VISTABLUE™ Phycocyanin

Latin Name: Arthrospira Platensis
Part Of Plant Used: Whole Cells

Phycocyanin is a phytonutrient (a protein pigment) which in natural light is blue and is present in Spirulina. It is the responsible component of the blue colour of the blue-green colour of the spirulina microalgae. Phycocyanin is extracted from spirulina. Phycocyanin is the noblest element of spirulina that captures light phytons which then gets transformed into biochemical energy. Phycocyanin is 7000 times more active than spirulina and 20 times more powerful than vitamin C. Phycocyanin works as an anti-cholesterol, antioxidant, anti-deposits, regeneration agent for new cells and detoxifier. It is one of the most potent antioxidants and greatly helps the immune system

Key benefits

• Phycocyanin belongs to the phycobiliprotein (PCP) family and is a close chemical relative to Bilirubin – a natural antioxidant in the human body which plays a major role in preventing metabolic disorders in the system.
• Improves immunity and reduces oxidative stress
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-allergic 
• Treats hypertension
• Helps Lose weight and keep fit
• Hepato–protective, Neuro-protective and Cyto-protective
• Promotes antioxidant activity – it is 20 times more powerful than Vitamin C and 16 times more powerful than Vitamin A
• Contributes to better cholesterol levels.
• Improves gastrointestinal and digestive health.
• Support cardiovascular function
• Enhance natural cleaning and detoxification 
• Helps in resisting radiation
• Strengthens metabolism 
• Improves post workout recovery
• The Vitamin B12 in Phycocyanin, contributes to the normal production of red blood cells which are responsible for the transportation of oxygen to the muscular and immune systems within your body

Cultivation

Tamil Nadu, India.

Manufacturing Process 

Has been standardized for: 60% Protein.

Certifications

Blueberry

Latin Name: Vaccinium Corymbosum
Part Of Plant Used: Dried Berries

Blueberries are a variety of berries that are sweet, extremely nutritious, incredibly delicious. These bluish-purple berries grow on flowering shrubs. Blueberries have been classified as superfoods as they are among the most nutrient-dense berries that are not only low in calories but also high on nutrients, fibre, Vitamin C and Vitamin K. The extract, made from concentrated blueberry juice is light pinkish in colour. They are a rich source of healthy compounds, such as polyphenols, vitamins and antioxidants. Blueberry extracts also contain quercetin and anthocyanin which are a group of Flavonoids that give the fruit extremely high levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Key benefits

• Have the highest antioxidant capacity of all the popular fruits and vegetables which helps as an immune booster
• They play an important role in healthy eye function through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and collagen-stabilizing properties.
• Helps control lipid levels and lower oxidised LDL (bad cholesterol) and maintain heart health by regulating blood circulation in the body.
• Anthocyanins in blueberries improve blood flow and help to regulate blood pressure 
• Anthocyanins also helps to ease hypertension
• Its antioxidant properties help stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the body, causing blood vessel dilatation leading towards working as an aphrodisiac.
• It helps increase the testosterone levels in men
• Iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and vitamin K all work towards maintaining the strength and elasticity of bones and joints
• Vitamin C in Blueberries helps prevent skin damage 
• The high fibre content helps control blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol and thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. 
• The fibre, potassium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and phytonutrient content in blueberries supports overall heart health. 

History

For centuries, blueberries were gathered from forests North east Americans and consumed fresh and also preserved. The Dietary fibres function as a “bulking agent” in the digestive system and help reduce appetite, which is why Berries kids were fed plenty of blueberries back in the day. The medical properties have been recognized over centuries and was used to treat diseases related to heart, blood and resistance against bacterial infections. In the past Blueberry plants were even considered as medicinal plant. The leaves of the plant were used to make take tea which proved to be good for the blood. Blueberry juice was used to treat coughs.

Cultivation

In organic farms across districts in Himachal Pradesh.

Extraction Process

Was carried out for spray dried pure blueberry powder keeping the content of anthocyanins and quercetin intact, using a 10: 1 Herb Ratio for extraction.

Certifications

Clinical Studies

Insulin sensitivity: A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled clinical study design was used to evaluate the effect of daily dietary supplementation with bio actives from blueberries on whole-body insulin sensitivity in 32 obese, non-diabetic and insulin resistant men and women by the Centre for the Study of Botanicals and Metabolic Syndrome, Pennington Biomedical Research Centre, LA. Participants were randomized to consume either a smoothie containing 22.5 g blueberry bio actives or a smoothie of equal nutritional value without added blueberry bio actives twice daily for 6 weeks. The study showed that the bio actives in blueberries enhanced insulin sensitivity independent of any changes in inflammatory biomarkers or adiposity.

