There is much to fend off this coming season with soaring energy costs and the ‘immune deficit’ of colds, flu and COVID-19. Here, Denise Barrett looks on the bright side with a well drafted contingency plan
In the middle of the heatwave on 6 August, The Times ran the front page headline ‘Winter of woe means long wait for patients’. Inside, the newspaper reported that a senior Government figure commented that the winter looked ‘incredibly bleak’ as an increase in COVID-19 infections and a resurgence of winter flu could push the NHS to breaking point.
On a humid, 24-degree temperature day, this read like a wake-up call – a reminder for our industry to be on its marks and geared up ready for the many consumers who’ll be seeking out natural remedies and prophylactics in defence against the winter season.
Harnessing the force
Peer reviewed research recently published in Frontiers in Pharmacology reveals that a traditional cold and influenza herbal medicine containing a fresh herb extract of Echinacea purpurea reduced the incidence of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) and aided recovery from the symptoms of RTIs including COVID-19 and its subsequent variants in non-vaccinated and vaccinated adults.
The fresh, whole plant extract of Echinacea purpurea used in the study was the emblematic product Echinaforce, supplied by Swiss herbal medicine manufacturers A. Vogel.
The randomized, controlled clinical study was conducted over a six-month period in Bulgaria, where there was a low uptake of COVID-19 vaccination.
From the 120 healthy participants aged between 18-75, individuals were randomly assigned to the verum group for treatment with Echinacea purpurea – or the control group. There were 60 participants in each group, and only five individuals in the verum group and seven in the control group had been fully vaccinated by the end of the study.
The results of the study were highly positive. They showed RTI risk was reduced by 25%; coronavirus risk by 48%; SARS-CoV-2 risk by 63%. Overall viral load was reduced by at least 99% and viral clearance time was reduced by 4.8 days.
Ayurveda power blend
Andrographis Complex is a potent preparation developed by expert nutritionists at Viridian Nutrition and designed to keep coughs and sore throats at bay during winter. It contains scientifically studied andrographis leaf extract combined with vitamin C and zinc to provide therapeutic support for the immune system. The complex contains 100% active ingredients, with no fillers, binders or artificial additives.
Andrographis is renowned for its historic use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The natural extract is grown in India, in its native environment where the ideal climate helps to produce a high-potency extract.
Aimee Benbow, Viridian’s technical director, explains: “Andrographis Complex contains a well-studied plant extract which has been used in many human clinical trials. The supplement formulation contains therapeutic levels of andrographis, blended with vitamin C and zinc to support immune health. This makes it the ideal supplement to include as one of the essentials for winter wellness support.”
Top ten for immunity
Almost two in three Brits are finally aware of the importance of vitamin D for optimal immune function, but that could be too little too late according to a new research review commissioned by the Health and Food Supplements Information Service (HSIS) and published in Nutrition & Food Technology Journal.
Reviewing evidence from more than 70 studies, lead author and nutritionist Dr Pam Mason found that no fewer than ten different nutrients are required for a normal, healthy immune system. These are vitamins A, C, D and E, B complex, iron, zinc, selenium, copper and omega-3 fats.
“Supplementation with vitamin E, selenium, probiotics and prebiotics has been found to improve vaccination responses”
Mason comments: “Nutrition has a significant impact on immune function. There is also compelling evidence that vitamin deficiency can lead to poor vaccine response. For example, a meta-analysis of nine studies found that vitamin D deficiency led to less protection from flu vaccines. However, supplementation with vitamin E, selenium, probiotics and prebiotics has been found to improve vaccine responses.”
Propolis vs antibiotics
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently published data which shows a reduction in antibiotic-resistant bloodstream infections. However, they warn that this drop is likely to be temporary, the result of reduced social mixing and enhanced hand hygiene due to the pandemic.
The UKHSA has suggested that as we head to winter, cold symptoms will be on the increase and may be more prevalent than in recent years. Antibiotics, they say, should not be used to treat these symptoms as this could lead to accelerated antibiotic resistance – one of the most severe threats to public health, according to the World Health Organization.
