BalanceMD By 1MD Nutrition Overview & Drug Interactions

Oregano is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant leaves and small, purple flowers. Oregano is commonly used in cooking and has a strong, slightly bitter flavor. In traditional medicine, oregano is believed to have a number of health benefits due to its high content of antioxidant and possible antimicrobial properties. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders. Most dietary supplements containing oregano are oregano oil extracts, often standardized to contain a specific amount of certain components, such as carvacrol.

Caprylic acid, also known as octanoic acid, is a medium-chain fatty acid that is found naturally in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is also available as a dietary supplement. Caprylic acid has been studied for its potential health benefits, particularly for its antimicrobial properties. Caprylic acid is also used for its supposed benefits for gut health, as it is thought to help balance gut bacteria, improve gut barrier function and reduce inflammation. Caprylic acid is 'Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)' in the United States.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of lactic acid-producing bacteria that is commonly found in the human gut, as well as in other areas of the body such as the mouth and vagina. L. acidophilus can also be found in fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir. It is commonly utilized in probiotic dietary supplements as it is considered a "friendly" or "beneficial" bacteria because it helps to maintain the balance of microorganisms in the body, and is purported to help improve digestion and boost the immune system. Some studies have suggested that L. acidophilus may also have a role in preventing and treating certain conditions such as diarrhea, vaginal yeast infections, and eczema.

Aloe vera is a plant species that is native to the Arabian Peninsula, but is widely cultivated in other hot, dry climates. It is known for its thick leaves, which contain multiple components, most notably 'aloe gel' and 'aloe latex'. The plant is used in a variety of health care products, including skin care products, cosmetics, and dietary supplements. In traditional medicine, aloe vera is used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including skin conditions, wounds, and digestive problems. It is also used to improve hair and scalp health, and as a natural remedy for constipation.

Arabinogalactans are long, densely branched, high-molecular weight polysaccharides found in many plants, with the highest concentrations in larch trees. Larch arabinogalactan, specifically obtained from the western larch (Larix occidentalis) and eastern larch (Larix laricina), is approximately 98% arabinogalactan. This polysaccharide has a range of potential health benefits, including serving as a soluble, non-viscous fiber that ferments in the gut, potentially increasing beneficial gut bacteria like Lactobacillus. Additionally, larch arabinogalactan has been investigated for its possible role in drug delivery systems due to its water solubility and numerous hydroxyl groups, which may enhance the bioavailability of drugs like ibuprofen. Moreover, preliminary research suggests immunostimulatory effects, such as increased natural killer cell activity and enhanced immune response to certain vaccines.

Anise, also known as Pimpinella anisum, is an herb native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. The seeds are known for their mildly sweet, licorice-like flavor. The main compound in anise responsible for the licorice-like taste and odor is anethole. Anise seeds are often used in baking and liquors. It is especially popular during the winter holiday season. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory disorders, and insomnia. Anise is also used as a natural remedy for cough, sore throat, and other respiratory problems.

"Wormwood" can refer to various plants, including Artemisia absinthium, commonly known as wormwood, which is used in herbal medicine and historically in the production of absinthe. This aromatic herb is known for its bitter taste and strong, pungent aroma. Wormwood has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, such as digestive issues and parasitic infections. However, its consumption should be done with caution due to its potentially toxic compounds, such as thujone, which can have adverse effects in large quantities. It has a rich history in traditional medicine and is also famous for its association with the intriguing history of absinthe, a potent alcoholic beverage.

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) is a type of mushroom native to Asia. It is a relatively tough mushroom with a shiny, reddish-brown exterior and a bitter, woody taste. Reishi mushroom is popular in traditional medicine, with a history of use dating back several thousand years. It is purported to have a number of health benefits, including the ability to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being.