PLANTAIN MUCILAGE (PLANTAGO OVATA) is an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fiber rich in mucilage which increases bulk by retaining water. This absorbing action, which increases the volume of intestinal contents, encourages the reflex activity of the bowel and cleanses the colon.1, 2 Lack of fiber is the single most important cause of constipation.3

Fiber also promotes the growth of friendly bacteria in the colon necessary to keep harmful bacteria in check as well as enhancing digestion and synthesizing B vitamins.4

Plantain aids in weight loss by limiting caloric intake, due to its appetite satiating effect,5 and by reduced intestinal absorption of lipids (fats).6

Plantain causes a decrease in triglycerides and beta (bad) cholesterol with a proportional increase of serum levels of alpha (good) cholesterol.7 Since deficiency in the latter substance has been implicated in obesity8, Type II diabetes and atheroscleroisis9, it is likely that Plantain mucilage provides some protection against those diseases.

APPLE PECTIN is a source of quality water-soluble fiber which removes heavy metals and toxins, decreases cholesterol levels and fat absorption.10

Nutrients including sugars and carbohydrates are absorbed by Pectin and released in the intestinal tract over a longer period of time, thereby increasing energy efficiency and producing a much slower rise in blood sugar levels.11 There is evidence that the regular use of Pectin may lessen the severity of diabetes.12

RHUBARB ROOT (RHEUM OFFICINALE EXTRACT) is an unusual medicinal herb combining cathartic with astringent properties. Since the cathartic effect precedes the astringent, the latter does not interfere with the former. First it relieves constipation, then checks bowel evacuation through its astringent property.13 Rhubarb also stimulates the musculature of the wall lining whereby peristalsis and bowel emptying are increased.14 Rhubarb has also been shown to inhibit bacteria15, 16, hemorrhoids17 and upper digestive tract bleeding.18

ALFALFA (MEDICAGO SATIVA) contains saponins, sterols, flavonoids, vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and trace elements and is one of the most nutritious foods known. Alfalfa has been shown to possess anti-bacterial action against salmonella typhi19 and contains one protein with known anti-tumor activity.20 Alfalfa is also a fiber and, along with Apple pectin, has been shown to bind and neutralize various types of agents carcinogenic to the colon.21

FENUGREEK (TRIGONELLA FOENUM-GRAECUM) has been used in folk medicine as a digestive aid, to allay stomach pains, and to stimulate liver function. In 1984, scientists discovered that the seeds stimulate general pancreatic secretion which, as a by-product, would improve digestion.22 The seeds also reduce cholesterol.23 Fenugreek seed has large amounts of the amino acids lysine, tryptophan, leucine, histidine and arginine, which may contribute to better digestion and assimilation of nutrients.24

Fenugreek seed given twice daily to insulin-dependent diabetics resulted in significant reduction in fasting blood sugar and improved glucose tolerance test results.25

GINGER ROOT (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE EXTRACT) plays an important role in this formulation. It counterbalances the discomforting effects of colon reflex activity and helps restore and normalize proper tone and reflex faculty to the gastro-intestinal tract.26 It is important to use a colon cleanser that revitalizes sick and flaccid muscles and glands. Ginger root helps accomplish this27 and has been clinically proven to decrease nausea and diarrhea associated with the common three-day or 24-hour type flu. Ginger root has also been shown to normalize peristalsis.28

Ginger works to lower cholesterol by promoting its excretion and impairing its absorption.29

LICORICE ROOT (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA EXTRACT) has significant anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activity.30 Licorice enhances the action of corticosteroids such as prednisone and prednisolone, as well as the levels of the body's own corticosteroids.31, Further, glycyrrhizin acid induces interferon, the body's natural antiviral compound.32 Licorice flavonoids stimulate the normal defense mechanisms that prevent ulcer formation. Specifically, these flavonoids improves both the quality and quantity of the protective substances that line the intestinal tract, increase the life span of the intestinal cell, and improves the blood supply to the intestinal lining.33, 34

BARBERRY (BERBERIS VULGARIS EXTRACT) is an effective antimicrobial agent against a wide range of organisms, including candida albicans.35 Its therapeutic action is related to its high content of the alkaloid berberine and has similar properties to goldenseal root, another berberine containing herb.

Berberine has shown strong immune stimulating activity. It is a potent activator of macrophages,36 the cells responsible for destroying bacteria, viruses, yeast and tumor cells.

CHAMOMILE (ANTHEMIS NOBILIS EXTRACT) is a proven carminative37 and mild calmative.38 As such, it aids in alleviating cramping and removes gas from the gastro-intestinal tract. Other proven actions of Chamomile include anti-ulcer39, anti-inflammatory40, antibacterial and antimycotic effects.41

Chamomile has been used against benign as well as malignant tumors and carcinomas of the liver, stomach, mouth, skin and brain.42

COLEUS FORSKOHLII (18% FORSKOLIN EXTRACT) has immense pharmacological applications. Several clinical studies have suggested that forskolin may lower blood pressure significantly as well as improve heart function in patients.43, 44 Forskolin has been shown to stimulate lipolysis (the breakdown of stored fat) as well as inhibit the synthesis of fat in adipocytes.45,46 Forskolin also counteracts the decreased response of fat cells to lipolytic hormones, such as epinephrine, associated with aging.47

Forskolin stimulates digestive secretions and has been shown to promote nutrient absorption in the small intestine.48

Forskolin exhibits potent immune system enhancement, primarily through activation of macrophages and lymphocytes.49