abreast of the latest research and clinical applications
Technical support and design of custom formulations
We GUARANTEE YOUR SATISFACTION with our products or you are entitled to a full refund for any unused portion returned.
Our products, with a few necessary exceptions, are specifically formulated to eliminate the following ingredients: corn (zein), wheat, milk (lactose, casein), gelatin, animal fats, soy, egg, starch, sugar, yeast, wax, preservatives, and artificial coloring and flavoring.
All of our products, except Bone Guardian and Hematin, specifically exclude animal products except for a gelatin capsule that vegetarians may discard.
Founded in 1979 by renowned physician and researcher Dr. H.H. Reckeweg, Heel Inc. of Albuquerque, New Mexico has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of high-quality, laboratory-formulated homeopathic medicines in North America. Today, Heel Inc. distributes a comprehensive range of combination homeopathic remedies to both practitioners and retail outlets. Founded in 1936 by Dr. Reckeweg, Heel of Baden-Baden, Germany is the parent company of Heel Inc. and is owned by the Delton Corporation of Hamburg, Germany.
Officially classified as homeopathic drugs, Heel Inc. manufactures products that are formulated according to a concept known as Homotoxicology; a bridge between classical homeopathy and conventional pharmacology. Products produced by Heel Inc. are combination formulations that contain measurable amounts of active ingredients and are used to treat specific indications. To ensure quality, safety, and effectiveness, all ingredients used in Heel Inc. formulations are carefully selected, tested, and manufactured according to strict FDA guidelines.
Heel Inc.'s innovative approach has led to many "firsts" in the homeopathic industry. For example, Heel Inc. was the first company to have a homeopathic product featured in the prescription volume of the Physician's Desk Reference, was the first homeopathic company to utilize a conventional pharmaceutical sales force to promote its products to alternative and conventional medical practitioners, and the first homeopathic company to be allowed to exhibit at the American Academy of Family Practice Scientific Assembly. Heel Inc. has also found innovative ways to become a player in the managed care arena. For example, large medical institutions like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (California), Friendly Hills HMO (California), Lovelace HMO (New Mexico), and Harriman-Jones PPO (California) have at least one Heel Inc. product on their formularies.
The Quality Of The Herb Affects The Quality Of Your Health.
Herbal medicines are only as effective as the quality of the herbs from which they are made. When Ed Smith and Sara Katz founded Herb Pharm in 1979 they understood as herbalists this basic principle and have never compromised in their efforts to provide the highest quality, most effective whole-herb healthcare products possible. They know that producing effective herbal extracts that enable people to affect positive changes in the quality of their health is based on diligent study and understanding of traditional herbal medicine, as well as modern herbal sciences.
Certified Organic Herbs
At Herb Pharm we grow most of our herbs on our own certified organic farm which is only two miles from our modern manufacturing facility. This enables us to control every aspect of production: from the soil and seed, to the herb extraction, to the finished product shipped to our customers. We hand-harvest our herbs at their peak of potency and within minutes deliver them, fresh and succulent, to our manufacturing facility for prompt extraction. For those herbs that we can't grow ourselves, we purchase directly from other certified organic herb farms whose owners we know personally and trust.
Custom Wildcrafted™ Herbs
Some of the herbs we use are harvested in their natural wild habitat. We either harvest these herbs ourselves or purchase directly from wildcrafters who meet our demanding standards of quality. This allows us to specify exact harvesting methods that assure the sustainability of these valuable plants. This is what we mean when we say our wild herbs are Custom Wildcrafted™.
Optimal Extraction of the Whole Herb
We extract each herb according to its own unique physical and biochemical characteristics. This attention to detail produces a finished extract that optimally represents the herb from which it is made. Our extracts are very rich in the aroma, taste and bioactive compounds of the original herbs themselves.
Full-Spectrum Liquid Herbal Extracts
After 20-plus years of working with herbs, we remain convinced that full-spectrum liquid herbal extracts are the most potent and effective way to take herbal medicine. They are easily and optimally absorbed and assimilated by the body, and therefore their health-promoting effects are promptly felt. We also offer several herbal capsule products that we produce from our liquid herbal extracts in order to assure this same efficiency of absorption and assimilation.
Fulfilling Our Responsibilities
From our humble beginnings we have never forgotten who we are working for — our customers. As the leading liquid herbal extract company in America we love the work that we do and take it very seriously. We feel a tremendous responsibility to provide our customers with the highest quality whole herb extracts and herbal healthcare products possible, and to provide reliable education on their safe and effective use.
As herbalists we know that the quality of our herbal products directly affects the quality of your health and well-being.
To see a table listing the amounts of 190 proof ethyl alcohol in each Herb Pharm product, click here (Adobe PDF).
For over 25 years Preventics, Inc with its subsidiary, Legere Pharmaceuticals, has been a pioneer in Preventive, Holistic, and Alternative Medicine. Many of our products have been specially formulated for the leading physicians in nutritional and alternative health care.
We are constantly expanding to bring you new and innovative high-quality nutritional supplements, herbal remedies and alternative health products. Our quality assurance standards ensure that the ingredients in our products are from the best raw materials for the highest potency that you expect and demand.
Holley Pharmaceuticals Company, Inc., is a Delaware-registered Company and has its offices in California.
Holley Pharmaceuticals Company is a subsidiary of Chongqing Holley, a Holley Group Company, which was founded more than 30 years ago. Please visit www.holley.com.cn for Holley Group or www.cqhlkg.com for Chongqing Holley.
Over the last 30 years, Holley has been pursuing its mission: to promote community well-being and fulfill the values of life. Every year, we donate millions of U.S. dollars in cash and products to University research labs, research foundations, non-profit organization, and charitable foundations to save lives, support medical research, cure disease, and promote the general health of human beings.
Holley Pharmaceuticals and its affiliates are one of the world's largest manufacturers and research groups in artemisinin and its derivatives. Holley Pharmaceuticals and its affiliates have been farming, extracting, purifying, and manufacturing pharmaceutical grade artemisinin, and developing and manufacturing its derivatives for over two decades. Our products are manufactured in our own current Good Manufacture Practice (cGMP) certified facilities. Our artemisinin products are proudly manufactured from our own ingredients in a GMP certified facility in the United States. Each batch of our artemisinin are tested by HPLC for its purity and tested against cell lines for its bio-assay.
Our artemisia farms are located in the Chongqing Wulingshan Mountain Range and Hunan Jishou. Both farms are in close proximity to our manufacturing factories. This enables freshly harvested plants to be immediately processed and extracted to ensure the most active and highest quality products. Both factories are operated on GMP guidelines and purity of products is monitored by the most advanced chemical analysis assays.
Japanese Kampo is a unique approach to the ancient art of Oriental herbal medicine. Rather than modifying formulas as in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Japanese Kampo tradition uses fixed and precise combinations of herbs in standardized amounts. Extensive modern scientific research in Japan has validated the efficacy of Kampo formulas. Since 1967, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare has approved 148 Kampo formulas for use and has included them on a reimbursement list under the national health insurance plan. Every approved formula produced by different manufacturers is composed of exactly same ingredients under the Ministry’s standardization methodology. Today fully 75% of Japanese physicians prescribe Kampo formulas.
Honso introduces new softgel Chinese herbal formulas from Kanion Pharmaceutical, China . Softgel has become widely used in prescription, OTC pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. Kanion® softgel Chinese herbal medicine has the following advantages:
Improved bioavailability
Fast to disintegrate and to be absorbed: the time taken for the softgel capsule to disintegrate is about 1/4 of the time for regular pills
Higher content of active ingredients: active ingredients are extracted with steam, water and alcohol from raw materials
Prevent loss of active ingredients, particularly the volatile components that tent to be evaporated during heating and drying processes
Easier to swallow
Elegant appearance and better patient confidence
Masked herbal odors
Smaller dosage
Honso’s pharmaceutical GMP facilities in Japan offer unrivaled high standards, from identifying the best raw materials to perfecting proprietary processing techniques that ensure maximum quality, safety and health benefits. Every lot of the Honso® Kampo product is routinely tested by its QC department. The tests cover heavy metals, purity, and microbial test. Most importantly, as the Japanese Ministry requested, Honso tests at least two key herbs' chemical compounds as the quality control markers on every formula from blending of the raw herbs to the end of production. This is a unique way to keep ingredients consistency from batch to batch and from time to time.
In 1993, the Health Ministry has revised the Pharmaceutical Affair Law. In 1994, Honso Pharmaceutical has re-examined its overall manufacturing practice according to the “GMP for medical products”. Major GMP procedures and specifications have been implemented during 1996 to 1999. Since 1999, Honso has secured high-quality raw herbs by stating the harvesting place and time. The agreements have been established with the importing partners in compliance with the GMP 1, “Regulations for Import, Sales and Quality Control of Drugs”.
At Honso, we take science and quality as seriously as you do. We share your interest in identifying the best Oriental herbal formulas. We understand your concerns about safety and purity. With 30-years experience in serving the Japanese medical community with premium-quality Kampo products, Honso is expanding its long-term commitment to US consumers and complementary/alternative medicine practitioners.
Japanese Kampo is a unique approach to the ancient art of Oriental herbal medicine. Most of the Kampo formulas were adopted from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) of the Han Dynasty. Rather than modifying formulas as in TCM, the Japanese Kampo tradition uses fixed and precise combinations of herbs in standardized amounts according to the classical literature of Chinese medicine. Extensive modern scientific research in Japan has validated the efficacy of Kampo formulas. Since 1967, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare (the same central government body that regulates pharmaceutical manufacturers) has approved 148 Kampo formulas for coverage and reimbursement in the national health insurance plan. Every approved formula produced by different manufacturers is composed of exactly the same ingredients under the Ministry’s standardization methodology. Today, fully 75% of Japanese physicians prescribe Kampo formulas.
Honso’s GMP pharmaceutical facilities in Japan offer unrivaled high standards, from selection of the highest grade materials to perfection of proprietary processing techniques that ensure maximum quality, efficacy and safety. Every lot of the Honso® Kampo product is routinely tested by its Quality Control Department. They are tested for heavy metals, purity, and microbial content to eliminate any contaminant. Most important of all, Honso tests the levels of key chemical constituents of at least two marker herbs by HPLC for quality control on every formula (shown in this catalog as “Standardization Specification”). This is carried out from the blending of the raw herbs to the end product according to the Ministry’s pharmaceutical standards. This is the most rigorous way to maintain consistency of quality
from batch to batch each time. In 1993, the Ministry of Health and Welfare revised the Pharmaceutical Affairs legislation. In 1994, Honso Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. re-examined every aspect of its manufacturing practices to conform to the new GMP standards for medical products. The new GMP procedures and specifications were implemented from 1996 to 1999. Since 1999, Honso has secured the highest quality raw herbs by designating selected growing regions and harvesting times. Agreements have been established with its
suppliers in compliance with the GMP I, “Regulations for Import, Sales and Quality Control of Drugs,” the governmental guideline for importing raw materials.
After successfully introducing its consumer tablet Kampo products in the year 2000, Honso USA is revealing its professional Kampo extract granules to licensed healthcare professionals. Professional Kampo products have been used by Japanese physicians under prescription for many decades. The formulations introduced in this catalog are the most popular ones, including sho-saiko-to (H09), which is undergoing clinical phase II trials under an IND for treating hepatocellular carcinoma at a prestigious New York cancer hospital. The pharmaceutical grade quality, unique packaging, strong research and the exclusivity for licensed practitioners make this product line a right choice for all healthcare specialties.
At Honso, we take science and quality as seriously as you do. We share your interest in having the highest quality Oriental herbal formulas available and we take your concerns about safety and purity very seriously. With 30 years experience in serving the Japanese medical community with premiumquality Kampo products, Honso is making a long-term commitment to complementary and alternative medicine practitioners in the world.
Life Source Basics is a world leader in complex carbohydrate research and development. Our revolutionary work with beta glucan, a scientifically proven immune system enhancer, and glucosamine, a natural treatment for joint pain, makes us your best resource for new, all-natural products that lead to better customer health and stronger consumer sales.
Life Source Basics holds a patent portfolio of over 200 U.S. and International patents. These patents include over 250 million dollars invested in the research and development in beta glucan. Life Source Basics is the leading authority on WGP Beta Glucan, a patented, yeast-derived beta 1,3/1,6 glucan, and guarantees you will have the purest and most effective beta glucan product on the market.
To learn more about Life Source Basics and Beta Glucan, click here
Integrative Therapeutics Inc. (ITI) is the nation’s leading manufacturer and distributor of high quality nutritional supplements to health care practitioners and their patients.
For more than 30 years, ITI products have been purchased and used by medical professionals and researchers, in the United States and around the world. More than 50,000 medical professionals recommend ITI products to their patients, a good indicator of trust, quality and value.
ITI’s top 50 products have been the subject of more than 2,500 independent, peer-reviewed-published clinical trials and studies. ITI products have been extensively used in research supported by major medical university research centers, hospital research centers, and government agencies, including the NIH and Veteran’s Administration.
ITI manufactures its products in an FDA-registered drug facility, meeting and exceeding the standards established for drug manufacturing. Your patients will benefit from exactly the same dietary supplement systems used in clinical trials proving health benefits.
Dr. Bela Balogh, a Ph.D. Biochemist, founded Scientific Consulting Service in 1968 to offer scientific and technical advice to health professionals in the United States and abroad. During his first year of consulting with nutritionists and medical practitioners, Dr. Balogh saw an immediate need for a line of scientifically formulated vitamin and mineral supplements. With this goal in mind, he established the SCS Intensive Nutrition™ Manufacturing Plant and began serving health professionals throughout the West Coast. His initial accomplishments included the development of a kelp-based, hypoallergenic selenium supplement, SeaSEL, and the formulation of the original picolinates in 1979. Dr. Balogh later revolutionized the instant absorption of nutritional supplements with his exclusive "Target Release™" concept and in 1985, introduced an innovative nutritional program for surgical patients.
