Research now reveals an increasingly important role of the brain in controlling

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The Immune System

Immune CNS

 

Research now reveals an increasingly important role of the brain and

central nervous system in controlling the immune response. This CNS-

immune system interaction must be taken into account when designing

a supplement to enhance immune system function. The role of the

adrenal glands, in regulating the sympathetic and parasympathetic

nervous system must be addressed as well. This is especially

important when considering problems such as chronic fatigue

syndrome.

 

Immune CNS is designed to be used in addition to a well balanced

multi-vitamin multi-mineral supplement. It can also be used,

synergistically with an antioxidant blend, such as Lipoxidant

Complex, a high-potency, standardized Echinacea supplement, and

additional vitamin C if desired.

 

DHA

 

DHA is the primary structural fatty acid in the gray matter of the

brain and promotes communication between brain cells by allowing

synapses to remain soft and functional.

 

" Supplementing the diet of individuals suffering from immune-related

disorders has proven that omega-3 fats such as EPA and DHA can have

a profound role in diminishing unwanted inflammation and building up

immune function. ...In 1994, an article published in Medical

Hypothesis demonstrated that offering supplements of omega-3 fats

and gamma linoleic acid (GLA) from primrose or borage oil

significantly improved the immune systems of patients with Chronic

Fatigue Syndrome... " 1

 

Astragalus Root Extract

 

" Astragalus root is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat

viral infections. Clinical studies in China have shown it to be

effective when used as a preventive measure against the common cold.

It has also been shown to reduce the duration and severity of

symptoms in acute treatment of the common cold, as well as raise

white blood cell counts in chronic leukopenia (a condition

characterized by low white blood cell levels).

 

" Research in animals indicates that astragalus apparently works by

stimulating several factors of the immune system: phagocytic

activity of monocytes and macrophages; interferon production and

natural killer cell activity; T-cell activity; and other antiviral

mechanisms. Astragalus appears particularly useful in cases where

the immune system has been damaged by chemicals or radiation (e.g.,

in patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment). As

with Echinacea, the polysaccharides contained in the root of

Astragalus membranaceus contribute to the immune-enhancing

effects. " 2

....a new product from Willner Chemists:

 

Immune CNS

 

Immune CNS is an advanced blend of nutrients and herbs designed to

support the healthy function of the immune system, with special

consideration to the role of the brain/central nervous system.

Immune CNS is especially helpful to those suffering from Chronic

Fatigue Syndrome and related conditions.

 

Three (3) Tablets provide:

DHA (Neuromins - algae & fish oil 30 mg

Standardized Astragalus root Ext

(70% polysaccharides) 75 mg

Standardized Olive Leaf Ext (6% oleuropein) 75 mg

Standardized Deglycyrrhized Licorice Root Extract

(1.5% glycyrrhizin) 75 mg

Standardized Korean Ginseng Root Extract

(8% ginsenosides) 75 mg

Reishi Mushroom Extract (3:1) 75 mg

Shiitake Mushroom Extract (3:1) 75 mg

Fruit Polyphenols 50 mg

(40% OligoPhenolics from apricot, apple, prune,

pomegranate, cherry)

NAC (n-acetyl-cysteine) 250 mg

Vitamin C (mineral Ascorbates) 200 mg

Selenium (yeast free, I-selenomethionine) 50 mcg

Zinc (fully reacted glycinate chelate) 15 mg

Pantothenic Acid 15 mg

Magnesium (fully reacted glycinate chelate) 200 mg

 

 

Available in bottles of 50 Tablets,

Product Code: 30444

 

Olive Leaf Extract

 

" Olive leaf contains a biologically active compound, elenolic acid,

which has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. It disrupts

the growth of bacteria and viruses and also stimulates the activity

of important cells in the immune system that fight infection. " 3

 

" One of the hottest new infection fighters isn't new at all. Doctors

used olive leaf as long ago as 1927 to knock out malaria. Calcium

enolate, the leaf's most active ingredient, is an extraordinarily

effective killer of viruses and bacteria. It also keeps latent

viruses from emerging.