James Fearnley, founder and CEO of Natures Laboratory, has been researching the application of medicinal propolis use for more than 30 years and believes his team has identified a solution to the problem of antibiotic resistance.
The company’s research, which was conducted with Leeds Beckett University, demonstrates that propolis – a natural substance produced by honeybees – has been shown to increase the susceptibility of resistant bacteria to drugs which have become ineffective.
Spot the deficiency
BetterYou says that although it’s mostly known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, zinc has a whole host of other benefits, from keeping our immune system in shape to ensuring we have a proper sense of taste and smell.
As with any nutrient, it’s important to understand whether supplementation is required, and zinc has a unique method of indication. BetterYou experts Keeley Berry and Emily Simpson have harnessed that and come up with an inventive way to spot a zinc deficiency.
The Zinc Taste Test involves adding a small amount of aqueous zinc solution into the mouth and holding for 30 seconds. The taste sensation from this will provide an indication of zinc status. When the solution tastes like water – or in the case of BetterYou’s Zinc Oral Spray, like lemon and lime – it suggests that a zinc deficiency is likely and supplementation would be beneficial. An immediate furry and unpleasant taste, however, suggests that zinc levels are adequate.
Heartfelt innovation
A life-changing family trauma for investment banker Gareth Meyer set him on the path to creating his liposomal supplements company, Lipolife. In 2007, within a space of six months, Gareth’s father was diagnosed with the rare neurological disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and his mother was confirmed to have breast cancer.
Computer programmer Meyer and his father, Cornelius, who had a PhD in organic chemistry, began exploring the possible reasons behind the ALS diagnosis. They worked avidly to better understand the diagnosis, turning to nutrition and food supplements. The pair learnt a lot about nutrient absorption and potential limitations, which led them to a technology that already existed in the pharmaceutical world: liposomal encapsulation.
The revolutionary nanotechnology was being explored by nutraceutical manufacturers due to a liposomal supplement’s ability to offer drastically improved nutrient absorption.
Meyer built on the work he started with his father, who sadly passed away in 2010. Collaborating with integrative medicine doctors and specialist practitioners in the UK, his research project into liposomal products evolved into Lipolife.
There’s a silver lining, too. Meyer’s mother is now in good health and the business has grown exponentially, investing over £1.5 million into a pharmaceutical-standard manufacturing site in Essex, with new product lines and innovations within liposomal encapsulation technology to be unveiled.
Immunity in store
Greens Health Food Shop has been in Lincoln since 1909 and prides itself on offering a one-to-one holistic service. The independent store is owned and run by Karen Boulton.
“We are selling a lot of immunity products,” she says. “People seem very aware since COVID that it’s essential to maintain the immune system and they’re a lot better informed now.
“For many customers, A. Vogel Echinaforce is top of mind. I wouldn’t be without Echinaforce Sore Throat Spray in store, and Bronchaforce and Bronchasan are brilliant for irritating coughs. Also, Natures Aid’s new range contains an immune support liquid for children aged four to 12 years. It gets the thumbs-up from my grandson.
“We also sell a lot of Viridian, and Lamberts BetaGlucan and Immuno-Strength. Since COVID, people are even starting to think about gut health in reference to immunity, and Optibac does a great range of probiotics – one specifically for the immune system.”
Choc-full of goodness
Imagine putting aside all your daily supplements and munching on a chocolate bar with an equal quota of nutrients. Well, that’s what British brand Sheer Element says it has achieved with Sheer Immune.
Sheer Immune took over three years to create and is made with high levels of vitamins A, C, D, K2, magnesium, selenium and zinc, for day-to-day energy and to help protect against seasonal illnesses. Alongside are vitamins B6, B12 and B9. In all, says the brand, each bar contains 22 vitamins, 72 minerals, prebiotics, antioxidants and medicinal mushrooms.
Sheer Immune chocolate is raw, refined sugar-free, vegan-friendly and made from organic cacao beans sourced from small-scale Peruvian farmers.
