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Article Summary:
Did you know your gut health, beyond digestion, is closely associated with your overall health and well-being? The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, a vast microbiome that helps the body break down food and absorb nutrients. However, the gastrointestinal system does much more than digestion, and there is growing interest in understanding how gut health affects our mood, emotions, sleep, and overall metabolism.
A balanced diet rich in minimally processed foods, fiber, and other diverse micronutrients is critical to promoting optimal gut health. Additionally, gut health supplements can fill any nutritional gaps in your diet. But what are the best supplements for gut health? Below, we explore several targeted gut health supplements developed by Tesseract Medical Research, uniquely designed to optimize the solubility and absorption of active nutrients that promote optimal gastrointestinal function.
Probiotics and prebiotics are usually the most discussed gut health supplements for promoting a healthy gut microbiome. However, studies1,2,3 show that the bioactivities of postbiotics are also critical to maintaining optimal gut function.* This is because postbiotics are beneficial compounds produced during the fermentation process by gut bacteria, including different metabolites, enzymes, and peptides, that contribute to gut health and support immune function. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), including butyric acid, are the most researched postbiotics.
Beyond SCFAs, a wide variety of plant extracts offer a range of benefits for gut microbiome health and functionality. Research has shown that certain plant compounds support a balanced gut microbiota composition and promote the production of SCFAs to maintain healthy levels.*
The following table highlights the best supplements for gut health developed by Tesseract Medical Research and how they support your gut function.
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A Comparison Between Some of the Best Supplements for Gut Health |
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PRODUCT |
INGREDIENTS |
HOW IT HELPS |
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AuRx® |
Stabilizedbutyric acid complex |
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ProButyrate® |
Natural butyric acid complex |
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BiomeAide® |
A proprietary blend of 10 potent plant extracts, including ginger, cinnamon, citronella, orange, bitter orange, lavender, clove, oregano, thyme oil, and marjoram oil. |
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ThymoQuell SR® |
Thymoquinone complex |
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Several of the potent, plant-derived nutrients discussed above are known for having poor bioavailability and absorption, which can compromise the efficacy of a supplement formulation. Therefore, beyond the ingredients themselves, what else should you look for in high-quality gut health supplements? An efficient nutrient delivery system.
Various approaches have been implemented to enhance the solubility of plant-derived nutrient molecules, including solid dispersions, micronization, nanosizing, cyclodextrins, colloidal drug delivery systems, and solid lipid nanoparticles. The proprietary CyLoC® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology developed by Tesseract Medical Research ensures:
Tesseract’s innovative nutritional supplement formulations containing potent botanical extracts, delivered through proprietary nutrient delivery nanotechnology, enable unprecedented solubility and absorption, making them the best supplements for gut health.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can help support gastrointestinal health.*
Citations:
1Vinderola G, et al. Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 11,8 1077. 8 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3390/foods11081077
2Scott E, De Paepe K, Van de Wiele T. Biomolecules. 2022;12(11):1640. Published 2022 Nov 4. doi:10.3390/biom12111640
3Guo S, Ma T, Kwok LY, et al. Gut Microbes. 2024;16(1):2395092. doi:10.1080/19490976.2024.2395092
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) encompasses a range of therapies and approaches used along with standard medical care to improve health outcomes. CAM therapies focus on a holistic approach to care by incorporating an individual’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Although CAM approaches are not part of conventional medicine, certain CAM practices are integrated into mainstream healthcare when they demonstrate safety and effectiveness.
Rooted in ancient traditions, CAM practices have been integral to various cultures, including Chinese, Indian, African, Tibetan, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Pacific Islander, and Indigenous American healing systems. Although some CAM approaches may lack extensive research and definitive evidence, they have become increasingly popular for the long-term management of health conditions that otherwise lack satisfactory conventional treatment or management.
This post explains the types and advantages of CAM therapies, including nutritional supplements, that support the management of a wide range of major and minor health conditions. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
The popularity of complementary and alternative therapies can be attributed to their having fewer side effects than conventional therapies, as well as the common perception that they can address symptoms that conventional therapies have not resolved.
For example, psychotropic medications are commonly prescribed for children experiencing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) symptoms. Although such medications do address ASD symptoms such as irritability, they can also cause side effects, such as weight gain and fatigue. So, parents of children with ASD often rely on the advantages of complementary therapies to address the multiple, complex needs of their child.
Alternative medicine and approaches are commonly categorized with complementary medicine under the umbrella term, “CAM”. Complementary medicine refers to the therapies that complement traditional Western medicine and are used concurrently with standard, conventional medicine. On the other hand, alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine.
CAM practices are grouped into the following five major domains:
The following sections explain each of these domains in detail.
Alternative medicine refers to the comprehensive systems of theory and practice that evolved apart from and earlier than the conventional medicine approach. The following table highlights the standard alternative medicine systems, including naturopathy, Ayurveda, homeopathy, and traditional oriental medicine.
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Alternative Medicine Systems |
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Mind-body intervention techniques are based on Eastern healing traditions and aim to self-regulate the mind and body. Notably, only a subset of mind-body interventions is considered CAM. Meditation, relaxation techniques, dance, music, art therapy, imagery, specific uses of hypnosis, mental healing, and prayer are commonly used complementary therapies for mind-body interventions.
In recent years, biofeedback as a mind-body technique has gained wide popularity and acceptance because it helps individuals feel more in control of their health. It uses feedback from several monitoring procedures and equipment to better control certain involuntary body responses, such as breathing patterns, blood pressure, brain activity, heart rate, and muscle tension.
