Article Summary:

• Homeopathy is a complementary approach to address ASD symptoms. 
• There is no substantive evidence of homeopathy’s efficacy on ASD symptoms.
• AuRx® is a butyric acid supplementation that addresses gut microbiome imbalances in ASD children.  

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, along with restricted and repetitive behaviors. Due to the the limitations of currently available treatments, many parents of children with ASD are increasingly exploring complementary and alternative approaches to help manage symptoms. These approaches may include: 

1. Biological approaches, include dietary interventions, supplements, and nutraceuticals.
2. Non-biological approaches, including music therapy, auditory integration training, sensory integration therapy, acupuncture, massage, and yoga.  

This article explores the potential of homeopathy as a complementary approach for ASD, highlighting studies that evaluate its efficacy in children with ASD and related neurological conditions. Furthermore, the role of butyric acid in supporting mitochondrial function in children with ASD is explored.    

Autism and Homeopathy: Does it Work? 

There is an ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of homeopathy as a complementary therapy for ASD. Since the exact cause of ASD remains unknown or indefinitive, several different theories have been proposed to explain its development. One such theory is the Opioid-Excess Theory. 

The opioid-excess theory proposes that peptides with opioid-like activity, derived from dietary sources (such as foods that contain gluten and casein), may pass through an abnormally permeable intestinal membrane and enter the central nervous system (CNS). This process is thought to interfere with neurotransmission, potentially contributing to ASD symptoms. It has been suggested that the reduction of peptide levels, either through exclusion diets or the administration of homeopathic preparation of secretin, may improve social and language skills in children with ASD.. The following table highlights the observed effects of homeopathy on ASD symptoms. 

Studies on Effects of Homeopathy on Autism
Assessment of the effects of homeopathic secretin	A pilot study based on the weekly assessment of the effects of homeopathic secretin for 12 weeks did not show promising results1. Currently, there is no substantive evidence in favor of or against the effectiveness of homeopathy for managing Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Effects of homeopathy on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)	Children with ASD are more likely to experience ADHD symptoms. A review of clinical trials indicates some efficacy for using homeopathy to address some symptoms of ADHD2.

Butyric Acid Supplementation to Address ASD Symptoms

It has been observed that a significant proportion of children with autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) exhibit mitochondrial abnormalities and impaired energy production³. This observation has led to the hypothesis that autism may be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. ASD is also linked to increased levels of oxidative stress and lower antioxidant capacity. 

Children with ASDs often experience eating disorders and gastrointestinal symptoms, frequently favoring low-nutrition, energy-dense foods over fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This dietary imbalance can contribute to altered metabolism and the accumulation of oxidation radicals. The resulting oxidative stress and redox imbalance, driven by elevated levels of reactive oxygen specides (ROS), are believed to play a role in ASD pathophysiology.  

Butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced by gut bacteria from the fermentation of dietary fiber, positively up-regulates mitochondrial function and has been proposed as a neuroprotectant. Several reports highlight the relationship between gastrointestinal microbiota, oxidative stress, and ASD. Butyric acid, a key energy substrate for colonocytes (colon cells), drives the energy metabolism of colonocytes. Data from a pilot study on mitochondrial function in cell lines from boys with autism suggest that butyrate enhances mitochondrial function and could be a critical metabolite to help rescue energy metabolism in ASD-affected individuals⁴. 

AuRx®: The Gold Standard Medical Food for ASD

Current reporting on autism and homeopathy is inconclusive. In contrast, several studies support butyric acid supplementation to counteract the gut-brain nutrient imbalance observed in ASD children. 

AuRx®, developed by Tesseract Medical Research, is a hypoallergenic, gold-standard medical food for ASD children. It contains a stabilized butyric acid complex delivered in a palatable-tasting powder intended to address specific nutritional requirements of ASD children. 

The proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology optimizes the bioavailability and absorption of butyric acid molecules. The CyLoc® technology surrounds each butyric acid molecule in its smart delivery system to maintain its integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract for maximum absorption.     

Citations:

¹Robinson, T W. “Homeopathic Secretin in autism: a clinical pilot study.” The British homoeopathic journal vol. 90,2 (2001): 86-91. doi:10.1054/homp.1999.0468

²Shaddel, Farshad et al. “What is the best available evidence for using homeopathy in patients with intellectual disabilities?.” Iranian journal of pediatrics vol. 24,4 (2014): 339-44.

³Siddiqui, Maheen F et al. “Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorders.” Autism-open access vol. 6,5 (2016): 1000190. doi:10.4172/2165-7890.1000190

⁴Rose, Shannon et al. “Butyrate enhances mitochondrial function during oxidative stress in cell lines from boys with autism.” Translational psychiatry vol. 8,1 42. 2 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1038/s41398-017-0089-z

Did you know the prostate gland undergoes two primary growth stages? The first growth stage occurs early in puberty, and the second stage begins around age 25 and continues through most of adulthood. By the age of 50 and above, many men experience an enlarged prostate gland. While a normal prostate is about the size of a walnut, by the time a man reaches his 60s, it may enlarge to the size of a lemon or a ping-pong ball. 

Unfortunately, an enlarged prostate can place pressure against the urethra, causing the bladder wall to thicken and reducing the bladder’s ability to empty completely. This often causes urinary discomfort, including decreased urinary flow and volume, as well as increased urination frequency, leading to poor sleep patterns. Although benign prostate enlargement, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a non-cancerous condition, it can adversely affect a man’s overall quality of life.  

Although surgical procedures and prescription medicines are available to help relax or shrink the prostate, over-the-counter nutritional supplements are widely preferred to relieve the urinary discomfort associated with this condition. This article highlights the top supplements for prostate support and discusses how an advanced supplement formulation can optimize the bioavailability and absorption of the beneficial nutrients in these supplements.* Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.   

  

Nutrition and Prostate Health

Recent findings indicate that dietary factors can influence metabolic disorders indirectly, both positively and negatively, with significant implications for BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)¹. Starch and fat-rich diets are likely to adversely affect prostate health. For example, men who consume more red meat are at an increased risk of BPH. In contrast, a plant-based diet emphasizing whole fruits, whole grains, cruciferous vegetables, olive oil, nuts, and fish, preferred over red meat, can support a healthy prostate.

Several botanicals, phytochemicals, and vitamins have traditionally been used to address prostate enlargement. Extensive research has been conducted on the role of dietary supplements, such as zinc, saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and lycopene, in relieving BPH symptoms.* There is an evolving perspective that specific phytochemicals hold immense therapeutic potential to benefit BPH symptoms.*

Antioxidants and Prostate Health 

The development of prostate enlargement and  BPH are due to several factors, including hormone imbalances, elevated levels of inflammatory mediators, and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the decreased efficiency of antioxidant defense mechanisms to counter the free radicals.This imbalance is believed to contribute to prostate tissue damage, which can trigger cellular proliferation, leading to hyperplastic growth characteristic of BPH.

Although several studies have examined the relationship between prostate health and dietary antioxidants, the specific effects of key antioxidants such vitamins C and E, carotenoids, polyphenols, and trace minerals like selenium remain inconclusive. Further research is needed to clarify the role of these antioxidants in supporting prostate health and mitigating oxidative stress-related damage.

Phytotherapies for BPH Symptoms 

Emerging research indicates that phytotherapy can counter BPH symptoms. Complementary and alternative approaches, including phytotherapies, are gaining popularity for addressing mild to moderate BPH symptoms². The following plant extracts have been traditionally used for prostate health and are now widely available in commercially formulated prostate-supportive supplements for those seeking non-pharmaceutical options.

Phytotherapies for BPH Symptoms
Saw Palmetto Berry: It is a popular supplement for prostate health.* Saw palmetto helps maintain normal inflammatory responses in prostate cells and inhibits the activity of the 5 alpha-reductase enzymes, which can limit prostate gland enlargement.*
African Plum Tree: Also known as pygeum, it inhibits different growth factors to restrict cellular proliferation in the prostate, maintains normal inflammatory responses, and inactivates androgen receptors to limit the progression of BPH.*
Pumpkin Seed: As a 5 alpha-reductase inhibitor, seed extracts of summer pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) inhibit the production of DHT to arrest prostate growth and enlargement.*
Rye Pollen: It inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandin (lipids made at the site of tissue damage) and leukotrienes (inflammatory lipid molecules) to limit prostate growth and help maintain the normal inflammatory response in prostate cells.
Stinging Nettle: It contains phytosterols, lignans, and polysaccharides and helps relieve BPH symptoms, such as reduced urinary flow, incomplete bladder emptying, and post-urination dripping, by slowing down the growth of specific prostate cells.
South African Star Grass: It helps improve urinary flow rates and relieves urinary discomfort associated with an enlarged prostate.