Rich Source of Antioxidant: A single-blinded crossover study was performed in a group of eight middle-aged male subjects (38-54 years) by the Department of Human Biology and Nutritional Sciences, Canada to determine whether the consumption of blueberries would enhance post meal serum antioxidant status in healthy humans. The group consumed a high-fat meal and a control supplement followed 1 week later by the same high-fat meal supplemented with 100g freeze-dried wild blueberry powder. In conclusion, the consumption of wild blueberries, increases the serum antioxidant status which is beneficial in reducing the risk of many chronic degenerative diseases.

Healthy Heart: An 8-week randomized controlled trial, conducted by the Nutritional Sciences, Oklahoma State University, on 44 females and 4 males, to study the cardio-protective benefits of Blueberries due to their high polyphenol content. Participants were administered 50g freeze-dried blueberries, (approximately 350 g fresh blueberries) or equivalent amounts of fluids (controls, 960 mL water) daily for 8 wk. This study showed blueberries to improve metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors.  

Muscle Mass and Strength: A randomized cross-over trial, conducted by School of Sport and Exercise, Massey University, New Zealand et al, using 10 females that consumed a blueberry smoothie or placebo of a similar antioxidant capacity 5 and 10 hours prior to and then immediately, 12 and 36 hours after exercise induced muscle damage by 300 strenuous eccentric contractions of the quadriceps. During the 60-hour recovery period, a significantly faster rate of recovery was noted in the blueberry intervention group. An increase in oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers was also observed in both treatment groups. Although the oxidative stress reduced at a faster rate in the blueberry group. The study demonstrates that the ingestion of a blueberry smoothie prior to and after EIMD accelerates recovery of muscle peak isometric strength. 

Goji Berry

Latin Name: Lycium Barbarum.
Part Of Plant Used: Fruits

Goji Berries are small bright orange-red berries with antioxidants and powerful medicinal properties. Not just a pretty colour, these sweet and sour tasting berries are delicious and full of flavour. In Asia, goji berries have been eaten for generations in the hope of living longer and is still considered to be one of the most desired ingredients for herbal medicines. Considered a super food as they are literally packed with Vitamins like Vitamin A, C, B1, B2, B6 & E; Minerals like Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron, Copper, Selenium & Zinc; Phytochemicals like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, lycopene, cryptoxanthin, lutein and polysaccharides; 18 including all 9 of the essential Amino Acids and finally Unsaturated fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.  

Key benefits

• The antioxidants and vitamin C in goji berries helps in enhancing immunity.
• With ORAC (oxygen radical antioxidant capacity) scores of 3,290, and coupled with antioxidant vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients that have a strong antioxidant capacity - goji berries are the most potent fruits for detox and cleanse
• With one serving providing over 40% of the RDI of vitamin A, goji berries can help to protect against all manner of age-related eye diseases, enhances eye health 
• They have muscle relaxant properties enabling you to have proper and peaceful sleep at night.
• Goji berries contain unique compounds known as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, which enhance the body’s ability to resist disease. Since they are rich in vitamin C, they are crucial to the body in its efforts to fight both bacterial and viral infections.
• They contain pre-biotic fibres which feed the probiotic bacteria which in turn will enhance the function of the immune system.
• Allows the skin to retain its glow and slows down the aging process.
• Goji berry stimulates the production of sexual hormones and recovers the testosterone levels which tends to decrease with age. 
• Goji berry is a source of l-arginine - an amino acid that turns into nitric oxide in your body reducing the risk of heart disease

History

The use of Goji Berries dates back to over 6000 years when they were used for anything from liver support, male impotence and premature greying to eye disorders. It has been a key ingredient in Ayurveda to help support energy, vision, kidney and liver function, sleep and for anti-aging properties that benefits skin. It is believed that 1000s of years ago a medical practitioner once visited a village in china and where everyone lived healthy lives to over 100 years of age. It was later found that they use to drink water from a well that had goji berries growing all around. The ripened berries would fall in the well from which the entire village would drink water. This helped them to live long, revitalize the skin and strengthen the vision. The men in China believed that this berry worked as an aphrodisiac by strengthening their sexual vitality. 