Biologically-based therapies are based on the idea that certain naturally occurring compounds can have therapeutic effects on the body. Such therapies include the use of:
Gastrointestinal conditions, with symptoms including diarrhea, changes in bowel movements, and abdominal pain, are often associated with poor bacterial diversity in the gut. Nutritional supplements, such as butyric acid, have been found to positively influence the gut microflora.
For neurological conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children, nutritional supplements containing butyric acid are preferred to enhance behavioral outcomes by addressing nutritional imbalances.
Chiropractic therapies, cupping, reflexology, Gua sha, physical therapy, and massage therapy are examples of manipulative and body-based methods. These practices are based on movement/manipulation of the body. For example, massage therapists manipulate the soft tissues of the body to normalize them. Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the structure and function of the spine and how that relationship influences the restoration of bones, muscles, and joints.
Energy therapies focus on biofields (energy fields originating within the body) or those from other electromagnetic fields. Biofield therapies affect the energy fields surrounding and penetrating the body. Reiki, Qi Gong, Prana, and therapeutic touch are forms of energy therapy known to manipulate biofields by applying pressure or manipulating the body by placing the hands in or through these fields. Bioelectromagnetic-based therapies use electromagnetic fields, such as magnetic fields, altering current or direct current fields, and pulsed fields.
Conventional medicine rejects most complementary therapies because their efficacy has not been demonstrated through double-blinded, randomized, controlled trials. However, this rejection does not undermine the advantages of complementary therapies. The following table highlights some of the key advantages of complementary therapies.
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Advantages of Complementary Therapies |
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As discussed above, nutritional supplements are integral to biologically based treatments. However, not all supplement formulations are created equal. Formulations that utilize advanced nutrient delivery systems enhance the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients. Nutritional supplements cannot achieve the advantages of complementary therapies without the optimal solubility and bioavailability of active nutrients.
Tesseract Medical Research has developed a wide range of nutritional supplement formulations that promote and benefit various health functions. Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables maximum bioavailability of nutrients to achieve their therapeutic benefits. CyLoc® technology envelopes each active nutrient molecule in its smart delivery system to protect its integrity during transit through the stomach. CyLoc technology also masks the unpalatable taste and odor of certain nutrient molecules. The accompanying DexKey® technology releases the nutrient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract to optimize their absorption.
The unprecedented absorption of active nutrients translates to optimal bioavailability, which leads to micro-dosing of the nutrients in formulations. This means a lesser amount of nutrients is needed than previously required to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome.
Tesseract’s AuRx® is an advanced butyric acid formulation that addresses a specific nutritional requirement of ASD children. The hypoallergenic medical food is a stabilized butyric acid complex that provides nutritional support to counteract the gut-brain nutrient imbalance in affected individuals. AuRx opens up the possibility of alleviating behavioral changes in ASD children.
Tesseract supplements are formulated with trusted nutrients that have high therapeutic potential. The innovative nutrient delivery system enables the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients that are otherwise difficult to absorb or tolerate. With Tesseract’s formulations, the advantages of nutritional supplements can be achieved as complementary therapies.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption, bioavailability and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your neurological health.*
1Tabish SA. Complementary and alternative healthcare: Is it evidence-based? International Journal of Health Sciences vol. 2,1 (2008): V-IX.
Article Summary:
Glutathione, the ‘master’ antioxidant that plays a key role in the body’s ongoing defense against reactive oxygen species (ROS), has been gaining increasing popularity in the worlds of dermatology and skincare.* In this article, we discuss what ROS are, the benefits of glutathione for skin health, glutathione’s defense mechanism to protect your skin from ROS-induced damage, and the different ways to incorporate this ‘master’ antioxidant into your daily skincare regimen.*
ROS, including free radicals, are independently existing molecules that are the natural by-products of normal cellular activities. However, imbalanced levels of ROS due to external factors like pollution, radiation, and toxins can result in oxidative stress. This negative imbalance diminishes the cell’s ability to fight free radicals with an antioxidant response.
Free radicals cause damage to the basic building blocks of the cell, including DNA, proteins, and lipids, resulting in a wide range of undesirable health conditions and accelerated signs of aging. Glutathione comes into play as it is critical in shielding the body’s cellular components from reactive oxygen species and supporting healthy cell functions.*
Oxidative stress can lead to visible skin damage, resulting in a dull, uneven skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles, increased dark spots, and reduced skin elasticity. This damage is often driven by several external and internal factors, including,
These factors collectively contribute to the generation of free radicals, which accelerate skin aging and damage.
Melanin and enzymatic antioxidants like glutathione are the body’s primary natural protection against free radicals.* Although the therapeutic benefits of glutathione have been known for quite some time, research into its benefits for skin health is still relatively new.* Although glutathione exerts its therapeutic benefits on the skin in multiple ways, the two most prominent are:
The tremendous potential of glutathione’s benefits for the skin has led to the development of various intake strategies for glutathione supplementation. The three most common modes of glutathione delivery are:
The following table summarizes different routes of glutathione intake for supporting skin health:
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Delivery Routes for Glutathione |
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Oral Supplements |
Topical Application |
Intravenous Therapy |
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Usage |
Available in capsule and tablet forms. |
Topically applied in the form of creams and ointments. |
Directly injected into the upper arms or buttocks. |
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Absorption |
Primarily in the upper intestine. |
Bypasses degradation in the GI tract. |
Bypasses degradation in the GI tract. |
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Convenience |
The most convenient and popular method. |
Convenient and widely used. |
Needs to be performed under medical supervision, making it an expensive process. |
Glutathione is well-known for its difficulty for the body to absorb, and findings that suggest its enhanced absorption through topical application and IV injection remain inconclusive. Because oral glutathione supplements are widely preferred over the other two alternatives, ongoing research is focused on enhancing its absorption through oral formulations.