As a third-generation Chinese medical professional, I firmly believe that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has much to offer Americans. After receiving my doctorate in the United States and many years as a researcher at MIT, CalTech, and in the pharmaceutical industry, I founded Interceuticals, Inc. Our mission is to apply Western scientific methods and quality control to time-tested TCM formulas. Our goal is to provide a line of high quality TCM products, tested and formulated for your use and worthy of your trust.
Since its inception, iNutritionals has continued to pursue the goal of providing the highest quality nutritional products and services for our clients. The raw materials selected for our supplements are of the highest quality and must meet iNutritionals strict standards for both purity and potency. The manufacturing practices used in producing our supplements are among the most technically advanced in the industry and are in compliance with strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines. The storage, handling, and shipping protocols used by iNutritionals are designed to ensure preservation of potency.
The immune stimulating compounds found in the mushroom Coriolus versicolor, known as PSK in Japan, generate sales of several hundred million dollars a year, making them the world's top selling all-natural alternative used by cancer patients. These bio-active compounds are one of the first remedies from Traditional East Asian Medicine to be fully backed by modern clinical research.
Since 1981, Karuna has provided nutritional therapeutics — natural medicines and supplements — to health care practitioners. The Karuna line is a professional line, and this commitment is firm. Over nearly two decades, we have listened to our Customers and stayed current with advances in nutritional science, in order to provide you and your patients with the finest formulations and Customer Service that earns your trust with each interaction. We ask that you hold us to the high standards you expect and deserve for your practice.
Kevala™ is the consumer division of Karuna Corporation , which has provided superior natural medicines and supplements to the medical profession since 1981. Kevala's natural progesterone products and nutritional supplements are formulated and manufactured to the highest standards and continually tested to assure optimal purity, potency and freshness.
Following are several reasons you are wise to purchase kevala products
1. "Kevala", a word from Sanskrit the world's oldest written language, means "pure, whole, perfect, absolute" - These words are the foundation of our mission at Kevala and exemplify our commitment to our growing family of customers. We invite you to become one of our Customers, and we promise we'll do our best to provide you with consistent excellence.
2. The company producing your Kevala formulations has been one of the leading providers of natural medicines and supplements to physicians for nearly twenty years. We have earned and held the confidence of thousands of health care professionals by constantly adhering to the highest standards - the same standards that assure the superiority of every Kevala product you choose.
3. The Kevala line was created because we know that most people are happy to pay a fair price for nutritional products of highest quality. When it comes to your ongoing good health, it makes no sense to save a few dollars when you know all products are not the same. Don't gamble -- select the finest products you can find at a reasonable price. We promise and guarantee that Kevala formulations are a better value, all things considered, than any other products you'll find in the consumer nutritional market.
4. Unfortunately, the nutrition and vitamin industry is littered with irresponsible product claims and misleading marketing practices. Too many health-conscious individuals are disappointed - and even deceived - in their search for reliable nutritional products. From two decades of experience, we at Kevala know the costs for assay-verified ingredients, of superior freshness, purity and potency, and we know the investment required for superior manufacturing. This experience and knowledge is reflected in our formulations.
5. One of the reasons why Kevala's parent company enjoys such a large and loyal following of holistic doctors is that, over twenty years, we have consistently refined the art of Customer Service and Support. Your Kevala experience will provide levels of attentiveness and caring you'll notice and appreciate. We're simply the best at what we do… and we guarantee it!
Commitment to excellence encompasses the focus and philosophy of this company. This is reflected by not only providing the finest hypoallergenic supplements, but also the educational resource materials, product information and technical scientific support for our product line.
Over the years, Klaire Labs has been a leader in the industry by developing innovative nutrients that are in keeping with current scientific research. We are honored to have a team of prominent medical and scientific consultants working closely with us to ensure that we meet the exceptional standards expected of Klaire Laboratories.
Over 30 years ago Klaire Labs was the first company to offer nutritional products free of sugar, starch and other common allergens. Claire's personal history of severe food allergies and environmental sensitivities gave her a greater awareness of the needs and concerns of hypersensitive persons and the knowledge and experience to meet their needs.
We are actively engaged in ongoing research regarding the importance of nutritional supplementation and its impact on chronic degenerative disease, behavioral and learning disorders as well as Autism, ADHD and PDD. Our intention is to bring new and useful products to the world.
Scientific research is leading medicine back to its roots in nature. Major medical centers continue to conduct studies that prove the health benefits of natural compounds and some of the most exciting findings involve products from Lane Labs. Because of our reputation as a innovator in the natural health industry, Lane Labs and its products have often been featured in magazine articles and television reports. What makes these products so exceptional? Each one employs breakthrough technology or formulations to unlock the compound’s full potency and purity. Each has been subjected to carefully controlled studies. We are proud to offer innovative products that outperform our competition, both natural and synthetic. Noted researchers around the world have hailed Lane Labs’ products as nutritional breakthroughs.
Although we have seen many changes in the health care industry over the last 25 years, our goals remain steadfast: 1. Treat, you, our customer, as we expect to be treated. 2. Provide you with only the finest products. 3. Offer those premium products to you at reasonable prices. In addition to manufacturing the Ware Pocket Size Otoscope, we carry a full line of Vitamins and Herbs. LaSante Natural Products is our own line of supplements developed with the help of Naturopathic Physicians and Preventative Medicine Doctors. We are a full line distributor of MMS Pro phytomedicines. For a complete catalog, please call or email us. As a wholesaler we also carry many rehabilitation aids, such as aluminum adjustable canes, gloves and bandages. We would be happy to send you a complete catalog of these products.
For almost a decade LIFEnhance, Inc. has been in the pharmaceutical industry, and thus adopted the exacting level of excellence for product quality and manufacturing standards, in its line of all-natural, herbal extract formulations, specifically designed to enhance the quality of one's life. Initially, rigorous scientific research is conducted as over 10,000 formulas are studied. Then development and testing are undertaken to create the formulations of maximum efficacy to address specific functions. Finally LIFEnhance's proprietary manufacturing process uses the latest technologies in solvent-free extraction and purification to produce the highest concentration, quality and purity of product. Product analysis (COA) were conducted both at our labs and at the prestigious Milwaukee based Covance Labs for pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals (Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, Mercury), bacteria, yeast and mold.
LIFEnhance's products are scientifically researched and clinically tested for toxicity and efficacy. The studies were conducted both in China and U.S.A. There were also independent clinical studies done at the American Integrative Medical Association in Norfolk, Virginia (the studies at AIMA involved some cross applications as well). These botanical products are proven to be fast acting, potent, yet non-toxic.
Longevity Science provides many quality products including ImmPower and ProBoost. Longevity Science and Klabin Marketing were founded by George Klabin. According to George Klabin:
Klabin Marketing was founded in 1988 with the idea of marketing special, lesser-known supplements to holistic/alternative/complementary physicians, health practitioners, and their patients. We started a brand called Bio-Nutritional Formulas. Our first product was a sublingual Germanum sesquioxide tablet. This was a niche product that did very nicely for us, at a time when Germanium was a popular, if expensive, supplement.
In 1989 we started to market Ester C vitamin C, and a unique new liquid probiotic flora product called "Microflora", which contained a newly discovered beneficial baccillus called Laterosporus. In a short time we were the leading distributor of this product to health practitioners. Several years later the product was made into a freeze-dried capsule, which was named Lateroflora.
In the early 90's we brought out Aloe Ace, a highly concentrated whole leaf aloe vera liquid, and soon thereafter, we marketed Progest cream. We had the support of many leading practitioners, among them Drs. Robert Atkins, Serafina Corsello, Michael Schachter, and Julian Whitaker. In a matter of a few years, we became the second largest distributor of Progest in the world, alongside the manufacturer. We were instrumental in spreading the word about the use of topical natural progesterone, and we persuaded Betty Kamen to write the book Hormone Replacement Therapy-Yes or No, which itself introduced natural progesterone therapy to tens of thousands of women.
In 1996 we were marketing over 80 products, and I decided to "slim down" and concentrate on working with fewer products, so I sold off the Bio-Nutritional line of products to another company. In late 1996, I introduced the Longevity Science brand. I feel that medicine is moving away from symptom-mediation towards prevention and treatment of aging and its effects on our bodies through functional medicine. Around the end of 1996 I developed the marketing concept, packaging, and physical formulation of a revolutionary new substance, Thymic Protein A (originally called BioPro and now known as ProBoost). This substance is actually identical to a hormone made by the human thymus gland, and was discovered by its patent holder, Dr. Terry Beardsley, a man whose discovery has added immeasurably to our understanding of the thymus and its central role in immunity. This amazing substance is solely responsible for maturing the CD4 (T4) helper white blood cell, the central controller of cell-mediated immunity. What we now know is that Thymic Protein A is essential to the proper functioning of the immune system because it alone activates the T4 cell so that it can function as the regulator of immunity. This product, which is marketed in a powder form for sublingual administration, is so powerful that, we believe, it can abort influenza, raise the white blood count, or stop a herpes outbreak. We do not yet know all the important functions of this unique discovery. Many practitioners are telling us that Thymic protein A benefits anyone with immune dysregulation, be it a viral infection, cancer, or even auto-immune illness. That's because Thymic protein A is a regulator, not a stimulant. Its sole function is to activate the immune system, but it does not force any particular action. The protein is normally made by the thymus gland and is often used in anti-aging longevity medicine, to replace the thymic protein A lost from the shrinkage of the thymus that occurs in all adults after puberty.
We have funded important research on Thymic Protein A and chronic fatigue syndrome, which will be published in the near future. Another study on its effect on Lupus will start in April 2001.
Maitake Products, Inc. was founded in 1991 and located in north New Jersey, across New York City. The company is a pioneer to introduce the products and the health benefits of maitake mushroom, a Japanese mushroom, in the United States where literally nobody had ever head of maitake then.
Today, the company has been a leader of research and product development of maitake mushroom, other medicinal mushrooms, and its high quality product line has been overwhelmingly accepted by health enthusiastic consumers and health care professionals.
Product Development:
Maitake Products, Inc. introduced Grifron Maitake caplet in 1992 first to the market of health care professionals and alternative doctors, then into retail market, such as vitamin shops and health food stores. In 1995, the first tea line was introduced, Mai Tonic Tea, followed by Grifron Pro D-fraction, the standardized extract of maitake for activating immune system for the use of health care professionals. D-fraction was trademarked by the company and has been enjoyed the rapid growth in sales. In 1996, due to the increasing demand for D-fraction product in the retail market, the company launched D-fraction capsules, together with the second tea line, Mai Green tea. In 1997, D-fraction liquid type was launched for the retail market.
The company aggressively expands the product line into non-maitake products, such as DHEA and Melatonin skin creams. In 1998, the powerful combination of Saw Palmetto extract and maitake D-fraction, Prost-Mate was introduced. The newest product is Also introduced in 1998 was MUSHROOM EMPERORS™, a combination of six medicinal mushrooms and the extracts for the Ultimate anti-aging and longevity.
In 2001, the company celebrated its 10th anniversary and started developing full spectum mushroom products consisting of high quality of the mushroom extract and whole mushroom (fruit body) powder together with Maitake D-fraction® and Bioperine®. By the end of the year, the new line of seven mushroom products (Super Lion's Mane, Super Shiitake, Super Reishi, Super Cordyceps, Super Tremella, Super Turkey Tail, and Super Royal Agaricus) were launched under the brand name of MUSHROOM WISDOM™.
The company will continue its dedication for quality life of people taking the role of a pioneer and a leader in the newly dxtablished medicinal mushroom industry.
Research:
Maitake Products, Inc. has been involved and supported a number of laboratory and clinical studies, including NCI, Georgetown University, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, New York Medical College and other prominent research institutes. The company has received the IND (Investigational New Drug Application) approval from the FDA on its Grifron-Pro D-fraction for Phase II trials for advanced breast and prostate cancer patients.
Operations:
Maitake Products, Inc. has a headquarter in New Jersey and some sales associates and technical consultants in California. The company distributes the products through various distributors, or directly to doctors and stores, or for those consumers who find it convenient, mail orders. The company often exhibits in various type of shows, such as industry trade shows, doctors medical conferences and health expositions for consumers. Further, its marketing efforts also made in publications. Its product advertisements are often seen in leading health magazines. With a great success of the business in the United States, the company opened the operation in Japan at its subsidiary, Sun Medica, Co., Ltd. for introducing the product line in the Japanese market in 1995.
Metabolic Maintenance is an NNFA GMP certified company.
To see the NNFA website click here!
Metabolic Maintenance Products are available to professional Health Care Providers and Pharmacists, exclusively. Since 1984, every Metabolic Maintenance Product has been manufactured with active ingredients only. Artificial ingredients used to assist other manufacturers are unacceptable in our view. Purity is essential for maximum benefit and it has been our core belief since day one. In 1994, Metabolic Maintenance Products moved into a new, state-of-the-art production facility designed to reflect the rigorous standards of the pharmaceutical industry. Some of these standards are currently known as "Good Manufacturing Practices" which we helped to pioneer. Our complete compliance with all "GMP's" is assured and reflected in our unconditional guarantee of every one of our products.
Metabolic Maintenance Products is pleased to present Nutrition-Alert.com, the best site for "internet accessible nutrition information for health professionals". Each e-newsletter is packed with research-based summaries that give you the information you want in a format that is convenient to read. To see Nutrition-Alert.com, Click here!
Metabolic Response Modifiers is dedicated to the furthering of nutritional modalities in the arena of Alternative Healthcare. We accomplish this through the development of advanced, yet scientifically sound, oral and topical formulations. Dedicated to reinvesting a minimum of ten percent (10%) of net sales into nutritional research, we focus on the dissemination of scientific information to enhance the public's ability to make informed healthcare decisions. Our health maintenance and wellness programs emphasize an integral approach to nutritional well-being.
From its inception, MRM has placed a priority on formulating superior nutritional products that will withstand the critical eye of fellow researchers in nutritional science. Moreover, this company is devoted to funding, authoring and collaborating on nutritionally related clinical research projects which, in turn, enable us to offer novel therapeutics backed by studies published in peer reviewed research journals.
