BILBERRY

🌿 What “Bilberry” means — the plant & extract basics

• “Bilberry” refers to the fruit of the plant Vaccinium myrtillus.
• Many NZ supplements use “bilberry extract (fruit)” rather than raw fresh fruit.
• Extracts are often standardised — meaning the manufacturer ensures a certain concentration of “active compounds” per dose.

✅ The Key Active Ingredient: Anthocyanins / Anthocyanidins

• The most important bioactive components in bilberry are anthocyanins (or anthocyanidins / anthocyanosides / flavonoids). These pigments give bilberry its deep blue-purple colour.
• These anthocyanins are strong antioxidants — meaning they help neutralise free radicals and oxidative stress in the body.
• Because of that antioxidant activity, bilberry is often promoted for eye health, blood vessel / capillary support, circulation, and general antioxidant protection.

For example: in a NZ supplement sold as “Bilberry Fruit” by a supplier, the extract is “standardised to 25% anthocyanins” — meaning 25% of the extract mass is anthocyanins.

BLUEBERRY

🍇 What are the main “key ingredients” in Blueberries

Here are the nutrients and bioactive compounds that make blueberries special.

✅ Basic Nutrients (Vitamins, Minerals, Fiber, Water)

• Blueberries are low in calories and fat, but provide healthy fiber, water, some carbohydrates, a little protein.
• They contain vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and small amounts of Vitamin A, some B‑group vitamins, minerals (e.g. manganese, potassium, magnesium).
• The fiber helps with digestion, and vitamins + minerals support general health (immune system, skin, bones, etc.).

🌿 Bioactive Compounds & Antioxidants (“Phytochemicals”)

The most important — and often most beneficial — components in blueberries are plant compounds rather than basic vitamins/minerals.

• Anthocyanins — These are pigments that give blueberries their deep blue / purple colour. They are powerful antioxidants and are thought to be largely responsible for many of blueberries’ health-promoting effects.
• Flavonoids (including flavonols, flavan‑3‑ols, etc.) — Blueberries also contain other flavonoids (like quercetin, myricetin, catechins) and polyphenols. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular‑protective, and possibly neuroprotective effects.
• Polyphenols & phenolic acids / compounds — Beyond anthocyanins and flavonoids, blueberries contain various phenolic compounds (e.g. tannins, organic acids) that contribute to antioxidant capacity and potential health effects.

COLOSTRUM

Colostrum is often highlighted as a key ingredient in various health supplements, particularly for immune support and gut health. The key active components in colostrum include:

1. Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM) – These are antibodies that help support the immune system.
2. Lactoferrin – A protein with antibacterial and antiviral properties.
3. Growth Factors (IGF-1, TGF-β) – Support tissue repair and gut health.
4. Proline-Rich Polypeptides (PRPs) – Help modulate the immune response.
5. Vitamins & Minerals – Including vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium.

In New Zealand, colostrum is typically sourced from grass-fed dairy cows, which are prized for high-quality bioactive components due to the clean, pasture-based environment.

EVENING PRIMROSE OIL

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) supplements are commonly used for skin, hormonal, and inflammatory support. The key active ingredient in Evening Primrose Oil is:

1. Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) – an omega-6 fatty acid that supports:
   • Hormonal balance (especially for PMS and menopause symptoms)
   • Skin health (eczema, dryness, and inflammation)
   • Anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body
2. Linoleic Acid – another essential omega-6 fatty acid that helps maintain healthy skin and cell function.

New Zealand EPO is usually cold-pressed from the seeds of the evening primrose plant to preserve the delicate fatty acids.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a popular ingredient in joint health supplements. The key active component is:

1. Glucosamine Sulfate or Glucosamine Hydrochloride – an amino sugar that helps:
   • Support cartilage structure
   • Maintain joint flexibility
   • Reduce joint pain and stiffness, especially in osteoarthritis
2. Sometimes combined with:
   • Chondroitin – for additional cartilage support
   • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) – for anti-inflammatory and joint comfort benefits

New Zealand glucosamine is typically sourced from shellfish (shrimp, crab) or fermentation processes for vegetarian-friendly versions.

GREEN MUSSEL

Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus) is widely used in supplements for joint and overall health. The key active components include:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA) – support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
2. Unique Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) – such as chondroitin and hyaluronic acid, which help maintain cartilage and joint flexibility.
3. Proteins & Peptides – may support tissue repair and anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Minerals – including zinc, magnesium, and selenium for overall health.