An advanced glutathione supplement formulation is characterized by enhanced absorption and bioavailability to achieve glutathione’s benefits.
SafeCell® — is an acetylated form of oral glutathione developed by Tesseract Medical Research for optimized absorption and efficacy.* Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® technology enhances glutathione’s bioavailability, making SafeCell® a superior nutritional supplement formula.
This innovative nanomolecular nutrient delivery technology delivers acetylated glutathione molecules directly into the intestinal tract — one molecule at a time. The CyLoc® technology encases each glutathione molecule to protect it from early degradation during its transit through the GI tract. The DexKey® technology ensures targeted delivery of each molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract for maximum absorption. With SafeCell®, you have a potent glutathione nutritional supplement for supporting healthy skin.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your healthy skin.*
Citations:
1 Cui X et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2024;38 Suppl 3:12-20. doi:10.1111/jdv.19718
Article Summary:
Turmeric is a well-known spice and natural coloring agent that lends a vibrant yellow color to curry recipes. The primary active ingredient in the root of the Curcuma longa plant is curcumin, which gives turmeric its bright yellow color. Curcumin is also known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to help maintain the body’s natural inflammatory response.* Naturally, turmeric supplement benefits make it one of the top-selling nutritional supplements in the United States.
Below, we discuss various turmeric supplement benefits, how they promote health functions, and why you should include a turmeric supplement in your diet.
Turmeric has been used across different cultures for its therapeutic benefits and has been the subject of multiple scientific studies for decades. The benefits of turmeric supplements are primarily attributed to the antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties of curcumin that mitigate oxidative stress while down-regulating adverse immune responses.*
The following table highlights how turmeric supplements benefit different health functions and promote your overall health and wellness.
Turmeric Supplement Benefits: An Overview |
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Joint support |
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Immune support |
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Cardiovascular support |
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Gastrointestinal support |
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Liver Support |
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The health benefits of curcumin are well-established, highlighting the safety of oral intake of turmeric supplements. However, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before including a turmeric supplement in your diet or taking one concurrent with a prescription medication.
Curcumin is inherently unstable and displays poor bioavailability, leading to low solubility and absorption, which is why turmeric supplements have been conventionally taken in high amounts to obtain curcumin’s therapeutic benefits. However, the intense bitter taste of curcumin can make it difficult to consume orally, challenging regimen compliance. Tetrahydrocurcumin, a more stable and bioavailable curcumin metabolite, addresses the common challenges associated with curcumin absorption.
Tetrahydrocurcumin, the bioactive metabolite of curcumin, displays physiological properties similar to curcumin, but its stability contributes to easy absorption through the gut wall.* TetraCurcumin® is a unique turmeric supplement formulation developed by Tesseract Medical Research for supporting immune function and musculoskeletal health.*
The TetraCurcumin formulation contains tetrahydrocurcumin and utilizes the proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology to mask the unpalatable taste and ensure targeted delivery of the active nutrient at the desired point in the intestinal tract. The unprecedented absorption of tetrahydrocurcumin in the formulation allows for micro-dosing — using lesser amounts of the active ingredient than previously required to achieve the desired result in your joints and immune system.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your immune health.*
Citations:
1Cox FF, et al. Cells vol. 11,3 342. 20 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3390/cells11030342
2Rafiee S et al. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2021;1291:165-177. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-56153-6_10
3Musazadeh V et al. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2022;32(11):2493-2504. doi:10.1016/j.numecd.2022.07.021
4Scazzocchio B, et al. Nutrients vol. 12,9 2499. 19 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12092499
5He Y et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024;120(1):66-79. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.05.017
Article Summary:
Persistent challenges with social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests characterize Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While ASD, like other neurodevelopmental health conditions, requires long-term management and presently lacks a satisfactory cure, many parents and guardians seek complementary and alternative therapies to help support their child’s well-being. These approaches are often chosen to reduce the reliance on conventional medications and to potentially lessen concerns about side effects.
Today, a wide range of complementary therapies– including nutritional supplements, acupuncture, massage, sensory integration therapy, and music therapy–are being explored for their ability to ease various symptoms associated with ASD.
This article explains several of the alternative therapies for autism, and highlights the role of nutritional supplements, including butyric acid, that can address specific nutritional requirements in ASD children.
The alternative therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are categorized into1:
Notably, there is no single go-to therapy among the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies for autism. The effectiveness of the conventional therapies varies; certain strategies work well for some children with ASD while having little effect on the symptoms for others. The following table highlights the different categories of complementary and alternative therapies for ASD and how they address ASD symptoms.