Twenty-Five years of combined experience in the sourcing of raw materials internationally allows us to exert greater control in delivering consistent high quality raw materials while ensuring competitive prices. Complemented by our understanding of analytical chemistry and manufacturing procedures, we are equipped to improve current production capabilities thereby rendering even higher quality/bioavailable products.
MMS Pro PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS began with three of the world’s finest herbal product manufacturers. Murdock, established in 1969, was the first U.S. company to apply pharmaceutical standards to the processing of herbal products. Madaus AG, founded in 1919 in Germany by the Madaus brothers, is one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies that produce medicines from natural sources. Dr. Wilmar Schwabe GMBH & Co, founded in 1866, is the acknowledged world leader in researching plant-based medicines. Now, as a division of a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schwabe, MMS Pro continues the tradition of quality based phytomedicines. MMS Pro phytomedicines are used by more healthcare professionals worldwide than those of any other U.S. company.
QUALITY DRIVEN MMS Pro carefully monitors the production from growing, harvesting, processing and inspection, to encapsulation and packaging. The MMS Pro manufacturing facility, built to meet OTC pharmaceutical standards and certified as meeting NNFA Good Manufacturing Practices, ensures the purity and potency of every product.
SCIENTIFICALLY VALIDATED MMS Pro's phytomedicines have been used in over 1,000 clinical trials. In fact, MMS Pro products have more clinical studies validating their effectiveness than all other U.S. brands combined. Many MMS Pro phytomedicines are found in the German Commission E Monograph which validates the safety and efficacy of herbal products. Heavily researched MMS Pro products include Ginkgo-D (EGb 761) and Cardi-Plant Pro (WS 1442).
GUARANTEED POTENCY MMS Pro features standardized herbal extracts that guarantee potency and quality. Standardized extracts are comprised of measurable compounds that are responsible for positive health outcomes – the best of science applied to healing herbs. Where standardization is not supported by science, MMS Pro adheres to the highest industry standards for the production of their whole herb products.
EXCELLENCE THROUGH INNOVATION We apply innovative manufacturing practices to process the most potent standardized herbal extracts. Simply put, we make good products better. In addition, MMS Pro consistently introduces new products with unique health benefits proven by science.
OUR PASSION FOR HEALTH Our common mission is to produce scientifically based standardized extracts and herbs that you and your patients can trust. It's what makes MMS Pro the most popular phytomedicines in the world today.
• Only USP, pharmaceutical grade, or the highest quality active amino acids, vitamins, antioxidants and botanicals available are used for maximum safety and efficacy.
• Only L-Crystalline amino acids are used, derived from biological fermentation, extraction and recrystallization for increased purity. They are individual molecules, and they are the highest quality available to insure best absorption and effectiveness.
• Other companies may use lesser quality amino acids derived from soy, milk, beef or eggs, which are not as bioavailable and effective. They also may cause allergic reactions in food sensitive individuals
• Montiff formulations are the most advanced available, based on the latest research at leading universities. The owner of Montiff, Don Tyson, is a leading expert on amino acid therapy and the use of nutraceuticals in the medical profession.
Mycology Research Labs is a corporation organized in Great Britain and engaged in the business of manufacturing, distributing, and selling multiple pharmaceutical grade dietary supplements for human consumption around the world, including in the United States.
United Kingdom based, MRL was founded in 1997 and develops mycological (mushroom nutrition) and non-mycological products as dietary supplements or "functional foods".
MRL utilises proprietary Japanese production technology to cultivate selected strains of the different mushrooms in California. The strains have been selected for their overall bioactivity and for their stability (purity). The cultivation process is in accordance with the California Organic Food Act of 1990.
These mushroom nutrition products are not extracts, but instead contain both the mycelium and primordia (young fruitbody) of the mushroom cultivated into a biomass on an edible, sterile (autoclaved substrate). The cultivation process ensures that the biomass is free from contamination by other fungi or bacteria and that heavy metals (pesticides) are not present.
Following cultivation, the biomass is dried, powdered and tableted to pharmaceutical Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards at the licensed pharmaceutical factory of Essential Nutrition Ltd. in Brough, East Yorkshire, United Kingdom.
Nature’s Way is an NNFA GMP certified company.
To see the NNFA website click here!
Located in the mountain valley of Springville, Utah, Nature's Way is America's natural healthcare leader---specializing in the highest quality of natural medicines. Every product that bears the green Nature's Way leaf exceeds the most rigorous quality standards and testing procedures in the natural products industry. As a result, Nature's Way is more than just a range of products millions of people around the world use. It’s the name they trust. In total, Nature’s Way provides over 350 products, including single herbs and herbal formulas, standardized herbal extracts, clinically proven phytomedicines, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, homeopathy, specialty formulas and all-natural over-the-counter medicines (OTCs). Operating from a 250,000 square-foot, pharmaceutical licensed manufacturing facility; we produce the world’s highest quality natural healthcare supplements. In addition, we actively support worldwide environmental programs; use recycled packaging materials and sponsor alternative healthcare education.
Nature's Way is the exclusive US distributor for Sambucol brand black elderberry extract. Sambucol is a natural product manufactured in Israel. It is derived from the black elder tree, Sambucus nigra L., grown mostly in central Europe. Doctor Madeleine Mumcuoglu, a prominent French and Israeli scientist has developed and patented a procedure for a standardized Elderberry extract which combines the natural health benefits of the plant with other components. Laboratory and clinically tested, Sambucol has been used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide. Learn more about Sambucol brand black elderberry by visiting www.sambucol.com.
The Bach Flower Essences were developed by Dr Edward Bach a Harley Street doctor and well known Physician, Bacteriologist, Homeopath and Researcher. He believed that attitude of mind plays a vital role in maintaining health and recovering from illness.
He identified 38 basic negative states of mind and created a plant or flower based remedy for each one.
After leaving London in 1930, Dr Bach explored the countryside in search of the essences for several years. In 1934 he decided to settle down and create a centre for his work, and chose Mount Vernon, a small cottage in Sotwell, Oxfordshire.
He spent the last years of his life at Mount Vernon and it was here that he completed his research.
Nowadays, Mount Vernon is better known as The Bach Centre, and the present custodians continue to prepare the mother tinctures (first process in making the essences), often using the same locations that Dr Bach identified in the 1930's.
Only the Bach signature guarantees that you receive the original Bach Flower Essences, prepared as they have been since Dr. Bach's time with tinctures made exclusively by the Bach Centre at Mount Vernon.
What essences are right for you? Try the Nelson Bach Remedy Chooser.
We are a small company owned by families and friends, and are based in Brattleboro, Vermont and our organic estate near the Children’s Rain Forest of Costa Rica. Since 1982, our mission, our passionate commitment, has been producing the finest probiotic nutrients and herbal formulations in the world. Our purpose is to create the finest products that are truly natural, made of 100% real food and herbs. We have never made products with chemical isolates or solvents, and we won’t. We culture all our vitamins and minerals, and we always will. They are not synthetic-they are food. We are committed to supporting and protecting the environment, and our Costa Rican farm is a world model for organic sustainable farming in the rain forest.
About NewMark's Supercritical Herbal Extracts:
"Superctitical" means Super Purity, Super Potency, Broad Spectrum, and No Chemical Solvents. We take nature's finest herbs and then extract and hightly concentrate (as high as 250 to 1) their precious, full spectrum ingredients. We do not isolate single ingredients or spike our extracts with synthesized additives. We deliver the wisdom of nature, with the complexity and organic nuances of the natural herb preserved for you. In fact, the supercritical process is the gentlest way to extract these delicate plant compounds in a manner to optimally preserve their potency and stability. And when you take NewMark's supercritical extracts, neither you, nor the environment, have to contend with chemical solvents.
NEWTONRx Professional Homeopathic Complexes comprise the most advanced and diverse clinical formulations available to health professionals today. Over 35 years of Clinical Homeopathic experience in every formulation! If you need safe and effective medicine, you can rely on NEWTONRx, the Natural way to heal.
The Herb & Spice Co.'s promise is that you will get only the best. Our guaranteed wild herbs are harvested by hand in the remote wilderness. They are never farmed; no pesticides or herbicides are used. Plus, our wild herbs are grown on original virgin soil rich in minerals. Chemical procedures, such as irradiation and fumigation, are never applied. Thus, you receive original and pure products just as they occur in Nature.
We at North American Pharmacal can supply you with detailed product information sheets, references from the scientific literature, and technical services. We currently service over 500 practitioner and 900 retail accounts and our products enjoy loyal and steady customer support, which will only grow, as Dr. D'Adamo's work becomes better known. Many products are unique to our company, having been formulated by Dr. D'Adamo specifically for use in accordance with his theories of blood type nutrition. We do not use a sales network to keep our (and your) costs as low as possible.
Nutiva was founded in 1999 by eco-entrepreneur John W. Roulac, a passionate advocate of holistic living and the author of four books on composting and industrial hemp. The company is the third successful organization Roulac has founded since establishing the modern home-composting movement across the United States in the 1990s.
Pioneering Hemp
Nutiva introduced the world¹s first hemp bar at a time when public awareness of hemp¹s nutritive gifts and ecological benefits was nearly nonexistent. The company provides the American public¹s favorite hemp, flax, and coconut foods and shelled hempseed extra-virgin coconut oil.
Persistence and Victory
In August of 1999, the United States Drug Enforcement Agency and US Customs seized a load of Canadian hempseed and tried to prevent Nutiva from selling its legal, drug-free hempseed foods. Nutiva, in a united effort with customers and the entire hemp industry, launched a grassroots campaign that resulted in the federal government ending its hemp trade embargo.
Then, on October 9, 2001, the DEA issued new hemp regulations. Once again, Nutiva pursued both legal and grassroots strategies, resulting in the Federal 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling on February 6, 2004, that hemp foods are legal to consume.
Let's Celebrate!
Nutiva invites you to celebrate its mission to nourish people and planet by enjoying the company's delicious hemp, flax, and coconut products. Great nutrition never tasted so good!
Nutiva is concerned about the impact genetically modified organisms (GMO) is having on our natural world and human health. Since our inception in 1999, Nutiva has had a non-GMO policy and we only source non-GMO ingredients.
Currently GMO crop pollens are blown across fields and often cross-pollinate non-GMO crops. To date the agricultural biotech industry has not taken responsible measures to deal with this situation. Due to our concern, Nutiva established a non-GMO audit trail to reduce the chances that Nutiva products may contain genetically modified organisms.
Nutiva's Organic Policy
Nutiva uses the finest certified-organic ingredients, grown without pesticides and herbicides--safer for you and the planet. Our products are certified by Quality Assurance International(QAI). Nutiva plan's to obtain the right to use the new USDA Organic Symbol, when it becomes effective in October 2002.
Please note our four bars are all certified organic- three being 100% with the Flax Chocolate at 97% organic. We plan to be one of the first food companies to use the upcoming organic lecithin in our Flax Chocolate bar in mid 2002. Our two hemp chips are made with 70%+ certified organic ingredients. Our can of shelled hempseed is grown without pesticides or herbicides. While there has been a very tight supply of organic hempseed, Nutiva is looking to convert to 100% organic hempseed in late 2002 or early 2003.
Nutraceutical Research Laboratories is aware of the most current vanadium research. Recent scientific studies have demonstrated that bis(maltolato)oxovanadium (BMOV), a novel form of organic vanadium, has greater biological affinity toward vanadium sensitive tissues than inorganic forms such as vanadyl sulfate or vanadium pentaoxide. VanaPhage, VanaPhage TS and GlucoNase are the only products containing this unique and highly bioavailable form of organic vanadium.
Nutramedix was founded in 1993 to provide the finest quality botanicals from Peru, and to improve the quality of life for disadvantaged people around the world. The story begins in the 1980's when our company president was working as a missionary pilot in the Peruvian rain forest. It was there that he first learned about Cat's Claw from the Ashaninka Indians.
With the vision to start a business that would return a substantial portion of its earnings to charity, our founder relocated to the United States and began importing and supplying Cat's Claw to the North American market. Within two years Cat's Claw became one of the top selling herbal products in the country. In 1995 we introduced Maca, a botanical from the Peruvian Andes. Like Cat's Claw, Maca has become a much sought-after botanical in the global nutraceutical market.
The company established headquarters in the United Kingdom in 1996 to meet the demand in the European Union. By 1999 Nutramedix was supplying bulk material and finished products to over 50 countries.
In late 2000, following extensive research and development, Nutramedix introduced its signature product: Samento. A rare form of Cat's Claw, Samento is a standardized, whole-herb product harvested from deep within the Peruvian rain forest. Physicians and clinics using Samento overwhelmingly prefer it to traditional Cat's Claw products. Therefore we are committing a significant portion of our resources to providing the most beneficial forms of this remarkable botanical.
Our goal is to continue the research and development of new botanicals from this diverse area while preserving these ecologically sensitive regions. Since our inception, Nutramedix has promoted reforestation in areas where harvesting occurs. In fact, our Peruvian entity was the first that was granted authority to resume harvesting after the government prohibited the exportation of Cat's Claw for a period of time in the late 1990's.
The American Lecithin Company has been pioneering lecithin technology through the application of performance chemistry since it's founding in 1928. From the very beginning of the commercial lecithin industry, ALC has supplied products and services that enhance the performance of this versatile material in food processing and in a wide range of industrial applications.
Over the years, American Lecithin has continually modified the basic properties of lecithins, creating new products with better performance in a broader range of use. From standard grade lecithins to high-tech lecithin fractionations, American Lecithin is committed to providing the very best in quality, consistency and technical support.
A pioneer in the commercial development of lecithin and a world leader in lecithin fractionation technology, the American Lecithin Company (ALC) serves a variety of industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and nutritional supplements. ALC also markets PhosChol®, the first commercially available 100% pure form of phosphatidylcholine.
