Defend

Vitamin C – Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is mainly present in fruits and vegetables. It is arguably the most important vitamin for immunity and anti-inflammatory actions. This formula contains vitamin C from multiple sources ie herbs, berries and ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is essential for the growth and repair of cells and for a strong immune system. Acerola Cherries provide a naturally bio- available and powerful source of vitamin C, which is fully utilised by the body – unlike synthetic ascorbic acid, which is sold as vitamin C. By way of a comparison of vitamin C content with other fruits, 1 small acerola cherry contains around 80mg of vitamin C – this is 30 times the amount found in oranges (of the same weight). These cherries possess an amazing array of nutrients, including potent antioxidants. In fact, researchers have identified nearly 150 nutritive constituents, which include bioflavonoids, proteins, mineral salts, iron, calcium and phosphorus. This undoubtedly makes Acerola Cherries one of the most nutritious fruits known to us.

Baobab Fruit – This versatile fruit has long been used for its health applications by Africans across the continent. It is also famed for its incredible nutritional properties. Much like the moringa, it is a superfood that deserves the name! An excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, it has:

• five times the magnesium of avocados

• four times the potassium of bananas

• twice the calcium of milk

• twice the antioxidants of açai berries, and more than any other fruit

• six to ten times the vitamin C of oranges

• ten times the fibre of apples.

In other words, baobab is highly nutritious and different parts of the plant supply varying amounts of protein, vitamin C, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium and B vitamins. Due to the fact that it is high in dietary fibre, it has also been shown to support digestive health, as well as reduce feelings of hunger which could promote weight loss. Baobab may also help slow the increase of blood sugar levels and decrease the amount of insulin needed to keep your blood sugar under control.

Astragalus Root – Astragalus belongs to a special class of herbs known as adaptogens, which have unique effects that work to bring the body and mind into greater balance, depending on what is needed, thereby helping to reduce stress and promote energy and vitality. For over 2,000 years, it has been one of the 50 elite Chinese tonic herbs that are most frequently used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine pharmacopeia, due to its remarkable ability to restore health on virtually every level – mentally, emotionally, physically, energetically and spiritually. It is one of the few herbs mentioned in multiple ancient Chinese medical texts as a “Heaven Class” premier herbal medicine for restoring health and rejuvenating the body and mind at the deepest levels. Widely referred to as “the ancient herb of longevity and strength”, a number of studies have shown that certain compounds in astragalus root have measurable telomerase-stimulating and enhancing effects, which have been linked to increased longevity, anti-ageing and DNA repair. Astragalus has also become notable over the years for its powerful immune-boosting properties – studies have shown that regular use of Astragalus root leads to an increase in disease-fighting immune antibodies, stimulation of T-cells (which are powerful immune-regulating white blood cells) and an increase in levels of the anti-viral compound interferon. Black pepper (piperine): Black pepper is the fruit of the black pepper plant from the Piperaceae family. Piperine is the alkaloid within black pepper that is responsible for its pungency. It increases thermogenic activity in the body – the way of developing cellular energy – and this results in an increase in the metabolic rate. Black pepper is also a very good anti-inflammatory agent. Black pepper has been included in this formula, specifically because it increases the absorption and utilisation of the other beneficial ingredients.

Black Aged Garlic – Black garlic is a functional food produced from fresh garlic via fermentation with the whole bulbs or peeled cloves in a chamber in which temperature (60–90°C) and humidity (70–90%) are regulated for a period of time. Black garlic possesses an abundant amount of antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, tetrahydro- ß-carboline derivatives, and rganosulfur compounds, including S-allyl-cysteine and S-allyl-mercaptocysteine, as compared with fresh garlic.nNote that fermentation not only alters the nutrition components and sensory attributes, but also enhances the bioactivity of black garlic. A growing body of evidences demonstrating therapeutic effects of black garlic, including anti-obesity, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects, have been reported in the last few decades. Garlic is a broad spectrum anti-viral and antibiotic, capable of fighting infection and killing a wide variety of fungi (more than 60), bacteria (more than 20), viruses, protozoa, parasites and amoebas. This is largely because of its active constituents, allicin and ajoene. Once garlic is chopped or crushed, allicin is formed. It has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic activity, which is one of the main reasons that garlic has traditionally been used in enemas to rid the colon of intestinal parasites.