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What are Alternative Therapies for Autism? |
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| a. Diet and Supplements: Dietary changes and nutritional supplements are among the most commonly used alternative therapies for children with ASD. Nutritional supplements include melatonin, butyric acid, vitamin B6, magnesium, vitamin C, amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and secretin. Chelation and immune therapies are often utilized in conjunction with these supplements. In addition, gluten-free or casein-free diets may also be utilized to alleviate behavioral changes in children with ASD. | |
| b. Yoga and Music: Mind-body approaches, such as yoga and music therapy, are popular relaxation practices that can increase a sense of well-being, lower anxiety levels, and enhance social and communication skills in children with ASD. | |
| c. Body-based Practices: Chiropractic care, craniosacral massage, aromatherapy, massage, and therapeutic touch therapies are used to address sensory processing differences in children with ASD. Auditory Integration Training helps ameliorate auditory processing deficits and enhance concentration in children with ASD. |
Although these CAM therapies for autism have gained popularity, there is limited evidence supporting their efficacy. On the other hand, gut-microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyric acid, have shown promising results as a potential therapeutic agent for neurodevelopmental conditions like ASD2. Recent evidence on the role of SCFAs in supporting crucial brain functions has highlighted their role in influencing the gut-brain axis and their fluctuating levels being one of the contributing factors of conditions such as ASD.
AuRx® is a stabilized butyric acid complex developed by Tesseract Medical Research to provide specific nutritional support for children with ASD. The hypoallergenic formulation delivered in a palatable-tasting powder optimizes compliance and is intended to counter the gut-brain nutrient imbalance experienced by children with ASD.
The proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables maximum absorption and bioavailability of butyric acid molecules to bring positive behavioral changes in affected children. The CyLoc® technology envelopes each butyric acid molecule to mask its taste and maintain its integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors enable targeted delivery of butyric acid molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract for optimal absorption. This highly absorbable therapeutic reality can bring positive behavioral changes in children with ASD.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption, bioavailability and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a highly effective dose. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your neurological health.*
Citations:
1Levy SE, Hyman SL. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America vol. 17,4 (2008): 803-820, ix. doi:10.1016/j.chc.2008.06.004
2Wang X, et al. mSystems vol. 8,4 (2023): e0041523. doi:10.1128/msystems.00415-23
Article Summary:
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is digested, absorbed, and metabolized through normal body pathways. Knowing how much of a nutrient is present in a nutritional supplement is not enough; it is also important to know how much of the nutrient present is bioavailable. Nutrient bioavailability directly impacts the efficacy of the supplement formulation. Hence, selecting a nutritional supplement that contains bioavailable nutrients is critical to achieving its associated health benefits.
This post explains how bioavailable nutrients make superior supplement formulations, enable micro-dosing, and why you should consider an advanced supplement formulation with bioavailable nutrients.
A common myth regarding the bioavailability of nutritional supplements is that they should be in a solution to be better absorbed. Notably, nutrients react differently after they have been ingested, and their absorption can be influenced by several factors, including:
The bioavailability of a nutrient quantifies the amount entering the bloodstream. After a nutrient is in the bloodstream, it should cross the targeted cell membranes to exert its intended beneficial effects. While low absorption and bioavailability of certain nutrients can adversely affect their therapeutic potential, they can also cause adverse side effects.
Iron is a typical example of poor nutrient absorption and low bioavailability that can cause unpleasant side effects. When taking an iron supplement, an individual with an inflamed gut condition can experience constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, or other gastrointestinal side effects. Unabsorbed iron can remain in the gut, resulting in gastrointestinal disturbances. Additionally, plant-based non-heme iron requires vitamin C to be more optimally absorbed. Hence, a more bioavailable form of iron would help prevent such adverse gastrointestinal effects and low absorption.
The following table highlights how bioavailable nutrients make better nutritional supplement formulations.
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How Do Bioavailable Nutrients Make Better Nutritional Supplement Formulations? |
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a. Enhanced Absorption: With enhanced absorption of the nutrients in a particular formulation, there are fewer risks of unpleasant side effects caused by unabsorbed nutrients in the gut. |
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b. Targeted release: Advanced delivery techniques that enhance the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients enable targeted release of the nutrients in a nutritional supplement formulation. |
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c. Micro-Dosing: The more bioavailable a nutrient is, the less that is required to achieve the desired health benefit. Bioavailable nutrients enable micro-dosing of nutritional supplement formulations to achieve the desired health benefits. |
The absorption and bioavailability of the nutrients in a nutritional supplement depend on how well it is formulated. Conventional supplement formulations often fail to enhance the bioavailability of the active nutrients. Because of this shortcoming, various novel pharmacological approaches are being used to enhance nutrient bioavailability, including:
An advanced supplement formulation that utilizes these novel techniques enhances the bioavailability of nutrients to improve its therapeutic potential.
Tesseract Medical Research utilizes the proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients that have been traditionally difficult to absorb (glutathione) or impossible to tolerate (berberine and curcumin). The CyLoc® technology surrounds each insoluble and poorly absorbed nutrient molecule in its smart delivery system to maintain its integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each nutrient molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract to enhance its absorption and bioavailability.
Tesseract supplements are formulated with trusted nutrients that have substantial therapeutic potential. Each Tesseract supplement formulation is developed using scientifically advanced analytical techniques and quality control systems that adhere to the best manufacturing standards.