Notably, saw palmetto, pygeum, and pumpkin seed extracts are used alone or in combination with other nutrients to counter BPH symptoms.* Let’s look at how these three botanical extracts can benefit an enlarged prostate.*  

Saw Palmetto Extract Benefits

Saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens, is a small, shrublike palm. The extract of its ripe berries contains carbohydrates, lipid components (major fatty acids, including laurate, myristate, palmitate, stearate, oleate, and linoleate), and phytosterols (campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol). Saw palmetto is widely used in nutritional supplements to address the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate or BPH.*

The following table highlights how saw palmetto supplements for prostate support work.* 

Saw Palmetto As A Supplement for Prostate Support*
Promoting prostate health: Studies indicate that the fatty acids in saw palmetto extracts inhibit the action of 5 alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)3.* Although DHT production stimulates regular prostate activity, it can also cause unwanted prostate growth and enlargement. Some research suggests that the phytosterols in saw palmetto (campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol) also inhibit 5 alpha-reductase, providing further benefit for addressing BPH symptoms.*4
Addressing BPH-associated pelvic discomfort: Studies indicate that saw palmetto helps maintain a normal inflammatory response in the prostate, which can help alleviate BPH-associated pelvic discomfort.*

Pygeum Supplement Benefits 

Pygeum is the generic name for extracts, teas, and supplements made from the bark of the Pygeum africanum or Prunus africana tree. Pygeum contains various bioactive compounds, including atranorin, atraric acid, beta-sitosterol and its esters, and ferulic acid and its esters. Pygeum africanum extracts, in combination with other phyto-ingredients, are used to counter BPH symptoms.*

The following table highlights how pygeum supplements for prostate support help and promote healthy aging.* 

Pygeum As A Supplement for Prostate Support*
a. Limits cellular proliferation: Pygeum inhibits 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 the resulting enlargement.*5
b. Maintains normal inflammatory response: Pygeum inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins in the prostate, decreasing the production of leukotrienes and other 5-lipoxygenase metabolites.*6
c. Limits androgenic activity: Increased androgen receptor (AR) activity is known to accelerate prostate growth. Atraric acid in pygeum helps inactivate androgen receptors, which may limit the progression of BPH.*

Pumpkin Seeds for Prostate Health*

Oil extracted from summer pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo) consists of high amounts of free fatty acids, serving as a natural source of vitamins, trace elements, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omegas 3, 6, and 9. The phytosterol content of pumpkin seed oil will interfere with the production of DHT, which in turn may limit prostate growth and enlargement⁷.* Intake of pumpkin seed extracts has been found to improve the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and maximum urinary flow rate, indicating its efficacy in benefiting BPH symptoms.*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Supplements for Prostate Support

The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about supplements for prostate support. 

Are supplements for prostate support safe? 

Saw palmetto, pygeum, and pumpkin seed extracts are safe supplements for prostate support when used as directed. Their safety profile is well-established, with no long-term adverse effects reported. However, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before including a prostate support supplement in your diet.   

Can you take a supplement for prostate support with prescription medications? 

Some prostate support supplement ingredients (such as saw palmetto) might interfere with iron absorption and various blood-thinning drugs. Therefore, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider to understand the potential contraindications of taking a prostate support supplement with prescription medications.  

How do I choose the best supplements for prostate support?   

The efficacy of commercially available prostate support supplements can differ based on their fatty acid and phytosterol content. Added ingredients in supplement formulations can also influence the total fatty acid and phytosterol content. Advanced supplements for prostate support are characterized by the optimal bioavailability and absorption of the active ingredients in blended preparations of botanical extracts.*

ProstaSorb® is an innovative prostate support supplement developed by Tesseract Medical Research that contains three clinically tested extracts: Serenoa repens (saw palmetto), Pygeum africanum, and Cucurbita pepo (summer pumpkin). The unrivaled nutrient delivery nanotechnology developed by Tesseract Medical Research enhances the bioavailability and absorption of ProstaSorb’s active ingredients. The proprietary technology enables optimal absorption, which means a lower amount of active nutrients is needed to achieve the desired results. The micro-dosing of ProstaSorb’s active nutrients in a single capsule to achieve maximum efficacy makes the formulation one of the top supplements for prostate support.*     

Citations

¹Espinosa G. Nutrition and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Current Opinion in Urology vol. 23,1 (2013): 38-41. doi:10.1097/MOU.0b013e32835abd05

²Schleich, 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

³Pais P. Potency of a novel saw palmetto ethanol extract, SPET-085, for inhibition of 5alpha-reductase II. Advances in Therapy vol. 27,8 (2010):555-563. doi:10.1007/s12325-010-0041-6

⁴Scholtysek C, et al. Characterizing components of the Saw Palmetto Berry Extract (SPBE) . . . . Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications vol. 379,3 (2009):795-798. doi:10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.11.114

⁵Yablonsky, F et al. “Antiproliferative effect of Pygeum africanum extract on rat prostatic fibroblasts.” The Journal of urology vol. 157,6 (1997): 2381-7.

⁶Villar 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.

⁷Kang, Xin-Cong et al. “Phytosterols in hull-less pumpkin seed oil, rich in ∆7-phytosterols, ameliorate benign prostatic hyperplasia by lowing 5α-reductase and regulating balance between cell proliferation and apoptosis in rats.” Food & nutrition research vol. 65 10.29219/fnr.v65.7537. 2 Dec. 2021, doi:10.29219/fnr.v65.7537

Having a healthy inflammatory response is integral to the body’s defense mechanism against injury or infection. However, it can prove damaging when it occurs in healthy tissues for a prolonged period or in an imbalanced manner. Inflammation is a well-known symptom of several adverse health conditions, including cardiovascular disorders, gastrointestinal conditions, autoimmune diseases, metabolic diseases, neurological conditions, and lung diseases. 
Thymoquinone, the primary constituent present in Nigella sativa or black cumin seeds,is known for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, which help maintain the body’s natural inflammatory response.* This article explains thymoquinone’s inflammatory response support properties, how it exerts its beneficial effects through several molecular pathways, and why you should consider including an advanced thymoquinone supplement in your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.    

Pharmacological Properties of Thymoquinone

Chemically, thymoquinone is 2-methyl-5-isopropyl-1, 4-benzoquinone — it is the most prominent bioactive constituent of the Nigella sativa seeds. Nigella or black cumin seeds contain several other beneficial constituents, including: 

1. Terpenes. These are aromatic compounds with potential therapeutic benefits. The main terpenes in Nigella sativa seeds are p-cymene, α-thujene, α-pinene, β-pinene, thymoquinone, γ-terpinene, and sabinene.

2. Alkaloids. Black cumin seed has two different types of alkaloids: isoquinoline alkaloids (nigellicimine, nigellicimine n-oxide) and pyrazol alkaloids (nigellidine, nigellicine). Alkaloids are known for their wide range of biological activities, including immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects.*

3. Phytosterols. Beta-sitosterol is the most abundant phytosterol in black cumin, followed by stigmasterol. These plant sterols may help maintain cardiovascular health and immune system function.*

4. Tocols. β-tocotrienol and γ-tocopherol are forms of vitamin E and are among the key tocols present in thymoquinone, offering antioxidant protections and supporting skin and cellular health.* 

5. Polyphenols. Black seed oil contains more polyphenols (α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol) than most edible oils (except olive oil), which contribute significantly to its antioxidant properties.*

However, the therapeutic benefits of the seeds are primarily attributed to thymoquinone’s antioxidative and immunomodulatory effects.* The following table highlights thymoquinone’s primary pharmacological properties that contribute to its health benefits. 

Pharmacological Properties of Thymoquinone
Antioxidative effects1: The antioxidative effects of thymoquinone:  Enhances the body’s natural defense system.*  Induces beneficial apoptosis or cell death.*  Helps maintain a normal Akt/PKB signaling pathway, a critical regulator of cell survival and metabolism.*  Up-regulates antioxidant mechanisms that increase the activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.*
Immunomodulatory effects2: Thymoquinone’s immunomodulatory effects:  Helps prevent the biosynthesis of essential mediators in inflammatory processes.*  Limits the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins and TNF-α.*

The following sections further explain how thymoquinone’s inflammatory response support properties are exerted through molecular signaling pathways to promote various health functions.*

Thymoquinone’s Role in Down-Regulating Inflammatory Signaling Pathways*

Thymoquinone exerts its beneficial immunomodulatory effects through various molecular pathways*, particularly inflammatory signaling pathways, including:

1. Activation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2): Thymoquinone induces the expression of COX-2, an enzyme involved in the inflammatory response, through the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.* 
2. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2): Thymoquinone activates the Nrf2 pathway, thereby enhancing the body’s antioxidant defense system.*
3. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT): Thymoquinone decreases the expression of PI3K/protein kinase B, a signmaling pathway that plays a role in cell growth and inflammatory responses.*
4. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B (NF-Κβ): Thymoquinone inhibits the NF-Kβ signaling pathway, thereby reducing inflammatory cytokine production and protecting cellular health.*

How do Thymoquinone’s Inflammatory Response Support Properties Address Various Health Conditions? 

Inflammatory responses are a normal pathological process that starts in the tissues and organs of the body. Thymoquinone’s inflammatory response support properties exerted through complex signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms help address the underlying oxidative stress that causes inflammation.*

There is experimental evidence that thymoquinone increases the expression level of glutathione (GSH), the body’s master antioxidant.* GSH further helps limit reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress damage and the associated inflammation. 

The capability of thymoquinone to support the body’s natural inflammatory response is primarily exerted through: 

• Increasing the levels of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)*: COX-2, in turn, participates in the inflammatory response of peripheral blood inflammation. COX-2 is closely related to the expression of growth factors and inflammatory factors in the cells. 
• Inhibiting MAPK and NF-Κβ signaling*: Thymoquinone limits the NF-Κβ signaling gene expression and limits the expression of inflammatory factors, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-6, to promote healthy inflammatory responses.* 

The following table highlights thymoquinone’s inflammatory response support properties that promote various health functions.  