Olive Leaf – An excellent anti-microbial against many species of virus and bacteria, olive leaf is a bitter substance produced by the olive tree, but eliminated from olives once they are cured. Olive leaf is also effective against fungi, moulds, worms and harmful bacteria and can be used for yeast infections. It even proved to be superior to quinine for treating malaria, but not as easy to administer, so quinine became the preferred treatment.

Rosehip – Rosehips are red fruits found on roses. They are a great source of vitamin C and bioflavonoids. There is as much vitamin C in a cup of rosehip pulp as in 40 oranges! Vitamins A, B1-3 and K are also present. The bioflavonoids, present in the pulp and the rind of the fruits, exert a synergic action to vitamin C, enhancing its absorption rate. From a health perspective, rosehips are best known for their high content of bio-available vitamin C. There is approximately 1,700mg of vitamin C in 100g of dried rosehip. Studies show that rosehips may reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and help sore, achy joints to function better. This fruit is certainly no stranger to the world of alternative medicine and could be described as a nutritional superstar with its high iron and vitamin content. It has an antioxidant potential even greater than that of blueberries!

Black elderberry – Elderberries are rich in vitamins A and B, flavonoids and potassium, but they are most notable because they contain more vitamin C than any other traditional fruits (except for blackcurrants and rosehips). Research indicates that they promote disease resistance, which explains their traditional use in connection with the treatment of colds, viral infections and upper respiratory conditions (including asthma). They are also said to help lower cholesterol, improve vision, support heart health, improve diabetes symptoms, improve digestion, alleviate muscle aches, relieve arthritis symptoms, act as a mild laxative and diuretic and support immunity. In fact, anthocyanins found in elderberries have more antioxidant capacity than either vitamin E or vitamin C. These potent antioxidants enhance immune function by boosting the production of cytokines – proteins that act as “messengers” in the immune system to help regulate immune response. By providing antioxidant protection, elderberry aids in protecting cellular health from free radical damage and airborne elements.

Grapefruit seed – Not to be confused with grape seed extract or grapefruit extract, grapefruit seed (citricidal) has been proven to be a highly effective, natural broad spectrum anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic and anti-fungal. In fact, it has been proven to be effective against over 800 strains of viruses and bacteria, 100 strains of fungi, plus several single-celled parasites – no other anti-microbial can make such claims. The antimicrobial activity of grapefruit seed extract is in the way that it changes the body of the pathogen; it stops the intake of amino acids into the pathogen and causes its walls to leak, killing it off. Despite destroying harmful intestinal parasites, grapefruit seed does not significantly harm healthy bowel flora.

Ginger Root – A warming herb, which helps to ensure that toxins are kept circulating until properly eliminated. It is also calming to the stomach and can help combat feelings of nausea, which may be produced during the detox process. Its actions include anti- inflammatory, carminative, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, vasodilator, circulatory system stimulant and anti-cholesterol. Ginger helps to alleviate occasional gas and bloating and is known as a ‘hot bitter’ herb which promotes gastric acidity, gastric secretions and aids in digestion. As such, it is used for a range of stomach conditions. For example, it is used for flatulence and in cases of achlorhydria (absence or reduction of hydrochloric acid in stomach juices).

Lactobacillus Acidophilus – A type of friendly bacteria (probiotic) found in the mouth, bowel and vagina. It is involved in the production of the enzyme lactase, required to digest lactose (milk sugar), along with other sugars. It also helps to combat invading pathogens and other harmful micro-organisms associated with food poisoning and infections such as Candida, thrush etc. Probiotics are essential for a strong and effective immune system as they are involved in countless processes such as the production on B Vitamins, regulates cholesterol levels and supports absorption of foods and nutrients.

Turmeric – The yellow pigment in turmeric, called curcumin, is a powerful antioxidant shown to reduce free radical damage in the body. Curcumin has long been used in ayurvedic medicine as a blood purifier, stomachic, carminative, bile stimulant and, more particularly, to strengthen liver function and treat hepatitis C and gallbladder disease. Turmeric is perhaps most commonly associated with its anti-inflammatory actions. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, often causing localised redness, swelling, pain or heat. It may also cause loss of function of the involved tissues. Acute inflammation is typically a protective and localised response to infection or injury. It is designed to heal the body and restore normal tissue function. Inflammation of the joints, including stiffness and swelling are common symptoms of arthritis.If inflammation persists for a prolonged period of time, it becomes chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can be the result of an infection, autoimmune reaction or allergy.