MELORA 525 MGO Manuka Lozenges
Melora
E-mail: [email protected]
www.melora.co.uk
Melora’s Manuka Lozenges are the only high-grade Manuka Lozenges, combined with Natural Vitamin C (Blackcurrant) and Vitamin D (Lemon) and Zinc, alongside the soothing qualities of peppermint oil, perfect for the upcoming cold and flu season.
Manuka honey is known for its antimicrobial activity, 525 MGO grade Manuka Honey which is perfect for your customers this winter. Melora Lozenges are made with 525 MGO Manuka Honey, available in either Lemon or Blackcurrant natural flavours.
All Melora Lozenges are 90% Organic, as natural as can be.
Available direct via: Health & Wholefoods or CLF.
Propolis Winter Mixture
Bee Health Propolis
Tel: 0800 7316006
E-mail: [email protected]
www.beehealthpropolis.com
Winter can leave your immune system running low, making you more susceptible to coughs and colds. Bee Health Propolis Winter Liquid is a versatile way of accessing the benefits of this wonderful, natural ingredient.
Propolis is a natural substance collected by honey bees from buds and trees containing tree resin, essential oils, waxes and bioflavonoids.
Propolis offers an array of benefits for many ailments and is one of nature’s richest sources of bioflavonoids for immune support.
BetterYou Immune Health Oral Spray
BetterYou Limited
Tel: 01226 814030
E-mail: [email protected]
www.betteryou.com
Essential for supporting the immune system, BetterYou’s new Immune Health Oral Spray delivers a scientifically formulated blend of vitamins A, C and D, zinc, and selenium directly to the bloodstream via the inner cheek, for optimal absorption.
Providing smart nutritional support, the pill-free supplement contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress whilst reducing tiredness and fatigue, which can hinder the body’s ability to defend against infection.
Housed in 100% recyclable, planet-friendly packaging, the great-tasting natural plum and pomegranate flavoured spray utilises naturally sourced ingredients and is certified vegetarian and palm oil and palm oil derivative free.
KEPTA Immunity care concept
KEPTA LIMITED
E-mail: [email protected]
www.kepta.co.uk
KEPTA developed a range of unique formulas targeted to support a variety of functions playing a vital role in overall health and wellbeing.
KEPTAIMMUNE® is a dry extract of Cat’s Claw inner bark. Cat’s claw has been used as a traditional medicine by the indigenous Amazonian peoples for at least 2000 years to help relieve fever, wounds, joint inflammation and many other health conditions. That’s why this plant is also known as the “lifegiving vine of Peru”. Existing studies show that Cat’s claw may help benefit at wide range of health problems, including immune system deficiencies and different chronic inflammatory conditions.
With 70-80% of immune cells being present in the gut, there is an important connection between the gut microbiota and the immune system. To support this “Gut-Immunity axis” we developed KEPTABIOM® – an advanced synbiotic formula, containing well-studied live bacteria strains and prebiotic fibre. KEPTABIOM® is a new generation synbiotic designed using modern technology protecting live bacteria from the harmful effect of stomach acid and other environmental factors. KEPTABIOM® is aimed to complement the gut microbiome and support general immunity.
A healthy liver is a vital for an adequate immune response to pathogens. KEPTALIVA Complex® is an advanced herbal formula developed to support liver, gallbladder and digestion. KEPTALIVA Complex® contains standardised extracts of Artichoke, Milk thistle, Schisandra chinensis, Andrographis paniculata, Black radish and is enhanced with Bromelain. 1 capsule provides: silymarin – 80 mg, bromelain – 25 mg, cynarin – 7.5 mg, andrographolides – 2 mg, schisandrin – 1 mg.
KEPTALIT® is a dry extract of Phyllanthus spp. (Stone breaker). Stone breaker has a long history of use in the treatment of liver and gallbladder diseases, kidney and bladder problems, gastrointestinal disorders, intestinal parasites and diabetes.
All products are blister packed for protection from air and moisture.
