Learn about the health benefits of Manuka Honey. Check out our selection of the finest manuka honey native to New Zealand. We've got the best brands and various UMF ratings.

Everyone will experience periods of growth, development, stress and ageing, at some stage or another. Staying well requires the immune system to be well-supported throughout the ups and downs of life.

Immunity can vary from person to person, depending on age, health, environment, genetics and lifestyle

The immune system is one of the most important systems of the body, and our most important defender against foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria. It is only when we begin to feel run down or can’t shake a cold that we give the immune system the attention it deserves. Fatigue, slow healing wounds and repeated or chronic infections are some of the signs that your immune system may not be functioning at its optimum. Herbal and nutrient supplements may help you recover faster, and improve your resistance to infections.

Here are some of the most important supplements to keep in your cupboard during winter:

Elder

Elderflower has been used for centuries in western herbal medicine to aid symptomatic relief of the common cold including nasal catarrh and sinus congestion. Elderberry has traditionally been used in western herbal medicine as a diaphoretic and to support a healthy immune system.^1-3

Andrographis

This herb stimulates the immune system and studies have found that it reduces the severity of common cold symptoms such as sore throat, upper respiratory catarrh, bronchial cough and fever.^4-7

Echinacea

Many of us have heard the name echinacea and may not be sure why it’s so popular; it has antimicrobial and antiviral activity and has been traditionally used to support immune function and provide relief of upper respiratory catarrh, sore throat and feverish conditions.^6,8

Olive leaf

Olive leaf has shown to possess antibacterial activity and is used in traditional western herbal medicine for respiratory ailments such as cough and sore throat.^8-10

Vitamin C

A classic remedy, vitamin C is a great addition to any immune-boosting regimen. Great for the lead up to the winter months, vitamin C taken prophylactically can help to build up immunity and ward off colds. Numerous clinical studies support the use of vitamin C in reducing the severity and duration of colds.^8-11 Vitamin C, otherwise known as ascorbic acid, acts to dampen the histamine response which includes symptoms of runny nose and watery eyes.^8,14,15Vitamin C’s role in immunity may be enhanced when combined with other potent nutrients such as vitamin E, zinc, betacarotene and rutin. Vitamin E and rutin, like vitamin C, are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for immune health as they are able to protect immune cells from free radicals in the body.¹⁶

Probiotics

When combined with vitamin C, probiotics, or ‘good bacteria’, have demonstrated a significant reduction of the incidence rate of upper respiratory tract infections, the number of days with URTI symptoms and the incidence rate of absence from pre-school.23, 24

Vitamin A

Betacarotene is a precursor for vitamin A, which plays an essential role in regulating the immune system and helps the body fight off infections. It also boosts the activity of white blood cells, which defend the body from foreign substances.¹⁷

Zinc

Zinc is a well known immune-support nutrient required for production of white blood cells that fight infections; its deficiency is linked to decreased immune function.^18-20

Mushrooms

Mushroom extracts including reishi and shiitake have traditionally been used to support the immune system. 21

Vitamin D

Known as the sunshine vitamin, adequate vitamin D is important for the maintenance of a normal healthy immune system. 22

Tips for a healthy immune system

• Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat and simple carbohydrates.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get outdoors for regular sun exposure.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Drink alcohol in moderation only.
• Don’t smoke.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Avoid/reduce stress. 

Mr Vitamins recommends

Armaforce, Immunoburst and UltraPotent C from Bioceuticals

Bioceuticals is a Practitioner only brand so please 'ask a Naturopath' to help you.

Ask a Naturopath’ for more information about boosting your immunity for winter

 