Tesseract’s proprietary nutrient delivery technology enables maximum solubility and effectiveness of nutrient molecules, which aligns with Tesseract’s three-pillar approach: optimal absorption, enhanced palatability, and micro-dosing. The unprecedented absorption of bioavailable nutrients makes Tesseract formulations among the best commercially available nutritional supplements.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a highly effective capsule. Shop productson our website and learn more about how they can support your gastrointestinal health.*
Alt Text: A representational image of supplement capsules developed through nanotechnology
Have you ever wondered why certain nutritional supplements should be taken with food or on an empty stomach? Understanding the optimal timing for taking nutritional supplements can significantly influence the absorption and bioavailability of active nutrients. Bioavailability refers to the extent at which a nutrient becomes entirely available for its intended biological site(s) of action. This article provides a comprehensive explanation on the bioavailability of supplements, examines factors that hinder nutrient absorption and solubility, and explores how advancements in nanotechnology overcome these challenges to maximize therapeutic potential. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
Pharmacokinetics is the movement of nutrients and drugs through the body. There are four components of pharmacokinetics, the ABCD’s, and these processes help determine the ideal dosing and timing to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.
Bioavailability defines the extent to which a nutrient interacts with an individual’s physiology, ultimately determining the success or failure of a supplement’s efficacy. Hence, supplements are formulated to optimize the absorption and solubility of their nutrients.
High bioavailability of a nutrient translates to a more powerful and more immediate physiological response. In contrast, poor bioavailability adversely impacts the efficacy of a nutrient, often requiring larger doses of the active ingredient to achieve the intended effect. Poor bioavailability can lead to:
The bioavailability of most nutrients is affected by several factors, including the physical properties of the nutrient itself. Some nutrients have significant absorption and bioavailability challenges, and conventional approaches fail to harness their therapeutic potential.
Al Czap, CEO of Tesseract Medical Research, founder of Thorne Research, and a pioneer in nutritional supplement formulation, explains that if a product is not soluble, then it gets broken down and the byproducts sit in the digestive tract until they are excreted.
The following are key factors impacting the bioavailability of nutrients:
Nutrients are broadly classified as water-soluble and fat-soluble. Notably, water-soluble nutrients are particularly challenging to make bioavailable because of:
Formulations often use increased amounts of active ingredients to counter these factors. The following table highlights the drawbacks of increasing the amount of active ingredients in a supplement formulation.
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Effects of Increasing the Amount of Active Ingredients in A Supplement Formulation |
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In comparison to water-soluble nutrients, fat-soluble nutrients more easily cross cell membranes. They are absorbed by fat globules and are stored in tissues. According to Czap, if a nutrient is fat-soluble, then one should find a way to make it attractive to the body to achieve better absorption. However, the fat solubility of a nutrient doesn’t guarantee the body will be able to utilize it. We will discuss how different practices can address these challenges in the following sections.
A supplement’s bioavailability is largely influenced by the nature of the delivery mechanism embedded within the formulation. Mineral salts are used as the most popular and conventional delivery vehicles in supplement formulations because of their:
Mineral salts, however, can prevent the active ingredients from being immediately dissolved and unintentionally exposed to mucosal surfaces. As a result, the mineral salt hinders the nutrients’ bioavailability, and most supplement formulations are unable to achieve the nutrient’s desired absorption and bioavailability.
An advanced delivery system beyond traditional formulations is critical in generating a high bioavailability supplement. In recent years, the development of delivery systems supported by nano-machinery and nano-technology has opened new techniques for enhancing the bioavailability of supplements. Various novel pharmacological approaches are being explored to enhance the bioavailability of nutrients, including:
In the following section, we highlight the functioning and advantages of cyclodextrin and how it enhances supplement bioavailability.
Cyclodextrin is a group of molecules attached in the shape of a ring. Cyclodextrin can be used as fiber in the body, which means it can be pressed into tablets or capsules alone or alongside traditional fillers, such as mineral salts.
A cyclodextrin structure works like a padlock, only opening to release the substance inside when it encounters the corresponding “key”—the cellular feature that is the intended target of the therapeutic effect. Because only the intended target is exposed to the active ingredient, it leads to superior efficacy, minimal side effects, and tunable duration of the supplement formulation.
Cyclodextrins overcome the challenges of poor absorption and bioavailability of nutrients. The following are key advantages of cyclodextrins embedded in supplement formulations.
Notably, water-soluble nutrients don’t form complexes with cyclodextrin as easily as do fat-soluble nutrients. Water-soluble nutrients are repelled by molecular forces when they approach the cyclodextrin. Ongoing research is developing water-soluble nutrient complexes in cyclodextrin.
Tesseract Medical Research utilizes a proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery system that enhances the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients. The cyclodextrin-based smart delivery system makes it possible to absorb conventionally difficult-to-absorb molecules, such as glutathione, berberine, and curcumin.
Tesseract’s transport system protects nutrients from early breakdown, while masking any unpleasant taste and odor. Each nutrient molecule is isolated in a dextrin fiber matrix, creating nano-sized particles that are easily absorbed and utilized by the cells. The CyLoc® technology surrounds each insoluble and poorly absorbed nutrient molecule in its smart delivery system to maintain each nutrient molecule’s integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each nutrient molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract, thus enhancing its absorption and bioavailability.
The power of Tesseract lies in its Three Pillar Approach to enhance the bioavailability of supplements.
Tesseract’s proprietary nutrient delivery system enhances supplement bioavailability, thus achieving the therapeutic benefits of the active ingredients.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing solubility, absorption, and bioavailability allowing for nano-dosing a single or multiple nutrients in a highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support gastrointestinal health.*
Citations:
1Coelho SC et al. Foods. 2022;11(9):1271.
2Arshad R et al. Food Sci Nutr. 2021;9(6):3354-3361.
3Esteso M et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(8):4547.