Benefits commonly associated with New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel supplements:

• Reduces joint pain and stiffness, especially in arthritis
• Supports mobility and cartilage health
• Anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body

New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussels are sustainably harvested from clean coastal waters, which preserves the bioactive compounds.

MILKTHISTLE

MILK THISTLE – Key Ingredient

Silymarin

• A complex of flavonolignans (mainly silibinin, silychristin, silydianin)
• The main bioactive ingredient responsible for liver-protective effects

What Silymarin Does

• Liver detox support
• Helps regenerate liver cells
• Protects liver from toxins (alcohol, medications, pollution)
• Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
• Supports healthy digestion

Common Forms in New Zealand Supplements

• Milk Thistle Extract (standardised to 70–80% silymarin)
• Sometimes combined with:
  • Dandelion root
  • Artichoke extract
  • Turmeric (curcumin)
  • Globe artichoke

Popular Uses

• General liver health
• Fatty liver support
• Detox / cleansing
• Supporting digestion after heavy meals or alcohol

LANOLIN

Lanolin is a common ingredient in skincare and personal care products. The key components and functions are:

1. Wool Fat (Lanolin Alcohols & Esters) – acts as an emollient, forming a protective barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
2. Fatty Acids – such as cholesterol, palmitic acid, and oleic acid, which help nourish and soften skin.
3. Hydrating Properties – attracts water and keeps skin hydrated, making it especially useful for dry or sensitive skin.
4. Skin Barrier Support – helps protect skin from environmental damage and irritation.

Uses in New Zealand products:

• Moisturizers and creams
• Lip balms and ointments
• Baby skincare products
• Healing balms for dry or cracked skin

New Zealand lanolin is typically refined from sheep wool, often from grass-fed sheep, making it high-quality and hypoallergenic.

LUTEIN

✅ What Lutein Is

Lutein is a carotenoid, specifically a xanthophyll, found in leafy green vegetables and some fruits.
The body cannot produce lutein, so it must come from food or supplements.

🌿 Key Active Ingredients / Components in Lutein

1. Lutein (main carotenoid)

• Acts as a powerful antioxidant
• Helps protect the eyes from blue light and oxidative stress

2. Zeaxanthin (often included together)

• Works with lutein to support macular health
• Helps filter harmful blue light

👁️ Main Health Benefits

Eye Health

• Supports the macula and retina
• Helps reduce the risk or progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
• May lower the risk of cataracts
• Protects eyes from blue light exposure

Antioxidant Protection

• Reduces oxidative stress in cells
• Helps protect against age-related cell damage

Brain Health (possible benefit)

• Some research suggests lutein may support cognitive function.

🇳🇿 Lutein in New Zealand Supplements

Recommended to take with a meal containing fat, because lutein is fat-soluble

Usually extracted from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta)

Often combined with Zeaxanthin, and sometimes:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Selenium
• Zinc
• Commonly found in eye-health formulas

NONI

• Noni is the fruit of Morinda citrifolia, a tropical plant widely used in traditional medicine across the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Polynesia.
• In New Zealand many noni-based products — juices or capsules — use Noni fruit (dried/powder or juice) as their base.

✅ Key Bioactive Components of Noni

Noni contains a variety of nutrients and plant compounds that may contribute to its health effects. Main bioactive ingredients include:

• Vitamins — especially Vitamin C.
• Minerals — e.g. potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, etc.
• Amino acids / proteins — Noni juice/powder contains some proteins and amino acids.
• Phytochemicals / plant compounds — this is probably the most important category. These include:
  • Phenolics, flavonoids, iridoids, anthraquinones — naturally occurring antioxidants & anti-inflammatory agents.
  • Specific compounds such as scopoletin, ursolic acid, damnacanthal, xeronine/proxeronine, and others.
  • Polysaccharides (complex carbohydrates) — thought to contribute to immune-modulating effects.

💡 What These Components Are Thought to Do (Potential Benefits)

Because of the mix of nutrients and bioactive compounds, Noni is sometimes used or marketed for a wide range of potential health-supporting roles:

General nutrition — as a source of some vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, Noni can contribute to overall nutrient intake.

Antioxidant effects — compounds like flavonoids, phenolics, vitamins (especially vitamin C) help neutralize free radicals, which might help reduce cellular damage.

Anti-inflammatory & analgesic (pain-relief) action — some of the phytochemicals (e.g. scopoletin, ursolic acid) have shown anti-inflammatory or pain-modulating properties in studies.

Immune support — vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and polysaccharides might collectively support the immune system.

