NF Formulas Phytofuge By Integrative Therapeutics Overview & Drug Interactions

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

"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.

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.

Cascara sagrada is a tree native to the Pacific coast of North America. The name "cascara sagrada" means "sacred bark" in Spanish. The bark of Cascara sagrada is used in traditional medicine most commonly as a laxative as it contains anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate the muscles in the walls of the intestines, increasing peristalsis and promoting bowel movements. It is also used as a treatment for hemorrhoids and is sometimes used as a natural remedy for liver and gallbladder problems.

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a popular culinary herb native to central Asia, but is now widely cultivated. It is a member of the onion family and is known for its pungent smell and flavor. In addition to its culinary use, it has been used medicinally to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and infections.

Clove is a spice commonly used in cooking and has a warm, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor. It is the dried flower bud of the clove tree, which is native to Indonesia. Clove has been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat respiratory and digestive conditions as well as an analgesic and antispasmodic. It is also very commonly utilized in topical preparations as an antimicrobial and an analgesic (especially for tooth-related pain).

Grapefruit is a tropical citrus fruit known for its tart and tangy flavor. They are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients, including vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. There are several varieties of grapefruits, including white, pink, and red. This color difference is mostly attributed to their respective lycopene content. White grapefruits are the most common and have a slightly bitter taste. Pink and red grapefruits are sweeter and have a more complex flavor. Grapefruit and grapefruit seed extract is commonly used in dietary supplements for a variety of conditions, such as yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections. It is also sometimes used to treat digestive problems, such as diarrhea and indigestion. Drug interactions with grapefruit are quite prevalent and if you take prescription medication, you should talk with your doctor or pharmacist first before consuming grapefruit.

Pumpkin is a type of squash native to North America. Pumpkin is a good source of nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It is also a rich source of antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Pumpkin has been used historically as a dietary supplement for supporting eye health, boosting the immune system, reducing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and helping to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Pumpkin is also a good source of fiber, which can help improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels. Both pumpkin and pumpkin seed extracts have been utilized for dietary supplement purposes.

Indian long pepper, also known as pippali or pipali, is a plant species native to India and other parts of South and Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Piperaceae family. The fruit of the plant, which has a pungent, slightly sweet flavor, is harvested and dried for use as a spice. Indian long pepper has also been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, pain, poor blood circulation, respiratory disorders, and fever. One of the constituents of Indian long pepper is piperine, which can have wide ranging effects, including increasing the bioavailability (i.e., rate and extent of absorption) of several different drugs. It is often combined with over-the-counter supplements, like turmeric, to increase their absorption.