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Maca (Lepidium meyenii or Lepidium peruvianum)
Is a cruciferous root vegetable native to the high Andes of Peru and Bolivia, belonging to the same family as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, radish and turnip. It is the only edible plant with the ability to grow at altitudes of 9,000 to 14,500 feet and survive the harsh weather conditions, rocky soil and thin air. Maca has been cultivated for over a thousand years and has historically been used by indigenous Andean inhabitants as an adaptogen to improve stamina, endurance and energy, alleviate the effects of stress, balance hormones, improve mood, reduce menopausal and premenstrual symptoms and increase virility. Maca is a source of approximately 60 phytonutrients including alkaloids, tannins, saponins and glucosinolates.

Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake mushroom is an edible mushroom containing beta-glucans and glycosides which possess immune enhancing effects including activating immunocompetent cells and enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses in experimental animals. Evidence indicates immunomodulatory effects in humans. Maitake is used as a food in Japan.

Manganese
An essential trace mineral found in mostly in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, dried fruits and nuts. There are several manganese depended enzymes, one of which is necessary for glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Glycosaminoglycans are components that surround collagen, elastic fibers and cells and are important for connective tissue synthesis such as collagen. Manganese is also necessary for the activation of enzymes associated with fat, protein, carbohydrate and urea metabolism.

Magnesium
An essential mineral vital in more than 300 enzyme-catalyzed reactions including ATP, DNA and RNA synthesis and metabolism. It is important for bone development, an important contributor in nerve and heart function and involved in the release of insulin from the pancreas and the action of insulin on cells. It is vital for cardiovascular and muscle function, helps regulate insulin and blood sugar, and is essential for energy production and cell division.

Magnolia extract – Standardized to honokiol. (bark - Magnolia officinalis)
A widely used herb. One of the active constituents of this extract, honokiol, is a lignan (plant phenol) derivative that has potent antioxidant activity. It has also been found to exhibit a relaxation and anxiolytic, effect and to increase acetylcholine in the hippocampus of experimental animals.

Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is a moderately sweet polysaccharide produced from cornstarch and used as a food additive. Being absorbed as rapidly as glucose, it is easily digestible and is a good source of rapid energy.

Maqui berry
This berry is the small purple-black fruit of a small evergreen tree, Aristotelia chilensis, native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and adjacent regions of southern Argentina. Commonly known as Chilean Wineberry or Maqui, the berry has been traditionally used as a food and in the native herbal medicine of the Mapuche Indians of Chile. The berries are a source of polyphenols, principally anthocyanins.

MariPlex-PG
A proprietary blend consisting of:
Chondroitin sulfate – a glycosaminoglycan found primarily in the bones, cartilage and connective tissue that may help support the re-forming of cartilage; Shark cartilage concentrate – obtained from the skeletal structure of sharks, contains glycosaminoglycans;
N-acetylglucosamine – a derivative of the amino sugar glucosamine found as structural component of cell walls.

Medium chain triglycerides
Edible C8 – C12 fatty acids esterfied with glycerol which are rapidly absorbed and rapidly oxidized. They provide rapid energy replenishment.

Melatonin
A derivative of L-tryptophan naturally produced in the brain that plays a central role in sleep and regulates the body’s circadian rhythms. A number of studies report that supplementation with low doses of melatonin may exert immediate sleep-inducing effects. It also functions as an antioxidant and may play a role in immune function.

Metabolically balanced protein blend
A special protein blend consisting of whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein concentrate and branched-chain amino acids (L-leucine, L-isoleucine, L-valine). It is an important energy source, crucial in functions such as formation of muscles, bones, skin and organs, blood clotting, maintenance of fluid balance, regulation of pH balance in the blood, hormone and enzyme production, immune function, formation of visual pigments and cell repair.

Milk thistle extract – Standardized to silymarin. (fruit - Silybum marianum)
A plant native to the Mediterranean which grows wild throughout Europe, North America and Australia. Silymarin, a potent hepatoprotectant and antioxidant is a primary component of the plant extract. Following an oral administration of silymarin, the three pharmacologically active flavones of silymarin, namely, silybin, silydianin, and silychristin, can be detected in the plasma. Oral administration of silymarin has been reported to increase superoxide dismutase activity in the erythrocytes and lymphocytes of certain human subjects. The hepatoprotective properties of silymarin are considered to be partly due to its inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Moomiyo – Standardized to polyphenols
A humic adaptogen that is a complex mixture of minerals, amino acids, polyphenolic resins, fatty acids, vitamins and plant sterols. It supports epithelial cell health and helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Selected studies have demonstrated adaptogenic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, anxiolytic, nootropic and antihistaminic properties.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
The oxidized form of dimethyl-sulfoxide (DMSO), MSM is an organic sulfur-containing compound that occurs naturally in a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains and animals including humans. It provides support for the immune system and aids in sulfur metabolism, particularly in connective tissue.