 

" The leaf offers at least some relief, if not complete recovery,

from the entire rogues' gallery of microbial ailments pneumonia,

gonorrhea, tuberculosis, influenza, viral encephalitis, viral

meningitis, hepatitis B, shingles, herpes, and Epstein-Barr. It's

also a worthwhile treatment for urinary infections, surgical

infections and any sort of bacterial infection. But olive leaf also

destroys yeast infections at the same time. " 4

 

Deglycyrrhized Licorice Root

 

" ...The dramatic anti-inflammatory action of its main chemical

constituent, glycyrrhizin, slows the deterioration of the body's own

inflammation-fighting adrenal steroids and magnifies the power of

other herbs. Research backs its use in treating rheumatoid

arthritis, allergies, bronchial disorders, viruses, mouth sores,

chronic fatigue, blood sugar imbalances, and several skin

afflictions, including eczema, dermatitis, and impetigo. " 4

 

When taken in high doses, and for long periods of time, licorice

extract can elevate blood pressure and cause fluid retention. To

avoid this problem, the glycyrrhizin-free extract is used, even

though it is less potent than the whole extract.

 

Korean Ginseng Root

 

For more than 2,000 years, Panax ginseng has been a mainstay of

Chinese medicine. It was commonly used by elderly persons in the

Orient to improve mental and physical vitality.

 

It contains many active ingredients. The ginsenosides are believed

to increase energy, counter the effects of stress, and enhance

intellectual and physical performance. It also contains panaxans,

which help lower blood sugar, and certain polysaccharides which

support immune function.5

 

In conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, herbs such as

ginseng are especially beneficial because they support the adrenal

glands. " ...it is essential that people with Chronic Fatigue

Syndrome limit adrenal gland stressors such as sugar and caffeine

and incorporate the nutrients necessary for optimal adrenal support.

These include vitamin C, zinc, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, and

magnesium. " 1 As mentioned above, both ginseng and licorice exert

similar actions.

 

Reishi Mushroom Extract

 

Reishi is a type of mushroom that grows wild on decaying logs and

tree stumps in the coastal provinces of China. It has been used in

traditional Chinese medicine for more than 4,000 years. The Chinese

name is ling zhi and it means " herb of spiritual potency. " It was

highly valued as an elixir of immortality.

 

While Reishi has demonstrated medical action in treating various

cardiovascular problems, fatigue and hepatitis, its value as an

immune system modulator is perhaps most remarkable. According to

some researchers, Reishi disrupts viral disease by inducing

interferon production. Others have shown Reishi to have

bacteriostatic activity. The immune modulating actions seems to be

due to certain polysaccharide components. Reishi is officially

listed as a substances for treating cancer by the Japanese Govnm't.

8

 

Shiitake Mushroom Extract

 

" Traditionally classified as a food that activates the blood,

shiitake has been used as a folk treatment for colds, measles, and

bronchial inflammations. More recent studies have indicated its

usefulness in lowering blood cholesterol levels and preventing heart

disease. Another exciting area of research suggests that shiitake is

valuable in bolstering the immune system to increase the body's

ability to ward off cancerous tumors, viral infections, and chronic

fatigue syndrome. " 9

 

The botanical name for Shiitake is Lentinan edodes and its common

name is Hua gu. It is native to Japan, China and other Asian

countries, but it is now widely cultivated throughout the world. One

of its active ingredients, lentinan edodes mycelium extract, known

as LEM, has been shown to help decrease chronic hepatitis B

infection. It is employed in Japan for the treatment of recurrent

stomach cancer. Other reports from Japan indicate Shiitake extract

may be helpful in treating individuals with HIV infection.5

 

Fruit Polyphenols

 

" Polyphenols are strong antioxidants with a number of other

important functions. For example, polyphenols can attach themselves

to certain pro-oxidant metals, such as iron, thereby reducing the

capacity of that metal to produce free radicals in the body. In

addition, polyphenols can inhibit the effects of toxic arachidonic

acid in the body by inhibiting lipoxygenase, the enzyme that

converts arachidonic acid into leukotrienes. Finally, polyphenols

can gear up the immune system to combat viral infections. " 1

 