NutriCology®/Allergy Research Group® products have set the standard for hypoallergenic nutritional supplements since our inception in 1979. Our products are the purest and highest quality obtainable and are generally made without yeast, corn, wheat, soy, dairy products, flavorings, colors, salt, sugar, starch, common preservatives, binders and excipients. the only ingredients are those listed on the label, except where refined micro-crystalline cellulose is used as a filler and silicon dioxide is used as a flow agent. To ensure optimal stability, our products are stored in a humidity and temperature controlled environment. Although NutriCology®/Allergy Research Group® supplements were designed with the allergic individual in mind, they may be used by anyone since they are generally the cleanest and purest available.
Under the direction of Stephen A. Levine, NutriCology®/Allergy Research Group® is considered a leader in the field of Nutritional Biochemistry. Dr. Levine's innovative formulations represent some of the most sophisticated concepts in nutritional science. Our product line has grown to over 250 products. Many physicians and their patients, worldwide, believe that we have the finest nutritional products available.
We're innovators, bringing important new bio-nutrition formulas to market well ahead of less resourceful suppliers. But that wouldn't count for much if our products weren't of such superior quality. Here are some of our newest formulations -- supported by the latest research and information -- and we believe they're better.
We at NutriCology®/Allergy Research Group® endeavor to explore, develop and access new and innovative health products to improve the quality of life for all of us. We rely on scientific research and collaboration with other experts in the biomedical field to insure state of the art, hypoallergenic, when possible, formulations containing the purest, highest quality ingredients. Our commitment is to education, under existing regulations, for physicians, health professionals and the consumer.
We strive to extend understanding and kindness in all of our business relationships. It is our desire to practice honest advertising, fairness and truthfulness to our customers and employees.
Our shared mission through growth is to provide a challenging and rewarding environment for employees; while maintaining leadership in the nutritional supplement business.
Oakmont, the leader in essential fatty acid nutrition, offers value and experience you can trust. Oakmont provides unbiased and comprehensive information on the benefits of all essential fatty acid (EFA) oils. We research them all because we carry all of them. We offer EFA oils in over 50 varieties and sizes, more than three times the nearest competitor. No other brand delivers the same level of product quality at such a reasonable price.
Our mission at Pacific BioLogic is to create and provide the safest and most effective natural health care products possible. Used properly, our products are Powerful Tools. Gentle Healing means these products are designed to work in harmony with the body’s own healing processes and natural balance. Our manufacturing process maximizes the quality of the final product, insuring that each production run meets or exceeds our high standards for potency and purity. We use fresh, whole, chemical-free, pesticide-free and heavy metal-free herbs harvested from the #1 growing sites in China and India – instead of the bulk ground powders preferred by most manufacturers. Bulk powders are considerably less expensive but virtually impossible to preserve freshness or to verify the quality in this form. All herbs are screened to confirm freshness and quality - we only accept the highest grades.
At Peelu, we're dedicated to providing the highest-quality natural oral
hygiene products possible with no harsh chemicals or abrasives. For safe,
effective dental care, Peelu products feature the nonabrasive, natural
fiber of the peelu plant (also known as miswak, siwak or arak tree), which
gently cleans your teeth and gums without damaging tooth enamel.
QUESTION & ANSWER INTERVIEW WITH DR NIGEL PLUMMER, C.E. O. OF PHARMAX LLC BY DR. GERARD DIFIORE
Q: What is your educational background?
A: I have a BSc in Microbiology and a PhD in Microbial Physiology. I am founder of the prime nutritional supplement development and manufacturing company in the UK and lead a team of 8 research scientists that develop and clinically trial nutritional supplements. I lecture at both the University of Westminster and the Institute of Optimal Nutrition in London and have been keynote speaker at many nutriceutical conventions and seminars throughout USA and Europe.
Q: You were doing research on anti-microbial activity of plant compounds when you decided to start Pharmax. Can you explain what lead you to this decision?
A: I started my career working on the development of antibiotics for Pfizer, so the use of anti-microbials has always been of great interest to me. In addition, prior to the discovery of antibiotics (which are themselves derived from micro-organisms), the anti-infectives and anti-microbials used by human populations throughout history have always been plant derived. Further, a very compelling reason for my personal involvement in the anti-microbial activity of plant compounds came with the realization of the negative effect of antibiotics on normal human gut microflora. This developed into a quest to find anti-microbials that were as equally effective against target disease-causing organisms as antibiotics - but which did not have a deleterious effect on the beneficial organisms of the human gastro-intestinal (GI) tract. As a result, the Pharmax research team was the first scientific group to discover and publish the fact that allicin from garlic had no effect on lactic acid organisms, while having a potent effect on a wide spectrum of disease organisms including bacteria, yeasts, viruses and protozoa. The lactic acid organisms constitute the major group of micro-organisms in the normal gut flora and are the base components of most probiotics.
The interaction between normal flora and anti-microbials is pivotal to the general direction of our research on anti-microbials and probiotics.
Q: Pharmax is known for its high quality and efficacious probiotics. With so many probiotics available on the market today, what makes the probiotics by Pharmax different?
A: I have always believed that the 'acid test' for any probiotic is the demonstration of efficacy in independent clinical trials. The HLC range of probiotics from Pharmax have now been proven in five double blind, placebo controlled trials with each trial demonstrating significant desirable effects in the human host. In addition, our commitment to research is demonstrated by our current coordination of the largest probiotic intervention trial ever undertaken. In this trial, half of the 3,000 neonates recruited will receive Pharmax's HLC Neonate product for six months following birth with the intention of significantly reducing the incidence of neonatal allergy.
In our range of HLC probiotics, we have also recognized that different therapeutic circumstances demand different potency levels. For example, taking 8 billion probiotic cells following antibiotic therapy is not adequate to re-colonize the GI tract given the dramatic depletion of the normal gut microflora resulting from the use of antibiotics. We would advise much greater numbers be taken in these circumstances, such as the 125 billion cells found in our HLC Synbiotic Intensive product. This product would be taken for two weeks before moving to a lower dose product, more appropriate for the longer term.
In addition, because we have major strengths in microbiology, we control the full manufacturing process right through from strain selection to finished packed product.
The physiological functionality of the strains used in our HLC range is crucially important and our strains are all human isolates screened for the ability to attach to and colonize the human intestine.
Pharmax also innovates in providing probiotics in unique delivery systems, such as the probiotic straws, a lozenge for internal use (Candaclear), and in a double capsule format for differential release of normally non-compatible components (our Travelguard product)
Finally, our range of probiotics has stood the test of time and has been the market leader to professional practitioners for 15 years in UK and much of Europe - the traditional stronghold of probiotic usage and research.
Q: Many of Pharmax products are freeze-dried, even to the point of freeze-drying some of the oil products such as the essential oils from the various plant anti-microbial products that you have. What is the benefit in freeze-drying?
A: Freeze drying is the process of drying under vacuum at very low temperatures and is the gentlest known method of removing water, with no potential for damage by heat or oxidation. This gentle drying process means that the essential structures within living cells, such as the probiotic micro-organisms and garlic cloves, are not damaged and the molecular configuration of proteins and other molecules are maintained intact.
The freeze drying technique can be applied across many materials. As you mention, we produce stable emulsions of our essential oils in the aqueous phase and then remove the water component through freeze drying. This leaves 'oil powders' that are soluble, free from heat or oxidation damage, which have many applications in our supplements.
We also use freeze drying as a 'clean' alternative to solvent extraction so our ascorbates, malates and pantothenates are manufactured without the use of solvents and we produce our own freeze dried beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene etc.
Q: Pharmax has developed and produced some very innovative products such as the probiotics straws. Can you tell me what other innovative products are currently being designed?
A: We have many innovative products in the pipeline including a range of omega-3 fatty acid products with unique features and physiological benefits, and probiotics based on immunologically targeted strains that have the potential of directing the immune response of the host towards cell mediated immunity, antibody formation or tolerance induction. We are also working on a completely novel range of supplements for treatment of allergic disease.
Q: Pharmax has done a lot of in-house research that many other companies cannot produce because they do not have the capabilities to do so at their manufacturing facilities. Pharmax has a staff of scientists and researchers. Can you explain the function of these scientists and researchers, or give us any insight into interesting lines or research they are currently working on?
A: Because we have research scientists, development technologists and production technologists, cross fertilization of ideas produces the right atmosphere for innovative research and development of practical products for the professional practitioner. Ground-breaking research from the scientific team can be innovatively developed to unique products.
Our research team is also intimately involved in the clinical trialing of our products, currently including:
" A study at Columbia University using our Finest Pure Fish Oil to establish the role of fatty acids in cardiovascular disease and depressive disorders.
" Work with Scandinavian researchers evaluating the use of probiotics in autistic spectrum disorder.
" The large scale neonate allergy trial mentioned above.
Q. You are considered a world expert on many aspects of nutritional supplementation and have been called on to lecture at many prestigious events around the world. Can you summarize what you consider your three prime areas of expertise are?
A: I would rather call them my prime areas of passion as we are all con
PhysioLogics continues to exceed industry standards for quality assurance. As one of the top, state-of-the-art manufacturers of nutritional supplements, we monitor and control the purity and quality of every product, at every stage of the manufacturing process. This dedication to quality is evidenced in our comprehensive in-house quality assurance program-which includes laboratory tests of both raw materials and finished products-and our singular commitment to providing practitioners with full disclosure product labels.
Product Development & Research Expertise
Nutritionists, biochemists, food scientists and dieticians staff our top-notch research and development team. They collaborate with experts around the world to bring PhysioLogics customers the latest advancements in nutritional science and technology.
From our extensive in-house library, the research team examines the efficacy of nutrients and suggested formulas and thoroughly investigates their safety before suggesting any product for manufacture. Suggested formulas are sent to our quality control department for prototype development.
USP & Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Certified
PhysioLogics manufactures all of its products following United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards for dietary supplements, and NNFA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines.
USP was formed to establish uniform standards for selected materials to be used as medicines, drugs or supplements. These standards establish the identity strength and purity of the selected materials for the benefit of physicians, pharmacists, and consumers
The NNFA GMP Certification Program ensures that all elements of the manufacturing process are reviewed by third party inspectors and comply with quality standards developed by the NNFA. This inspection process provides reasonable assurance that all standard operating procedures are controlled sufficiently and products meet their purported quality.
PhysioLogics, in addition to GMP Certified, is also an industry sponsor of the Institute for Nutriceutical Advancements Methods Validation program, an effort on behalf of members within the industry to implement set standards for reliable testing procedures.
Exceptional Raw Materials
The superiority of PhysioLogics products begins with the purity and quality of raw materials. All PhysioLogics raw materials are subject to stringent quality control protocols enforced by in-house quality control personnel with the authority to reject, at any time, any material not meeting strict specifications. PhysioLogics routinely tests raw materials for:
Authenticity - Thin Layer Chromatography Identification
Chemical Solvent Residue
Dioxins & Dioxin Like Compounds and PCB's (fish oils only)
Heavy Metal Screening
Herbicide & Pesticide Residue
Microbiology Contamination - Bacteria Yeast & Mold
Peroxides & Anisidines - Markers of Rancidity
Potency - Assay by HPLC, GC, or appropriate test method
A complete Certificate of Analysis (C of A) accompanies every raw material received into PhysioLogics' warehouse and is available upon request. The Certificate provides vital product information, including the concentration or potency of active constituents.
All received raw materials are quarantined and tested before they are allowed to enter the manufacturing core.
Extensive Laboratory Testing
Laboratory tests are conducted during each critical stage of manufacture and packaging of PhysioLogics products. Testing these representative samples of both raw materials and finished products throughout the manufacturing process ensures the authenticity, consistency and quality of ingredients. Additional tests used to validate the purity of PhysioLogics products include:
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
This test can analyze the individual ingredients in a mixture. A dissolved, liquid sample is placed in the unit, and the mixture separates into its different components. The amount of each component in the mixture can be measured down to parts per million. Analyzing the HPLC plots can verify the ingredient ratios in a mixture, or identify the purity and potency of a raw material. For example, liquid chromatography can measure the proanthocyanidin content in grape seed or the percentage of ginkgo flavonglycosides in ginkgo biloba.
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
This test validates the authenticity and purity of a sample. A beam of infrared light is passed through a sample. The sample absorbs energy from the beam at certain frequencies. The frequencies are charted, revealing an 'absorption spectrum.' No two herbs or compounds have the exact same absorption spectrum, so by comparing these charts to existing charts, we can positively identify the herb. This test also can tell us exactly the potency of a particular sample of ginkgo compared to another batch that, while looking the same may not be as potent.
Ultraviolet/Visible Spectrophotometer
A sample is dissolved in water or alcohol, and a beam of ultraviolet or visible light is passed through the sample solution. The sample absorbs energy from the beam at characteristic frequencies, and the response is recorded, much like the FTIR instrument. While not as specific as FTIR, this technique can identify many herbs which have unique absorbency characteristics.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry (ICP)
A sample of raw material or finished product is dissolved in acid and sprayed into the middle of a flame burning at an extremely high temperature. Inside the flame, the different elements glow with their own unique colors. A highly sensitive meter graphs the brightness and color of each constituent in the flame and measures, to parts per million, the amount of each constituent present in the sample.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility
PhysioLogics manufactures its products following NNFA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines using sophisticated manufacturing and processing equipment built to United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards. Adhering to the highest standards of cleanliness, the manufacturing core is designed to keep outside contaminants from entering the production area. The air within the manufacturing core is pressurized, purified and cleaned by a state-of-the-art climate control system. The manufacturing equipment is disassembled and sanitized routinely between product runs.
Full Disclosure Labels & Quality Finished Products
PhysioLogics, unlike most of our competitors, is committed to full disclosure labels, a hallmark of our dedication to quality and honesty. Healthcare practitioners and patients never will be surprised by unlisted ingredients in PhysioLogics products.
PhysioLogics is in full compliance with FDA mandates that nutritional supplement manufacturers meet 100% of label claim (that the amount of an ingredient listed on the label is actually contained in the finished capsule or tablet). All PhysioLogics labels contain lot numbers and expiration dates. Additionally, all labels are tracked and reconciled to ensure that finished products are labeled correctly.
All PhysioLogics products must meet finished product assay criteria before they are released into the marketplace. Certificates of Analysis (C of A) for PhysioLogics products are available upon request, and retention samples of every product batch are saved for continued evaluation.