MycoFusions^® Maitake, Reishi and Shiitake mushroom Purple Corn mycelial biomass
MycoFusions® mushroom Purple Corn mycelial biomass are nutraceutical ingredients produced from several species of medicinal mushrooms grown naturally on deeply pigmented purple corn kernels. Key nutrients from the corn are absorbed by the mushrooms through a novel fermentation process. This patented process results in mushroom superfoods which not only contain glyconutrients such as beta-glycan normally found in mushrooms, but also powerful phytonutrients from the purple corn including anthocyanins and antioxidants. The merging of the health supporting properties of both plants produces nutraceutical products with unique blends of properties and benefits.
see Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa)
see Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
see Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes)

N-Acetylcysteine
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a thiolic antioxidant. It exhibits a wide range of cellular effects. NAC modulates cytokine levels in immune cells and stimulates macrophage functions. NAC is a precursor for glutathione synthesis and stimulates cytosolic enzyme activities involved in the glutathione cycle, such as glutathione reductase, which enhances the rate of glutathione regeneration. It can act by direct reaction between its reducing thiol group and reactive oxygen species. NAC prevents programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cultured neuronal cells. NAC increases mitochondrial complex I and IV specific activities both in vitro and in vivo in synaptic mitochondrial preparations from aged mice. Glutathione, the principal thiolic compound in the cell, plays a key role in cellular homeostasis since its loss is accompanied by cell death because of lipid peroxidation and protein-thiol decline. NAC delays age-associated memory impairment in mice. It plays a role in increasing the function of synaptic mitochondria. It also protects against age-related decline of oxidative phosphorylation in the liver mitochondria of mice. In one study, NAC significantly reduced the levels of plasma homocysteine in human subjects.

Naringin extract
Naringin is one of the citrus bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids are colorful pigments found in plants, which belong to a larger group of phytochemicals called polyphenols. Naringin appears to influence lipid metabolism by helping activate fatty acid oxidation and helping inhibit synthesis of triglycerides and fatty acids in the liver.

Nettles extract (leaf - Urtica dioica)
Nettle, or stinging nettle, is a perennial plant growing in temperate and tropical areas around the world. Nettle has a well-known reputation for giving a painful sting when skin come in contact with the hairs and bristles on the leaves and stems. It is a common ingredient in herbal products produced in Germany for rheumatic complaints and inflammatory conditions, especially for urinary tract and prostate. Nettle's main chemicals include acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeic acids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, formic acid, histamine, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, serotonin, sitosterols, succinic acid, and terpenes.

Niacin
B vitamin important in all steps essential for energy production and utilization, tissue and organ function. Niacin is involved in making important tissue and body components. Niacin also promotes release of energy from foods and proper nervous system functioning.

Oatgrass extract (leaf/stem - Avena sativa)
The well-known cereal grass from which the grain oats are obtained. Besides utilizing the grain of this grass as food, the leaves and stalks of the exhibit beneficial properties. Oat grasses are used to assist in managing stress and anxiety and contain many nutrients the body requires to build itself including manganese, zinc, silicon, calcium, phosphorus and vitamins A, B-1, B-2 and E.

Olive Leaf
Olive Leaf - Olea europaea L., an evergreen tree characterized by gray-green leaves and small, dark purple oval fruit, is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean basin. The olive tree has been esteemed throughout history and documentation of traditional medicinal uses abound. Primary constituents are secoindoids including oleuropein, as well as hydroxytyrosol and various polyphenols, triterpenes and flavonoids. Olive leaves have been demonstrated to have antimicrobial-particularly antiviral, antioxidant, vasodilatory, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and cardiovascular benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids
Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids essential to the maintenance of health.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) – an omega-3 fatty acid (C20:5) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – an omega-3 fatty acid (C22:6) present in large amounts in fish oils. Both are inefficiently synthesized in the body from alpha-linolenic acid and are metabolized to eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are hormone-like compounds such as thromboxane, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, that are important regulators of vital body functions such as blood pressure, smooth muscle contraction (e.g., labor and heart rhythm), blood clotting, immune response inflammation and secretions of the stomach. DHA is especially present in the retina and brain.

L-Ornithine
L-ornithine is a nonessential amino acid that is important in the urea cycle. It is produced in the body when L-arginine is metabolized during the production of urea. L-ornithine may play a role in protein synthesis through the enhanced production of human growth hormone. Ornithine naturally occurs in fish, meat, eggs and dairy.

Pantothenic acid, Vitamin B-5
A B vitamin involved in the metabolism and efficient utilization of fats, hormones, and components necessary for immune function. Involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates, and the formation and breakdown of fatty acids in the body.

Passionflower (herb/flower - Passiflora incarnata)
Passionflower is a perennial creeping vine, native to the tropical and semi-tropical southern United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. It is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, including Florida, Guatemala, and India. Studies have pointed to the flavonoids in passionflower as the primary constituents responsible for its relaxing and anxiolytic effects.