OMEGA 3

Omega-3 supplements are very popular for heart, brain, and joint health. The key active ingredients are:

1. EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) – an omega-3 fatty acid that:
   • Supports cardiovascular health
   • Reduces inflammation
   • May improve mood and cognitive function
2. DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) – an omega-3 fatty acid that:
   • Supports brain and eye health
   • Important for fetal and infant development
   • Helps maintain healthy cell membranes
3. ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) – plant-based omega-3 (less potent than EPA/DHA) found in flaxseed and chia oil.

Sources in New Zealand supplements:

• Fish oil – typically from sustainably sourced fish
• Krill oil – rich in EPA/DHA and phospholipids
• Algal oil – a vegetarian/vegan source of DHA

New Zealand Omega-3 products often highlight sustainability and purity, ensuring low heavy metals and contaminants.

OVINE PLACENTA

Ovine Placenta is used primarily in health and beauty supplements. The key active components include:

1. Growth Factors – such as IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) which may support skin regeneration, tissue repair, and overall cell renewal.
2. Amino Acids & Peptides – building blocks for collagen and elastin, supporting skin elasticity and hydration.
3. Vitamins & Minerals – including B vitamins, iron, and trace elements that nourish skin and hair.
4. Placental Proteins – thought to promote skin health, reduce wrinkles, and enhance overall vitality.

New Zealand ovine placenta is usually sourced from pasture-raised sheep, ensuring high-quality bioactive components. It is commonly found in:

• Skincare capsules and serums
• Anti-aging supplements
• Hair and nail health products

PROPOLIS

Propolis is a well-known natural immune-support ingredient. The key active components include:

1. Flavonoids
   • Strong antioxidant and antibacterial compounds
   • Main measure of propolis quality (often shown as flavonoid mg or BIO rating)
2. Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE)
   • Supports immune function
   • Known for anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity
3. Phenolic Acids
   • Help fight bacteria and support healing
4. Amino Acids, Vitamins & Minerals
   • Support overall immune strength

New Zealand propolis is usually sourced from bees feeding on native plants like manuka and kanuka, giving it high bioactive content.

Royal Jelly

Royal Jelly is a nutrient-rich secretion fed to the queen bee.

Key Ingredients / Bioactive Compounds

1. 10-Hydroxy-2-Decenoic Acid (10-HDA)
   • The signature component of royal jelly
   • Supports immune function, skin regeneration, anti-aging effects
   • Higher % = higher quality
2. Protein Complexes (MRJPs: Major Royal Jelly Proteins)
   • Support cell repair and tissue regeneration
3. Amino Acids
   • Building blocks for skin, immune, and energy support
4. Vitamins (B-complex: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B12)
   • Boost metabolism, energy, and skin health
5. Minerals – calcium, zinc, iron, potassium

Uses:
✔ Anti-aging skin support
✔ Energy and vitality
✔ Immune support
✔ Hormonal balance (often used by women)

SHARK CARTILAGE

Main Active Components:

1. Chondroitin Sulfate
   • The most important component.
   • Supports joint cushioning, cartilage repair, and reduced inflammation.
   • Often used for osteoarthritis and joint stiffness.
2. Glucosamine (naturally occurring)
   • Helps maintain cartilage structure and joint mobility.
   • Works together with chondroitin for joint protection.
3. Calcium & Phosphorus
   • Natural minerals found in cartilage.
   • Supports bone strength and overall skeletal health.
4. Collagen Proteins
   • Structural proteins that support joint elasticity, tissue repair, and skin health.
5. Mucopolysaccharides (GAGs)
   • Includes hyaluronic acid-like compounds.
   • Helps lubricate joints and reduce inflammation.

SPIRULINA

Spirulina is grown in clean, controlled environments and is known for its purity and nutrient density. Its key active ingredients include:

1. Complete Protein (≈ 60–70%)

• Contains all 9 essential amino acids
• Supports muscle repair, energy, and immune health

2. Phycocyanin (Blue Pigment Antioxidant)

• A powerful antioxidant
• Supports immune function and reduces inflammation

3. Chlorophyll

• Natural detoxifier
• Helps cleanse and alkalize the body

4. Vitamins

• Vitamin B12 (in bioactive form) – supports energy and red blood cells
• Vitamin K – supports blood and bone health
• Vitamin A (beta-carotene) – eye and skin health

5. Minerals

• Iron – energy and oxygen transport
• Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc – cell health and immunity

6. Essential Fatty Acids

• Includes GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)
• Supports skin health and reduces inflammation

7. Antioxidants

• Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
• Helps protect cells from oxidative stress