Thymoquinone’s Inflammatory Response Support Properties to Address Health Conditions
Cardiovascular disorders: Most cardiac and peripheral vascular conditions are caused due to the deposition of lipids in the arterial vascular wall. These deposits form plaques that enlarge and thicken, decreasing blood flow and vascular elasticity. Thymoquinone down-regulates angiotensin II expression, which limits oxidative stress and the associated inflammation in cardiac cells.*
Pulmonary conditions: Elevated cellular proliferation and an aberrant cell cycle can trigger inflammatory mechanisms in the lungs. Thymoquinone inhibits abnormal cellular proliferation in the lungs by down-regulating the activity of the TNF-a and NF-κB pathways.*
Neurodegenerative disorders: Neurodegenerative conditions are caused by oxidative damage to neural tissues. One of the underlying causes of oxidative stress is an innate immune system inflammatory response that affects brain functions. Thymoquinone inhibits the NF-κB pathway, reduces superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and attenuates the expression of proinflammatory cytokines to help maintain the normal inflammatory response.*
Gastrointestinal conditions: Black seed oil has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, such as bloating, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. Thymoquinone’s properties stimulate the expression of antioxidant enzymes that mitigate adverse gastrointestinal conditions impacting the stomach, liver, gallbladder, intestine, and pancreas.*

Absorption Challenges of Thymoquinone

Thymoquinone is preferred as an oral supplement over other routes, such as intravenous administration, due to its lipophilicity. However, oral administration is restricted by the solubility-related poor oral bioavailability and the relatively low solubility of thymoquinone in water. 

Thymoquinone’s poor bioavailability presents a major challenge hindering its efficacy as a therapeutic agent. Its low oral absorption has also led to limited clinical application. In response, several researchers have employed various pharmacological approaches, including nanotechnology, to enhance the bioavailability of thymoquinone. 

Thymoquinone is a hydrophobic molecule, and various studies have attempted to encapsulate thymoquinone into nanoformulations. The nanocarrier delivery of thymoquinone enables its targeted delivery at the desired point in the intestinal tract to achieve its desired benefit on inflammatory responses.*

An Advanced Thymoquinone Supplement Formulation 

Innovative nutrient delivery systems in advanced supplement formulations overcome thymoquinone’s bioavailability and absorption challenges, thereby achieving its benefits. Nanoparticle-based formulations have been found to have relatively higher bioavailability than unformulated thymoquinone. The movement of thymoquinone-loaded nanocarriers through the intestinal lymphatic system bypasses the initial digestion and metabolism to enhance relative bioavailability. 

The efficacy of a thymoquinone supplement is determined by its absorption and bioavailability. An advanced formulation containing a blend of botanical extracts delivered through a nano-delivery system enables optimal absorption of the active nutrients. 

ThymoQuell® is an advanced thymoquinone supplement developed by Tesseract Medical Research to beneficially influence inflammatory response and oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal tract.* ThymoQuell® Plus contains Tesseract’s advanced thymoquinone along with a blend of botanical extracts — turmeric oil and four powerful terpenes – geraniol, borneol, nerol, and farnesol, to promote normal inflammatory responses in the gastrointestinal tract through enhanced nutritional support.* 
Both formulations are powered by Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology for optimal absorption and solubility of the active nutrients. The CyLoc® technology encases each thymoquinone molecule in its smart delivery system to maintain its integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release the nutrient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract for maximum absorption and efficacy. 

The unprecedented absorption of thymoquinone enables micro-dosing, which means a lesser amount of the active nutrient can be used than previously required to achieve the desired therapeutic benefits.*

Frequently Asked Questions About Thymoquinone Supplements

Thymoquinone’s inflammatory response support properties highlight its crucial role in alleviating adverse inflammatory responses.* If you consider including a thymoquinone supplement in your diet, then you should know its safety, side effects, and intake amount. The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about thymoquinone supplements: 

How much thymoquinone should I take in a day?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes Nigella sativa seeds and the extracted oil as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). Supplementation with the black seed oil at doses of 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mL/ day for 20 days is well-tolerated. However, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare practitioner to determine the amount of thymoquinone you should consume for its health benefits.  

When should I include a thymoquinone supplement in my diet? 

Before considering taking a thymoquinone supplement, you should understand its health benefits and side effects. Although the safety profile of thymoquinone is well-established and promotes multiple health functions, it is recommended to consult your healthcare practitioners before including a thymoquinone supplement in your diet. 

Can I take a thymoquinone supplement with prescription medications?

Thymoquinone can be potentially contraindicated with certain medications, such as blood thinners or renal medications. Consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking a thymoquinone supplement with prescription medications or any supplements that are a regular part of your daily regimen.   

Citations:

^1,2Liu, Yan et al. International journal of molecular sciences vol. 23,18 10246. 6 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijms231810246

³Khaikin, Elisabeth et al. Nutrients vol. 14,17 3501. 25 Aug. 2022, doi:10.3390/nu14173501

• How does anandamide make you feel? 
• What are anandamide’s effects on the body and mind? 
• What is the best anandamide supplement to promote mental and emotional well-being?  

There is a lot of buzz around anandamide, the so-called ‘bliss’ molecule that benefits mental and physical health.* Anandamide, the first discovered endocannabinoid, has been extensively studied for its possible therapeutic use.So, what are the effects of anandamide on the body and mind? Are the benefits similar to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) found in the Cannabis sativa plant? 

Here are the answers to your questions about how anandamide exerts health benefits and why you should include an advanced, nano-formulated anandamide supplement in your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.

Anandamide Effects on the Body

Anandamide (N-arachidonoyl-ethanolamide (AEA) is a cannabinoid produced by the body. It is a lipid-based neurotransmitter that binds to cannabinoid receptors in different regions of the body and brain. Cannabinoids stimulate the receptors CB₁ and CB₂ within the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS’s functions include regulating memory, appetite, movement, metabolism, immune function, cardiopulmonary function, and salivation.  

The following table highlights how anandamide promotes several health functions.   

Health Function	Anandamide Effects
Brain Health	Up-regulates the activity of dopamine transporter (DAT) — a protein that controls dopamine transmission.*1 Participates in maintaining a normal level of serotonin to benefit stress-related behaviors.*2 Promotes vigilance states and influences sleep cycles.*3
Heart Health	Promotes vasodilation — the widening of the pulmonary arteries and other blood vessels to support heart health and normal circulation.*4 Acts as a stress response system to limit damage to cardiac tissues that can arise from certain pathologies.*5
Gastrointestinal Health	Up-regulates positive appetitive behavior by stimulating CB1 receptors.* Plays a potential beneficial role in gut-brain signaling, gut motility, and gastric secretions.*6
Immune Health	Supports healthy immune responses in the gut and the pancreas.*7 Benefits immune function by suppressing cell activation, inhibiting proinflammatory cytokine production, NF-κB-dependent apoptosis (cell death), and supporting the functions of a subset of T-helper cells (Th1 and Th2).8
Musculoskeletal health	Jointly works with sphingomyelins (a type of lipid found in cell membranes) in skeletal muscles to help reduce whole-body energy metabolism.*9  Enhances energy storage in the adipose tissue and limits energy expenditure by influencing both lipid and glucose metabolism.*10

Anandamide Effects on the Mind

Several studies show that anandamide displays psychoactive properties, exerting an overall beneficial effect on the brain’s reward circuitry, thereby supporting mental and emotional health.* The name anandamide is derived from the Sanskrit word Ananda, which means “bliss,” because the molecule plays a role in up-regulating the activities of the feel-good hormones in the brain — dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins.

Anandamide Effects on the Mind
Anandamide helps alleviate anxiousness.*  A clinical study on animal models indicates that an anandamide deficiency in the central nervous system is directly correlated with greater expression of anxiousness and stress.*11  Research indicates that the anxiousness-alleviating effects of anandamide helps minimize learned fear by dampening its expression and enhancing its extinction.*
Anandamide contributes to the ‘runner’s high.’  The ‘runner’s high’ — a brief, relaxing state of euphoria characterized by reduced anxiousness and pain awareness, is attributed to the release of endocannabinoids during and after endurance exercise.*  A review of clinical studies highlights a rise in the level of anandamide after periods of exercise. Also, most studies and samples reported positive mood effects post-exercise.*
Anandamide promotes the feeling of well-being.* Anandamide up-regulates positive emotional states by enhancing the activity of dopamine, the ‘happy’ or ‘feel-good’ hormone.* Dopamine is a key hormone that increases feelings of pleasure as part of the brain’s reward system. Anandamide’s role in beneficially enhancing dopamine levels highlights its involvement in promoting feelings of well-being.*

Effects of Anandamide compared to  THC and  CBD 

Anandamide, referred to as the body’s endogenous cannabinoid, plays a crucial role in the endocannabinoid system. But how does it compare to plant-derived cannabinoids like THC and CBD? 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) binds directly to cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB₁ and CB₂, mimicking the actions of anandamide by interacting with these same receptors. Cannabidiol (CBD), on the other hand, works indirectly with CB₁ receptors to enhance endogenous anandamide signaling. CBD also down-regulates the production of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme, which inhibits anandamide degradation.

