Bio-Assist By Return Healthy Overview & Drug Interactions

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a plant belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. The plant is known for its milk-white veins on the leaves, which gives it its name. Milk thistle has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and is extremely popular as a dietary supplement, making it one of the most well-known plants in the world. It is purported to have liver-protectant effects and has been used to treat liver disorders such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It has also been used to treat gallbladder problems and high cholesterol. While there are a number of compounds in milk thistle, one of the active constituents, silymarin, is thought to be responsible for many of its effects, and dietary supplements often report using a standardized amount (generally 70% to 80% silymarin in extracts).

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is widely cultivated for its fragrant leaves and its culinary uses. Sage has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is purported to have a number of potential health benefits. It is thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and skin problems. Sage is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.

Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.

Grapes are widely grown and cultivated for a variety of uses such as for food and beverage making (e.g., wine). They also have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The fruit and skin of grapes contain various compounds that are believed to have health benefits, including antioxidants such as resveratrol and flavonoids. These compounds may help to protect cells from damage and are purported to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Grapes and grape products may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body and potentially improve symptoms of certain conditions. Grape seed extracts are also commonly used as a dietary supplement and are often standardized according to the content of polyphenols or proanthocyanidins.

Buchu is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Barosma species and is native to South Africa. It contains small, fragrant leaves, which are known for their strong, distinctive aroma. The leaves of the buchu shrub are commonly processed into oil, extracts, and dried preparations, which are used for a variety of purposes, including as fragrances and flavoring for foods. Buchu is also used in traditional medicine for its purported diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Fennel is a plant species in the carrot family and native to the Mediterranean region. Fennell seeds are often used as a spice, and other parts as food. Fennel has a distinctive, sweet, licorice-like flavor and is often used in cooking to add flavor to dishes such as sauces, salads, and baked goods. It is used in traditional medicine as a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. It has also been used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.