Immune Support By NaturesPlus 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).

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is involved in many important physiological processes, including immune system function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and whole grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. Zinc supplements may be used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Zinc supplements may also be used for other purposes, such as to boost the immune system, improve acne, and reduce the severity and duration of colds. There are several different forms of zinc supplements available, including zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc sulfate. The most common form of zinc supplements is zinc gluconate, which is well absorbed and is less likely to cause stomach-related side effects than other forms of zinc.

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.

Astragalus is a genus of plants native to Asia and Northern Africa, and is known for its small, yellow or purple flowers and its long, tapering root. In traditional medicine, astragalus has been used to boost the immune system and treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. It is commonly referred to as an 'adaptogen', which are theorized to help the body resist stress.

Olive contains compounds like polyphenols, particularly hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, which have antioxidant properties that can help combat oxidative stress in the body. Olive supplements may support heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. Additionally, they may have anti-inflammatory effects and potentially aid in weight management.

Maitake mushrooms, also known as Grifola frondosa or "hen of the woods," are a type of edible mushroom native to Japan and parts of China and North America. They have a distinctive, fan-shaped appearance and are often found growing at the base of trees. Maitake mushrooms are known for their flavor and texture, as well as their purported health benefits. They are high in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and blood sugar-regulating effects. In traditional Japanese medicine, maitake mushrooms have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes. Supplements containing maitake mushrooms often highlight the "D-fraction" of beta-glucan and a type of protein called "SX-fraction".

Andrographis is a type of plant native to Asia and is commonly used in traditional medicine. It is a member of the Acanthaceae family and is sometimes referred to as "Indian echinacea." Andrographis is believed to have a number of potential health benefits and is often used to treat infections, such as the common cold and flu, as well as other health conditions. Studies have shown that Andrographis contains a number of compounds, and dietary supplements are often standardized with a specific amount of one in particular, andrographolide.