The following table highlights the different effects of anandamide, THC, and CBD.

Effects of Anandamide vs. THC vs. CBD
Cannabinoid	Effects
Anandamide	Anandamide primarily binds to and activates the CB1 receptors.* Preclinical studies show that anandamide alleviates non-GAD anxiety.* Anandamide benefits memory, appetite, movement, metabolism, immune function, and other body functions.* Anandamide exhibits a relatively shorter duration of action and rapid inactivation. Anandamide intake in significantly higher amounts (3 mg/kg) has been found to increase feelings of anxiety.
THC	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 stimulates feelings of anxiety (non-GAD). The psychotropic effects of THC can last for 4 – 12 hours. THC can cause altered perception, cognition, mood, consciousness, and behavior. Some adverse effects of THC overdose  include anxiety and panic attacks, with increased heart rate and changes in blood pressure.
Cannabidiol	Although CBD displays a low affinity to CB1 receptors, it influences their functions indirectly. CBD enhances anandamide signaling by inhibiting the production of the FAAH enzyme. CBD, the non-psychoactive isomer of THC, exerts anxiolytic effects to lower anxiety (non-GAD). Unlike THC, CBD has no psychotropic effects.

Notably, the FDA has restricted approval of CBD products as nutritional supplements and food additives. Therefore, anandamide supplements are a suitable alternative to promote neurological health and wellbeing.* 

Why Should I Take An Anandamide Supplement?

Does your body need an anandamide supplement when it is already endogenously producing the ‘bliss’ molecule? The following are reasons why  anandamide supplementation may be beneficial:

• Filling nutrient gaps in your diet: Dietary sources, such as cacao beans and truffles, only contain trace amounts of anandamide, which might be insufficient to maintain an optimal level in the body.

• Enhancing the absorption of anandamide: Research indicates that a low concentration of anandamide enhances nitric oxide (NO) levels in platelet cells in the blood. Anandamide supplement formulations, especially those containing L-citrulline, a precursor to NO, may further enhance overall NO production. This increase in NO can support improved blood flow and nutrients delivery to the brain, promoting neurological health and function.*

• Micro-dosing: Too much anandamide can overstimulate the CB₁ receptors, disrupting the brain’s reward circuitry. An advanced nutritional supplement is a convenient way to ingest anandamide orally in a lower, more optimal amount.  

Are Anandamide Supplements Efficacious?

The efficacy of an anandamide supplement depends on how well it is absorbed. Although anandamide has numerous desirable pharmacological effects and health benefits, its unfavorable physico-chemical properties pose a significant challenge during the development and storage of supplement formulations, as well as their subsequent absorption in the body. The efficacy of an anandamide supplement is hindered by the following:  

• Instability of the anandamide molecule: Anandamide is a derivative of arachidonic acid and is highly prone to oxidative thermal degradation, hence, it is best stored at −20°C.

• Activity of gastrointestinal enzymes: Gastrointestinal digestive enzymes can hinder the intact absorption of anandamide through the gut wall. 

For the above reasons, anandamide molecules encapsulated in nanocarriers are more easily absorbed across the gut wall, thus achieving their therapeutic possibilities.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Anandamide

Are there side effects to taking an anandamide supplement?

Research shows that over-stimulating CB₁ receptors can disrupt the brain’s reward circuitry, resulting in unhealthy dietary patterns and weight gain. Anandamide intake in significantly higher amounts than its suggested use can cause anxiety-like effects.  

When should I take an anandamide supplement?

You should consult with your healthcare provider if you are considering including an anandamide supplement in your diet.        

Can I take an anandamide supplement with prescription medications?

Because there is limited data on the potential contraindications of anandamide with prescription medications, you should consult with your healthcare provider before taking an anandamide supplement with a prescription medication.  

How do I determine the efficacy of an anandamide supplement formulation?

In general, the absorption of the active nutrients in any nutritional supplement formulation determines the efficacy of the supplement. 

Tesseract Medical Research’s AnaQuell^® is an innovative nutritional supplement formulation that supports the body’s natural response to stress and anxiousness.* In particular, the combination of anandamide and L-citrulline in AnaQuell’s proprietary complex supports a healthy response to mood changes and mild non-GAD anxiety.* Including L-citrulline in the AnaQuell formulation supports NO production, which enhances blood flow and promotes normal cardiovascular health.* 

Tesseract’s revolutionary CyLoc^® – DexKey^® technology is a nanomolecular nutrient delivery system that solubilizes anandamide, enabling its unprecedented absorption across the gut wall. As a result, the enhanced bioavailability of anandamide molecules enables micro-dosing of the formulation to support overall health and wellness.*

Citations:

¹Oz M, et al. Journal of Neurochemistry vol. 112,6 (2010): 1454-1464. doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06557.x

²Maldonado, Rafael et al. “The endocannabinoid system in modulating fear, anxiety, and stress
.” Dialogues in clinical neuroscience vol. 22,3 (2020): 229-239. doi:10.31887/DCNS.2020.22.3/rmaldonado

³Murillo-Rodríguez, E et al. “Anandamide modulates sleep and memory in rats.” Brain research vol. 812,1-2 (1998): 270-4. doi:10.1016/s0006-8993(98)00969-x

⁴Martín Giménez, Virna Margarita et al. “Anandamide and endocannabinoid system: an attractive therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease.” Therapeutic advances in cardiovascular disease vol. 12,7 (2018): 177-190. doi:10.1177/1753944718773690

⁵Hiley, C Robin. “Endocannabinoids and the heart.” Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology vol. 53,4 (2009): 267-76. doi:10.1097/FJC.0b013e318192671d

⁶DiPatrizio, Nicholas V. “Endocannabinoids in the Gut.” Cannabis and cannabinoid research vol. 1,1 (2016): 67-77. doi:10.1089/can.2016.0001

⁷Acharya, Nandini et al. “Endocannabinoid system acts as a regulator of immune homeostasis in the gut.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America vol. 114,19 (2017): 5005-5010. doi:10.1073/pnas.1612177114

⁸Pandey, Rupal et al. “Endocannabinoids and immune regulation.” Pharmacological research vol. 60,2 (2009): 85-92. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2009.03.019

⁹Heinitz, Sascha et al. “Endocannabinoid Anandamide Mediates the Effect of Skeletal Muscle Sphingomyelins on Human Energy Expenditure.” The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism vol. 103,10 (2018): 3757-3766. doi:10.1210/jc.2018-00780

¹⁰Di Marzo, Vincenzo et al. “Cannabinoids and endocannabinoids in metabolic disorders with focus on diabetes.” Handbook of experimental pharmacology ,203 (2011): 75-104. doi:10.1007/978-3-642-17214-4_4

Article Summary:

• The antioxidant and immunomodulatory and inflammation-modulating properties of curcumin benefit your joints, immune function, heart, gut, and liver.* 
• The poor palatability, absorption, and bioavailability of curcumin significantly impact regimen compliance and the efficacy of most commercially available curcumin supplements.
• Tetrahydrocurcumin, the bioactive metabolite of curcumin, has therapeutic benefits similar to curcumin but is more stable. 
• Tesseract’s proprietary nutrient delivery technology enhances the palatability,  absorption, and bioavailability of tetrahydrocurcumin to support immune, cardiovascular, hepatic, and musculoskeletal health.*

Curcumin, the yellow polyphenolic pigment extracted from the roots of the turmeric (Curcuma longa) plant, has been used across multiple cultures for its therapeutic benefits. With clinical studies validating the beneficial effects of this wonder molecule, it is one of the top-selling nutritional supplements across the United States. But is curcumin worth including in your diet? You should know about curcumin’s key benefits to answer that question.  

Below, we discuss some of the benefits of curcumin as a nutritional supplement that promote your overall health, especially immune function and musculoskeletal health.* 

What are Curcumin’s Benefits: An Overview 

Research studies indicate that curcumin interacts with various signaling molecules and exhibits cellular-level activities in exerting its therapeutic benefits. The antioxidant properties of curcumin and its role in a healthy inflammatory response positively influence multiple health functions.* 

• Antioxidant effects: Curcumin scavenges different types of harmful free radicals and modulates signaling pathways and activity of enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), to neutralize free radicals.*

• Immunomodulatory effects: Curcumin inhibits the activity of key enzymes involved in inflammatory processes.* Curcumin also down-regulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines — the proteins that control immune cell functions to help maintain the body’s natural inflammatory response.*

The following table highlights curcumin’s key benefits for joint health, immune support, cardiovascular health, gastrointestinal environment, and liver support.* 

Curcumin Benefits that Support Your Health
Joint support*	As a potent antioxidant, curcumin promotes a healthy inflammatory response to periodic musculoskeletal and joint flare-ups1.*  Curcumin interacts with various molecular targets, such as NF-κB, that are involved in bone remodeling, indicating its potential role in supporting musculoskeletal and joint health2.*
Immune support*	Curcumin helps regulate the activation of immune cells — neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells3.* Curcumin helps maintain the body’s natural inflammatory response by down-regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes linked with immune cell activity4.*
Cardiovascular support*	Curcumin’s role in modulating several signaling pathways involved in cell death, proliferation, and oxidative stress promotes heart health5.*
Gastrointestinal support*	Curcumin and its metabolites have been shown to beneficially influence the gut microbiome6.* There is ongoing research on the direct positive effects of curcumin on the gastrointestinal tract.*
Liver Support*	Curcumin limits the concentration of lipids and fatty acid accumulation in hepatocytes or liver cells7.* Curcumin’s antioxidant properties and beneficial impact on various signaling pathways, including the NF-κβ signaling, also establish its role as a hepatoprotective agent8.*

Although curcumin benefits are well-established, the efficacy of most curcumin supplements can be significantly compromised because of curcumin’s naturally poor absorption and bioavailability. The poor palatability of curcumin also poses challenges to regimen compliance. If you are considering including a curcumin supplement in your diet, then you should look for an advanced formulation that enhances curcumin’s palatability, absorption, and bioavailability.