References

1. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 3rd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2010
2. Zakay-Rones Z, Thom E, Wollan T, et al. Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. J Int Med Res 2004;32(2):132-140.
3. Krawitz C, Mraheil MA, Stein M, et al. Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses. BMC Complement Altern Med 2011;11:16.
4. Thamlikitkul V, Dechatiwongse T, Theerapong S, et al. Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata, nees for pharyngotonsillitis in adults. J Med Assoc Thai 1991;74(10):437-442.
5. Caceres DD, Hancke JL, Burgos RA, et al. Use of visual analogue scale measurements (VAS) to assess the effectiveness of standardized Andrographis paniculata extract SHA-10 in reducing the symptoms of common cold: a randomized double blind-placebo study. Phytomedicine 1999;6(4):217-223.
6. Mills S, Bone K. Principles and practice of phytotherapy. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
7. Coon JT, Ernst E. Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Planta Med 2004;70(4):293-298.
8. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 2nd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2007.
9. Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev 2007;12(1):25-48.
10. Bone K. A clinical guide to blending liquid herbs. St Louis: Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
11. Douglas RM, Hemilä H, Chalker E, et al. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(3):CD000980.
12. Gorton H, Jarvis K. The effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing and relieving the symptoms of virus-induced respiratory infections. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1999;22(8):530-533.
13. Hemiliä H, Douglas RM. Vitamin C and acute respiratory infections. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 1999;3(9):756-761.
14. Douglas RM, Douglas RM, Hemiliä H, Chalker E, Treacy B. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(3):CD000980
15. Johnston CS, Martin LJ, Cai X. Antihistamine effect of supplemental ascorbic acid and neutrophil chemotaxis. J Am Coll Nutr 1992 Apr;11(2):172-176.
16. Meydani SN, Santos MS, Wu D, et al. Antioxidant modulation of cytokines and their biologic function in the aged. Z Ernahrungswiss 1998;37 Suppl 1:35-42.
17. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Contribution of selected vitamins and trace elements to immune function. Ann Nutr Metab 2007;51(4):301-323
18. Prasad AS. Zinc: role in immunity, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2009;12(6):646-652.
19. Shils ME, Shike M, Ross AC, et al (Eds). Modern nutrition in health and disease, 10th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2006.
20. Marone G, Findlay SR, Lichtenstein LM. Modulation of histamine release from human basophils in vitro by physiological concentrations of zinc. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1981;217(2):292-298.
21. Eliaz I. The healing power of medicinal mushrooms. Evidence Based Report 2002
22. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs & Natural Supplements. An evidence-based guide. 2nd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2007.
23. Garaiova I, Muchová J, Nagyová Z, et al. Probiotics and vitamin C for the prevention of respiratory tract infections in children attending preschool: a randomised controlled pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr 2015;69(3):373-379.
24. The ProChild study. Lab4® probiotics, Cultech. Viewed 17 Mar 2016, http://lab4probiotics.co.uk/the-prochild-study

There's Fish Oil and then there's the best fish oil. Norwegian Fish Oil is some of the purest in the world, sourced from small wild fish.

Immunity can vary from person to person, depending on age, health, environment, genetics and lifestyle factors. Everyone will experience, at some stage or another, periods of growth, development, stress and ageing. Staying healthy requires the immune system to be well-supported throughout the ups and downs of life.

Immunity the key to good health

The immune system is one of the most important systems of the body, and our most important defender against foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria. It is only when we begin to feel run down or can’t shake a cold that we give the immune system the attention it deserves. Fatigue, slow healing wounds and repeated or chronic infections are some of the signs that your immune system may not be functioning at its optimum. Herbal and nutrient supplements can help you recover faster, and improve your resistance to infections.

Boosting immunity with vital supplements

Here are some of the most important supplements to keep in your cupboard during winter:

Andrographis

This herb stimulates the immune system and studies have found that it reduces the severity of common cold symptoms such as sore throat, upper respiratory catarrh, bronchial cough and fever.^1-

Echinacea

Many of us have heard the name echinacea but may not be sure why it’s so popular; it has antimicrobial and antiviral activity and has been traditionally used to support immune function and provide relief of upper respiratory catarrh, sore throat and feverish conditions.^3,5

Olive leaf

Olive leaf has shown to possess antibacterial activity and is used in traditional western herbal medicine for respiratory ailments such as cough and sore throat.^5-7

Vitamin C

A classic remedy, vitamin C is a great addition to any immune-boosting regimen. Great for the lead up to the winter months, vitamin C taken prophylactically can help to build up immunity and ward off colds. Numerous clinical studies support the use of vitamin C in reducing the severity and duration of colds.^8-11 Vitamin C, otherwise known as ascorbic acid, acts to dampen the histamine response which includes symptoms of runny nose and watery eyes.^5,11,12Vitamin C’s role in immunity can be enhanced when combined with other potent nutrients such as vitamin E, zinc, betacarotene and rutin. Vitamin E and rutin, like vitamin C, are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for immune health as they are able to protect immune cells from free radicals in the body.¹³

Vitamin A

Betacarotene is a precursor for vitamin A, which plays an essential role in regulating the immune system and helps the body fight off infections. It also boosts the activity of white blood cells, which defend the body from foreign substances.¹⁴

Vitamin D

Known as the sunshine vitamin, the well-researched vitamin D enhances the immune response to bacteria and viruses. Being deficient in vitamin D has been linked to recurrent infections.