Article Summary:
Black cumin or Nigella sativa seeds are used as a spice, condiment, and traditional medicine across many cultures. Although black cumin contains several naturally bioactive compounds, its health benefits are attributable to thymoquinone (2-Isopropyl-5-methylbenzo-1, 4-quinone), a major component of the volatile oil extracted from the seeds. Extensive research on thymoquinone’s antioxidant properties indicates that it limits the oxidative degradation of lipids and the production of lipid peroxides as free radicals.* This post discusses thymoquinone’s antioxidant properties and how it up-regulates signaling pathways to maintain beneficial levels of antioxidant enzymes and promote various health functions.*
Oxidative stress is a key contributor to several adverse health conditions.* An excess of free radicals can damage critical cellular components, including DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids. Protection against oxidative stress is largely provided by the body’s antioxidant enzymatic system, which includes enzymes such as catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glyoxalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, antioxidant protection of the cell is closely associated with transcription factor Nrf2, which regulates the expression of antioxidant proteins to protect against oxidative damage.
Mitochondria are the major site of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation within the cell. A study1 on thymoquinone’s antioxidant properties on cardiac muscle cells demonstrated that the compound significantly reduces ROS-induced cytotoxicity and mitochondrial damage in the cells.* Oxidative degradation of lipids, known as lipid peroxidation, leads to the undesirable formation of malondialdehyde (MDA). A study2 on animal models found that daily administration of thymoquinone effectively lowered MDA levels in brain tissues, supporting its antioxidant benefits.*
Furthermore, thymoquinone’s cytoprotective effects are associated with the up-regulation of antioxidant mechanisms that protect various health functions, offering protections to vital organs and systems, including the liver, kidneys, brain, heart, and gastrointestinal tract, from oxidative stress.*
Thymoquinone’s antioxidant properties and immunomodulatory effects can down-regulate inflammatory cascade enzymes and specific inflammatory cytokines to help maintain a normal inflammatory response in the body.* The following table highlights how thymoquinone down-regulates the antioxidant enzymatic system to limit oxidative stress in cells.*
How Does Thymoquinone’s Antioxidant Properties Limit Oxidative Stress? |
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Although numerous studies report the beneficial pharmacological properties of thymoquinone, its poor bioavailability severely limits its absorption, which adversely impacts its overall efficacy. Because thymoquinone is a hydrophobic compound, its low solubility and poor absorption result in low blood serum levels. Nanostructured carriers loaded with thymoquinone have been shown to address this bioavailability challenge. An advanced supplement formulation that utilizes nutrient delivery nanotechnology can achieve thymoquinone’s antioxidant benefits.*
ThymoQuell® and ThymoQuell® Plus are two innovative thymoquinone nutritional supplements developed by Tesseract Medical Research. The formulations utilize Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology for optimal thymoquinone absorption and bioavailability. The CyLoc® technology envelopes thymoquinone molecules in its smart delivery system to protect them from degradation during their transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract to achieve maximum absorption.
Whereas ThymoQuell® is a standalone thymoquinone formula, ThymoQuell® Plus includes five other beneficial nutrients — turmeric oil and four different types of terpenes (borneol, farnesol, geraniol, and nerol) to promote and maintain the body’s normal inflammatory response.* Both formulations are available in sustained-release format. Tesseract’s nutrient delivery system’s unprecedented absorption capabilities enable micro-dosing, which involves using lower doses of the active nutrients in the formulations than previously required to achieve thymoquinone’s antioxidant benefits.*
With Tesseract’s two potent thymoquinone supplement formulations, caring for your gut health and overall wellness has never been so easy!
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they can support your gastrointestinal health.*
Citations:
1Hafez, Asghar Ashrafi et al. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s archives of pharmacology vol. 394,8 (2021): 1675-1684. doi:10.1007/s00210-021-02095-1
2Al-Majed, Abdulhakeem A et al. European journal of pharmacology vol. 543,1-3 (2006): 40-7. doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2006.05.046
3Isaev, Nickolay K et al. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 12,2 433. 9 Feb. 2023, doi:10.3390/antiox12020433
4Khader, Mohannad, and Peter M Eckl. Iranian journal of basic medical sciences vol. 17,12 (2014): 950-7.
Article Summary:
Have you heard about the beneficial effects of anandamide on mental well-being?* This so-called ‘bliss molecule’ is the most studied among endocannabinoids due to its overall modulatory effect on the brain’s reward circuitry and beneficial influence on behavior and emotions.* Interestingly, although anandamide binds to the same cannabinoid receptors in the body that the psychoactive compound THC found in cannabis acts on, anandamide does not produce THC-like behavioral effects.*
So, how does anandamide make you feel? Can it alleviate mild anxiety (non-GAD) and up-regulate our emotions? This article explains the effects of anandamide and why you should include an anandamide supplement in your diet to promote your neurological health.*
Let’s look at the psychotropic or mind-altering effects of THC before understanding the behavioral effects of anandamide.
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of the plant Cannabis sativa. The chemical structure of THC is similar to anandamide, and it interacts directly with CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors to mimic anandamide functions.
Research suggests that THC may exert anxiogenic effects that stimulate the feeling of anxiety (non-GAD).* The psychotropic effects of THC can last for 4 – 12 hours and can cause altered perception, mood, cognition, consciousness, and behavior. Some of the adverse effects of THC overdosing include paranoia, anxiety and panic attacks, leading to increased heart rate and changes in blood pressure.