Including A Curcumin Supplement In Your Diet

When taken orally, curcumin rapidly breaks down into inactive metabolites that are eliminated from the gastrointestinal tract. Tetrahydrocurcumin, the bioactive metabolite of curcumin, displays physiological properties similar to curcumin but is more stable and is easily absorbed through the gut wall. 

TetraCumin®, developed by Tesseract Medical Research, combines the enhanced stability of tetrahydrocurcumin with the proprietary Cyloc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology to create a hypoallergenic curcumin formulation. The CyLoc® technology encases curcumin molecules to mask the unpleasant taste and odor while maintaining their integrity during the transit through the stomach. The DexKey^® technology releases the curcumin molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract, allowing for optimal absorption and bioavailability of each molecule. The smart nutrient delivery makes TetraCurcumin® an effective supplement formulation for supporting immune function and promoting bone health.* 

Citation:

¹Zhou H, et al. Current drug targets vol. 12,3 (2011): 332-347. doi:10.2174/138945011794815356

^2,8Peddada, Krishi V et al. Orthopaedic surgery vol. 7,3 (2015): 222-31. doi:10.1111/os.12183

³Jagetia, Ganesh Chandra, and Bharat B Aggarwal. Journal of clinical immunology vol. 27,1 (2007): 19-35. doi:10.1007/s10875-006-9066-7

⁴Sikora, E et al. Immunity & ageing : I & A vol. 7,1 1. 17 Jan. 2010, doi:10.1186/1742-4933-7-1

⁵Farghadani, Reyhaneh, and Rakesh Naidu. Cancers vol. 13,14 3427. 8 Jul. 2021, doi:10.3390/cancers13143427

⁶Scazzocchio, Beatrice et al. Nutrients vol. 12,9 2499. 19 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12092499

⁷Guariglia, Marta et al. Nutrients vol. 15,24 5053. 9 Dec. 2023, doi:10.3390/nu15245053

Are you aware of bitter orange uses in nutritional supplements? A native tree of eastern Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Arabian peninsula, bitter orange has been traditionally used to alleviate occasional constipation, indigestion, nausea, and other adverse health conditions. Beyond its medicinal properties, bitter orange is also commonly used in culinary applications  to enhance the flavors of dishes, spirits, and beer. Today, bitter orange is a key ingredient in many over-the-counter nutritional supplements, valued for its potential to supportgut health, skin vitality, and respiratory function.* 

This article highlights the differences between bitter orange and sweet orange, along with  the specific health benefits and uses of bitter orange, and why you should include an advanced supplement that contains bitter orange in your diet. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.

Bitter Orange versus Sweet Orange

Most of us know sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis L.) and how consuming them fresh or as juice supports immune system function. Unlike sweet oranges, however, bitter oranges have an acidic pulp and a bitter albedo (commonly called “the pith”). Also known as sour or Seville orange, the fruit of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium L.) has a characteristic pleasant odor and essential oil in its leaves. Both sweet oranges and bitter oranges are rich in vitamin C and a good source of antioxidants. Whereas sweet orange exerts beneficial effects on blood glucose and cholesterol levels, bitter orange promotes bone health and gut health.*

Compounds in Bitter Orange 

Bitter orange contains a variety of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, essential oils, and alkaloids, each contributing to its potential health benefits.  Notably, the fruit peel is rich in essential oils, primarily composed of terpenes, with limonene as the primary constituent. The fruit also contains different flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties.

The key natural compounds in bitter orange can be classified as: 

• Flavonoids: The flavanones hesperetin and naringenin are the most abundant flavonoids in bitter orange. These compounds, which are phenolic in nature, are responsible for many of the health benefits attributed to bitter orange, including antioxidant support and promoting a healthy inflammatory response.

• Limonoids: These compounds, particularly limonin, are responsible for the fruit’s characteristic bitter taste. Limonoid aglycones are bioactive compounds that contribute to the overall therapeutic potential of bitter orange.

• Phenylethylamine alkaloids: Bitter orange contains several alkaloids, including octopamine, hordenine, tyramine, and synephrine. Among these, p-synephrine is the most abundant, with the highest concentrations found in the peel of unripe fruits. P-synephrine is of particular interest due to its role in promoting thermogenesis and supporting metabolic health. 

These natural compounds collectively contribute to the diverse therapeutic properties of bitter orange, making it a popular ingredient in both traditional and modern formulations.

Benefits of Bitter Orange 

The bioactive compounds in bitter orange contribute to its antioxidant effects and help maintain natural inflammatory responses.* The fruit also exerts cytoprotective effects, which can down-regulate abnormal cellular proliferation and cell death (apoptosis).* Bitter orange essential oil exerts anxiolytic effects, which can lower anxiety levels (non-GAD) and promote calming or sleep-inducing effects.*

The beneficial effects of bitter orange on liver metabolism, cardiac functions, and the gastrointestinal system have been widely researched. The following table highlights some of the research-backed benefits of bitter orange.        

Bitter Orange Benefits
Works as an antioxidant and helps maintain normal inflammatory responses*: In a comparative study assessing the antioxidant potentials of the peels and leaves of different orange varieties, Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) displayed the highest action in slowing down the rate of linoleic acid and beta-carotene oxidation1.* The potent antioxidant activity of bitter orange is linked to the natural ability of its flavonoids to counter free radicals and disrupt radical chains.* The flavonoids in bitter orange also contribute to its immunomodulatory effects, which helps maintain the body’s normal inflammatory responses.* These flavonoids beneficially influence cell signaling pathways, such as the NF-ƘB pathway, and suppress mRNA and protein expression to maintain normal inflammatory responses.*
Exerts anxiolytic effects: Bitter orange extracts have been demonstrated to possess anxiolytic and sedative-like properties2.* Bitter orange’s essential oil is suggested to stimulate the central nervous system, help maintain normal blood pressure, and help alleviate anxiety (non-GAD).*
Promotes liver metabolism: A study evaluating the effect of extracts from Citrus aurantium and p-synephrine on liver metabolism found that both compounds enhance glycolysis (the breakdown of glucose to produce energy), glycogenolysis (the conversion of glycogen from the muscles and liver to glucose), and oxygen uptake3.* Synephrine has lipolytic effects on fat cells at high doses. Furthermore, the antioxidant effects of bitter orange help regulate the metabolism of fatty acids.*
Promotes gut health: Flavonoids in bitter orange extract have been shown to maintain intestinal barrier integrity by increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and modulate the gut microbiota.4,5*Limonene in bitter orange essential oil exerts multiple protective effects in the gastrointestinal system.* In a clinical study on rats, the essential oil and limonene increased gastric mucus production6.*
Influence on cardiac functions: The cardiovascular effects of bitter orange are currently still being evaluated; however, a study on rats evaluating the cardiovascular effects of P-synephrine and bitter orange extract found that both resulted in clinically insignificant benefits in heart rate and blood pressure7.  The volatile oil (neroli oil) obtained from the flowers of the bitter orange tree has been found to exert endothelium and smooth muscle-dependent vasodilation in mice8.*    In a single-center, randomized, double-blind controlled trial, the efficacy of a combination of citrus flavones and flavanones (grapefruit and bitter orange) and olive polyphenols was assessed. The supplementation was found to enhance endothelial function, lower blood pressure, and enhance antioxidant antioxidant status9.

Bitter Orange Supplement Uses

Bitter orange is used in nutritional supplements both as a standalone ingredient and in combination with other botanical extracts. Bitter orange supplements are commercially available as extract powders, capsules, essential oils, topical lotions, and sprays. The following table highlights some of the common bitter orange supplement uses.  

Bitter Orange Supplement Uses
Used for gastric conditions: Bitter orange essential oil is used for its benefits in the gastrointestinal tract, including occasional constipation, bloating, indigestion, and other gastric conditions.*
Applied on skin: Bitter orange’s antioxidant effects promote skin health. Topical creams/lotions/ointments containing bitter orange can be applied to bruises, fungal infections (ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot infections), and bedsores.*
Used for weight management: Synephrine’s role in glucose and lipid metabolism contributes to the lipolytic and thermogenic effects of bitter orange.* Bitter orange supplements are widely promoted for healthy weight management.*
Used as an athletic performance enhancer: Although the findings on bitter orange’s effects on exercise performance are inconclusive, it has been promoted as a performance-enhancing supplement for athletes.* However, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has banned p-synephrine, listing it as an unapproved stimulant.

Is Bitter Orange Safe?

The safety concerns about bitter orange arise from the similar chemical structures of p-synephrine and ephedrine. Synephrine is structurally similar to ephedrine, the main component in the herb, ephedra. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of ephedra in nutritional supplements because it poses serious safety risks. Although synephrine is structurally similar to ephedrine, it has different pharmacologic properties and is widely used as a suitable and safe substitute for ephedra in nutritional supplements.