When Terry Lemerond founded PhytoPharmica in 1981, the mission was simple: "Improve the health of America-one person at a time". This philosophy was incorporated into every aspect of the business, from the field to the lab to the health care practitioner.
PhytoPharmica introduced many unique firsts to the U.S. health market:
First U.S. company to make Ginkgo biloba available in America. (1986)
Introduced Glucosamine sulfate, providing Americans with the first clinically effective nutritional supplement to build cartilage for joints and support healthy joint structure and function.† (1993)
Introduced Milk Thistle, a natural liver support supplement, to the U.S. (1986)
Introduced standardization to the U.S. supplement industry, helping ensure patients "get what they pay for." (1987)
First U.S. company to manufacture peppermint oil in enteric-coated capsules. (1986)
PIONEER is a professional line of clinician-formulated, evidence-based nutritional supplements known for uncompromising quality.
PIONEER was founded in 1984 on the principles of clinical effectiveness, professional integrity and outstanding service. As a socially responsible company run by practicing holistic clinicians, PIONEER is committed to producing clinically relevant, cost-effective nutritional formulas.
Since its inception, PIONEER has led the industry in providing impeccably honest full-disclosure labeling, literature and packaging. The company's first priority is therapeutic effectiveness, not marketing margins. PIONEER has developed the Pioneer Health Education Library, an ever-growing collection of free, non-product-linked, professionally written educational materials.
PIONEER co-owners Teri Kerr, M.A., R.D., and Dr. Jim Lemkin, N.D., C.N.S. are licensed, practicing healthcare clinicians, each with decades of experience in the field of natural medicine. Their extensive knowledge and attention to detail produce formulas of exceptional design. PIONEER formulates each new product in collaboration with numerous expert colleagues in preventive medicine, clinical nutrition, nutrition research and Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.
PIONEER places great emphasis on enhancing the absorption potential of its products, relying on several methods (e.g. disintegration testing in different pH environments, use of multiple forms, micellization) to maximize uptake.
All supplements are produced using the highest quality ingredients: quality standardized herbal extracts, fully reacted chelates, natural source raw materials and trace minerals whenever possible, high potency plant enzymes, etc. Products are packaged in recyclable amber glass bottles to ensure freshness and potency.
PIONEER's manufacturing facilities operate in strict compliance to cGMP guidelines. Independent laboratory assays and heavy metals tests are routinely performed to confirm identity, potency and purity of finished products. PIONEER provides professional technical support and assistance to healthcare clinicians and their patients.
In brief, PIONEER formulas are:
o Clinician-designed for use by nutritionally-oriented physicians
o Derived from evidence-based scientific research, and clinical observation
o Formulated for enhanced absorption and bioavailability using multiple methods
o Made exclusively with natural tableting and encapsulating agents
o Free of common food allergens; hypoallergenic
o Verified Non-GMO and Gluten-Free; many products are 100% Vegetarian
The people behind Primary Source
Primary Source has its roots in the 1970's when my partner, Gary Senecal and I joined the growing alternative health care industry and opened our own natural food stores. In the 1980's Gary left the retail arena to work with a wonderful nutraceutical ingredient from Europe called Oligomeric ProanthoCyanidins (OPC). OPC was discovered by Dr. Jack Masquelier in 1947 who developed it into a medicinal agent via research over the next forty years. Gary began working with Dr. Masquelier and his company, Center d'Experiment Pycnogenol (CEP) to import OPC extracts made from Grape Seed and Pine Bark into the United States (then known as Pycnogenol). In the early 1990's I joined him as the business began to grow. In 1999, Primary Source was established as a separate company dedicated to providing high quality products containing Masquelier's® Original OPC to a growing community of health care providers and their patients. Primary Source continues to work with Dr. Masquelier and his group in the education and promotion of Masquelier's® Original OPC.
About Masquelier's Original OPC®
OPC is a specific molecular complex (flavon3 diol) that is extracted from Semillon grape seeds (vitis vinifera) and the bark of Maritime pine trees (pinus maritima) native to the Bordeaux region of Southern France. On a commercial scale, Dr. Masquelier always produced his extract in Gardonne, France by Berkem Laboratories (an ISO 9002 certified facility), in compliance with French Ministry of Health regulations. The patented extraction method delivers a pure, safe and effective product with clinically proven health benefits. Since the early 1950s there have been many published human clinical studies using Masquelier's® Original OPC demonstrating a variety of health benefits which in turn led to the development of three prescription drugs used widely in France.
Quality Assurance
In the mid 1990's many grape seed and pine bark extracts began arriving on the market claiming to possess the same benefits as Masquelier's Original OPCs. Unfortunately, no other grape seed or pine bark product uses the patented process that Berkem employs to produce Masquelier's Original OPCs and thus differ substantially on chemical composition. Therefore, the many clinical studies performed by Dr. Masquelier and his associates do not 'transfer' to these other products. Since Primary Source uses only Dr. Masquelier's Original OPC, you can be assured that our products meet the high standards for purity, safety and efficacy as the product used in the original clinical studies. We welcome your inquiries about our science, documentation or our products and are happy to supply this information.
Our Mission
Primary Source is dedicated to the health and education of people by providing clinically proven products backed by science and integrity. Our products are carefully designed and produced to provide a significant beneficial impact on the health and wellbeing of our consumers. We are thankful for the opportunity to be able to offer our Primary Source OPC products to your patients and their families.
In the midst of all the supplement hype, New Life Colostrum™ stands out as the highest quality bovine colostrum in the world. Symbiotics colostrum is produced by ISO 9001 and 14001 rated New Zealand dairies. It meets the highest standards in the world for human consumption. All New Life Colostrum™ is available in capsules, powder, tablets, snack food bars, soy and whey protein drink mixes and our unique skin cream formulas. New Life Colostrum Plus™ is a highly specific product line combining the health benefits of a variety of the highest quality herbs and nutritional supplements. This special beta-lipid coated colostrum is designed to help with a variety of conditions, as well as provide up to a 100% increase in dispersibility and efficacy.
Professor Georg D. Birkmayer, M.D., Ph.D. is a world-renowned bio-chemical researcher who was the first to identify the importance of NADH in cellular development and energy transmission for all bodily functions and organs. He is the Medical Director of the Birkmayer Institute for Parkinson’s Therapy, which has treated thousands of patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and depression. He is Founder and Chairman of Birkmayer Pharmaceuticals and the Birkmayer Laboratories (Vienna, Austria). Dr. Birkmayer is the author of more than 150 major research papers and more than 100 scientific articles in the area of cancer diagnosis, neurochemistry and neuropharmacology related to Parkinson and Alzheimer's disease. He is a Professor at the University of Graz in Austria, heading its Division of Neurochemistry at the Department of Medicinal Chemistry. He is also a visiting professor at the University of Beijing and Canton (China), Secretary General of the International Academy of Tumor Marker Oncology (New York). He is the European Editor of the Journal of Tumor Marker Oncology, and a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research. and a number of other scientific journals. He is member of many international scientific societies such as the New Academy of Sciences, and the American Association of Cancer Research. He is also Fellow of the American College of Nutrition.
The story of NADH is intricately linked to the story of the Birkmayer family. It began in post war Vienna at the Hospital for the Brain Injured "Wiener Hirnverletzten-Lazarett". There the young professor Walther Birkmayer saw over 3,000 brain injured patients as head physician. Grasping the importance of neuro-rehabilitation as a special discipline, he began a journey to explore the neurobiological reactive mechanisms within the brain. His observations led to the realization that injuries must create an imbalance between various reactor substances or neurotransmitters, resulting in a wide range of patient behaviors or symptoms.
His subsequent research with Parkinson’s patients during the late 50’s and early 60’s, using L-Dopa, the precursor to the substance dopamine, led to one of the crucial events of neurology. He succeeded in demonstrating that a pharmacological effect could be counteracted by another chemical substance producing a specific physiological or psychic result. In the years that followed, Dr. Walther Birkmayer was to receive four honorary Doctorates from leading European institutions in recognition of his outstanding lifetime contributions. He was also highly regarded by his patients for his help and his humanity.
Walther’s son Georg also became a doctor. After fighting at the forefront of cancer research, Georg was to follow his father, making his own contribution to the development of neuro-rehabilitative therapies. He went on to discover and implement the therapeutic usage of NADH or coenzyme 1.
In 1993, Dr. Georg Birkmayer, M.D., Ph.D., now also a renowned biochemical researcher and director of the Birkmayer Institute for Parkinson Therapy, founder and chairman of Birkmayer Pharmaceuticals Inc. (New York) and Birkmayer Laboratories (Vienna, Austria), developed the first and only stable and absorbable oral tablet form of NADH. His discovery, recognized with worldwide patents, made NADH available to the general public as a nutritional supplement, licensed and only available under the brand name ENADA®.
Research continues in the U.S.A. and abroad to explore ENADA®’s full potential. FDA approved clinical trials are currently being conducted under the auspices of leading American research hospitals.
ENADA® the only stabilized, absorbable, oral form of NADH was developed by Professor Georg Birkmayer, M.D., Ph.D., renowned medical researcher and considered the world's leading expert on NADH (Coenzyme 1).
Founded in 1972, Progressive Laboratories formulates and manufactures over 250 of the highest quality nutritional supplements available in the market today. These products are available exclusively to the Health Care Professionals and their patients. Every product is tested for quality and potency; the weight and content are measured for accuracy prior to packaging.
Progressive Laboratories is located in the Irving-Las Colinas development of Irving Texas. Las Colinas is the premier location for the World Corporate headquarters for such Corporations as EXXON MOBILE,VERIZON (formally GTE), KIMBERLY CLARK,BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA,ZALE JEWELERS, and the home of the DALLAS COWBOYS five time World Champions. As well as USA Headquarters and Regional Offices for such Fortune 500 Companies as FEDERAL EXPRESS, ABBOTT LABORATORIES, NEC OF AMERICA, NOKIA OF THE AMERICAS, NIEMAN MARCUS, MICROSOFT and many others. Please feel free to visit our facility any time you are in the area.
Progressive Labs is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is licensed by the Texas State Department of Health, Bureau of Food and Drug Safety, and is regularly inspected by these agencies. You can be assured that our GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices) meet or exceed industry standards. This means you can rely on the potency and quality of our products.
Our Purchasing Department, in conjunction with our Technical Services Department, test and source our raw materials from some of the most reputable vendors in the world. This means you can expect to receive the highest quality ingredients at the most competitive price.
In addition to our Progressive Laboratories brand line of supplements, we also distribute other quality product lines. We offer respected brands, which have earned acceptance based on performance, such as Arkopharma, Viobin, Kyolic/Wakunaga, Professional Botanicals, Imhotep, and others. When coupled with our product line, we offer over 1000 highly specialized nutritional supplements.
In a 1999 survey conducted with our professional health care customers, we received the following results:
· 75% rated Progressive's service and delivery better than other nutritional product suppliers.
· 72% rated Progressive Labs brand products better than other nutritional suppliers for purity, potency, quality and results.
· 98% rated Progressive's product packaging as better than or equal to the competition.
· 84% said that Progressive's sales consultants were always able to handle their orders in a professional, courteous, and expedient manner.
We continue to strive to be responsive to our customer's needs and to improve the quality of our products and services through research and technology. After many years in the industry, our reputation remains impeccable. WE CARE about our customers and will do whatever it takes to demonstrate our deep concerns for the needs of our customers and the patients they serve. All of our products are sold with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Your money will be refunded if you are not fully satisfied with our quality, potency, service and results. When you look for a source for your nutritional products, you need look no further than Progressive Labs.
Headquartered in Reading, Pa., and founded in 1994 by Dr. Donald Snyder, Proper Nutrition, Inc. is dedicated to providing the safest, most natural ways to healthy, happy, active lifestyles. We support our commitment to naturally derived solutions to wellness issues with extensive research, expert testing, and the highest quality production standards. As a result, Proper Nutrition, Inc. products are among the most effective, safe, and side-effect-free ways to regaining and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
AHCC® is the product of a highly specialized manufacturing process developed in Japan during the mid-1980s. AHCC® is an extract obtained from a hybridization of several species of mushroom mycelia. Cultivated under exacting conditions, the product is microencapsulated to protect the compounds' integrity. This proprietary technology is exclusive to AHCC® ensuring a consistent, efficacious, and safe product.
AHCC® is manufactured under GMP standards guaranteeing quality and purity. Extensive laboratory studies have established the safety of AHCC®. AHCC® is mild and non-toxic, free of side effects and contraindications and has been safely consumed by tens of thousands since 1987.
Click on the links below to read press releases from QOL:
Rx Vitamins uses only the highest quality, laboratory assayed ingredients all supported by solid scientific research. All our products are processed according to exacting pharmaceutical grade standards to ensure maximum potency, purity and quality.
A precisely designed blend of the finest vitamins, minerals, herbs, adaptogens and of other nutritional cofactors, Rx Vitamins components work synergistically to promote health.
Each nutrient is manufactured and processed according to exacting pharmaceutical-grade standards from the finest raw materials available. With Rx Vitamins, you are assured a product of the highest quality and potency.
The Rx Vitamins line of dietary supplements is formulated for specific health concerns using the foremost medical and nutritional knowledge available today. Each component is chosen on the basis of published clinical experience or laboratory research. The resulting formulations offer nutritional support to address your patients' unique health needs.
Scandinavian Formulas, Inc. is committed to helping people live a natural and healthy lifestyle. Our products address many common health and physical issues with the highest quality ingredients and carefully developed formulations. We take extra care in choosing the ingredients that go into our products, often including expensive raw materials that other companies may not. Put your trust in Scandinavian Formulas products, we are positive you will be 100% satisfied with the results you achieve.
Scandinavian Formulas effective all-natural formulations and products backed by years of experience.
Ann marie is a leading herbalist who has been growing and researching herbs for nearly 30 years. Her research found herbs that can offer healthy, natural alternatives to preventing disease, treating common ailments and improving general health.