Cultivation

Ningxia Province, China.

Extraction Process

Has been standardized for NLT 25% polysaccharides.

Certifications

Drug Interactions: Allergy to goji berry is associated with allergies to peach peel and a protein called panallergen nonspecific lipid transfer protein. Goji berry allergies can produce symptoms like hives, nausea, dizziness, or wheezing. 

Clinical Studies

Maintain eye health: In a 2011 double-masked, randomized, placebo-controlled trial by Peter Bucheli et al, to evaluate the effects of a daily supplementation goji berry in a milk-based supplementation on vision, because of its high antioxidant (especially zeaxanthin) content. Using 150 healthy elderly subjects (age range:65-70 years) each receiving either 13.7 g per day of Goji Berries shake (75 subjects) or placebo (75 subjects) for a period 90 days. At the end of the trial it was concluded that a daily portion of goji berries increased levels of the antioxidant zeaxanthin by 26% and increased overall antioxidant capacity by a whopping 57% as compared to the group receiving the placebo.

Age related macular degeneration: The Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, China, conducted a randomized controlled study to evaluate the efficacy of Goji berry supplementation on improving macular pigment, serum zeaxanthin levels and visual acuity in patients with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). 114 patients (aged from 51 to 92 years) were assigned randomly to the Goji group (57 subjects) and administered 25g of Goji berries supplementation per day for 90 days and the control group (57 subjects) were on their normal diet for the 90 day period. It was concluded that Goji berry may be an effective therapeutic supplement for preventing the progression of early AMD.

Blood Sugar: Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering of Ministry of Education, and Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, China, and the Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, China conducted a study as a randomized, controlled clinical trial, using a total of 67 patients with type 2 diabetes (30 in control group and 37 in the Lycium Barbarum – LBP group). The LBP group was administration at 300 mg of Goji Berry (LBP) per day while the control group was given a placebo for a period of 3 months. 
Patients in the LBP group showed a considerable decrease in Serum glucose levels, increase in the insulin index and increased HDL levels as compared to the control group.

Goji berry being superfood: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to study the general effects of the orally consumed goji berry, Lycium barbarum, as a standardized juice to 34 healthy adults for 14 days. The subjects were divided into 2 groups, the group that were administered the Gojiberry juice (16 subjects) and the control group of 18 subjects that received the placebo. The Goji group noted increased ratings for energy level, athletic performance, quality of sleep, ease of awakening, ability to focus on activities, mental acuity, calmness, and feelings of health, contentment, and happiness while the placebo group displayed no significant changes.

Immune Function: To examine the systematic effects of L. barbarum on immune function, general well-being, and safety, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted on 60 older healthy adults (55-72 years old), over a period of 30 days. The goji group were administered 120ml of gojiberry juice per day (equivalent to 150g of fresh fruit), while the controlled group received a placebo. The goji group showed a significant increase in the number of lymphocytes (white blood cells that help fight infections in the body) and levels of interleukin-2 and immunoglobulin G (serum and protein cells of the immune system) compared to their pre-trial reports and the placebo group. They also showed a significant increase in general feelings of well-being, less fatigue and better sleep, an increased short-term memory and focus. The placebo group showed no significant changes in any immune measures. 

Tomatoes | Lycopene

Latin Name: Lycopersicon Esculentum
Part Of Plant Used: Fruits

Lycopene is a naturally occurring plant nutrient and pigment that gives some vegetables and fruits their red and pink colour. Fruits like tomatoes, watermelons, grapefruits have rich amounts of Lycopene in them. It belongs to the group of pigments called carotenoids and a fat-soluble phytonutrient. Their function in plants is to absorb light in photosynthesis, protecting plants against photosensitization. Its powerful antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage. This is one of the biggest benefits of lycopene as it protects the body of damage from free radical stress, which can hurt DNA and other cell structures and cause chronic diseases in your body. This is why there is a lot of research has been done on lycopene's role, in preventing cancer.  
It also protects the body from age related diseases and helps keep bones strong and healthy, slows down eye related problems and helps keep your mood elevated. Lycopene is also known for a keeping the heart and prostrate healthy and takes care of women undergoing the changing phases of menopause. Not only does Lycopene take care of the body internally but promotes healthy and youthful skin as well. The processed lycopene from natural vegetables and food that are used in supplements are easier to utilise by the human body.