Bio-Kult Boosted
Bio-Kult, ADM Protexin Ltd
Tel: 01460 243230
E-mail: [email protected]
www.bio-kult.co.uk
Bio-Kult Boosted is a unique multi-strain live bacteria formulation targeting the digestive and immune systems. With the same great 14 strains of live bacteria found in the original Bio-Kult, proven to survive the high acidity of the stomach, but at 4 times the concentration. In addition, Bio-Kult Boosted also contains vitamin B12 which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Bio-Kult Boosted can be taken every day as part of a healthy lifestyle, it does not need to be refrigerated and can be taken alongside antibiotics, whilst travelling and by vegetarians.
BioCare Ltd
Tel: 0121 433 3727
E-mail: [email protected]
www.biocare.co.uk/vitamin-D3-Spray-1000iu
Our new Vitamin D3 Spray is a high potency vitamin D3 in a great tasting natural lemon flavoured liquid, providing 1000iu vegan vitamin D per spray for optimum support. Vitamin D is required for the normal functioning of the immune system and muscles, and helps form and maintain strong bones. The Department of Heath recommends everyone to supplement with 400iu of vitamin D during the autumn and winter. Ensuring vitamin D is properly absorbed is essential. Our Vitamin D3 Spray can be conveniently sprayed into the mouth to benefit from enhanced nutrient absorption through the mouth mucosal tissue.
High-Strength Immune Support
Vega Nutritionals Ltd
Tel: 07734 908367
www.provenprobiotics.co
Urgent-C Everyday Immune Support is designed for long-term use, providing continuous support to immune function. All of the active nutrients have substantial evidence of immune-boosting effects – notably in reducing infection risk and severity of URTI.
• 1000mg vitamin C – shown to reduce duration of URTI by 8-18%.
• Lab4 – clinically shown to reduce URTI in children and adults.
• Zinc – shown to reduce duration of URTI when taken upon symptom onset.
• Vitamin D – recently shown to reduce risk of URTI.
• Beta glucans – in several studies shown to reduce risk of URTI .
Made with real freeze dried orange puree for an authentic orange taste. Makes a delicious effervescent drink when mixed with 100-200ml water.
Yogi Tea® Immune Support Organic
Yogi Tea distributed by Euro Food Brands
Tel: 01604 821200
E-mail: [email protected]
www.yogitea.com/en
Nature is a powerful ally. Live in harmony with nature and trust in her miracles. Some of these miracles have been brought together in YOGI TEA® Immune Support: in addition to a varied and balanced diet as part of a healthy lifestyle, vitamin C from the acerola cherry can help naturally support your immune system. With slightly tart echinacea and fruity elderflower, this tea creates a pleasing flavour experience that leaves you feeling comforted. For a perfect brew, pour 200 ml of freshly boiled water over the teabag and allow to infuse for 5 minutes.
LungForte®
HealthAid Ltd
Tel: 020 8426 3400
E-mail: [email protected]
www.HealthAid.co.uk
LungForte® – Immune Booster – We can control to an extent what enters our bodies through diet, but we often have very little control over the air that we breathe. Toxic air pollutants can have a major negative impact on lung function and respiratory conditions. Lungforte tablets are specially formulated with Vitamin A, which contributes to the maintenance of normal mucous membranes, Vitamin C, which contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and Vitamin D, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. It also combines the most beneficial amino acid and naturally sourced antioxidants for optimum respiratory support.
LungForte® retails at £17.99 for 30 tablets. Contact
HealthAid Ltd on 020 8426 3400 for purchase and stockist information or visit
healthaid.co.uk.
Winter Remedies from Helios
Helios Homeopathy Ltd
Tel: 01892 511555
E-mail: [email protected]
www.helios.co.uk
Established in 1986 Helios is a leading pharmacy and manufacturer of
homeopathic medicines. Our 18 remedy kit, suitable for all the family, contains some of the most frequently used homeopathic remedies for winter ailments such as coughs, colds, fevers, sore throats and flu, plus other minor ailments and first aid complaints that can be safely treated at home. This compact and versatile kit comes with a comprehensive booklet to help with remedy selection and is a great addition to the first aid cabinet or to take traveling.