On the other hand, anandamide is an endocannabinoid produced by the body that binds to and activates the CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the brain and other organs and tissues.* It also works as a neurotransmitter, sending chemical messages between neurons throughout the nervous system.* Evidence1 from preclinical studies shows that anandamide can exert anxiolytic effects that alleviate non-GAD anxiety.* Unlike THC, however, anandamide has a relatively shorter duration of action and rapid inactivation in the body.
The following table highlights the key effects of anandamide and how it makes you feel.
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How Does Anandamide Make You Feel — Key Effects |
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Optimal natural production of anandamide by the body is critical for brain health. However, various factors can adversely affect the circulating level of anandamide, such as the enhanced activity of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme, which increases the uptake of anandamide and breaks it down into ethanolamine and arachidonic acid. Incorporating anandamide-rich foods in your diet and adding an oral anandamide supplement can promote the production of the ‘bliss molecule’ in the body.*
Curious about how anandamide affects your mood and emotional balance? AnaQuellTM by Tesseract Medical Research offers a unique nutritonal supplements to help you discover its potential benefits. This innovative formulation combines anadamide oil with L-citrulline to promote a healthy response to mood changes, mild anxiety (not intended for Generalized Anxiety Disorder), stress, and trauma.*
Tesseract’s proprietary nano-molecular CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery technology solubilizes anandamide molecules for delivery through the gut wall for unprecedented absorption. The sustained release of the hypoallergenic formulation supports the body’s natural response to stress and anxiousness for a prolonged duration.*
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop productson our website and learn more about how they can support your neurological health.*
Citations:
1,3Papagianni, Eleni P, and Carl W Stevenson. Current Psychiatry Reports vol. 21,6 38. 27 Apr. 2019, doi:10.1007/s11920-019-1026-z
2Bluett, R J et al. Translational psychiatry vol. 4,7 e408. 8 Jul. 2014, doi:10.1038/tp.2014.53
4Siebers, Michael et al. The Neuroscientist: a review journal bringing neurobiology, neurology and psychiatry vol. 29,3 (2023): 352-369. doi:10.1177/10738584211069981
5Oz, Murat et al. Journal of neurochemistry vol. 112,6 (2010): 1454-64. doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06557.x
Pygeum africanum or Prunus africana is a plum tree in tropical Africa. Its deeply fissured, blackish or grayish-brown bark extract has several health benefits and has been traditionally used across many cultures. Pygeum, as a nutritional supplement, is widely used to promote prostate health and address conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).*
What does pygeum contain to promote prostate health? What are the benefits and uses of pygeum supplements? Is pygeum safe and are there any side effects? This article explains the overall role of pygeum in supporting healthy aging and why you should include an advanced pygeum nutritional supplement in your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.
Pygeum is the generic name for extracts, teas, and supplements made from the bark of the Pygeum africanum or Prunus africana tree. Research indicates that pygeum helps relieve urinary discomfort, including poor urine flow and frequent urination, often associated with an enlarged prostate or BPH.* Pygeum is commercially available as an over-the-counter nutritional supplement with formulations usually containing additional therapeutic botanicals, such as saw palmetto berry and summer pumpkin seed extracts.
The bark of Pygeum africanum contains various bioactive compounds that are known for their potential therapeutic benefits in supporting prostate health, including:
A comparative study1 on the chemical composition of the bark of Pygeum africanum and commercial pygeum products found that:
A systematic review2 assessing the benefits of beta-sitosterols concluded that beta-sitosterols help improve flow measures and address the urological discomfort associated with mild-to-moderate BPH.* However, the long-term effectiveness and safety of beta-sitosterols and their ability to alleviate BPH complications are unknown.
On a cellular level, BPH is the imbalance between prostatic cellular proliferation and cell death/apoptosis. Although aging and androgens (sex hormones) directly influence the unwanted progression of BPH, several other adverse factors, such as oxidative stress, infection, metabolic syndrome, and inflammation, can lead to an enlarged prostate.
The exact mechanism of action of pygeum to respond to BPH is not fully understood. However, the following table highlights the pharmacological properties of pygeum and how they may contribute to its beneficial effects.
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Pharmacological Properties of Pygeum |
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| a. Limiting cellular proliferation: Pygeum has been found3 to inhibit different growth factors, including epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I), which can limit cellular proliferation in the prostate and its resulting enlargement.* | |
| b. Maintaining normal inflammatory response: Pygeum has been shown to inhibit the production4 of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins in the prostate, decreasing the production of leukotrienes and other 5-lipoxygenase metabolites.* | |
| c. Limiting androgenic activity: Androgen receptor activity is known to control the enlargement of the prostate. The atraric acid in pygeum has been shown6 to inactivate androgen receptors, which limits the progression of BPH.* |
BPH is characterized by a progressive decrease in the force of the urinary stream and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. The efficacy of pygeum in addressing BPH can be determined through parameters such as the IPSS score and the maximum urinary flow rate.
An open, three-center efficacy and safety study7 of Pygeum africanum extract was conducted to confirm its therapeutic profile. Eighty-five men aged 50-75 with IPSS scores of 12 or more, maximum urinary flow rate of 15 ml per second or less, and a quality of life (QoL) of 3 or more were selected for the study. It was observed that efficacy parameters, including IPSS, quality of life (QoL), maximum urinary flow rate, nocturnal frequency, and average urinary flow, improved after the twice-daily intake of 50 mg of Pygeum africanum extract for two months.* The improvements exceeded those observed with placebo in earlier studies and were maintained after one month after taking the extract.