Key Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants, it slows down the oxidisation process of the LDL (Bad Cholesterol) particles in the blood and prevents blockages in the artery lowering the chances of heart attack and strokes
• Lycopene enriched supplement lowers the blood pressures and helps it to be in the normal range, while supporting skin health and protects the skin from the harmful UV rays to enable it to glow in the long run.
• It increases metabolism which tends to reduce with age.
• It keeps a check on the liver and kidney functionality because of its anti-inflammatory property.
• It strengthens bones and decreases the risk of osteoporosis, brittle bones, and keeps bones in good health especially in women experiencing menopause or in men above 40 years.
• It helps in maintaining testosterone production and serum concentration which has a tendency to reduce as your body grows older.
• Lycopene improves sperm quality in men with fertility problems due to unknown causes.
• Antioxidants in lycopene promotes healthy brain function by lowering the risk of age-related diseases like Alzheimer.
• The phytonutrient present in lycopene prevent the growth of a compound in the brain that leads to depression and therefore it acts as an anti-depressant.

History

Lycopene is a bioactive red colour pigment naturally occurring in plants and the most common and rich source being tomatoes. The by-products derived from high lycopene food by processing, are phytonutrients which can be easily absorbed by the body. These by-products are useful for development as functional foods, nutraceuticals, food ingredients, health supplements, and also as cosmetic products. This red coloured pigment was first discovered in the tomato by Millardet in 1876. It was later named Lycopene by Schunck. The extraction procedure of lycopene from tomatoes was found in 1910. Lycopene has been ignored for decades because of its lack of provitamin A activity, however is has now started gaining a lot of attention due to the increase in evidence proving its preventive and anti-inflammatory properties toward numerous diseases. 

Cultivation

Uttar Pradesh, India.

Extraction Process 

Has been standardized for 10% Lycopene, using a range of 30-35:1 herb ratio.

Certifications

Clinical studies

Bone Health: The Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Nutrition Unit, Italy conducted an in vitro investigation and a pilot prospective clinical study to investigate the effects of lycopene on bone marrow cells that help production of new cells in the body as well as bone mineral density and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal women. The study used 39 menopausal women, for a period of 3 months, administering them with lycopene rich tomato sauce. Although a significant bone density loss was not detected in women taking the tomato sauce, the control group experienced bone loss. The pilot clinical study demonstrated that postmenopausal women that consumed a lycopene-rich tomato sauce daily, at a dose of 150 mg, prevented bone loss in a 3-month period, while those who did not consume the tomato sauce reduced their BMD. In addition, those women who consumed the tomato sauce reduced their BAP to a greater extent than those women who did not consume the tomato sauce.

Antioxidant properties: The Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, West China School of Public Health, China conducted an exploratory systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to study the effects of Lycopene on oxidative stress, using Twelve parallel trials and one crossover trial were included in the systematic review, and six trials provided data for quantitative meta-analysis.
Lycopene possibly alleviates oxidative stress; however, biomarker research for oxidative stress needs be more consistent with the outcomes in lycopene intervention trials for disease prevention.

Lipid levels (LDL): The Department of Medical Management and Informatics, Hokkaido Information University, Japan, conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group comparative study to investigate the effects of regular and continuous intake of high-lycopene tomato supplement for 12 weeks. 74 healthy Japanese subjects with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, were randomly assigned to either the high-lycopene tomato or placebo (lycopene-free tomato) group. Each subject in the high-lycopene group ingested 50 g of semidried lycopene tomato with lycopene level of 22.0-27.8 mg/day. At the end of the 12-week trial, the group with the intake of high-lycopene tomato improved LDL-C levels. It was concluded that intake of high-lycopene tomato, reduced LDL-C and was confirmed to be safe.

Skin/ UV Radiation: The IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Germany and the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Germany, conducted a placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized, crossover study using two active treatments containing either (1) lycopene-rich tomato nutrient complex (TNC) and (2) lutein to assess their capacity to decrease the effects of UVA1 the radiation therapy used to treat skin diseases. 65 healthy volunteers were allocated to four treatment groups and subjected to a 2-week washout phase, followed by two 12-week treatment phases separated by another 2 weeks of washout. Volunteers started either with active treatment and were then switched to placebo, or vice versa. The result of the study showed that TNC completely reduced UVA1- and UVA/B-induced damage. In contrast, lutein provided complete protection if it was taken in the first period but showed significantly smaller effects in the second sequence compared with TNC. These results might indicate that TNC and lutein could both protect against solar radiation-induced health damage

