ProGreens By Allergy Research Group Overview & Drug Interactions

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found naturally in a variety of foods, including vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin E is also available as a dietary supplement and is often added to skincare products. Vitamin E has many roles in the body, including protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting immune function.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are a type of aquatic microorganism. The term 'blue-green algae' can refer to many different types of algae, including Arthrospira genus, which is known as spirulina, and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, commonly known as 'Klamath', as it is found in Klamath Lake, Oregon. Blue-green algae contain several different nutrients, including vitamins A, B6, B12, E, and K, iron, manganese, zinc, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, copper, selenium, and chromium. Blue-green algae have been shown in some samples to be contaminated with several types of toxins, including microcystins and heavy metals, so it is important to only take supplements that are properly tested, processed, and produced.

Barley, a widely used grain renowned for its high fiber content, serves both as a staple food and an ingredient in brewing various types of alcoholic beverages. Research suggests that barley's dietary fiber may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Studies indicate that daily consumption of 3-12 grams of barley can help lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in adults with hypercholesterolemia. A key component of barley is beta-glucans, a soluble fiber known for its health benefits. Barley also contains tocopherols and tocotrienols, forms of vitamin E with antioxidant properties that further enhance its nutritional value. Moreover, barley contains hordenine and lunasin, compounds under study for their potential health-promoting effects.

Alfalfa, also known as Lucerne, is a perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to southwestern Asia and the Mediterranean region, but it is now grown in many parts of the world, mainly as a forage crop for livestock. Alfalfa is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, E, and K, and manganese. It also contains coumestrol, a phytoestrogen. It has been used as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions, such as arthritis and high cholesterol. It may also help treat gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), asthma, menstrual irregularities, as well as bladder, kidney, and prostate issues.

Chlorella is a type of single-celled green algae found in freshwater which contains several different vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, such as carotenoids, zeaxanthin, lutein, fiber, nucleic acids, B12, B6, methyl cobalamine, folate, vitamin K, iron, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Chlorella is purported to have detoxifying properties and is often used as a supplement to help support the liver and kidneys. It is also thought to have immune-boosting effects and may help to reduce inflammation.

Acerola, also known as the Barbados cherry or West Indian cherry, is a small, red fruit that is native to Central and South America. The fruit is known for its high levels of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Acerola is commonly used as a supplement to increase vitamin C intake and it is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and powders. It is also often found in juice, jams, and other food products.

Beetroot is a type of root vegetable belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family. It is commonly consumed as a food and utilized as a dietary supplement. Beetroot supplements are purported to have a number of potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide, improving exercise performance, and reducing inflammation. Dietary supplements containing beetroot are generally in powdered form, and are sometimes standardized by their nitrate content.

Royal jelly is a thick, milky substance produced by worker bees. It is fed to the queen bee during the larval stage of her life, and it is believed to play a key role in her development and fertility. Royal jelly is rich in nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a good source of antioxidants. Royal jelly is often utilized as used as a dietary supplement as it is purported to have a number of potential health benefits. It is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is sometimes used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin conditions, asthma, and menopausal symptoms. It is also used to boost the immune system and improve physical and mental performance.

Bee pollen is a natural product collected by bees from flowers and used as a dietary supplement due to its rich nutrient content. People consume bee pollen in the form of granules, capsules, or powder to boost energy, support the immune system, and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is believed to offer various health benefits and is often used as a superfood supplement to complement a balanced diet.

Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is a plant native to Asia and a member of the Araliaceae family. It is also commonly known as 'Siberian ginseng' or 'eleuthero root'. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine for its purported ability to improve physical and mental performance, boost the immune system, and reduce fatigue. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Eleuthero is often referred to as an 'adaptogen'. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist stress. It is important to note that although eleuthero is known as 'Siberian ginseng', it is not related to Panax ginseng.

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'.

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.

Echinacea is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the daisy family and is native to cental and eastern North America. It is known for its purple, cone-shaped flowers. In traditional medicine, echinacea has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. It is believed to work by stimulating the immune system and helping the body to fight off infection. Some studies have suggested that echinacea may be effective at reducing the severity and duration of colds and other respiratory infections, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

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).

Dandelion is a plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and is known for its distinctive, bright yellow flowers and puffy, white seed heads. Although considered a weed by many, it is considered valuable for a number of reasons as it can be used as food, in medicine, and to attract pollinators. Dandelion has a long history of use as a medicinal plant. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including liver and gallbladder problems, kidney disorders, skin conditions, and digestive issues. It is also purported to have a diuretic effect and dietary supplements containing dandelion often market it for being able to help reduce water retention.

Dulse, a red seaweed found along the rocky coasts of northern Europe, northern Japan, and North America, is not only a part of various cuisines but is also gaining attention for potential health benefits. While generally considered safe in normal food amounts, caution is advised when considering medicinal use, especially during pregnancy or lactation, as there is limited safety information available. Dulse contains relatively high levels of potassium, iodine, protein, and various polyphenols. Some research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory effects, though its impact on lipid levels is still under investigation.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a tree native to Asia and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. The extract of the ginkgo leaf is commonly used in traditional medicine and is one of the most popular dietary supplements consumed worldwide. Its most common use is to help improve memory and cognitive function.

Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is native to Asia and is widely consumed throughout the world. Green tea has a mild, slightly grassy flavor and is typically lighter in color and less astringent than black tea. Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly a group of compounds called catechins. These antioxidants are thought to help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Green tea is also a good source of other nutrients, including vitamin C and several B vitamins. Green tea is often consumed for a number of purported health benefits including reducing the risk of heart disease, immune-stimulating effects, and weight loss. Oral green tea supplements, containing dried powder, are most often utilized for the caffeine content and used as an appetite suppressant for weight loss.

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.

Bilberry is a small, perennial shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family and is native to Europe, the northern United States, and Canada. It is known for its small, dark purple berries, which are similar in appearance to blueberries. The name bilberry is derived from the Danish word 'bollebar', meaning "dark berry". Bilberry is high in antioxidants, including flavonoids, and are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and manganese. Bilberry has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is claimed to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving vision, reducing inflammation, and treating diarrhea.

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'.