The "broad spectrum" extracts, supplied by PlusPharma, match their parent natural plant material in the broad spectrum of components, thereby sharing the original herb's potency and safety. Some extract manufacturers isolate only one or a few components of the herb, which they claim to be the "active ingredient." In reality, it is very unusual for scientists to agree on which component in an herb is the effective one. In most cases, there is evidence that many components have an effect, and each contributes to the activity of the whole herb. By isolating only a few components, upsetting the herb's natural balance may lead to a loss of potency or even to toxicity. In fact, these types of isolated extracts bear a closer resemblance to synthetic drugs than they do to the herbs from which they are derived.

Case in point: Echinacea. Its benefits result from a broad spectrum of components

Echinacea has been extensively studied over the years, and scientists have found it impossible to attribute its activity to any one particular compound. Rather, there are three broad categories of compounds which show activity: the polysaccharides, the alkylamides, and the phenolics. Of the three, many researchers consider the phenolics to be the least active and specific category. Yet, several American companies have lately been marketing "standardized" echinacea extracts which, they brag, contain a few percent of echinacoside or cichoric acid -- compounds that belong in the phenolic category. It is senseless to attribute the activity of echinacea primarily to either of these compounds, because their occurrence in different echinacea species does not correlate with the activity of the species.

For example, E. Angustifolia contains only trace amounts of cichoric acid, yet it exhibits significant health-enhancing activity. Likewise, E. Purpurea contains no echinacoside, yet exhibits significant activity. From these facts, it can be concluded that neither cichoric acid nor echinacoside comprises the primary source of activity.

Broad spectrum extracts supplied by PlusPharma result from complex production procedures

PlusPharma' team of scientists can answer any detailed questions about extract quality, formulations or dosages. Feel free to call Staci Eisner, PlusPharma' Technical Director, for more information.