In 1976, Ann Marie opend Sweet Annie Herbs, Inc. in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania. Since first starting to research herbs, she has put together over 50 herbal combinations to help a wide variety of health concerns. Sweet Annie Herbs products are now in over 300 stores across the Untied States. They include herbal teas and capsules which have been tested and proven as an excellent quality product by laboratories associated with Harvard University.
In addition, she is a regular speaker at Penn State University and guest lecturer at hospitals, universities and for various groups around the country. Her popularity has led to 100's of feature stories and interviews across the country. Her friendly and helpful interviews have made Ann Marie a well-known and respected herbalist throughout the United States and Canada on many radio interviews as well as TV show's such as the Montel William's Show, Sally Jessie, CNBC "Alive and Wellness", and many more.
Topical BioMedics is the research and development leader in transdermal pain and inflammation relief products. We are committed to bringing you high-quality, natural, safe and effective adjunctive treatments to primary and tertiary care.
Our work focuses on the musculoskeletal system—joints, tendons, bursa, ligaments, and muscles. In collaboration with conventional and complementary practitioners, we are creating compelling approaches for debilitating disorders such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and lower back pain, as well as providing relief from sports and work related trauma injuries.
Topical BioMedics was founded in 1994, following a ten-year period of discovery and development. Our CEO, Lou Paradise, innovated our leading product, Topricin®, as he sought options while facing surgery for severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Firmly grounded on rigorous experiment and careful observation, he conducted his research over a period of a decade. Lou tested hundreds of approaches and combinations of substances until he finally succeeded in engineering a product that worked for him.
Since it is a condition having multiple causes and multiple symptoms, carpal tunnel is complex. During Lou's early research work, it was important to consider the ailment from many different angles, so as to effectively address it. Lou assessed numerous conventional, complementary, and alternative options when developing Topricin®.
In 1998 Enrico Liva, a registered pharmacist and long time practicing naturopathic physician founded Verified Quality Natural Products to fulfill his commitment to provide the highest quality, most clinically effective nutritional supplements available. Currently, there are few natural product manufacturing companies independently confirming the quality of their products and following FDA mandated Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s).
Dr. Liva brings his 25 years of experience as a pharmacist and 18 years as a practicing physician to Verified Quality. This experience goes into product innovation and development as well as quality control and quality assurance.
Our mission is simple; to develop and produce innovative, independently confirmed high quality natural products that are extremely effective in helping people reduce and eliminate discomfort, feel better and achieve optimum health. Helping others with our high quality products is our reward, motivator and the fuel that keeps our passion alive. There is no greater acknowledgement than to hear that our products help people of all ages and afflictions.
Independently confirmed quality is the cornerstone of Verified Quality Natural Products. Our quality procedures are soon to be certified by the National Nutritional Foods Association (NNFA), a leading industry group advocating high quality standards in the natural products manufacturing business. The NNFA has developed current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP’s) with guidance and input from quality experts, pharmaceutical experts and the FDA. These cGMP’s are voluntary and are not yet enforced by the FDA. There are only a few companies producing nutritional supplements in the US certified by the NNFA as compliant with the cGMP’s. Verified Quality Natural Products is positioned and is diligently working toward NNFA cGMP certification by the early part of 2001.
Other companies may ask you to take their word and trust their quality. We earn your trust with proof of quality because we independently test our products for purity, potency and authenticity. In addition, we bring years of clinical experience to the development, formulation and quality assurance of our products. When your health and wellbeing are on the line, don’t accept an unknown. Give yourself the best, use Verified Quality Natural Products.
Biography for Enrico Liva, ND
Enrico Liva, RPh, N.D. - Dr. Liva graduated from Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1975. In 1978 he went back to school and attended the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. He graduated in 1982 and was awarded a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree. He has been in private practice as a naturopathic physician for 17 years and is the managing physician at The Connecticut Center for Health in Middletown, and West Hartford, CT. The Connecticut Center for Health has seven Naturopathic physicians, 3 of whom are also licensed acupuncturists. Dr. Liva is a founding member and past board member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. He is a past board member and 2 time past president of the Connecticut Society of Naturopathic Physicians. Dr. Liva is a member of the Advisory Council for The University of Bridgeport’s College of Naturopathic Medicine. He was a founder of Pure Encapsulations and left there in 1996. Along with Michael Bergkamp, ND, LAc he owns and operates Vital Nutrients, an industry leader in the production of high quality natural products.
TREATMENT FAILURE OR MAXIMUM CLINICAL RESPONSE?
Natural product quality is often the critical factor. Assurance of quality is not an industry standard for natural product manufacturers. Most suppliers of natural products give the perception of quality, or a good quality story, but not the real thing? We do!
Verified Quality products are superior. Why? Because of these Quality Control & Quality Assurance measures performed by Verified Quality.
Our raw materials are independently laboratory tested for authenticity, quality and potency.
All raw material is microbiology tested for aerobic microbial count, E. coli, Salmonella, S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, yeast & mold count. Our assurance of clean product.
All of our Chinese herbs are tested for the presence of aluminum, lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic.
We manufacture our own products under strict conditions.
We are independently audited to verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's).
Raw materials are quarantined until they pass quality tests.
Rancidity testing is performed on all oil products.
Fish oil softgels are checked for mercury, PCB's, & rancidity.
As of 10-1-00, each lot of product manufactured will be tested to verify label claim potency and our stability testing program begins. This will assure label claim potency throughout the expiration date time period.
We follow United States Pharmacopeia, FDA food Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's), and the National Nutritional Foods Association GMP guidelines for production procedures.
For over twenty years the people at Vinco Inc. have quietly forged a leadership position within the nutraceutical industry. We take pride in the fact that we continue to provide our clients with products made from the highest quality ingredients the market has to offer. Under the same family management, Vinco Inc. has worked with doctors, pharmacists and nutritional counselors to custom design well supported dietary products for practical healthcare needs.
Our products range from single ingredient Items to cutting edge combinations. Even though we have access to a wide variety of ingredients, including those "less expensive" to obtain or "easier" to manufacture, Vinco’s products adhere to scientific guidelines. We do not compromise quality for cost.
Homeopathic:
A complete array of Pharmacist Formulated Remedies.
Naturally safe for all members of the family from child to grandparent.
Non-Alcohol formulas, especially important when choosing the appropriate children's remedy.
Can be used safely without fear of interaction with prescription medications.
Cost effective remedies for managing common healthcare conditions.
Products may be used safely by those with: Asthma, Thyroid Disease, Heart Disease, Hypertension, Glaucoma, Prostate Disease, Diabetes and more.
With years of pharmacy experience, exacting standards and a commitment to quality, Vinco's homeopathic remedies are the natural choice of pharmacists.
Standardized Herbs: Whenever possible, all Vinco herbs, whether by themselves or used as an ingredient in another product, are standardized. Herbs have been used throughout the ages as primary tools for maintaining health and for aiding in the recovery of disease. The process of standardization is not only to identify the active constituents of each herb, but to highlight methods of purifying and concentrating these substances. Standardization provides the consumer with a tool for knowing exactly what is in their product, know its potency and know the correct amount to take. This consistency is extremely important for physicians and professional care givers who wish to treat patients and achieve consistent results at the most favorable price.
- Vinco is Widely Recommended by the Professional Market -
Historically, nutritionally based approaches to proper health have been viewed as Alternative health care practices. Under the "An apple a day ..." philosophy, people who would turn to their supplements for good health would do so in direct opposition to established medicine. True, these two worlds are different, but their differences need not be looked upon as measures of separation, but as options, working together for complete care.
At Vinco, we see our products as being complimentary to traditional medicine. We work with a select group of Pharmacists and Physicians for product formulation and a growing national network of pharmacies for support and consultation. Products like Vinco's OsteoSheath are being recommended highly by pharmacists and clinicians who incorporate bone density testing in their osteoporosis programs.
Our products are used by professional athletic trainers. And for chiropractors, physical therapists and sports management technicians, Vinco has introduced a dynamic line of pain management products including Thera Derm, an all natural herbal pain relieving patch that has found its place in the therapy market due to its ability to support pre- and post- treatment programs. Our products are used daily in conjunction with contemporary health care practitioners for achieving heightened results.
Vinco Inc. can provide the level of dedication that has become the foundation of our daily business; spending the time to know and understand our clientele and being able to identify and service their individual needs with:
Clinically efficacious products for excellent patient outcomes.
Sound resource materials,
- Vinco is not just another supplement company. We are the standard bearer for the natural medicine industry -
Wheat germ is one of the foods highest in unsaturated oil content, as well as a rich source of Vitamin E and protein. In the 1930's a commercial process to extract the oil from wheat germ was developed. When this oil was introduced into the diets of test subjects, results suggested improved endurance and stamina. At VIOBIN U.S.A. we are confident that our products offer consumers an essential, nutritious value missing in many diets. We are committed to enhancing the public's awareness of the virtues of our wheat germ products and the benefits these products can bring to their lives.
Vital Nutrients is an NNFA GMP certified company.
To see the NNFA website click here!
Written by Vital Nutrients
Quality Assurance and Quality Control are the number one priority at Vital Nutrients.
While all natural product companies claim to have the best quality, almost none are completing all the steps required to comprehensively insure that quality and purity are consistently produced time after time. At Vital Nutrients, no corners are cut when it comes to quality assurance. We do what is required to provide comprehensive proof and fully guarantee that your products are delivered to you and your patients. We utilize the highest standards of manufacturing practices and laboratory quality assurance. Laboratory quality assurance is not easy to attain. We audit and verify each of our independent laboratories to insure that validated analytical methods and ethical lab practices for raw material and finished product testing are followed. We spend a great deal of time researching the scientific validity and reliability of laboratory test methods. In addition, we insist that our labs use only highly purified analytical reference standards. As a result of our efforts, we have often found that many laboratories are not using proper reference standards and scientifically valid testing methods. We reject the use of these laboratories for testing of Vital Nutrients products. We will be happy to provide you with a more detailed explanation of laboratory policies and procedures if you have an interest in learning more.
To read more about Vital Nutrients and its quality process click here!
Our commitment is to serve women by providing education, research, and the finest quality in effective natural supplements.
We pride ourselves on our personalized service, attention to detail and responsiveness to the consumer's needs in the area of women's health. We seek excellence in our formulations by including optimal dosages, superior choice nutrient sources and clinically scrutinized products for maximal therapeutic benefit. We strive to use the best ingredients in our products. Our product line is run in small batches to ensure the freshest products possible. Our entire product line is vegetarian suitable with the use of plant based capsules.
We are committed to using the highest quality, premium grade organic or wildcrafted herbs available. Our herbs and extracts are selected on the basis of purity, bioactivity, and maximal therapeutic benefit. In our single herb products we use the powdered herb of the product and the standardized extract of the plant, specifying the bioactive marker ingredient.
All of our products are formulated based on scientific research and/or clinical research and experience as conducted by Dr. Tori Hudson in her women's health practice. Dr. Hudson is a well respected authority on natural healthcare for women. We welcome your feedback and support in providing the best products available to address the health care needs of women.
Kyolic originated from time-tested organic farming techniques free from pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers. Organic cultivation is essential to grow pure and natural garlic bulbs that are well balanced in nutrients. Harvested at full maturity, the garlic cloves are naturally aged to convert harsh and odoriferous compounds such as allicin, into mild, odorless and stable water-soluble sulphur containing compounds which offer the benefits of garlic. Kyolic is quality assured from soil to shelf. The whole production process of Kyolic is controlled by over 250 stringent quality checks to ensure its safety and efficacy, conforming to international GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) guidelines.
You don't discover the essence of nature sitting behind a desk.
That's why at WEBER & WEBER we get our hands dirty. Because along with the finest scientific formulations and processing techniques, we are after all, tending a garden. And by planting, cultivating, harvesting, and processing our own plants, we make sure our remedies measure up to the highest quality standard of them all...Nature. No wonder we've been the trusted choice of German doctors for half a century.
Each day, we advance homeopathic and phyto medicine through the latest clinical science, pharmacology and modern technology. And now, the quality, heritage, and results that make us a respected leader in Germany, are available for the first time in America.
From its roots as an old-fashioned neighborhood Pharmacy in 1911, Willner Chemists as emerged as the number one Nutritional Pharmacy in the Country. A brief history is provided.
Willners moved to their location on Park Avenue in 1996, and opened a second store in downtown Manhattan in 1998.
The Willner Window Radio Program has met with impressive success, and now airs for two hours, every Sunday evening, on one of New York's major AM radio stations, WOR (710).
Willner Chemist's success is due in part to its two attractive stores, and in part to its wide selection of products, and in part to its discount pricing--but perhaps most important is the Willner Chemists staff--Pharmacists, Nutritionists and other health professionals who are willing and able to provide honest and factual guidance on the use and selection of nutritional supplements.
Today, many companies offer herbal products and it's hard to tell who has the really "good stuff." We believe we are your best choice and would like to give you some reasons why.
·As a very small company (twelve people) we can offer product quality that large companies cannot. We grow the highest quality organic and biodynamic herbs and purchase the rest from excellent small organic farms and wildcrafters.
·We are a supplier of choice to naturopathic physicians and other knowledgeable herbal practitioners. Few product lines sold in stores sell to this market because they don't supply the same product quality.
·We have been mentioned many times by Prevention Magazine and knowledgeable practitioners like Dr. Christiane Northrup, Dr. Tori Hudson, and herbalist Deb Soule as a source for high quality herbal products.
·We do not produce standardized extracts. We only produce whole plant extracts from the best quality plants grown on the Earth.
·We have a quality assurance program that reports directly to our Board of Directors, and we do regular audits of compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices.
·We do ongoing inspections from initial plant ID through finished product verification, retain product samples of all products, and can trace the sales of any batch of any product through our detailed computerized tracking. We also have extensive research files to support our structure and function claims.
·Wise Woman Herbals is the small company with the big heart. We are relentless in making products that are unsurpassed, and strive for superior customer service in taking and fulfilling your orders.
World Nutrition has been a quality manufacturer of dietary supplements for
nearly 15 years.
