Herb-drug interactions, product launches with science-backed ingredients and company expansions and partnerships make this edition of Supplement Journal’s Supplement Shorts. Check out the supplement industry news, from scientific innovations to finished products and everything in between.
Ginger supplements may interact with pharmaceuticals
Scientists from the University of Mississippi caution that overconsumption of ginger, a popular herb widely used in functional foods and supplements, may cause herb-drug interactions.
Published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, the review article highlights that ginger can interact with drug receptors, transporters, and metabolizing enzymes, which may affect drug efficacy.
Ginger is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and contains several bioactive compounds, with gingerols perhapsthe most well-known. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and provides several health benefits, most notably for digestive health.
The authors published this review because little information exists in the public domain about herb-drug interactions involving ginger. They caution consumers against assuming ginger is safe based on its natural origin.
“While herbs and dietary supplements are natural products, they are not 100% safe,” states Jennifer Greer, N.D., M.Ed., herbal ingredient expert. “There’s an old saying in toxicology that remains true – the dose makes the poison.”
Greer said that it has long been known that herbs may impact liver detoxification pathways and invoked the common advice about avoiding grapefruit when on certain medications.
Clinical currents and science news
A new preclinical trial suggests an active ingredient in shatavari may have applications in cognitive health. Shatavarin IV, a constituent of the herb that has recently gained popularity for supporting female hormonal balance, downregulated proinflammatory cytokines and upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines according to cell culture studies. The extract evaluated in the study, marketed as SheVari4 by Cepham, also reduced oxidative stress.
Shatavari isn’t the only ingredient with potential benefits for cognitive health, beyond its claim to fame. Researchers studied the impact of Akkermansia muciniphila in a mouse model, finding that the probiotic works with the gut-brain axis to reverse cognitive impairments caused by colitis.
Uqora’s new Flush Advanced+ dietary supplement contains cranberry fruit powder and D-mannose along with select vitamins and minerals to help reduce risk of urinary tract infections. Photo credit: Uqora
Dietary supplement finished product news
Wellness brand Cymbiotika added liposomal creatine to its liquid supplement shot lineup. Each packet contains 5 grams creatine monohydrate (CreaBev, Glanbia Nutritionals). Clinical data indicate the product delivers 21% more creatine and improves absorption by 15%, according to the press release.
“Creatine is one of the most researched supplements in the world, yet the format and experience have remained largely unchanged,” said Shahab Elmi, Cymbiotika cofounder and CEO. “We created Advanced Creatine to offer a clean, convenient, and highly bioavailable solution that fits seamlessly into real life.”
Supplement brand First Day announced its first retail launch at nationwide dedicated endcap displays at Target, expanding beyond its existing direct-to-consumer business. “Launching at Target allows us to bring thoughtfully formulated, science-backed products to more families in a place they already trust and visit regularly,” said founder Alice Li.
Anju Majeed, Sami-Sabinsa executive group chairperson, and other members of senior management and employees were joined by Shri H. D. Ranganath, member of the Legislative Assembly, Kunigal, to celebrate the opening of Sabinsa’s new manufacturing facility in Karnataka, India. Photo credit: Sabinsa
Company and organization updates
Herbal ingredient manufacturer Sabinsa opened a new manufacturing facility in Hassan, Karnakata, India. Designed for energy efficiency and user comfort, the ninth production plant in Sabinsa’s portfolio will create 250 jobs for the local community and allow for ingredient portfolio expansion. “The new production facility in Hassan will strengthen our ability to serve customers worldwide with both patented and off-patent herbal products,” said Anju Majeed, executive group chairperson.
Human performance brand Momentous announced an exclusive launch with The Vitamin Shoppe to carry its products nationwide. The product line includes whey protein isolate, creatine and collagen, all NSF certified for sport. “With its rigorous quality standards and commitment to transparency, Momentous brings a level of credibility to sports nutrition that our customers are increasingly seeking,” said Muriel Gonzalez, president of The Vitamin Shoppe.
Supplement company USANA brings back Kevin Guest as CEO. He previously served in the role from 2015 to 2023 and returns with full support from the board and leadership. “I know firsthand the strength of our sales force and management team, the resilience of our culture, the differentiation of our science-based products, and the meaningful opportunities ahead,” said Guest.
Upcoming events
Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN) will hold their second annual WIN leadership summit Apr. 24-26 at Sonoran University in Tempe, Arizona. Topics of discussion include supporting women at every stage, building inclusive teams and redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur. Rebecca Takemoto, executive director of WIN, shared via email that this year’s event will also include a pitch event open to the public.
The Southern California Dietary Supplement Consortium will host a webinar on master manufacturing and batch production records on Jan. 16, noon-2 p.m. EST. Gary Pecic of the Human and Animal Food (HAF) program at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will discuss material reviews, verification requirements, proper documentation and electronic record compliance.
Launching innovative ingredients and products? Did you just publish a new clinical trial? Getting ready to announce something big? SupplySide Supplement Journal would love to know. Email Devon Gholam with all your buzzworthy news.
