Natural Defender

Zinc

Zinc is known to play a central role in boosting immune response. Zinc affects multiple aspects of immune response from maintaining the integrity of the physical barriers (skin and mucosal barriers) to activating genes within lymphocytes. Zinc is also crucial for the normal development of a multitude of immune cells, including neutrophils, NK cells,       T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and improving IgG antibody response. As a key trace mineral required for immune activity and development, supplementation with zinc for a period of one to two months has been shown to stimulate a stronger immune response. 

Arabinogalactan Heartwood

Arabinogalactans are a class of polysaccharides that are abundantly found in the larch tree. As a highly long and densely branched polysaccharide, arabinogalactan has been shown to increase the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), including butyrate and propionate. Since SCFAs are the primary fuel source of beneficial bacteria found in the gut, arabinogalactan has been shown to boost beneficial intestinal flora, including bifidobacteria and lactobacillus. Supporting the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut can significantly enhance immune function. Additionally, arabinogalactan has been found to stimulate NK cell cytotoxicity, supporting the ability of the body to identify and neutralize microbial threats.

Aloe Vera Concentrate 200:1

Aloe vera is a member of the lily family that has been used topically and orally as a traditional remedy for thousands of years. The active ingredient in aloe, acemannan, is a complex carbohydrate that has been found to be the component responsible for the immune boosting properties of aloe vera. Acemannan has been shown to stimulate a multitude of key components of the immune system including macrophage cytokine activity, nitric oxide release, surface molecule expression, and cell morphologic changes, all of which produce a sharper, highly effective immune response. The aloe vera used in Natural Defender has had the aloin-like compounds removed. This eliminates the possibility of producing the laxative effect that is normally observed following ingestion of aloe vera concentrate.

Olive Leaf Extract

Oleuropein is the unique polyphenol molecule in olive leaf extract, which has a number of health promoting benefits. The olive tree (Olea europaea) produces oleuropein abundantly in its leaves, as well as in the olive fruit itself. Special processing techniques now allow for the extraction of a stable, standardized form of oleuropein. Oleuropein is a potent antioxidant and promotes inflammatory balance. Studies have indicated that oleuropein boosts host immune defense and supports a strong immune response during seasonal and respiratory challenges. It is especially helpful for those with immune challenges related to an imbalance of bacteria in the GI tract.