World Nutrition has two separate facilities capable of manufacturing a
diverse range of products including liquids, powders, capsules and tablets.
Our corporate headquarters consists of approximately 60,000 square feet.
Our other manufacturing facility produces our very own colloidal mineral
liquid and colloidal mineral powder.
Over the past 15 years, World Nutrition has established itself as one of the
finest dietary supplement manufacturers in the health food industry. We
have been able to achieve this through a firm commitment to quality products
and excellent service. As a custom formula manufacturer I can proudly say
that we have experienced success at a healthy level.
Our challenge for the remainder of this year will be to continue to grow at
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exceed this challenge, we have decided to enthusiatically introduce three
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We are confident that you will be extremely pleased with our company and our
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Also available exclusively to licensed healthcare practitioners, VitalzymX™ includes the same ingredients as regular Vitalzym with one important addition – a more potent and highly active form of protease! To learn more about VitalzymX call us at 800-654-4432 and ask for:
We are a global business representing the International Institute for Preventive Dentistry at the University of Turku in Finland. Our products are used and sold at The Whitaker Wellness Institute in Newport Beach, California, other leading health centers, the U.S. Armed Forces, dental schools, pharmacies, dental offices throughout the world, and many Web Sites, including this one.
YASOO Health, established in 1998, is a nutraceutical company with headquarters in the United States and with international operations directed from its wholly-owned subsidiary in Cyprus. In July 2002, YASOO received venture capital financing from the Bank of Cyprus Ventures and EMERGO. YASOO seeks to develop proprietary, disease-specific products that will aid in the effective management of chronic diseases.
Dr. Andreas M. Papas and Dr. K.C. Nicolaou, two of the three founders of YASOO, enjoy wide recognition and extensive contacts in their respective fields.
Dr. Papas, the president of the company, holds a Ph.D. in Nutritional Biochemistry and combines 25 years of academic and industrial experience in nutraceuticals. A Fulbright Scholar at the University of Illinois, Dr. Papas is currently an Adjunct Professor at the College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University and a Senior Scientific Advisor of the Cancer Prevention Institute at Harvard’s School of Epidemiology. He is the author of The Vitamin E Factor (HarperCollins, 1999) and editor of the scientific book Antioxidant Status, Diet, Nutrition and Health (CRC Press, 1998).
Dr. Nicolaou, the Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board of YASOO, is the Chairman of the Chemistry Department at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, San Diego. Dr. Nicolaou is a well renowned authority in chemical synthesis and chemical biology with over 500 scientific publications, two books, and sixty patents. He is a member of the national Academies of Science in the United States and Greece and the recipient of numerous prestigious international awards in chemistry and science.
Research on the relationship between nutrition and health has become a hot topic in the medical and scientific community. YASOO strongly believes in the potential of vitamins and other nutraceuticals to benefit both healthy individuals and those with chronic diseases.
YASOO will integrate three major fields of knowledge in order to develop a steady stream of disease-specific products:
Clinical and medical science as it relates to the role of nutrients and phytochemicals in disease management and prevention, wellness and quality of life.
Formulation technology especially as it relates to the development of products to address specific needs of each market segment.
Identification, extraction and/or synthesis of high value, naturally occurring compounds.
A Small Business Innovation Research Grant (SBIR) approved by the National Institutes of Health will provide the proof of concept and proprietary technology for overcoming malabsorption in cystic fibrosis patients. YASOO will then develop formulations for other malabsorptive diseases states. YASOO will evaluate the efficacy and safety of its products in clinical trials conducted by leading researchers and universities. YASOO will be continually improving its proprietary technology and extending it to other essential compounds, including pharmaceuticals.
The most scientifically validated way to extend life span—from single-celled organisms to mammals—is caloric restriction.1 This technique has been shown to boost life span by nearly 100% in some species.2
Reducing the number of ingested calories—while maintaining healthy intake of essential nutrients—triggers a cascade of anti-aging mechanisms in the body. More than 70 years of research have established its life-extending power.3
Modern science has only recently begun to unravel the mystery behind how calorie restriction so radically extends life span. At its core lies favorable alterations in gene expression—one of the body’s adaptive responses to reduced calorie intake. By activating certain genes and disabling others, caloric restriction dramatically slows aging.
This retardation of aging delays the onset of degenerative disease while improving biomarkers of youth, ranging from metabolic rate and insulin sensitivity to cardiac health and cognitive function.4
By the same token, the consequences of caloric overconsumption are equally profound. Every excess calorie brings you one step closer to age-related illness and death.
This is true at any stage of life, whether you’re lean or overweight, regardless of your health or nutritional status.5-7
Eating more than your body needs (excessive energy intake) can load the blood with triglycerides, glucose, homocysteine, and pro-inflammatory chemicals. The results are accelerated aging processes, prompting deterioration across multiple biomarkers of health.8
Most humans find it difficult to submit to a sufficiently rigorous dietary regimen, leaving the benefits of calorie restriction tantalizingly out of reach. Until now!
In this article you will discover the most compelling evidence to date on the effects of caloric restriction. In a milestone 20-year study of Rhesus monkeys—our close genetic relatives—a modestly restricted diet resulted in a three-fold reduction in the risk of age-related disease!9
You will also learn about five natural compounds that favorably modulate gene expression to support a more youthful health profile. These “caloric restriction mimics” simulate many of the beneficial effects of caloric restriction through multiple pathways.
Aging individuals may now enjoy some of the youth-promoting, disease-fighting mechanisms of caloric restriction—without strict dietary measures.
A Milestone in Longevity Research
In 1989, a group of anti-aging researchers launched what would prove to be the most comprehensive study of caloric restriction (CR) to date.10 Rhesus monkeys were chosen as subjects because they exhibit biological and aging characteristics strikingly similar to humans. The results, published in 2009 in the prestigious journal Science,9 provide compelling evidence of CR’s age-delaying, disease-fighting power.
The monkeys were split into two groups. Half were allowed to eat naturally, without restraint; the other half subsisted on a nutrient-replete diet 30% lower in total calories than they would normally consume. After 20 years, 37% of controls had died of age-related causes, as opposed to just 13% in the calorie-restricted group. In other words, caloric restriction cut degenerative disease risk by a factor of three.9
This study’s findings are even more tantalizing when one sees that it did not require severe lowering of calorie intake to produce these striking results. Americans typically consume 100% more calories than they need. It only required a calorie reduction of 30% to achieve the remarkable benefits in this study.
The Rhesus monkey study also conclusively demonstrated caloric restriction’s protective power. Over the course of 20 years, virtually all measured biomarkers of health were superior in the CR group.9
These findings have profound implications for humans. Rhesus monkeys are as vulnerable to chronic, age-related disease as we are. They lose their strength over time. Many become obese, fall prey to metabolic syndrome, and succumb to diabetes. They develop cardiovascular disease and cancer. And like aging humans, their brains shrink as they get older.
Yet among the calorie-restricted group, incidence of cardiovascular disease was half the rate ofcontrols. Not one member exhibited any symptoms of impaired glucose control or diabetes, whereas 40% of monkeys who ate as much as they wanted had become diabetic or pre-diabetic.9
Calorie-restricted monkeys lost fat weight, but did not sustain loss of muscle mass observed in the control group. CR also inhibited reduction in brain volume, especially in areas governing cognitive and motor function.9
The robust health of the CR group compared to controls is clearly evident in photographs of the monkeys from the control and CR groups.9(See figure 1 below.)
Benefits of Calorie Restriction in Humans
All available data indicate that calorie restriction also slows aging and reduces the risk of killer diseases in humans as well. Individuals who impose a 20% reduction in their calorie consumption for 2-6 years lose fat weight and show significant improvement in their markers of aging, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and glucose control.11
Even brief periods of caloric restriction can temporarily improve core body temperature and insulin sensitivity, which happen to be markers of longevity.11,12 In clinical studies, short intervals of caloric restriction have reduced systemic inflammation—an underlying factor of so many chronic, degenerative diseases.
More youthful heart muscle performance13 has also been observed—caloric restriction appears to increase the number of vital energy-producing mitochondria in heart and skeletal muscle, reducing the oxidative damage that accelerates aging.14-16
No other intervention documented in the scientific literature can compete with caloric restriction as a candidate for slowing aging and supporting youthful health in humans.
It is regrettable that most aging individuals don’t lower calorie intake by the 20-30% reduction required to reap the benefits of caloric restriction, as it can dramatically lower disease risk and add years to their lives.
Caloric Restriction “Mimics” and Gene Expression
The problem many people have in sufficiently reducing their calorie intake has led to a novel scientific solution.
Researchers have identified a select group of nutrients that trigger many of the same underlying mechanisms of action as caloric restriction. Among the most promising of these caloric restriction mimics and enhancers are resveratrol, pterostilbene, quercetin, and grape seed extract, along with black tea extract. These nutraceuticals have been shown to generate many of the same effects in the body as caloric restriction, without significant dietary modification. In particular, they “mimic” caloric restriction’s favorable impact on genes that influence the aging process.
Genes have the capacity to directly affect life span by regulating a broad spectrum of aging factors, from inflammation and metabolic function to immune response. Calorie restriction exerts a beneficial effect on the activity of gene expression, supporting healthy cellular function through numerous physiological pathways. This includes:
Blocking inflammatory factors
Optimizing fat and carbohydrate metabolism
Lowering serum glucose
Supporting endothelial function
Inhibiting cancer development and proliferation
Compounds that mimic caloric restriction bring about favorable changes in gene expression and improve the primary biomarkers of aging.
What You Need to Know: Caloric Restriction
Excessive caloric intake is strongly associated with the onset of degenerative disease and shorter life span.
Research shows that calorie restriction (CR) can extend life span and afford significant protection against age-related disease in many animal species.
A landmark 20-year study demonstrated that caloric restriction powerfully counters the effects of aging in primates closely related to humans. CR produced a three-fold reduction in mortality from age-related conditions.
A caloric restriction regimen strict enough to yield these benefits is difficult or impractical for most people.
Nutrients known as “caloric restriction mimics” (or mimetics) afford a novel scientific solution. Working in tandem, their biomolecular action exerts similar effects on gene expression, providing the benefits of CR without severe dietary modification.
Resveratrol, pterostilbene, quercetin, and extracts of grape seed rank among the most promising of CR mimics, while the polyphenols in black tea support these metabolic effects. Research shows that they powerfully inhibit systemic inflammation, enhance mitochondrial health, prevent cancer, and protect brain and heart tissue from age-related deterioration.
Controlling Nuclear Factor-Kappa B
Calorie restriction sharply limits expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB). In the cells, NF-kB is a critical gene regulator that governs response to pro-inflammatory cytokines, free radicals, cholesterol levels, immune function, and cancer prevention.17-24
The nutrients that mimic caloric restriction also act to stabilize NF-kB regulation and help combat the age-related conditions associated with unfavorable NF-kB activity.
Resveratrol activates sirtuins,25 a powerful family of “information regulator” proteins that inhibit NF-kB, reducing inflammation throughout the body, such as that caused by second-hand cigarette smoke.24 Resveratrol also prevents inflammatory mast cells from releasing the histamines that trigger asthma and allergic reactions.26
Resveratrol radically decreases production of the adhesion molecules that attract inflammatory cells to vascular walls, one of the principal mechanisms of atherosclerosis.27,28 Adhesion molecules also permit cancer cells to invade tissue and metastasize. Resveratrol’s influence over NF-kB has also enhanced beneficial UV-induced programmed cell death (apoptosis) in skin cancer cells.29
Found in blueberries, pterostilbene is a polyphenol closely related to resveratrol.30 It limits NF-kB activity through multiple complementary mechanisms.31 In vitro, pterostilbene suppresses invasive tumor activity and enhances therapeutic destruction of cancer cells.32,33
Quercetin’s ability to protect against chronic inflammatory conditions such as asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and arthritis is due in part to its capacity for NF-kB inhibition.34,35
Grape seed extract also disrupts cellular inflammation signaling by blocking NF-kB.36 Its effect on pro-inflammatory cytokine production in fat cells may even help combat obesity and type 2 diabetes.37
Black tea extract’s influence on NF-kB activity has been shown to specifically protect cells from damage associated with inflammation,38 cancer,39,40 Parkinson’s disease,41 and stroke.42
Suppressing Inflammatory Cytokines
Caloric restriction inhibits expression of genes that produce inflammatory cytokines—such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), as well as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)—that are powerfully implicated in the onset of cancer, atherosclerosis, and chronic inflammation.43-46
Resveratrol and pterostilbene block the release of a host of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes found throughout the body—particularly tissues and organs stressed by environmental factors, infection, or trauma.22,47,48 Pterostilbene powerfully suppresses the expression of inflammatory COX-2,31,49 helping lower the risk of cancer as well as a host of inflammatory diseases.50,51
Quercetin inhibits the COX-2 enzyme involved in early-stage colon cancer, and suppresses numerous cytokines involved in allergies and autoimmune disorders.34,35,53
Grape seed extract specifically prevents fatty tissue from releasing inflammatory cytokines and adipokines that would otherwise provoke insulin resistance and atherosclerosis associated with metabolic syndrome.37 By downregulating reactive cytokines, grape seed extract has been shown in animals to protect organs from ischemia-reperfusion damage (injury caused by the return of blood flow after a period of restriction).54
Black tea extract reduces levels of STAT-1, a protein which “tells” the cell nucleus to activate genes that produce inflammatory cytokines.55
Cancer Prevention
Calorie restriction (CR) upregulates genes that suppress cancer and downregulates genes that permit cancers to form or spread. CR prevents cancer cell reproduction and proliferation, while inhibiting the blood vessel growth cancer cells require to develop and metastasize.46,56-62
Resveratrol and pterostilbene mirror these effects. They combat cancer at every stage of development, inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in a variety of human cancer types, while preserving healthy cells.32,63-66 Resveratrol also suppresses cancer proliferation by modulating expression of proteins involved in the reproductive cycle of abnormal cells.67,68
Quercetin activates “executioner” proteins while inhibiting survival proteins in human cancer cells, blocking their reproduction.69-71 Quercetin and resveratrol have also been shown to block the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an effect that may help starve tumors of their blood supply.72
Grape seed extract induces expression of a protein that arrests cancer cells early in their reproductive cycle, preventing further development and destroying them.73 Similar to quercetin, grape seed extract fights angiogenesis by suppressing the VEGF signaling pathway.74
Black tea extract reduces expression of genes that cancer cells use to proliferate, survive, infiltrate healthy tissue, supply themselves with blood, and metastasize to other organs.75 It has also been shown to upregulate expression of proteins that arrest the cell reproductive cycle and induce cellular death specifically in cancers.76
Enhanced Glucose Control
Caloric restriction enhances glucose control.77,78 Recall that not one of the Rhesus monkeys in the study discussed earlier developed diabetes or exhibited symptoms of impaired glucose control.9 Caloric restriction triggers gene regulators called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), a class of proteins responsible for healthy fat and carbohydrate metabolism. They also play key roles in optimizing mitochondrial health57,59 and thwarting the onset of metabolic syndrome and diabetes.79
Resveratrol80 and pterostilbene81,82upregulate the production and activity of PPAR, launching a set of cellular processes that support a youthful metabolic profile. The PPAR activator resveratrol has been shown to:
Prevent fat cells from absorbing sugar and converting it to fat83
Reduce inflammation and insulin resistance in fat cells84
Boost mitochondrial function 85
Grape seed extract modulates a different set of PPARs that regulate fat storage. Grape seed extract induces fat metabolism while inhibiting the development of new fat cells.86.87 It also protects endothelial cells by preventing the inflammatory response to proteins damaged by glucose (the age-accelerating process known as glycation).88
Resveratrol further exerts a favorable influence on blood sugar metabolism at the cellular level, reducing glucose production in liver cells in a way that mimics prolonged calorie restriction.89 In diabetic animals, resveratrol has been shown to help restore blood sugar to normal by modulating the activity of several enzymes involved in sugar metabolism.90
Pterostilbene and grape seed extract generate similar beneficial changes that help promote healthy blood sugar levels.91,92 Grape seed extract activates genes that trigger glucose uptake. This assists cells in the absorption and removal of glucose from circulation.92
Quercetin has been shown to stimulate the proliferation of pancreatic cells that help modulate blood glucose levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic animal models.93 It also markedly reduces expression of the enzyme that produces sorbitol, a sugar alcohol known to cause cataracts and blindess.94
Black tea extract polyphenols inhibit lipase,95 an enzyme that breaks down fat in the stomach and small intestines. This helps block absorption of fat into the bloodstream.96
In animal models, the theaflavins in black tea extract prevent after-meal elevations in blood glucose and may protect against the metabolic syndrome.97,98 This effect may help increase signaling for a powerful longevity factor called FOXO1a.99
Summary
Caloric restriction (CR) is the most scientifically validated method shown to reliably extend life span in multiple species, from microorganisms to mammals.