Bitter orange is ‘generally recognized as safe’ (GRAS) as a flavoring agent by the FDA. Notably, both p-synephrine and bitter orange extracts are safe to be used at defined doses in supplement formulations. Although p-synephrine alone seems to have low toxicity when used in combination with other ingredients (such as caffeine and salicin), it can induce some adverse cardiovascular effects; for example, high doses of bitter orange extracts promoted for weight management can cause cardiac stimulation.      

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bitter Orange Supplements 

The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the uses of bitter orange supplements.

Can I take a bitter orange supplement to shed post-pregnancy weight while breastfeeding? 

Bitter orange has no specific lactation-related uses. No data exist on the excretion of any compounds of bitter orange into breastmilk or on the safety and efficacy of bitter orange in nursing mothers or infants. Animal data indicates that the adrenergic agents (that have effects similar to adrenaline) might decrease milk production. Therefore, nursing mothers should generally avoid taking a bitter orange supplement.      

Can I take a bitter orange supplement with prescription medications? 

There is inconclusive data on the long-term use of bitter orange and its potential contraindications with prescription medications. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before including a bitter orange supplement in your diet.  

How do I choose the best bitter orange supplement?

The safety and efficacy of commercially available bitter orange supplements depend on the appropriate amount of bitter orange in the formulation and the nutrient delivery format that can optimize its bioavailability and absorption.  

BiomeAide® is an innovative gastrointestinal support supplement developed by Tesseract Medical Research that contains multiple clinically tested botanical extracts along with bitter orange, including ginger, cinnamon, citronella, lavender, clove, oregano, orange, and thyme and marjoram oils. The unrivaled CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology developed by Tesseract Medical Research enhances the bioavailability and absorption of BiomeAide’s ingredients. This proprietary technology enables optimal absorption, which means a lower amount of the formulation’s nutrients is needed to achieve the desired results. The micro-dosing of the nutrients in a single capsule to attain maximum efficacy optimizes the formulation for various indications of use for bitter orange supplements.  

¹Lagha-Benamrouche S, Madani K. 2013;50:723–730. doi: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2013.07.048.

²Carvalho-Freitas, Maria Isabel Roth, and Mirtes Costa. Biological & pharmaceutical bulletin vol. 25,12 (2002): 1629-33. doi:10.1248/bpb.25.1629

³Peixoto, Jéssica Sereno et al. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 17,5 5854-69. 16 May. 2012, doi:10.3390/molecules17055854

⁴Maurer Sost M, et al. Foods. 2023;12(18):3413. Published 2023 Sep 13. doi:10.3390/foods12183413

⁵Estrada-Sierra NA, et al. Foods. 2024;13(4):587. Published 2024 Feb 15. doi:10.3390/foods13040587

⁶Moraes, Thiago M et al. Chemico-biological interactions vol. 180,3 (2009): 499-505. doi:10.1016/j.cbi.2009.04.006

⁷Hansen, Deborah K et al. Toxicology and applied pharmacology vol. 261,3 (2012): 236-47. doi:10.1016/j.taap.2012.04.006

⁸Sánchez Macarro M, Martínez Rodríguez JP, Bernal Morell E, et al. Nutrients. 2020;12(5):1475. Published 2020 May 19. doi:10.3390/nu12051475

⁸Kang, Purum et al. “Endothelium- and smooth muscle-dependent vasodilator effects of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara: Focus on Ca(2+) modulation.” Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie vol. 82 (2016): 467-71. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2016.05.030

⁹Sánchez Macarro M, Martínez Rodríguez JP, Bernal Morell E, et al. Effect of a Combination of Citrus Flavones and Flavanones and Olive Polyphenols for the Reduction of Cardiovascular Disease Risk: An Exploratory Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Subjects. Nutrients. 2020;12(5):1475. Published 2020 May 19. doi:10.3390/nu12051475

Article Summary:

• Berberine’s benefits are its antioxidant properties and its role in maintaining a healthy inflammatory response.* 
• Berberine promotes endocrine health through glucose maintenance, liver detoxification, healthy weight management, hormonal balance, and gut microbiome support.* 
• Tesseract’s BerberActiv® is an innovative supplement formulation that optimizes the solubility and absorption of berberine through a revolutionary nutrient delivery technology.

With the ongoing trend of touting berberine as a natural solution for optimizing blood glucose levels, you might wonder if you need a berberine supplement in your diet. The therapeutic benefits of berberine go beyond TikTok trends and have been known across different cultures for ages. In this article, we discuss berberine’s key benefits you should know about and why you should include a berberine supplement in your diet to promote optimal endocrine health.*

Key Berberine Benefits That Promote Your Health*

Berberine is a naturally derived compound from barberry, goldenseal, tree turmeric, Oregon Grape, and other similar plants. Chemically, berberine is an alkaloid that promotes normal body metabolism — the process of converting food to energy on a cellular level.* Several studies have established berberine’s role in promoting insulin secretion, enhancing insulin resistance, inhibiting lipogenesis (synthesizing fatty acids from non-lipid precursors), and regulating adipose tissue functions.* 

The following table highlights berberine benefits that promote endocrine health.*

Berberine Benefits That Promote Endocrine Health*
Glucose Maintenance:  Blood glucose regulation is primarily achieved through the hormones released by the pancreas. Berberine protects1 the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, promotes insulin secretion, and limits insulin resistance through various signaling pathways.* Berberine limits glucose synthesis from non-carbohydrate sources (gluconeogenesis) in the liver and inhibits intestinal glucose absorption to help maintain healthy blood glucose levels.*
Liver detoxification:  By inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and the associated lowered oxygen uptake, berberine helps limit ammonia detoxification1 in the liver.*   Berberine promotes cholesterol excretion from the liver to bile, contributing to healthy blood lipid levels.*
Weight Management:  Berberine is associated with promoting weight management2 through enhancing metabolism, maintaining blood glucose levels, enhancing fatty acid oxidation, and inhibiting lipid accumulation, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL).*
Hormonal Balance:  Berberine plays a critical role in maintaining hormone levels,3 such as insulin, estrogen, and testosterone that can address specific pathologies arising due to an imbalance of androgens (sex hormones) in females.*
Gut Microbiome Support:  The gut microbiome is an endocrine organ that contributes to metabolic regulation. Clinical studies have established berberine’s role4 in altering gut microbiota and microbiota-associated bile acid metabolism.*

The therapeutic effects of berberine on endocrine health can be significantly compromised due to its poor absorption and bioavailability. As a hydrophilic compound with a temperature-dependent aqueous solubility, berberine naturally displays poor membrane permeability. As a result, it will undergo first-pass elimination before it reaches systemic diffusion. 

In addition to its poor absorption, the intensely bitter taste of unformulated berberine poses a challenge to taking it in its natural form. A novel berberine supplement formulation can address these shortcomings.    

Including A Berberine Supplement in Your Diet

Commercially available berberine supplements utilize innovative approaches, including nanotechnology, to enhance berberine’s solubility and absorption. Notably, however, the safety and efficacy of berberine will greatly vary depending on the type of formulation.   

BerberActiv® is an innovative, hypoallergenic berberine supplement formulation developed by Tesseract Medical Research to support your endocrine health.* Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology encases individual berberine molecules in its smart delivery system to maintain integrity and mask the bitter taste. The DexKey® reactors release berberine molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract to achieve maximum absorption. Enhanced absorption enables micro-dosing — using a lesser amount of berberine than previously required to achieve a powerful and rapid physiological response. 

BerberActiv’s proprietary complex contains solubility-enhanced berberine derived from the root of Berberis aristata and is available in quick-release and sustained-release formulations. With enhanced absorption and targeted delivery of berberine molecules, BerberActiv® enhances blood glucose metabolism and supports your endocrine system.*   

Citations: 

¹Wei X, et al. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2016 (2016): 3593951. doi:10.1155/2016/3593951

²Ilyas Z, et al. Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie vol. 127 (2020): 110137. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110137

³Caliceti C, et al. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2015 (2015): 723093. doi:10.1155/2015/723093

⁴Zhang L, et al. Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology vol. 10 588517. 19 Feb. 2021, doi:10.3389/fcimb.2020.588517

Article Summary:

• There is an increasing demand for nutritional supplements containing plant-based ingredients sourced and manufactured ethically and delivered through novel methods for optimal absorption and efficacy. 
• Nutritional supplements for stress support, immune function, gut health, sleep support, and weight management are expected to be the most popular nutritional supplements. 
• Tesseract’s proprietary delivery technology ensures targeted delivery and maximum absorption of natural ingredients of the highest purity.

There has been significant interest in nutritional supplements in recent years, particularly among the aging population. More individuals are exploring alternative approaches to conventional therapies, and nutritional supplements are an obvious choice. As consumers become increasingly conscious of their health and well-being, they consistently focus on personalized supplements tailored to meet an individual’s specific nutritional needs. Also, there is a growing shift toward supplements that are naturally sourced and manufactured ethically and sustainably.   

Nutritional supplements, such as multivitamins/minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, and probiotics, are among the most popular supplements used by adults, especially older ones. So, which supplements are expected to be in demand? Below, we discuss several of the most popular nutritional supplements and why you should consider including advanced supplement formulations in your diet.       

