Advanced Formula #220 By Indiana Botanic Gardens Overview & Drug Interactions

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several bodily processes. It helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for healthy bones and teeth. It is also important for immune system function and may help to protect against certain diseases. Vitamin D is found in a variety of foods, including fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal. It is also produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age, sex, and other factors, and it is important to follow the dosage recommendations provided by a healthcare professional. There are several different forms of vitamin D available, with the two most popular being ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3).

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a small, aromatic shrub native to Central and South America, known for its historical use in traditional medicine and as an aphrodisiac. The plant produces small, yellow flowers and has a long history of traditional use among indigenous peoples. Damiana leaves are commonly dried and brewed as an herbal tea, believed to have mild stimulant and relaxant properties.

Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is a plant species belonging to the Ericacea family, and is native to North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It is a low-growing shrub with small, white flowers and edible red berries. The leaves of the plant are often used in traditional medicine as they are thought to have various medicinal properties, such as astringent, diuretic, and antimicrobial effects. Medicinally, Uva ursi is most often used to treat urinary tract infections and other urinary problems, as well as skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. It is also sometimes used to promote weight loss and as a natural remedy for kidney stones. In dietary supplements, Uva ursi is often standardized with a specific amount of Arbutin (usually around 20%), a constituent of the plant.

Vinpocetine is a synthetic compound that is derived from the alkaloid vincamine, which is found in the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor). It is used as a dietary supplement and is claimed to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving memory and cognitive function, increasing blood flow to the brain, and reducing inflammation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in 2019, issued a warning that those who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should avoid vinpocetine due to safety concerns.