March Ingredient Highlights

Interested in the ingredients commonly used in Natural Health Products (NHPs)? We are too! Below we outline a brief history and medicinal uses of ingredients we highlighted on our LinkedIn page in March.

Evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a commonly used supplement rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid essential for health. EPO has numerous benefits, such as improving skin health by moisturizing and reducing inflammation, managing PMS symptoms by regulating prostaglandin levels, boosting hair and nail health through topical use, and potentially aiding hormonal balance.

Additionally, primrose oil has a longstanding history of traditional medicinal use among indigenous peoples, particularly in North America. Traditional applications include using EPO topically for skin conditions like wounds and bruises and as an oral supplement to alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion and respiratory ailments like coughs and sore throats. Additionally, EPO was utilized to support women's health during menstruation and childbirth, relieve rheumatic conditions like arthritis, and enhance fertility by balancing hormonal levels.

In Canada, the use of primrose oil in Natural Health Products (NHPs) is approved for 1.3 - 6 grams of oil per day and can be standardized to provide 7-14% of GLA and/or 65-85% of linoleic acid (LA).

To learn more about the use of the ingredient and the approved claims, please reference our infographic.

Rosemary (Topical)

Rosemary has a rich history of usage, tracing back to Ancient Greece and Rome. Historically, it has been applied topically to alleviate muscle pain, enhance circulation, soothe joint aches, and help alleviate tension headaches.

Packed with bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and flavonoids, rosemary offers anti-inflammatory benefits when applied topically, providing relief to muscles and joints. Additionally, its terpenes exhibit antimicrobial properties, aiding in the treatment of various skin conditions and promoting the healing of minor wounds.

In Canada, the use or rosemary for topical application in natural health products is pre-approved up to 50 grams of dried leaf per day.

To learn more about the approved claims and methods of preparation, please reference our infographic below.

Looking to licence a supplement product in Canada with similar ingredients? Look no further! Our team of experts is here to help.

Maca Root

Maca root is a common food ingredient in several countries, and it is known for its medicinal properties, often used in natural health products as an aphrodisiac.

One of its most notable medicinal benefits is its support for sexual health. The active components in the root can improve libido, enhance fertility, and ease menopausal symptoms.

Key active ingredients include macamides and macaenes, glucosinolates, and alkaloids:

1. Macamides and macaenes: Fatty acids in maca root that possess adaptogenic qualities, promoting overall well-being and potentially aiding in sexual health benefits.

2. Glucosinolates: Compounds containing sulfur known for their hormone-balancing effects.

3. Alkaloids: Nitrogen-containing compounds that may also support sexual well-being.

In Canada, the use of maca dried root and/or hypocotyl is supported for use in NHPs up to 3 grams per day. Maca can be added in various preparations, including dry, powder, or extracted root/hypocotyl.

For additional information and approved claims, please reference our infographic.

Tribulus

Tribulus, an ancient remedy cherished in both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. With a rich history of use, Tribulus is renowned for its ability to address urinary issues, kidney stones, sexual dysfunction, and promote cardiovascular health.

The medicinal benefits of Tribulus are attributed to its constituents, including protodioscin and its derivatives. These compounds are structurally similar to steroids and play a crucial role in the plant's therapeutic effects. Protodioscin is known to stimulate testosterone production by acting on the pituitary gland and also serves as a vasodilator by boosting nitric oxide (NO) levels in the body.

In Canada, Tribulus root and fruit are approved for use in various doses, ranging from 3 to 30 grams of dried fruit and 20 to 30 grams of dried root. Approved preparation methods include decoction and dried powder.

Curious to explore the approved claims further? Please reference our infographic below