" According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), approximately 35%

of all cancer cases may be directly caused by poor diet. In

contrast, close to 200 epidemiological studies show that there is a

lower risk of many types of cancers among those who eat large

quantities of fruits and vegetables. The NCI is currently sponsoring

a major effort to identify the biological activity of various

phytochemicals, including flavonoids... "

 

NAC (n-acetyl-cysteine)

 

The enzyme responsible for removing dangerous peroxide radicals is

glutathione peroxidase. The most effective way to boost the body's

levels of glutathione is through supplementing with NAC, along with

lipoic acid and selenium.

 

" Free radical damage to DNA, proteins, and fats in cells is a major

contributor to degenerative diseases such as Chronic Fatigue

Syndrome. In addition to the free radical damage done to cells

during normal cellular metabolism, immune cell activity , and other

processes, patients with chronic fatigue syndrome are also more

vulnerable to damage by free radicals produced by external factors

such as fatty foods, radiation, and cigarette smoke.

 

" During any challenge to the immune system such as in chronic

fatigue syndrome additional antioxidants are required to help

scavenge the free radicals produced as a result of immune system

battles. The antioxidant complex described above will certain help

ameliorate any antioxidant deficiency....we also recommend that

these individuals boost their glutathione levels as extra insurance

against free radical oxidation injury.

 

" The ability of cells to maintain an adequate glutathione status is

critical to our health. Additionally, through the activation of the

enzyme glutathione transferase, glutathione inactivates toxic

compounds that may hinder immune response. " 1

 

Vitamin C

 

" Perhaps foremost among vitamin C's many functions is the major role

it plays in the immune system, where, according to growing evidence,

it helps increase resistance to a range of diseases, including

infections and cancer. Studies of both animals and human have shown

that excesses of vitamin C stimulate the production of lymphocytes,

an important component of our immune system. Ascorbic acid also

appears to be required by the thymus gland (one of the major glands

involved in immunity), and increases the mobility of the phagocytes,

the type of cell that " eats " bacteria, viral cells, and cancer

cells, as well as other harmful foreign invaders.

 

" Since vitamin C levels in the blood and body tissues decrease with

age, it is not surprising that some elderly subjects who receive

vitamin C supplements show enhanced immunity. A recent study

demonstrated that men who consume 300 mg of vitamin C daily, through

food and supplements, have a 40% lower death rate from heart disease

and other causes than do those whose intake is less than 50 mg. Many

laboratory studies have indicated that vitamin C inactivates a

variety of viruses and bacteria in test tube conditions. Although

the research regarding vitamin C and the prevention of colds is

conflicting, many studies have shown that it can shorten the

duration and lessen the intensity of the symptoms of upper

respiratory infections. So while taking vitamin C may not lessen the

number of colds you get, it may make them milder. Vitamin C has also

been used to reduce the symptoms of asthma and allergies,

particularly in cases of seasonal allergic rhinitis... " 6

 

" From a biochemical viewpoint, there is considerable evidence that

vitamin C plays a vital role in many immune mechanisms. Infection

rapidly depletes the normal high concentration of vitamin C in white

blood cells, particularly lymphocytes, and a relative vitamin C

deficiency may ensue if vitamin C is not regularly replenished.

 

" Vitamin C affects various immune functions by enhancing white blood

cell function and activity and increasing interferon levels,

antibody responses, antibody levels, secretion of thymic hormones,

and integrity of ground substance. Vitamin C also possesses many

biochemical effects similar to interferon, the body's natural

antiviral and anticancer compound.