Cayenne – Cayenne is an ideal addition to any treatment plan to kill bugs and parasites. The volatile oil, capsaicin, within cayenne gives the herb its “hotness” and helps to keep the body warm and strong. This in turn weakens parasites, because they do not like a warm environment. A member of the Capsicum genus, cayenne is known for assisting with assimilation, healing, improved circulation, cleansing, indigestion, urinary tract health, colds, flu, digestive disorders and strengthening internal organs, particularly the heart muscle. Also an antispasmodic and helps with pain relief. Used in many herbal remedies as it opens every tissue in the body to an increased flow of blood which helps with nutrient circulation, cell oxygenation and therefore healing. Reishi mushroom: The Reishi mushroom is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia. For many years, it has been a staple in Eastern medicine. Within the mushroom, there are several molecules, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides and peptidoglycans, that may be responsible for its beneficial health effects. Help to boost immunity (one of the most important effects of the Reishi mushroom is that it can boost your immune system. Studies have shown that it can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of the immune system. What’s more, these studies have found that some forms of Reishi may alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells. And evidence has shown that these mushrooms can help healthy people too. In one study, the fungus improved lymphocyte function, which helps fight infections in athletes exposed to stressful conditions). Help to fight fatigue, regulate mood and promote general wellness (one study examined its effects in 132 people with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches and irritability. The researchers found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after 8 weeks of taking the supplements. Another study found that fatigue was reduced and quality of life was improved after 4 weeks of taking reishi powder in a group of 48 breast cancer survivors. What’s more, the people in the study also experienced less anxiety and depression). promote heart health (one 12-week study of 26 people showed that Reishi mushroom may increase “good” HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides) help to lower blood sugar levels (several studies have indicated that molecules found in the Reishi mushroom can decrease blood sugar in animals) help to protect against oxidative stress (Reishi mushrooms can enhance antioxidant status in the body).

Vitamin E – A fat soluble vitamin stored in the liver, fatty tissues, heart, muscles, testes, uterus, blood, adrenal and pituitary glands. It helps to protect against disease by acting as a cell antioxidant. It prevents the oxidation of fat compounds, vitamin A, selenium, two sulphur amino acids and some vitamin C. It also helps the supply of oxygen to the body which enhances endurance. Protects lungs against air pollution by working with vitamin A and accelerates the healing of wounds.

Zinc – Contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, normal DNA synthesis, normal acid-base metabolism, normal carbohydrate metabolism, normal cognitive function, normal fertility and reproduction, normal macronutrient metabolism, normal metabolism of fatty acids, normal metabolism of vitamin A, normal protein synthesis, the maintenance of normal hair, nails and skin, the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood, the maintenance of normal vision, the normal function of the immune system, the protection of cells from oxidative stress and has a role in the process of cell division.

Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 contributes to the normal function of the immune system, the regulation of hormonal activity, normal cysteine synthesis, normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal homocysteine metabolism, normal protein and glycogen metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Selenium – This mineral is found in the soil, water and in some foods and can play a big part in our skin’s health. While it is best known as an antioxidant, this essential mineral is a component of more than two dozen proteins that influence everything from skin health to reproduction, the making of DNA, thyroid function and immune response. Selenium neutralises free radicals and other skin-damageing compounds before they can lead to wrinkles. It is similar to vitamin E and actually works with the vitamin to safeguard cell membranes, the protective coating around cells. That makes selenium a key player when it comes to slowing the signs of ageing. In fact, research has shown that it is a triple treat, protecting against UV-induced cell damage, skin inflammation and pigmentation.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D refers to a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc. In humans, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D3 (also known as cholecalciferol) and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and healthy inflammatory response, normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus, normal blood calcium levels, the maintenance of normal bones, the maintenance of normal muscle function, the maintenance of normal teeth, it has a role in the process of cell division and is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.

Each Capsule Provides: % = NRV = Nutrient Reference Value | ** Equivalent weight from extract

• Vitamin C 512mg

• Acerola Cherry** 384mg

• Baobab Fruit Powder 100mg

• Astragalus Root** 90mg

• Black Pepper** (Piperine (2.5mg)) 65mg

• Black Aged Garlic** 50mg

• Olive Leaf** 40mg

• Rosehip** 25mg

• Turmeric** 25mg

• Cayenne** 20mg

• Reishi Mushroom** 20mg

• Black Elderberry** 20mg

• Grapefruit Seed** 15mg

• Ginger Root** 10mg

• Lactobacillus Acidophilus 10mg

(from 10 billion CFU/g)

• Vitamin E – 5mg

• Zinc 5mg

• Vitamin B6

• Selenium 10mcg

• Vitamin D 100iu