Sperm count and Seminal Oxidative stress: The Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Iran, with the aim to evaluate the effect of lycopene supplementation on spermatogram (Semen Analysis – a test to evaluate the concentration, structure and motility of sperms) and seminal oxidative stress (an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants creating damage to sperm quality). A Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial study was conducted using 44 infertile men with low sperm count, that were randomly divided into two groups: The experimental group was supplemented with 25 mg of lycopene, and the control group received placebo for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in total sperm count and concentration and a significant increase in ejaculate volume, total sperm count, concentration total motility, nonprogressive, and nonmotility in lycopene group in comparison to the placebo group.

Green Tea

Latin Name: Camellia Sinensis
Part Of Plant Used: Leaves

Green Tea is made from leaves, leaf buds and stem of a plant called “Camellia Sinensis”. To maintain its properties from oxidation the leaves, buds and the stem are steamed at high temperatures immediately on harvesting. Green tea is known for its large amount of nutrients, antioxidants and alkaloids. It is a rich source of Vitamin A, B , D and C. A flavonoid in Green Tea extract called Catechin makes it a powerful antioxidant. It is also known for containing large quantities of polyphenols, which help controlling the lipid levels and therefore alleviate heart related diseases. Green tea helps healthy liver functioning, keeps a check on the insulin level in the body and plays an active role in weight loss. Because of the healing properties in green tea, it is still used to heal wounds or aid digestion in traditional china. The combination of Caffeine and L-theanine, two important compounds in green tea, have a powerful effect on the brain, improving brain function, mood and focus, bringing down stress and anxiety and booting dopamine levels.

Key benefits

• Rich in Catechin makes green tea one of the best sources of antioxidants with inflammatory properties. 
• Antioxidant in Green tea takes care of your heart. It slows down the oxidisation process of the LDL (Bad Cholesterol) particles in the blood and prevents blockages in the artery.
• It increases metabolism and boosts energy helping to exercise more and burn excess fat in the body.
• Chances of type 2 Diabetes are lowered with green tea consumption.
• Green Tea strengthens bones and decreases the risk of osteoporosis, brittle bones, and keeps bones in good health especially in women experiencing menopause.
• Women experience severe hot flashes and mood changes through perimenopausal and menopausal phase of their life. Green tea has the ability to calm and relax.
• The EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is a type of antioxidant present in green tea extract. It is responsible for health brain function by lowering the risk of diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer.
• Green Tea contains natural chemicals which are an amazing source of energy and endurance. The caffeine in green tea in conjunction with L-Theanine plays with the mood of the women and keeps her active even after a tiring day.
• Green tea slows the skin aging process and retaining its glow. It has the ability to help reduce the chances of acne and treats puffiness around the eyes naturally.
• Antioxidant in Green tea takes care of your heart. It slows down the oxidisation process of the LDL (Bad Cholesterol) particles in the blood and prevents blockages in the artery.

History

Tea has always been green for centuries. The history stretches back to over 5,000 years, Green tea was originally consumed only by royalty and the extremely wealthy in China. There is a myth about the discovery of green tea, where green tea leaves accidentally fell into a cup of hot water meant for the Chinese emperor. He was so charmed by the aroma that he would drink that tea everyday! It wasn’t until around the 14th century that Green tea became available to the common people who would enjoy it for its delicious flavour and health benefits! The variations in tea have evolved much later over time, as tea drinkers started enjoying their brews, where Oolong, earl grey, black tea, assam etc have been introduced by oxidizing or fermenting the leaves before processing, to get stronger flavours and richer brews. 
Green tea is just the fresh green leaves of the plant that have not undergone any processes and the freshness and nutrients of the leaves are sealed away by steaming the leaves immediately after harvesting. It is not being consumed the world over for its health benefits, derived from the high levels of antioxidants it contains.

Cultivation

Tamilnadu, India.

Extraction Process

Has been standardized for: 90% Polyphenols using a herb extraction ratio of no less than 10:1.

Certifications

Clinical studies

Heart Health: The Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, International Medical University, Malaysia, conducted a study to compile the preclinical and clinical studies that had been done on EGCG (compound Epigallocatechin-3-gallate which is a major polyphenolic compound present in green tea) to investigate its protective effect on cardiovascular diseases. 
Research papers related to EGCG were obtained from the major scientific databases, resulting in the understanding that EGCG held a wide range of therapeutic properties including cardiovascular protection, anti-diabetes, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. 