Nature’s Answer Sambucus Elderberry
Kinetic Natural Products Distributor
Tel: 08450 725 825
E-mail: [email protected]
www.kinetic4health.co.uk
Trust Nature’s Answer to deliver Sambucus products for the whole family this winter. With super-concentrated extract of elderberries (up to 12,000mg per serving) used in every formula and combined with other hero immune ingredients, such as echinacea, slippery elm, sage, astraglalus, propolis and more. The range includes: Sambucus Kids Liquid Formula, Sambucus Elderberry Extract, Sambucus Extract Spray (ideal for use on-the-go and can be used in conjunction with other Nature’s Answer products), and Sambucus Immune. All products are vegetarian and gluten-, alcohol- and preservative-free, and made with over 100 quality control checkpoints per bottle.
Lamberts® 600mg Free Form NAC
Lamberts Healthcare Ltd
Tel: 01892 554313
E-mail: [email protected]
www.lambertshealthcare.co.uk
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified research on compounds being investigated for their anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory effects. One such compound is the semi-essential amino acid N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor of the antioxidant glutathione. Glutathione performs many functions throughout your body, such as fighting cellular damage, helping to maintain your immune system and disrupts the bonds of mucus proteins to decrease mucus viscosity, thereby facilitating its clearance.
Lamberts® high quality, one-a-day capsules provide 600mg of free form N-Acetyl Cysteine for easier absorption. Manufactured in the UK, in premises that operate to stringent pharmaceutical standards of GMP. Suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Planet Paleo Organic Bone Broth Powders
Living Planet Distribution
Tel: 020 3176 9982
E-mail: [email protected]
www.livingplanetdistribution.com
Bone Broth Collagen Protein blends are a great way to enjoy the timeless culinary tradition of bone broth. Bone Broth is a nutrient-dense food rich in collagen protein, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, and minerals. Planet Paleo offers a range of broths with additional organic vegetables and spices such as turmeric, oregano and ginger to boost defences and give a rich, satisfying flavour that can be enjoyed on its own or in savoury recipes. There is an additional range of Sports Protein blends in Chocolate or Banana & Vanilla flavours, which mix well with shakes and smoothies to support fitness and an active lifestyle.
Propolis Syrup with Elderberry & Honey
BeeVital Propolis
Tel: 01947 602346
E-mail: [email protected]
www.beevitalpropolis.com
BeeVital Propolis Syrup is a delicious blend of propolis, herbal extracts and soothing honey. Added vitamin C supports the body’s immune system and peppermint oil helps relieve congestion. Propolis is known to be highly anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral, making it the perfect active ingredient in a winter remedy. Elderberry, liquorice, thyme and ginger extracts relieve the pain and discomfort of coughs and colds as well as contributing to the syrup’s anti-inflammatory properties. BeeVital Propolis Syrup is alcohol free, so it’s a fantastic natural remedy for children as well as adults. Soothe sore throats and winter coughs with BeeVital Propolis Syrup.
Vitamin D3 Complex
New Leaf Products
www.new-leaf-products.com
E-mail: [email protected]
www.new-leaf-products.com
Our unique vitamin D3 complex contains Vitamin D3, Zinc, Turmeric & Elderberry. Each active ingredient can help with immunity and bone health as well as supporting many other health factors.
Each bottle contains 180 easy to swallow tablets which will last up to 6 months.
Elderberry & Echinacea Tea by NutraTea
NutraTea
Tel: 020 3146 7150
E-mail: [email protected]
www.nutratea.co.uk
NutraTea® Elderberry & Echinacea Tea is 1 of 22 herbal blends that has been formulated to help support the immune system whilst helping to aid recovery from the cold and flu. This resilient herbal blend contains 100% active, sustainably sourced ingredients with no added flavourings, oils or excipients enabling each biodegradable tea bag to be reused up to 3 times throughout the day. Containing 40% Echinacea and 60% Elderberry, it helps support the health of the upper respiratory tract and proper functioning of the body’s defensive system for a delicious cup of herbal tea that is sweet yet subtly tart.