A milestone 20-year study provides the most conclusive evidence to date of its efficacy in Rhesus monkeys, our close genetic relatives. The discovery of calorie restriction-mimicking nutrients makes it possible for aging humans to emulate some of CR’s beneficial mechanisms of action, especially as an adjunct to modestly reducing one’s overall calorie intake.100 The unique ability of these nutrients to modulate gene expression exerts system-wide effects that, in addition to influencing many of the same pathways activated by calorie restriction, can also significantly reduce degenerative disease risk.
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Pterostilbene’s Healthy Potential
Berry compound may inhibit breast cancer and heart disease.
Blueberries are packed with healthful phytochemicals such as pterostilbene, which has been shown to lower cholesterol in some lab animals.
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You may not have heard of pterostilbene (pronounced “tero-STILL-bean”) yet. But this berry compound’s prospects for inhibiting breast cancer, diabetes, and LDL cholesterol in humans may soon make it as well known as other health-enhancing natural substances.
Standing to reap benefits from pterostilbene’s renown are producers of blueberries and grapes, two fruits known to contain this compound.
“The more we study pterostilbene, the more we see its huge potential in the human health field,” says chemist Agnes Rimando of ARS's Natural Products Utilization Research Laboratory in Oxford, Mississippi. Her animal studies on the compound have led to several groundbreaking discoveries.
Pterostilbene is one of many aromatic hydrocarbons called “stilbenes.” It’s a derivative of resveratrol, a compound found in large quantities in the skins of red grapes. Resveratrol burst on the health scene more than a decade ago, when it was found to have cardiovascular and cancer-fighting benefits.
Studies at the time examined resveratrol’s role in an apparent phenomenon in which people in France live long lives despite diets very high in saturated fat and cholesterol. It has been theorized, though not yet proven, that red wine’s prevalence in the French diet lowers incidence of cardiovascular disease.
Technician Gloria Hervey collects blueberry extracts for analysis of pterostilbene and other phytochemicals. (D637-1)
Originally isolated from red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus), pterostilbene had already been touted for its fungicidal and antidiabetic properties—and showed potential for lowering blood glucose—when Rimando started experimenting with it in the early 1990s.
“Actually, I isolated pterostilbene from a plant from Thailand back when I was a graduate student at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC),” says Rimando. “At that time, I found it to be toxic to a few cancer cell lines, especiallly breast cancer cells. Later, I had a renewed interest in whether pterostilbene might inhibit cancer when resveratrol was reported to have cancer-preventive activity.”
Through experiments using mice, rats, and hamsters, Rimando and collaborators have since helped add chapters to what’s known about pterostilbene and what it can do.
Major Findings
Rimando and UIC collaborators made a huge discovery in 2002, when—in tests using rat mammary glands—they found that pterostilbene possessed cancer-fighting properties at similar effective concentrations as resveratrol.Also in that study, Rimando, Oxford plant physiologist Stephen Duke, and scientists at the University of Buenos Aires in Argentina found that pterostilbene is a powerful antioxidant.
Then, in 2004, Rimando solidified pterostilbene’s standing with two major announcements to the American Chemical Society. First was the finding—with colleagues in Agriculture and AgriFood in Canada, Oregon Freeze Dry Inc., and North Carolina State and Idaho State universities—that pterostilbene had been detected for the first time in some berries of Vaccinium, a genus of shrubs that includes many types of berries. The research revealed that blueberries are a ready source of the compound. Pterostilbene was already known to exist in very small amounts in red-skinned grapes.
Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, chemist Agnes Rimando analyzes pterostilbene content in blueberries.
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Heartening Results
Then, Rimando announced that pterostilbene can help lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease.
This conclusion was the result of animal studies Rimando did with colleagues at the University of Mississippi and with chemist Wallace H. Yokoyama of ARS’s Processed Foods Research Unit in Albany, California.
They found that pterostilbene was similar in activity to ciprofibrate, a commercial drug that lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. “But ciprofibrate can have side effects such as muscle pain and nausea,” says Rimando. “Pterostilbene targets the same specific receptor as ciprofibrate, but it’s likely to have fewer side effects.”
The focus of this work was to determine the ability of pterostilbene and related compoundsto activate the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha, or PPARa, a protein in the cell nucleus associated with metabolism that modulates blood lipid levels.
Triglycerides, the chemical form in which fats occur in plants and animals, are a combination of three fatty acids with glycerol. As with cholesterol, elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood have been linked to cardiovascular diseases. Rimando and her colleagues found that the triglyceride-lowering ability of pterostilbene rivals that of ciprofibrate.
The announcements generated a wave of attention for pterostilbene, not only in the United States but in other countries as well. At least two news organizations in Great Britain directly attributed a boom in British blueberry sales to Rimando’s findings. And the Oxford lab’s results have since been cited by companies marketing products ranging from blueberry extract to juice concentrate to commercially available pterostilbene itself.
Latest Revelations
In her latest studies, Rimando and scientists at the University of Medical Science in Poznañ, Poland, led by Renata Mikstacka, showed pterostilbene’s potential as a cancer-inhibiting compound with regard to inhibiting enzymes that activate chemical carcinogens. Using mice cells, they demonstrated that pterostilbene, as well as other analogs of resveratrol, potently inhibits an enzyme called “cytochrome P450.”
Cytochromes are found within the cells of animals, plants, bacteria, and other microorganisms that transport electrons. They’re also a factor in people’s varying response to drugs and toxins entering their bodies. Cytochrome P450 enzymes activate a variety of compounds known as “procarcinogens,” which can turn substances such as cigarette smoke and pesticides into carcinogens.
“Pterostilbene showed strong inhibitory activity—much more than resveratrol—against a particular form of cytochrome P450,” Rimando says. “This may explain the cancer-preventive property it demonstrated in a mouse mammary gland culture assay.” But she warns that more studies are needed to explain this process as well as those of other trans-resveratrol compounds.
As for where pterostilbene research goes from here, Rimando says, “I hope that some clinical studies can be conducted, either within ARS or by outside scientists, that will verify lab-animal results that allude to pterostilbene’s health benefits for humans.”—By Luis Pons, Agricultural Research Service Information Staff.
Vitamin D supplementation reduces insulin resistance in South Asian women living in New Zealand who are insulin resistant and vitamin D deficient – a randomised, placebo-controlled trial
Abstract
Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) has been shown to correlate with increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Small, observational studies suggest an action for vitamin D in improving insulin sensitivity and/or insulin secretion. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of improved vitamin D status on insulin resistance (IR), utilising randomised, controlled, double-blind intervention administering 100 µg (4000 IU) vitamin D3 (n 42) or placebo (n 39) daily for 6 months to South Asian women, aged 23–68 years, living in Auckland, New Zealand. Subjects were insulin resistant – homeostasis model assessment 1 (HOMA1)>1·93 and had serum 25(OH)D concentration < 50 nmol/l. Exclusion criteria included diabetes medication and vitamin D supplementation >25 µg (1000 IU)/d. The HOMA2 computer model was used to calculate outcomes. Median (25th, 75th percentiles) serum 25(OH)D3 increased significantly from 21 (11, 40) to 75 (55, 84) nmol/l with supplementation. Significant improvements were seen in insulin sensitivity and IR (P = 0·003 and 0·02, respectively), and fasting insulin decreased (P = 0·02) with supplementation compared with placebo. There was no change in C-peptide with supplementation. IR was most improved when endpoint serum 25(OH)D reached = 80 nmol/l. Secondary outcome variables (lipid profile and high sensitivity C-reactive protein) were not affected by supplementation. In conclusion, improving vitamin D status in insulin resistant women resulted in improved IR and sensitivity, but no change in insulin secretion. Optimal vitamin D concentrations for reducing IR were shown to be 80–119 nmol/l, providing further evidence for an increase in the recommended adequate levels. Registered Trial No. ACTRN12607000642482.
No Sitting on This News: Exercise Affects Longevity
In the longevity game, we all know that exercise trumps nutrition. Fat or thin, exercise adds years to life, but one question persists: How much exercise is enough?
It has been an unending debate of how much, how long and how vigorously you should exercise. This month, researchers at the American Heart Association's Conference on Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism added interesting information to the exercise debate, showing that even a little exercise significantly improved the quality of life in postmenopausal, overweight women.
In a study, called "Dose Response to Exercise in postmenopausal Women (DREW)," researchers examined the benefits of exercise in 430 sedentary, overweight or obese women. They were divided into four groups who either did not exercise or who exercised for about 73, 135 or 193 minutes a week.
First published in 2007, this study showed that women who exercised the longest and hardest had the best quality of life. However, at this month's conference meeting, Angela Thompson, co-author of the study, reported information specifically on the women who exercised very little. Here, research showed that slow to moderate exercising for an average of only 10 minutes daily resulted in a significant improvement in overall well-being and quality of life. The message is clear: Don't be disheartened if you find it difficult to exercise — a little is much better than nothing at all.
With age, your body naturally loses muscle. People over age 50 naturally have less muscle and more fat than they did in their 20s. If an older person is overweight and sedentary, the loss of muscle increases, weakness follows and, over time, this leads to difficulty walking, a high risk of dangerous falls and a poorer quality of life. Without a doubt, building and maintaining muscle throughout life is vital to long-term independence.
No matter your age, you must exercise — especially if you are overweight. Exercise will not only prolong life and prevent disease, but also improve quality of life. Most importantly, exercise reduces the risk of developing gait and balance problems that frequently lead to physical disabilities in old age.
The key questions are: How frequently should you exercise, and how much is enough? Simply put, the more you exercise, the better.
Those who push themselves, build up a sweat and get those endorphins working will feel fabulous, have a great deal of energy, and be less likely to develop heart disease and stroke. In addition, they appear to live longer.
But, many of us refuse to undertake a vigorous exercise program. If you fall into the "I don't exercise" category, it's time to consider a new approach. More exercise is better than a little exercise, but anything is better than none at all.
For the determinedly sedentary, try these four suggestions:
— As soon as you wake up, stretch. This is a wonderful way to loosen up your muscles, reduce your risk of developing muscle pains and an excellent way to prepare for the day.
— Also, consider balance exercises. Weakness in certain groups of muscles, combined with age-related changes in the middle ear, predisposes individuals to problems with gait and balance. A simple approach to improve your balance is as follows: Stand up straight, and lightly hold on to a high chair or a countertop. Raise one foot off the ground, extend your leg and balance on the other leg for 10 seconds. Repeat this five times for each leg. Once you can do this easily, try the same exercise without holding on to a chair and finally with your eyes closed (very difficult).
— In addition to stretching and balance exercises, just get out and walk. Walk for a minimum of 10 minutes daily, and gradually increase the duration until you reach 30 minutes daily.
— Finally, once you have sparked the exercise fire, consider joining a gym and exercising with weights. Strength training builds muscle, strengthens bone and reduces the risk of falling by 80 percent.
In the end, I will always push my patients to do more exercise. But a little exercise is better than nothing. Just get out there and do it. You will look and feel wonderful — it's well worth it.
Dr. David Lipschitz is the author of the book "Breaking the Rules of Aging." To find out more about Dr. David Lipschitz and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at creators.com. More information is available at drdavidhealth.com.
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