Burning of Fat

• The Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva; Geneva University Hospital; and Laboratoires Arkopharma, Nice, France conducted an investigation on the fat oxidation effects of green tea, using 10 healthy men that were randomly assigned among 3 treatments: green tea extract (50 mg caffeine and 90 mg epigallocatechin gallate), caffeine (50 mg), and placebo, which they ingested at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It was concluded that Green tea has heat producing properties and promotes fat oxidation.
• The Human Performance Laboratory, The University of Birmingham, UK, conducted 2 studies to investigate the effects of green tea extract (GTE) on glucose tolerance and fat oxidation during moderate-intensity exercise. Both studies were a counter-balanced crossover. In study A, 12 healthy men performed a 30-min cycling exercise at 60% of oxygen consumption before and after supplementation. In study B, 11 healthy men took an oral-glucose-tolerance test before and after supplementation. In the 24-h period before the experimental trials, participants ingested 3 capsules containing either GTE or a corn-flour placebo. Average fat oxidation rates were 17% higher and there was a simultaneous increase of 13% in insulin sensitivity after ingestion of GTE than after ingestion of placebo. It was concluded that GTE ingestion can increase fat oxidation during moderate-intensity exercise and can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in healthy young men.

Blood Pressure: The Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of green tea on blood pressure and lipid parameters. Electronic searches were conducted in Medline, Embase, Amed, Cinahl and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant human randomized clinical trials (RCTs). As many as 474 citations were identified and 20 RCTs comprising 1536 participants were included. It was concluded that Green tea intake results in significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. The effect size on systolic blood pressure is small, but the effects on total and LDL cholesterol appear moderate. Longer-term independent clinical trials evaluating the effects of green tea are warranted.

Green Teas effect on skin: A Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of green tea extracts was done to evaluate the effects of a combination of topical and oral green tea supplementation to treat aging resulting from UV damaged skin, by the Department of Dermatology, Emory University, USA. A total of 40 women with moderate photoaging (aging resulting from UV exposure) were randomized to either a combination of 10% green tea cream and 300 mg twice-daily green tea oral supplementation or a placebo regimen for a period of 8 weeks. Participants that were administered the combination of topical and oral green tea showed an improvement in the elastic tissue content.

Cancer preventive: The Department of Epidemiology, Saitama Cancer Center Research Institute, Japan, conducted a study to understand the association of green tea consumption and cancer. They surveyed 8,552 individuals over 40 years of age living in a town in Saitama prefecture on their living habits, including daily consumption of green tea, over a period of 9 years. The study showed that green tea has a potentially preventive effect against cancer among humans.

Type 2 diabetes: The Public Health, Department of Social and Environmental Health, Osaka University, Japan conducted a Retrospective cohort study across 25 communities in Japan, using a total of 17,413 persons (6727 men and 10,686 women) to evaluate the effect of green, black, and oolong teas as associated with a lowering the risk for type 2 diabetes. The participants were between the ages of 40 to 65 years with no history of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or cancer at the baseline lifestyle survey. During the 5-year follow-up, it was concluded that consumption of green tea, coffee, and total caffeine was associated with a reduced risk for type 2 diabetes.

Beetroot

Latin Name: Beta Vulgaris
Part Of Plant Used: Roots

Beetroot is a root vegetable having numerous medicinal properties and essential nutrients. It is known to be a great source of folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Since beetroot has a high content of inorganic nitrates, it has numerous health benefits, including improved blood flow, lower blood pressure and decreased risk of many diseases. Betanin in beetroot not only gives red colour to it but makes it a rich source of antioxidant. Beetroot has a considerate amount of Nitric Oxide helping the body to cut down the bad cholesterol and reduce inflation, helping the athletes to exercise more. Beetroots are very high in fibre, and provides about 2–3 grams in every 100-gram.