Pygeum is generally well-tolerated, and has only mild side effects, such as headache, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.
A randomized, double-blind study8 on two groups of men experiencing BPH symptoms compared the efficacy and safety of Pygeum africanum extract taken 50 mg twice daily and 100 mg once daily. The main efficacy assessment parameters were IPSS, QOL, and maximum urinary flow rate. Both groups showed an increase in maximum urinary flow rate, with a gradual dip in IPSS and overall improvement in QOL.* Oral intake of Pygeum africanum extract at both 50 mg twice daily and 100 mg once daily proved safe at two months. Further enhancements in efficacy with a satisfactory safety profile were documented after 12 months.*
The benefits and uses of pygeum supplements are attributed to the bioactive compounds in pygeum extract, particularly the phytosterols, triterpenoids, and ferulic esters. The primary benefit of pygeum supplement is limiting inflammation and swelling in the prostate, which helps alleviate prostate enlargement.*
Traditionally, decoctions of the pygeum bark have been taken orally for various health conditions affecting the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and genito-urinary systems. The commercial lipophilic extract of pygeum is mainly used to address an enlarged prostate or BPH.*
The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the benefits and uses of pygeum supplements:
Phytotherapy is a popular complementary approach to addressing BPH that utilizes herbs and plants to reduce prostate enlargement. Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) extracts, Pygeum africanum extracts, and Cucurbita pepo (summer pumpkin), either alone or in combination, have shown11 positive results in countering BPH symptoms.*
Although the efficacy and safety of pygeum extract in addressing BPH symptoms are well-documented, you should consult with your health-care provider before including a pygeum supplement in your diet.
Pygeum is known to be safe, and there are no known adverse interactions with prescription medications. However, you should consult with your healthcare provider before taking a pygeum supplement with a prescription medication.
The lack of standardization of pygeum extracts significantly impacts its effectiveness. To optimize the nutrient’s benefits, look for a pygeum supplement formulated using scientifically advanced techniques and a well-designed quality control system.
ProstaSorb®, an advanced prostate health supplement developed by Tesseract Medical Research, addresses the unpleasant urological symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.* The formulation is manufactured in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) – compliant environment to ensure a standardized, high-quality supplement. ProstaSorb’s botanical blend features three clinically tested plant extracts — Serenoa repens (saw palmetto), Pygeum africanum, and Cucurbita pepo (summer pumpkin) for optimal prostate and urinary health support.*
Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enables optimal absorption of ProstaSorb’s active nutrients, helping you achieve their benefits. The ability to micro-dose the active ingredients achieves maximum efficiency in a single capsule. There are several traditional pygeum supplement benefits and uses. ProstaSorb® helps you achieve the benefits of pygeum through advanced nano-delivery of the nutrient to promote optimal prostate and urinary health.
The power of Tesseract supplements lies in enhancing palatability, maximizing absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dosing multiple nutrients in a single, highly effective capsule. Shop products on our website and learn more about how they support prostate health, as well as healthy aging.*
Citations:
1Thompson, Robert Q et al. “Chemical comparison of Prunus africana bark and pygeum products marketed for prostate health.” Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis vol. 163 (2019): 162-169. doi:10.1016/j.jpba.2018.10.004
2Wilt, T et al. “Beta-sitosterols for benign prostatic hyperplasia.” The Cochrane database of systematic reviews vol. 1999,2 (2000): CD001043. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001043
3Yablonsky, F et al. “Antiproliferative effect of Pygeum africanum extract on rat prostatic fibroblasts.” The Journal of urology vol. 157,6 (1997): 2381-7.
4Villar A, Silva-Fuentes F, Mulà A, Zangara A. Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Pygeum africanum Bark Extract: An In Vitro Study of Cytokine Release by Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2024; 25(15):8298.
5Paubert-Braquet, M et al. “Effect of Pygeum africanum extract on A23187-stimulated production of lipoxygenase metabolites from human polymorphonuclear cells.” Journal of lipid mediators and cell signalling vol. 9,3 (1994): 285-90.
6Ehsani, Marzieh et al. “The natural compound atraric acid suppresses androgen-regulated neo-angiogenesis of castration-resistant prostate cancer through angiopoietin 2.” Oncogene vol. 41,23 (2022): 3263-3277. doi:10.1038/s41388-022-02333-7
7Breza, J et al. “Efficacy and acceptability of tadenan (Pygeum africanum extract) in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): a multicentre trial in central Europe.” Current medical research and opinion vol. 14,3 (1998): 127-39. doi:10.1185/03007999809113352
8Chatelain, C et al. “Comparison of once and twice daily dosage forms of Pygeum africanum extract in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: a randomized, double-blind study, with long-term open label extension.” Urology vol. 54,3 (1999): 473-8. doi:10.1016/s0090-4295(99)00147-8
9Yin, Mei-Chin. “Inhibitory effects and actions of pentacyclic triterpenes upon glycation.” BioMedicine vol. 5,3 (2015): 13. doi:10.7603/s40681-015-0013-x
10Raftopulos, Nikki L et al. “Prostate cancer cell proliferation is influenced by LDL-cholesterol availability and cholesteryl ester turnover.” Cancer & metabolism vol. 10,1 1. 15 Jan. 2022, doi:10.1186/s40170-021-00278-1
11Schleich, Sonja et al. “Extracts from Pygeum africanum and other ethnobotanical species with antiandrogenic activity.” Planta medica vol. 72,9 (2006): 807-13. doi:10.1055/s-2006-946638