Olbas
Lanes Health,
Tel: 01452 524012
E-mail: [email protected]
www.laneshealth.com
Olbas has been helping relieve symptoms of colds and sniffles for generations and remains the nation’s favourite decongestant oil1. With cough, cold and flu remedy sales set to rise 7.8% this year2, Olbas is proud to provide a range of winter remedies suitable for all the family. Olbas Oil is a decongestant oil that is made with a combination of natural and essential plant oils including eucalyptus, mint, clove, juniperberry and cajuput to effectively relieve congestion. Olbas Oil is suitable for adults and children aged three months and over.
SOiL Immunity Essential Oil Blend
Pravera Ltd
Tel: 01557 870203
E-mail: [email protected]
www.soilorganics.co.uk
Prevention is always better than cure! The SOiL Immunity Blend has been formulated with a cleansing and zesty fusion of lemongrass, benzoin, tea tree and thyme organic essential oils to guard against illness. This blend is great to use during the winter months, either in a diffuser to purify the air or mixed with a carrier oil for skin application and for use in massage. SOiL Organic essential oils are certified COSMOS Organic, are vegan and not tested on animals.
Live Brighter with Liposomal Vitamin C
Solaray
Tel: 0800 0851697
E-mail: [email protected]
www.clfdistribution.com
www.jumla.co.uk
www.iihealthfoods.com
Solaray’s new Liposomal Vitamin C is designed to help take care of your body and enable you to live brighter. Vitamin C is combined with fatty acids (liposomes) to encase nutrients and protect them from stomach acid and digestive enzymes, so they are delivered where they are needed most. Supporting the body’s immune system, Liposomal Vitamin C is vegan, gluten free and absorbed nine times more readily than Vitamin C from food – making it a potent, effective supplement to support your ambitions and activities. To find out more contact your Natural Trade Brokers representative or call us direct. solaray.co.uk
TOGETHER HEALTH IMMUNITY RANGE
TOGETHER HEALTH
E-mail: [email protected]
www.togetherhealth.co.uk
Together Health’s range of vegan immune boosting supplements help to maintain wellness during the cold autumn and winter months. Their whole food Vitamin C is made with pesticide-free oranges and lemons and includes all the natural constituents of these vibrant fruits to improve absorption, retention and utilisation of vitamin C in the body.
Their vegan, plant-based active form of vitamin D3 is produced from sustainable wild harvested lichen. They include a base of organic coconut oil, to enhance the absorption and assimilation of this essential vitamin.
Their zinc is just as nature intended – organic certified and made from standardised guava leaf extract. It is completely free of chemicals and Contains naturally occurring co-nutrients such as flavonoids, polyphenols, ursolic acid, essential oils and tannins for improved absorption.
Bee prepared daily immune formula
Unbeelievable Health
Tel: 020 7993 2471
E-mail: [email protected]
www.unbeelievablehealth.com
A Daily Wellness and Skincare Essential! Multi award-winning Bee prepared daily immune supplement is formulated by nutritionists combining highest quality ingredients with studies behind their use for helping support immunity and which have natural antibiotic and antiviral properties including bee propolis, black elderberry, beta glucans and more. A healthy immune system (& several of the ingredients) are shown to aid breakouts, skin repair, cold sores & other skin issues. Therapeutic amounts are included and the concentrated formulas contain no fillers or excipients so fewer are required. Suitable for children and to take year-round. Via CLF, The Health Store /Queenswood, Bionature, Jumla & Wholefoods Ireland.
DIP Daily Immune Protection
Wholesale Health Ltd
Tel: 01606 889905
E-mail: [email protected]
www.wholesalehealthltd.co.uk
D.I.P. Daily Immune Protection™ is uniquely formulated for Good Health Naturally and provides a powerful blend of immune-supporting nutrients to strengthen our defences as we head into the autumn and winter. With ingredients backed by science, this comprehensive formula includes EpiCor® and eXselen™ Selenium, plus Vitamin D3, Zinc, beta-glucans, Larch Arabinogalactan powder and Immune Assist™ Micron powder, all proven to contribute to immunity. Also included are Vitamin C and Elderberry Extract for additional immune system benefits. Ideal for daily use to combat the immune system stressors we encounter during the colder months. Suitable for vegetarians. 90 capsules.