Key Benefits

• Rich in inorganic nitrates. Inorganic nitrates help in reducing blood pressure and lowering the risk of heart disease. The way this works is, your body can convert dietary nitrates into nitric oxide which travels through your artery walls, sending signals to the tiny muscle cells around your arteries and telling them to relax. When these muscle cells relax, your blood vessels dilate and blood pressure goes down. 
• The Glutamine and fibre in beet helps in maintaining healthy digestive system by supporting the bowl function.
• They are loaded with boron - a mineral that stimulates the production of sexual hormones. It helps in production of oestrogen in women and increases the level of testosterone in males. It is also believed to kick-start libido in men as well as women, regardless of their age working as an aphrodisiac.
• The high levels of Nitrates, allows Beetroot to help in increase blood flow in the body, thus maintaining the oxygen levels and increasing your energy and stamina.
• Rich in Betanin which slows down the development of cancerous cell in the body
• Beetroots is known for high content of mineral but relatively low in calories and fats, helping you to reduce excessive weight.
• Beetroot has healing properties, purifies the blood and helps in circulation, benefiting the liver, promotes menstruation and hormone regulation during menopause.
• Beets contain an antioxidant called alpha-lipoic acid. This compound may help lower glucose levels and increase insulin sensitivity.

History

Beetroot has only recently attained the lofty heights as a “superfood” due to its exceptional nutritional profile and its rich antioxidant content. However, centuries, beetroots have been considered as one of the vegetables with the maximum medicinal properties. Each part of the beet plant has its own nutritional profile. The beet greens are considered a non-starchy vegetable and contain very little carbohydrate, whereas the beet bulb is starchier and therefore higher in carbs (but also fibre). Each part of the vegetable contains some different vitamins and minerals. Beets have long been considered an aphrodisiac in many cultures. Beets contain high amounts of boron, a trace mineral which increases the level of sex hormones in the human body. In the ancient ages because of the antibacterial properties the leaf of the beetroot plant was used to wrap wounds. According to the Romans, beetroot was eaten to increase longevity. It was even used to cure fever or to control the bowels. Around 300 BC the Ancient Greeks, who cultivated beetroot, ate only the leaves and the beetroot was offered to their god and was considered as precious as silver. With time beetroot became known worldwide for its exceptional medicinal properties.

Cultivations

Organic farms across districts in Himachal Pradesh.

Extraction Process 

Was carried out for spray dried pure beetroot powder keeping the content of betalains intact.

Certifications

cGMP & FDA Approved

Clinical studies

Memory and Cognitive function: The Department of Physics, Wake Forest University, USA, conducted a study to determine if dietary nitrate would increase cerebral blood flow in older adults. During this study, high vs. low nitrate diet were administered to older adults (approximately 75 years of age). These results suggest that dietary nitrate may be useful in improving regional blood oxygen flow in older adults to critical brain areas, and when increased blood flow in hypoxic or ischemic areas is indicated. These conditions could include age-associated dementia and cognitive decline in older adults.

Lowers Blood Pressure: 

• The Nutritional Interventions Laboratory (LC, PC), Australia, conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study, using Fifteen women and fifteen men. The Volunteers were randomized to receive 500 g of beetroot and apple juice (BJ) or a placebo juice (PL), with the aim to investigate whether consuming beetroot juice in addition to a normal diet produces a measurable reduction in Blood Pressure. It resulted in lowered systolic blood pressure after 6 hours of consumption for the group that was administered the Beetroot juice in comparison their baseline readings as well as to the placebo group. Beetroot juice will lower BP in men when consumed as part of a normal diet in free-living healthy adults.
• The Nutritional Interventions Laboratory (LC, PC), Australia, conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study, using Fifteen women and fifteen men. The Volunteers were randomized to receive 500 g of beetroot and apple juice (BJ) or a placebo juice (PL), with the aim to investigate whether consuming beetroot juice in addition to a normal diet produces a measurable reduction in Blood Pressure. It resulted in lowered systolic blood pressure after 6 hours of consumption for the group that was administered the Beetroot juice in comparison their baseline readings as well as to the placebo group. Beetroot juice will lower BP in men when consumed as part of a normal diet in free-living healthy adults.

Increases stamina and energy for exercise:

• A double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial performed in 2010 by the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, USA to determine whether whole beetroot consumption, for the purpose of increasing nitrate intake, improves endurance exercise performance. 11 recreationally fit men and women were used in this study and they each underwent two 5-km treadmill time trials in random sequence, once 75 minutes after consuming baked beetroot (200g) and once 75 minutes after consuming cranberry relish as a placebo. While no differences in exercise heart rate or velocity were observed between trials of the earlier portions of the 5km run, the endurance levels increased for the beetroot group in comparison to the placebo group.  
• A double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial performed in 2010 by the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, USA to determine whether whole beetroot consumption, for the purpose of increasing nitrate intake, improves endurance exercise performance. 11 recreationally fit men and women were used in this study and they each underwent two 5-km treadmill time trials in random sequence, once 75 minutes after consuming baked beetroot (200g) and once 75 minutes after consuming cranberry relish as a placebo. While no differences in exercise heart rate or velocity were observed between trials of the earlier portions of the 5km run, the endurance levels increased for the beetroot group in comparison to the placebo group.  