Zinc

Zinc is a well known immune-support nutrient required for production of white blood cells that fight infections; its deficiency is linked to decreased immune function.^15-17

Mushrooms

Mushroom extracts including reishi and shiitake have traditionally been used to stimulate and support the immune system.

Top tips for a healthy immune system

• Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat and simple carbohydrates
• Exercise regularly
• Get outdoors for regular sun exposure
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Drink alcohol in moderation only
• Don’t smoke
• Get adequate sleep
• Avoid/reduce stress

‘Ask a Naturopath’ at Mr Vitamins about Bioceuticals Armaforce, Viroguardand Ultra Potent-C

Mr Vitamins Recommends

Bioceuticals:

Armaforce

Viroguard

Ultra Potent-C

Bioceuticals is a Practitioner-only brand so please ‘ask a Naturopath’ to help you. Bioceuticals products are now available online at Mr Vitamins Online Store

Speak to your healthcare practitioner for more information about supplementation. Make sure to always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare practitioner.

References

1. Thamlikitkul V, Dechatiwongse T, Theerapong S, et al. Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata, nees for pharyngotonsillitis in adults. J Med Assoc Thai 1991;74(10):437-442.
2. Caceres DD, Hancke JL, Burgos RA, et al. Use of visual analogue scale measurements (VAS) to assess the effectiveness of standardized Andrographis paniculata extract SHA-10 in reducing the symptoms of common cold: a randomized double blind-placebo study. Phytomedicine 1999;6(4):217-223.
3. Mills S, Bone K. Principles and practice of phytotherapy. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
4. Coon JT, Ernst E. Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Planta Med 2004;70(4):293-298.
5. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 2nd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2007.
6. Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev 2007;12(1):25-48.
7. Bone K. A clinical guide to blending liquid herbs. St Louis: Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
8. Douglas RM, Hemilä H, Chalker E, et al. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(3):CD000980.
9. Gorton H, Jarvis K. The effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing and relieving the symptoms of virus-induced respiratory infections. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1999;22(8):530-533.
10. Hemiliä H, Douglas RM. Vitamin C and acute respiratory infections. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 1999;3(9):756-761.
11. Douglas RM, Douglas RM, Hemiliä H, Chalker E, Treacy B. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(3):CD000980
12. Johnston CS, Martin LJ, Cai X. Antihistamine effect of supplemental ascorbic acid and neutrophil chemotaxis. J Am Coll Nutr 1992 Apr;11(2):172-176.
13. Meydani SN, Santos MS, Wu D, et al. Antioxidant modulation of cytokines and their biologic function in the aged. Z Ernahrungswiss 1998;37 Suppl 1:35-42.
14. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Contribution of selected vitamins and trace elements to immune function. Ann Nutr Metab 2007;51(4):301-323
15. Prasad AS. Zinc: role in immunity, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2009;12(6):646-652.
16. Shils ME, Shike M, Ross AC, et al (Eds). Modern nutrition in health and disease, 10th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2006.
17. Marone G, Findlay SR, Lichtenstein LM. Modulation of histamine release from human basophils in vitro by physiological concentrations of zinc. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1981;217(2):292-298.

Often when the symptoms of colds & flu subside, you can be left feeling tired, run down and with no energy. Your immune system has been busy fighting off infection so it needs a little care and maintenance to help you recover. A strong healthy immune system helps reduce the risk of you getting more colds & flu – and improves your energy levels so you feel fit and healthy again.

Faster recovery from colds & flu

Recovery strategies can be used long term, especially if you have a tendency to get a cold or flu every winter or have a compromised immune system.

Colds & flu relief with herbal medicines & nutritional supplements

There are a number of herbal medicines, nutritional supplements and healthy lifestyle choices that can help you bounce back and recover from a cold or flu. Building up and strengthening the immune system helps improves your body’s defence system so you stay well.

Astragalus

Astragalus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2000 years for its immune enhancing properties, helping to maintain a healthy immune system and boosting energy levels after illness such as colds and flu. Astragalus helps reduce fatigue and increases stamina and endurance.

Olive leaf

Olive leaf is important for immune health and contains broad spectrum antimicrobial activity, effective against viruses and bacteria that are common with colds & flu. Olive leaf can be used at lower maintenance doses to help with recovery and for the remainder of the cold and flu season to support immune health.

Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is a first line immune defence protein that stops iron being used for viral and bacterial growth and development. Lactoferrin is generally not absorbed in the bloodstream but acts instead on the intestinal immune system providing systemic immune system support and helps boost friendly bacteria in the digestive system.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential trace element that plays an important role in the immune response. It is especially useful for colds & flu recovery. A zinc deficiency results in a compromised immune system, increasing the susceptibility to bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Inadequate zinc intake over a 30 day period can lead to a 30%-80% reduction in immune protection.

Vitamin C

The classic 'colds & flu' remedy! Vitamin C enhances and balances the immune system and low levels of vitamin C have been linked to an increased susceptibility to infection. Vitamin C levels are depleted when you are ill and while the body is under stress.

Vitamin B Complex

B vitamins work very closely together and are involved in energy production and are beneficial in supporting the body during times of physical and mental stress. Sustained release vitamin B complex formulations are designed to gradually release their contents over an eight-hour period for maximum bioavailability.

Colds & Flu recovery with helpful lifestyle choices

• Consume good quality proteins
• Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables including shitake mushrooms
• Plenty of bed rest and quality sleep
• Drink plenty of water
• Get out into the sun to boost your vitamin D levels
• Gentle exercise
• Keep warm
• Reduce stress levels

Mr Vitamins recommends

Herbs of Gold nutritional supplements for immunity boosting and colds & flu recovery:

1. Colds & Flu Strike
2. Zinc Forte + C Powder
3. B Complete Sustained Release

Research references for colds & flu recovery: Bone, K, 2003, A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs, Churchill Livingstone, St Louis, Missouri. Braun, L & Cohen, M, 2010, Herbs & Natural Supplements: an evidence-based guide, Elsevier, Australia. Pizzorno, JE & Murray, MT, 2006, Textbook of Natural Medicine, Churchill Livingstone, St Louis, Missouri. Roxas, M & Jurenka, J, 2007, ‘Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations’, Altern Med Review, vol: 12, issue: 1, pp. 25-48. Tomita, M, Wakabayashi, H, Shin, K, Yamauchi, K, Yaeshima, T & Iwatsuki, K, 2009, ‘Twenty-five years of research on bovine lactoferrin applications’, Biochemie, vol: 91, pp. 52-57. World Health Organisation, 1999, ‘WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants’, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Vol.1.

We’re well into winter and with so many colds and flus about, boosting your immune system is the important key to keeping healthy. Make a healthy immune system your priority.

A delicious sweet treat that is packed with protein! These protein balls are the perfect on the go snack or a small pre workout bite that help to energise you without it being too heavy on your stomach. An absolute game changer to combat those sweet tooth cravings.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (roughly 225g) of soft pitted dates.
• 1 cup (roughly 100g) of raw cashew nuts.
• 3/4 cup (roughly 60-70g) of unsweetened fine shredded coconut.
• 1/8 tsp of sea salt (this is optional but does enhance the flavour).
• 1 scoop of your favourite Vanilla protein powder. Our favourite is White Wolf Vegan Protein in Vanilla. 

Method:

1. Add all of your ingredients to a food processor (or Nutra Bullet). Blend.
2. Ensure your mixture if thick enough to roll into balls (If your mixture feels a little dry, add a little bit of almond milk and continue to mix).
3. Use your hand to roll the mixture into roughly 10-15 balls (depending on your size preference).
4. Let it set in the fridge for 2 hours.
5. Enjoy!

 

All ingredients can be found at Mr Vitamins. Simply click the links below to purchase.

• Honest to Goodness Organic Medjool Dates 1kg
• A Picture of Health Raw Cashews 1kg
• Chef's Choice Certified Organic Shredded Coconut 200g
• Lotus Sea Salt Fine 500g
• White Wolf Nutrition Vegan Lean Protein Vanilla 30 Serves

The average Australian diet lacks foods that are rich in micronutrients.
A Picture of Health SuperGreens contain organic micro-algae, spirulina and chlorella - which are all an excellent source of vitamins A, C, E, B, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc and Omega-3. Try this delicious green smoothie for a boost of SuperGreens!

What you'll need:

• 3/4 cup frozen mango
• 1/2 cup pineapple
• 1 cup coconut water
• 1/2 cup baby spinach
• 1 tsp hemp seeds (to sprinkle on top)
• 10g A Picture of Health SuperGreens

 

Method:

• Combine all ingredients in a blender, sprinkle with hemp seeds and enjoy!

 

View the full range and shop online 24/7 mrvitamins.com

 

Recipe by Bec van den Elzen - Nutritionist