 

" During times of chemical, emotional, psychological, or

physiological stress, the urinary system excretes vitamin C at a

significantly increased rate, thereby elevating the body's need for

vitamin C during these times. Examples of chemical stressors include

cigarette smoke, pollutants, and allergens. Extra vitamin C in the

form of supplementation or increased intake of vitamin C-rich foods

is often recommended to keep the immune system working properly

during times of stress. In certain instances, vitamin C

supplementation is the only way to meet the concentrations needed

for many health conditions. For example, cancer patients should

supplement their diet with additional vitamin C and consume foods

containing high levels of vitamin C, particularly vegetable juices

because they are also a rich source of carotenes. " 10

 

Selenium

 

Selenium is a naturally occurring trace element. It is an excellent

antioxidant, activating the enzyme glutathione peroxidase. While the

fat soluble antioxidants such as vitamin E function to destroy free-

radicals in the fatty parts of our cells, selenium destroys the fat-

soluble oxidants in the watery components of the cell.

 

" ...scientists consistently find selenium levels lower than normal

in patients with AIDS, cancer, arthritis, Crohn's disease, sickle

cell anemia, chronic pancreatitis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, Down

syndrome, and psoriasis. Sperm counts are found significantly lower

in men with low selenium in their blood... " 7

 

Zinc

 

Zinc is a component of more than 300 enzymes that function to repair

wounds, maintain fertility, synthesize protein, help cells

reproduce, preserve vision, boost immunity, and protect against

oxidative damage.

 

" Zinc may exert a protective influence by boosting the immune

system. Many studies have shown that a zinc deficiency can impair a

large variety of immune functions and defense mechanisms in animals,

and some studies have shown similar effects in humans. These effects

which include abnormalities and eventual shrinking of the spleen,

thymus, and lymph nodes; and impaired production of antibodies have

been found to be correctable with zinc supplementation.

 

" Low zinc levels, often accompanies by high copper levels, have been

reported in people with many types of cancer. In a 1981 study, it

was found that people with a certain type of lung cancer survived

for a significantly longer period of time when they had high levels

of zinc in their blood. It's not surprising that low levels of zinc

are also found in people with AIDS... " 6

 

Pantothenic Acid

 

" Pantothenic Acid, sometimes called vitamin B5, is involved in the

Krebs' cycle of energy production and is needed to make the

neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It is also essential in producing,

transporting, and releasing the energy from fats. Synthesis of

cholesterol (needed for vitamin D and hormone synthesis) depends on

pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid also activates the adrenal

glands... " 5

 

In conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, the role of

pantothenic acid, along with vitamin C, Zinc, vitamin B6 and

magnesium in supporting adrenal gland function is especially

important.

 

Magnesium

 

" ...a recent study published in Lancet revealed that patients with

chronic fatigue syndrome have lower red cell magnesium and showed

that magnesium supplements led to improved energy, better emotional

states, and less pain... " 1

 

 

 

References

 

1. Lombard M.D., Jay & Germano R.D., Carl. The Brain Wellness Plan.

Kensington. 1997. 2. Murray N.D., Michael & Pizzorno N.D., Joseph.

Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 2nd Edition. Prima. 1998. 3.

Mindell R.Ph., Earl. Earl Mindell's Supplement Bible. Simon &

Schuster. 1998. 4. Atkins M.D., Robert. Dr. Atkins' Vita-Nutrient

Solution. Simon & Schuster. 1998. 5. Lininger D.C., Skye. The

Natural Pharmacy. Prima Health. 1998 6. Lieberman Ph.D., Shari. The

Real Vitamin & Mineral Book. Avery. 1997. 7. Reuben, Carolyn.

Antioxidants Your Complete Guide. Prima. 1995. 8. Willard Ph.D., T.

Reishi Mushroom: Herb of Spiritual Potency and Medical Wonder.

Sylvan Press. 1990 9. Jones, Kenneth. Shiitake: The Healing

Mushroom. Healing Arts Press. Vermont. 1995. 10. Murray, N.D.

Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Prima Publishing 1996.

 

 

http://www.willner.com/Products/immunecn.htm

 

Willner Chemists - The Nutritional Supplement Professionals

100 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017 & 253 Broadway, New York, NY

10007

2900 Peachtree Rd, NE, Atlanta GA 30305

1-800-633-1106 or 1-212-682-2817 or FAX: 1-212-682-6192

©2001, Willner Chemists.

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