Peanuts (seed - Arachis hypogaea)
Widely cultivated in tropical and warm temperate regions around the world, having yellow flowers on stalks that bend over so that the seed pods ripen underground. The edible, nutlike, oily seed of this plant is used for food and as a source of oil. Peanut flour (partially defatted) is made by removing much of the oil and grinding the de-fatted residue into a fine powder. This powder is available in a range of roast levels, imparting upon products anything from bland to extremely strong peanut flavor. This ingredient provides a good source of protein to be used in formulations having a peanut flavor with reduced oil and fat content.

L-Phenylalanine
An essential amino acid involved in protein synthesis and the synthesis of L-tyrosine that serves as a precursor of epinephrine and thyroxine. Helps improve mental energy and focus.

Phase 2^®
Phase 2 is a natural extract of white kidney bean, Phaseolus vulgaris, clinically demonstrated to delay the digestion and absorption of starchy carbohydrates without affecting the digestion of healthy carbs such as fruit and whole grains. Studies have shown that Phase 2 inhibits the activity of the digestive enzyme, alpha amylase, and allows a portion of ingested carbohydrates to pass through the digestive system without being broken down into a form the body can readily utilize. This inhibitory process may help lower the glycemic index and reduce the caloric impact of ingested carbohydrate foods. Phase 2 may assist in weight control when used in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program.

PhosphoLean™
PhosphoLean is a proprietary complex of N-oleoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine (NOPE) derived from soy phospholipid and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from standardized green tea extract. This patented blend is associated with decreased appetite and satiety, increased fat oxidation and supports metabolic efficiency. (PhosphoLean™ is a registered trademark of Chemi Nutra and is protected under US Patent No. 20100179107 and other patents pending.)

Phosphorus
An essential mineral that participates in pH balance and is a component of many enzyme systems. It is essential for energy metabolism, enhances use of other nutrients, is an important component in phospholipids in cell membranes, is critical for bone and tooth enamel development and helps regulate fluid balance.

Phytosterols
Plants produce sterols similar to cholesterol in the animal world to stabilize their cell walls. While structurally similar to cholesterol, phytosterols reduce the serum levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is associated with atherosclerosis. They presumably act by blocking cholesterol absorption. Phytosterols are found in a variety of plants including canola, sunflower, cotton and corn as well as others. Examples of phytosterols include beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol.

Polydextrose
Polydextrose is a polysaccharide synthesized by random polymerization of glucose, sorbitol, and a suitable acid catalyst at a high temperature and partial vacuum. It is used widely in many countries as a bulking agent and as a lower-energy ingredient in a variety of foods. Polydextrose is not digested or absorbed in the small intestine, and a large portion is excreted in the feces. Studies with polydextrose show physiologic effects consistent with those of dietary fiber. Polydextrose is partially fermented in the large intestine, leading to increased fecal bulk, reduced transit time, softer stools, and lower fecal pH (4–9). Fermentation of polydextrose also leads to the growth of favorable microflora, diminished putrefactive microflora, and enhanced production of short-chain fatty acids.

Potassium
A vital mineral element that helps maintain fluid balance in the body and supports metabolic processes leading to energy production. Potassium is the principal positive ion inside of cells of the body and is involved in nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and normal kidney function. A deficiency of potassium causes weakness, fatigue, heart arrhythmias, paralysis, and kidney malfunctions.

Potassium bicarbonate
The potassium salt of bicarbonate. It produces improved mineral balance, reduces bone resorption and increases the rate of bone formation.

Probiotic culture
A blend of seven kinds of beneficial bacterial microorganisms of human origin consisting of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis, Bifidobacterium bificum, Bifidobacterium longum, and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, This probiotic culture provides strains for the entire intestinal tract (large and small intestines), has natural gastric and bile resistence and is freeze dried for further shelf stability. Clinical studies have demonstrated pathogen inhibition profiles for strains in this culture.

Protein and peptide concentrate
A special protein blend consisting of whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein isolate, L-glutamine, L-lysine, L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine. It is an important energy source, crucial in functions such as formation of muscles, bones, skin and organs, blood clotting, maintenance of fluid balance, regulation of pH balance in the blood, hormone and enzyme production, immune function, formation of visual pigments and cell repair

Protein
Protein is made from building blocks called amino acids linked together in a chain. Of the 20 amino acids found in the body, nine are "essential" because they have to be consumed in the diet (the body cannot make them). Proteins perform myriad essential functions for the body including supplying energy and building and repairing tissues. They are highly complex organic compounds found in all living cells and comprising the most abundant class of all biological molecules. Protein comprises approximately 50% of cellular dry weight.

Psyllium husk powder
Psyllium is the common name used for several members of the plant genus Plantago whose seeds are used commercially as a 100 percent natural fiber that helps restore regularity. Psyllium is highly absorbent and has a high viscosity.

Pyridoxine HCL
(See Vitamin B-6)