Anti-Inflammatory properties and joint function: a double blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical study conducted by the Applied BioClinical Inc., USA, to evaluate the effect of a betalain-rich red beet concentrate (BRC) on joint discomfort and joint function. 40 individuals (average age of 55 years) with self-reported knee discomfort were randomized and blinded to treatment with either oral BRC (50 mg twice a day) or placebo. Individuals receiving BRC had a 27% improvement in pain levels, and a 26% improvement in knee function, and a significant increase in energy levels than the placebo group.

Black Pepper | Piperine

Latin Name: Piper Nirgum
Part Of Plant Used: Dried Berries

Black pepper – a spice in every kitchen and in every meal. One of the oldest and the most loved spices, Black Pepper, which comes from the Sanskrit word pippali, or Piper Nirgum in Latin, was once known as black gold. It has been one of the most sought-after spices not only due to its ability to flavour foods, act as a preservative, and add heat to a dish but also because it offers a wide range of health benefits. Native to the tropical forests of the Malabar Coast in India, this spice is the dried unripe fruit of the peppercorn vine plant, and it has different coloration depending on when it is harvested. Black pepper being the most common, which is harvesting almost-ripe green peppercorns and leave them to dry until they turn black. Black Pepper has many traditional uses as a digestive aid and as a preserving agent. Black pepper contains a volatile oil, alkaloids (especially piperine which is responsible for the herb's unique taste and its healing properties), proteins, and trace minerals.

Key Benefits

• Black Pepper, contains an active constituent – piperine, which is used to boost the bioavailability of other herbs and spices. For example, piperine when added to a curcumin formulation has been shown to enhance the bioavailability or absorption of curcumin (the active ingredient of Turmeric) by up to 2000%. 
• Piperine is rich in a potent antioxidant which may help prevent free radical damage to your cells.
• Helps decrease inflammation 
• Boosts absorption of nutrients. Black pepper may increase the absorption of essential nutrients like calcium and selenium, as well some beneficial plant compounds, such as those found in green tea and turmeric.
• Helps promote gut health by increasing the good bacteria in your gut. The makeup of your gut bacteria has been linked to immune function, mood and several chronic diseases. 
• Piperine works a natural pain reliever 

History

Black Pepper dates back to over 4,000 years ago. This tiny, hard, nutlike berry became a precious form of commerce as it was valued so high, that the peppercorns were often used as a form of money along the trading routes. It was said that Christopher Columbus set sail to the New World, in the hope to find riches and pepper. Instead of peppercorns, he found chillies with a similar fiery, pungent flavour as Black Pepper. He brought them back to Europe and called them peppers, leading to the confusion between peppers and chillies that remains to this day. Although the spice originated in India, currently 39 % of all black pepper production comes from Vietnam. Indonesia produces about 15 %, and India and Brazil each produce about 10 %. 

Cultivation

Kerala, India.

Extraction Process 

Was carried out for 95% piperine using a 25:1 herb ratio.

Certifications

Clinical studies

Absorption of other nutrients: 

• The Department of Nutrition, Central Michigan University, USA conducted a study on the health benefits of curcumin. Most of these benefits can be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However ingesting curcumin by itself did not lead to the associated health benefits due to its poor bioavailability, which appears to be primarily due to poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and rapid elimination. It was concluded that piperine, which is the major active component of black pepper, when combined in a complex with curcumin, increase its bioavailability by 2000%, allowing the nutrients full potential to be utilized by the body.
• Sabinsa Corporation, USA and Our Lady of Mercy Medical Center, USA conducted a double-blind, crossover study to evaluate the effect of black piperine in improving the serum response of an oral supplementation of beta-carotene. The subjects of the trial were randomly administered a daily beta-carotene dose (15 mg) either with 5 mg of piperine or placebo during each of two 14-day periods. The results indicated a 60% increase in serum beta-carotene levels occurred during supplementation with beta-carotene plus piperine compared to beta-carotene and placebo. It was concluded that oral beta-carotene supplementation is improved through the non-specific, thermogenic property of piperine, described it as thermonutrient in action.