What are the Most Popular Nutritional Supplements?

The popularity of a nutritional supplement depends on the health functions it supports. For example, there was a peak demand for immune-supporting supplements during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we saw berberine trending on social media for its benefits for weight management in 2023. The following table highlights what we think will be the most popular nutritional supplements currently and the health functions they support. 

The Most Popular Nutritional Supplements
Health Function	Nutritional Supplement
Stress Support*	Omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins support cognitive function, memory, and stress management.* Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, address anxiety (non-General Anxiety Disorder), stress, and mood changes to promote mental health and emotional well-being.*
Immune Support*	Immune support supplements containing ingredients such as curcumin, quercetin, berberine, vitamin C, and vitamin D are expected to be in demand.*
Gut Health*	Nutrients, including butyric acid, ginger, cinnamon, orange, lavender, bitter orange, clove, oregano, and thyme, have well-recognized benefits in promoting gastrointestinal health.* Butyric acid is the critical energy source for colonocytes (the epithelial cells that line the colon) and helps maintain a healthy  gut microbiome1.*
Sleep Support*	Endocannabinoids, particularly anandamide, up-regulate adenosine levels, which exerts sleep-inducing effects.*
Weight Management*	Berberine plays a critical role in helping to maintain healthy blood glucose levels and lipid profiles, which translates to healthy weight management.*

It should be noted that most of the active nutrients mentioned above display poor absorption and bioavailability, which adversely affects the efficacy of supplement formulations. Several pharmacological approaches have been implemented to achieve optimal solubility and absorption of nutrients through novel delivery methods, such as nanoparticles.   

Including Advanced Supplement Formulations in Your Diet 

The proprietary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology developed by Tesseract Medical Research enables unprecedented absorption and targeted delivery of nutrient molecules. The CyLoc® technology encases individual active nutrient molecules in its smart delivery system to mask unpleasant taste and odor while maintaining the integrity of the molecules as they transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release each molecule at the desired point in the intestinal tract to achieve optimal absorption. 

The following Tesseract formulations contain nutrients that are expected to be in high demand. 

• AnaQuell®: Anandamide and L-citrulline support a healthy response to stress, anxiety (non-GAD), mood changes, and trauma.* While anandamide exerts an inhibitory effect on anxiousness and promotes a normal sleep cycle, L-citrulline enhances blood flow and nutrient delivery to the brain.*   

• AuRx®: The gold-standard medical food for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) contains a stabilized butyric acid complex to address the specific nutritional requirements of ASD children. AuRx is specially formulated to counteract the gut-brain nutrient imbalance in affected individuals. 

• BerberActiv®: Berberine supports gastrointestinal and hepatic health while also promoting healthy weight management.* Berberine stimulates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the body’s primary energy regulator switch.* AMPK is involved in moderating critical biochemical pathways that benefit blood glucose levels and lipid profiles.*   

• ProButyrate®: Tesseract’s innovative delivery system masks the unpleasant taste and odor of butyric acid while ensuring its optimal absorption through the gut wall. The formulation supports a healthy inflammatory response in the gastrointestinal tract and promotes a balanced gastrointestinal microbiota.*

• TetraCumin: The hypoallergenic formulation contains tetrahydrocurcumin — the most bioavailable metabolite of curcumin – to provide antioxidant support and promote healthy immune and inflammatory responses.* The therapeutic properties of tetrahydrocurcumin support immune, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal health.* 

• QuerciSorb®: It supports healthy blood pressure through optimal vasodilation, inhibits LDL cholesterol oxidation, moderates exaggerated immune responses, and enhances antioxidant support. The formulation also helps provide cytoprotection to support cardiovascular function and immune health.  

• QuerciSorb® Immuphore SR: Its four ingredients — quercetin, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D – maintain a healthy inflammatory response and promote immune health.* Tesseract’s proprietary technology achieves optimal absorption of the ingredients, resulting in a more powerful and immediate physiological response.*

All Tesseract products are manufactured following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), including the use of advanced analytical techniques and a well-designed quality control system, making them the most popular nutritional supplements available. 

Citation: 

¹Amiri P, et al. Frontiers in pharmacology vol. 12 837509. 2 Feb. 2022, doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.837509

Article Summary:

• Gut health supplements can be broadly categorized into probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics.
• Gut health supplement formulations are a suitable alternative to a high fiber-rich diet, mainly when certain health conditions restrict such intake. 
• Tesseract’s revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology enables optimal absorption of active nutrients in gut health supplement formulations. 

The diversity of gut microbiota — the microorganisms that colonize our digestive tract – largely determines our gastrointestinal health. The gut microbiome has been closely associated with influencing the immune health and the nervous system and playing a critical role in metabolic function. While a balanced diet maintains the gut microbiota in optimal condition, gut health supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps. 

So, how do gut health supplements work, and are they worth including in your diet? Let’s look at the working mechanism of different gut health supplements and some innovative gut health supplement formulations developed by Tesseract Medical Research to promote your gastrointestinal health.*        

How Do Gut Health Supplements Work?

Gut health supplements can be broadly categorized into probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics. The following table highlights the supplements’ functions and working mechanisms and how they promote gastrointestinal health.

Gut Health Supplements: Working Mechanism
Probiotics: These are the good bacteria (such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium) and yeast (Saccharomyces boulardii) that live in the gut. Food such as yogurt and fermented foods like kombucha and kimchi are rich sources of probiotics1.  Working mechanism: Probiotic supplements add to the existing supply of beneficial microbes and crowd out the harmful ones.  Probiotic supplements help regulate immune responses through bacteria’s direct interaction with intestinal epithelial cells.
Prebiotics: These are food sources,1 such as fibers and complex carbohydrates that probiotics feed on, but the body cannot digest. A fiber-rich diet containing whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, and nuts provides nutrients to the gut microbiome.  Working mechanism: The beneficial intestinal microbes ferment the non-digestible carbohydrates, releasing byproducts, including short-chain fatty acids, that provide critical energy for the growth of probiotic microbes.
Postbiotics: The bioactive compounds released by healthy bacteria while feeding on prebiotic food are called postbiotics. Postbiotics2 include short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyric acid, lactic acid, and propionic acid, peptides, enzymes, and others.  Working mechanism: Butyrate or butyric acid stimulates the production of regulatory T cells in the intestine to enhance intestinal barrier function and mucosal immunity.* Butyrate plays a potential role in regulating the gut-brain axis and promoting neurological health.*

It is well-known that a diet rich in fiber and fermented milk products supports gastrointestinal function. However, certain health conditions can restrict the required intake of fiber or fermented products. Gut health supplements are a suitable alternative to maintain the diversity of the gut microbiome.   

It is worth noting, however, that commercially available gut health supplements work when they are formulated for optimal solubility and absorption.    

Tesseract’s Supplement Formulations For Optimal Gut Health  

The revolutionary CyLoc® – DexKey® nutrient delivery technology developed by Tesseract Medical Research enables enhanced bioavailability of plant-derived compounds conventionally known for poor absorption. The proprietary CyLoc® technology isolates each active nutrient molecule in a dextrin fiber matrix, creating nano-sized particles that are easily absorbed. The accompanying DexKey® technology releases active ingredient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract. 

The following table highlights Tesseract’s three gut health supplements containing the smart delivery system that enhances the active ingredients’ palatability, bioavailability, and absorption.

Supplement	Therapeutic Benefits
AuRx®	A gold-standard medical food developed to support the gut-brain axis in autistic children. The hypoallergenic formulation contains a stabilized butyric acid complex to address GI disturbances associated with behavioral problems in autistic children.
BiomeAide SR®	A blend of plant isolate extracts, terpenes, and oils from ginger, cinnamon, citronella, orange, lavender, bitter orange, clove, oregano, thyme oil, and marjoram oil. This proprietary complex establishes a well-balanced microbiome and promotes healthy GI function.*
ProButyrate®	A natural butyric acid proprietary complex that stabilizes the gut microbiome, ensuring palatability and maximum absorption to exert positive health benefits.*

With the nanomolecular nutrient delivery technology, Tesseract’s gut health supplements enable individual nutrient molecules to become a bioavailable therapeutic reality. 

Citations:

¹Davani-Davari D, et al. Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 8,3 92. 9 Mar. 2019, doi:10.3390/foods8030092

²Vinderola G, et al. Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 11,8 1077. 8 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3390/foods11081077

Even if you are a healthy male aged 50 years and above, the chance of developing prostate enlargement, or Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), are 50 percent. BPH is a common condition that affects men as they age and is characterized by frequent urination at night, straining during urination, weak or slow urine flow, urinary retention, dribbling, and poor sleep quality. While prostate health naturally declines with age, adopting  a healthy diet, an active lifestyle, and incorporating targeted nutritional supplements can help mitigate this process.    

Several nutritional supplements, including zinc, beta-sitosterol, vitamin D, pygeum root extract, and pumpkin seed, have been shown to support prostate health. Saw palmetto, in particular, is one of the most widely used nutritional supplements for addressing an enlarged prostate. This article explains saw palmetto extract benefits, how it supports prostate functions, and how it alleviates prostate enlargement to provide relief from urinary discomfort. Use the links below to jump ahead to different topics on the page.     

What is Saw Palmetto?

Saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens, is a small, shrublike palm native to the southeastern United States. It is also called the American dwarf palm or cabbage palm. Traditionally, Native Americans used the plant’s ripe berries as a staple food, as well as a medicine for various ailments. 

Currently, saw palmetto is widely used as a nutritional supplement in men’s health to address urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate or BPH. Additionally, saw palmetto is used for hair loss, pelvic pain, and other hormonal imbalances in both men’s and women’s health. .   

Active Compounds in Saw Palmetto

How does saw palmetto address BPH? The benefits of saw palmetto extract are derived from  the active compounds present in the plant’s ripe berries. These berries are  rich in carbohydrates, lipid components (major fatty acids, including laurate, myristate, palmitate, stearate, oleate, and linoleate), and phytosterols (campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol). 

Commercially available saw palmetto supplements are usually extracted using solvents, such as ethyl alcohol, hexane, and supercritical carbon dioxide. The plant’s active constituents present in saw palmetto fruit extracts are categorized as follows: 

• Hexane extractable: It includes phenolic components, free fatty acids, phytosterols, ethyl esters of fatty acids, and other lipid components. The hexane extract of saw palmetto fruit is most commonly used in clinical trials and has a very high content of medium-chain fatty acids and a high proportion of fatty acids present as ethyl esters. 

• Ethanol extractable: It includes flavonoid components, polyprenol , fatty alcohols, and phenolic glycosides. 

• Water soluble: These include commonly found sugars and high-molecular-weight acidic polysaccharides. 

Saw Palmetto Extract Benefits 

Extensive research has been conducted on saw palmetto’s role in promoting prostate health.* Its role in hormonal regulation is closely associated with benefiting men’s health–enhancing sperm production, relieving urinary discomfort, and limiting hair loss.* The following table highlights the benefits of saw palmetto extract and how they support healthy aging.*  

Saw Palmetto Extract Benefits
Promoting prostate health: Studies1,2 indicate that the fatty acids in saw palmetto extracts inhibit the action of 5 alpha-reductase — the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).* Although DHT production stimulates normal prostate activity, it can also potentially cause prostate growth and enlargement.   Some research2,3 suggests that saw palmetto phytosterols (campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol) also inhibit 5 alpha-reductase, providing further benefit for addressing BPH symptoms.*
Limiting hair loss: High levels of DHT can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle. Several human studies4,5,6,  demonstrate modest hair regrowth using both oral supplementation and topical application of saw palmetto in male pattern baldness.*
Regulating testosterone levels: Saw palmetto extracts inhibit testosterone conversion to DHT and also inhibit DHT binding to androgen receptors.* By blocking the action of 5-alpha reductase, saw palmetto helps maintain a healthy testosterone level.*
Addressing BPH-associated pelvic discomfort: One preliminary animal study found that saw palmetto may help maintain a normal inflammatory response in the prostate, which can help ameliorate BPH-associated pelvic discomfort7.*

It is also worth noting that saw palmetto extract does not appear to cause inaccurate readings of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) — a protein produced by the prostate gland. PSA levels are used to screen for malignancy in prostate cells. This is a significant consideration, as some treatments for prostate health may affect PSA readings, potentially complicating cancer screenings. This feature makes it a safe option for supporting prostate health.   

Types of Saw Palmetto Supplements

Traditionally, saw palmetto as a nutritional supplement has been used in the form of whole fruit, teas, aqueous extracts, and tinctures. Lipid/sterol extracts of the saw palmetto fruits are now more widely available. The phytosterol and fatty acids content of saw palmetto supplements vary depending on the supplement type and formulation. The following are the different types of commercially available saw palmetto supplements: 

• Dried whole fruit: The dried saw palmetto berries are eaten whole or are used to make herbal tea or water extract. Dried berry supplements contain 11-13% fatty acids. 

• Lipid/sterol extracts: The lipid/sterol extract of saw palmetto (LESP) is prepared by extraction with hexane, ethanol, or supercritical fluid extraction with liquid carbon dioxide. LESPs are commonly available as tablets or capsules of a dried powder of the extract and are often combined with other powdered botanical extracts for blended preparations. LESPs are standardized by total fatty acid content varying between 70-95 percent.   

• Liquid tinctures: Liquid tinctures are made with saw palmetto extracts and aqueous ethanol as the solvent and contain a negligible amount of fatty acids.  

Safety of Saw Palmetto Supplements

Saw palmetto supplements are well-tolerated by most users, and no serious adverse side effects have been reported. It may cause mild and short-term side effects such as headache, stomach upset, nausea, and fatigue. Limited data on the safety and side effects of saw palmetto in women or children exists, although it can be contraindicated for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is not enough research on saw palmetto benefits for conditions other than BPH and for relief of urinary symptoms, and results have been inconclusive at establishing standardized care protocols.   

It is important to note that tannic acid, one of the phenolic compounds in saw palmetto, is thought to inhibit iron absorption by complex formation with iron in the gastrointestinal lumen. For the above reasons, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before including a saw palmetto supplement in your diet.     

Why You Need An Advanced Saw Palmetto Supplement Formulation 

The efficacy of commercially available saw palmetto formulations differs based on their:

• Added ingredients: Added ingredients, such as pygeum root extract and pumpkin seed oil base, increase the total phytosterol content in the formulation. 

• Fatty acid and phytosterol content: The fatty acid content of a saw palmetto supplement formulation determines its efficacy in inhibiting the action of 5 alpha-reductase. 

• Nutrient delivery technology: Advanced nutrient delivery technology, such as cyclodextrins, enhances the bioavailability and absorption of active nutrients. 

An advanced supplement formulation would contain a blend of saw palmetto extract and other botanical extracts delivered through an innovative nutrient delivery technology to achieve maximum benefit of saw palmetto extract for prostate health.*    

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Saw Palmetto Supplements

The following are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about saw palmetto supplements:

Can I take a saw palmetto supplement daily? 

Clinical research has explored the effect of daily intake of 320 mg of saw palmetto extract in 2 divided doses for 24 weeks, increasing it to 640 mg/day for the next 24 weeks and finally, to 960 mg for the final 24 weeks in addressing BPH symptoms. Although the safety profile of saw palmetto extracts is well-established, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate daily use and intake period.     

Is it safe to take a saw palmetto supplement with prescription medicines?

Saw palmetto supplements may interfere with iron absorption and can have potential contraindications with certain medications, such as blood thinners. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking a saw palmetto supplement with prescription medications or with other BPH supplements.  

How do I determine an advanced saw palmetto formulation? 

An advanced formulation is characterized by optimal bioavailability and absorption, which better achieves the benefits of saw palmetto extracts. Tesseract Medical Research’s ProstaSorb® SR formula is a hypoallergenic blend of three clinically tested extracts: saw palmetto, Pygeum africanum, and Cucurbita pepo (Summer pumpkin).   

Tesseract’s proprietary CyLoc® —DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology enhances the palatability, bioavailability, and absorption of saw palmetto’s active ingredients, making the formulation one of the best BPH supplements. The CyLoc® technology encapsulates the nutrient molecules to maintain their integrity during transit through the stomach. The accompanying DexKey® reactors release the active nutrient molecules at the desired point in the intestinal tract. 

The optimal absorption of the active nutrients in saw palmetto extract accomplished through Tesseract’s smart delivery technology enables micro-dosing, which means a lower amount of active nutrients is needed to provide advanced prostate and urinary support.* ProstaSorb® is Tesseract’s answer to providing nutritional support for addressing BPH-associated urinary discomfort and promoting healthy aging.*  

Citations: 

¹Pais P. Potency of a novel saw palmetto ethanol extract, SPET-085, for inhibition of 5alpha-reductase II. Advances in Therapy vol. 27,8 (2010):555-563. doi:10.1007/s12325-010-0041-6

²Abe M, et al. Pharmacologically relevant receptor binding characteristics and 5alpha-reductase inhibitory activity of free Fatty acids contained in saw palmetto extract. Biol Pharm Bull. 2009;32(4):646-650. doi:10.1248/bpb.32.646

³Scholtysek C, et al. Characterizing components of the Saw Palmetto Berry Extract (SPBE) . . . . Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications vol. 379,3 (2009):795-798. doi:10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.11.114

⁴Wessagowit V, et al. Treatment of male androgenetic alopecia with topical products containing Serenoa repens extract.” The Australasian Journal of Dermatology vol. 57,3 (2016): e76-82. doi:10.1111/ajd.12352

⁵Prager N, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived inhibitors of 5-alpha-reductase in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia [published correction appears in J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Mar;12(2):199]. J Altern Complement Med. 2002;8(2):143-152. doi:10.1089/acm.2002.8.143

⁶Gupta AK, Talukder M, Bamimore MA. Natural products for male androgenetic alopecia. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(4):e15323. doi:10.1111/dth.15323

⁷Bernichtein , et al. [P]roperties of lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa repens (Permixon®) in a mouse model of prostate hyperplasia. The Prostate vol. 75,7 (2015): 706-722. doi:10.1002/pros.22953

⁸Andriole GL, et al. The effect of increasing doses of saw palmetto fruit extract on serum prostate specific antigen: analysis of the CAMUS randomized trial. The Journal of Urology vol. 189,2 (2013): 486-92. doi:10.1016/j.juro.2012.09.037