Symptoms and relief

Our purpose is not to hinder the physiological processes of the organism. Ours is a holistic approach. An approach that encourages the ristoring of the physical balance, by facing the causes as efficiently as possible and by ensuring a fast relief of all the symptoms.

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Respiratory tract

The respiratory tract is an anatomical structure primarily devoted to breathing and made up of several organs with the function of channeling air from the external environment, rich in oxygen, towards the inner part of the body, eliminating at the same time air “already breathed”, which is therefore rich in carbon dioxide.

During inhalation the first organs that air comes in contact with are the nose and the oral cavity, and right afterwards the pharynx. The passage of air in the upper airway (how this set of organs is called) allows it to be warmed up and take on water vapor: this way it is ready to move on to the second part of the respiratory tract, i.e. at mid-level. Larynx and trachea channel inhaled air towards the bronchi, bronchioles and the lung alveoli, i.e. the lower airway, or final part of the respiratory tract. It is in this anatomical area that gaseous exchanges of oxygen and carbon dioxide take place, which are at the basis of the respiratory process.

The respiratory tract is anatomically closely connected to the set of thoracic muscles and to the diaphragm, which enable the rib cage to expand during inhalation. Apart from the main, essential respiratory function, the respiratory tract also has another function: maintaining the right balance of acidity in the blood by regulating the quantity of carbon dioxide circulating.

All organs part of the respiratory tract are particularly exposed to attacks by bacteria, viruses or other harmful elements: in fact, these can be present in air inhaled and therefore come into direct contact with the mucosa of the nose, oral cavity, pharynx, etc. When the mucosa of the organs involved is not prepared to respond to the pathogenic attack, a whole series of disorders can develop, ranging from colds, pharyngitis, laryngitis, up to bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis and asthma which easily tend to become chronic if not adequately treated – particularly in the case of pharyngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis,.

It is therefore essential to be able to resort to adequate remedies which, while respecting the physiology of the mucosa, may effectively guarantee a definitive solution and at the same time reduce the risk of relapses and chronicity.

Infection of the nasal mucosae by certain particular categories of influenza viruses, mainly rhinovirus, is the cause unleashing common cold. Rhinoviruses, with 200 different existing types, attack cells of the upper respiratory passages if they find favourable conditions, causing inflammation, dilatation of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, production of liquids and overproduction of mucus.

These typical manifestations represent a defensive response of the organism, in the attempt to eliminate whatever has upset balance of the mucosa. The most virulent potential of rhinorus occurs around 33° C, whereas at 37° C they become inactive. This feature explains why such viruses cannot survive inside the organism and remain limited to the nasal cavity mucosae, particularly when outside temperatures fall, exposing them to an abrupt drop in temperature. This is precisely the reason for calling this affection “cold” or “cold-induced disease”.

When cold air is inhaled, cilia on cells covering the respiratory tract tend to become blocked; mucus stagnates and rhinovirus finds the right environment to replicate, attacking cells and causing inflammation. At that point, typical symptoms of cold appear: a feeling of stuffy nose, nasal discharges, frequent sneezing and profuse tearing.

Cold is extremely contageous both because viruses easily spread in the environment through droplets produced when sneezing, as well as because they mutate extremely rapidly, circumventing any antibody that the organism may have developed against viruses circulating during the previous season. The organism’s immune memory against viruses, in particular influenza viruses, counts very little compared to their extraordinary ability to mutate.

Predisposing factors and potential complications

La chances of catching cold increases whenever the organism’s immune system is debilitated. A diet poor in vitamins and rich in sugar, dairy products and refined foods in general, as well as stress and frequent intake of drugs (in particular drugs and nasal decongestants), contribute to make the organism fragile in case of viral attacks.

The feeling of stuffy, congested nose typical of colds lead many people to seek relief by using nasal decongestants, with a mechanism of action promoting vasoconstriction of the mucosa’s blood vessels, which consequently reduces swelling and mucus. However, overuse of these medicines not only does not actually solve the problem, since they are completely ineffective on its causes, but instead usually lead to a worsening of the congestion due to chronic dilatation of the blood vessels, with resulting swelling and alteration of the nasal mucosa’s protective function.

Staying in closed and crowded places, particularly during the winter season, greatly increases exposure to contagion. The mechanism is simple: the person inhales sneeze droplets or comes into contact with agents contaminated by viruses and goes out into the cold; there is an abrupt drop in temperature at nasal mucosa level: rhinoviruses take advantage of the moment of weakness, attack the cells and trigger the inflammatory process.

Generally, colds last around 10 – 14 days. If, however, mucus become stagnant, due to an altered functionality of the vibritile cilia of the mucosa, the inflammation can extend to other districts of the upper airways, causing sinusitis, otitis, tracheitis, etc. In such circumstances, the infections’ viral nature can cause the development of bacterial proliferations, therefore significantly aggravating the situation.

Treatment of cold with conventional medicine

In case of cold, conventional medicine generally uses the following approach both in the preventive and curative phases:

local action on symptoms, such as using nasal decongestants, the mechanism of action of which consists in promoting vasoconstriction, but without actualy solving the problem of cold, as they are completely ineffective on its causes;
systemic action on the causes, such as common antiseptics, anti-inflammatory medicines, as well as antibiotics and cortisone-based medicines, which not only solve this kind of viral affection but are also free from side-effects.
Antibiotics in particular not only do not resolve the problem of cold, since they are completely ineffective on its causes, but they do not take into account the saprophytic physiological flora present in the oral cavity, representing its first, natural defensive line. This causes its impoverishment and can moreover give rise to sensitization and bacterial resistance.

Cortisone-based medicines, instead, which are strong immunosuppressants, further weaken the organism’s natural defenses, exposing it to the risk of new infections, particularly of viral origin. This is why it is so important to have valid alternatives available in the treatment of cold, whatever the origin and nature of its symptoms.

Nature can help you in case of cold

A natural and effective approach

To solve the common and widespread problem of cold definitely, nature can once again be of great help, first of all owing to the use of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE), the efficacy of which against pathogens involved in this affection has been confirmed by numerous studies and applications.

GSE and cold

Grapefruit Seed Extract has broad spectrum antimicrobial efficacy: in fact, it has been proven by Laboratories and Institutes worldwide that GSE is active against several viral strains, showing encouraging results. However, further research is necessary to establish its full potential.

In addition, results obtained regarding the efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) against over 800 bacterial strains, confirms the value of GSE not only for local but also for systemic use, in directly contrasting ongoing infections and also in improving the general efficiency of the organism’s defense system to counteract any microbial attack.

A study published in the “Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine” Vol.5 n° 3 of 1990, effected in vitro and in vivo on intestinal microflora, proves the efficacy of GSE, in different concentrations, towards pathogenic microorganisms and also proves its “selectivity”, in that it does not have a significant, negative impact on physiological microbial flora, safeguarding the organism’s natural defences to avoid the development of bacterial resistance.

GSE therefore represents an extremely valid and safe remedy against sinusitis.

Given the above considerations, GSE therefore represents the cornerstone of an exceptionally effective approach against cold. Its association with specific plant extracts enables to obtain a remedy through a mechanism of action that must include the following:

systemic action by means of a product that can stop the evolution of viral aggressions if taken at the first symptoms, thereby solving the problem rapidly while avoiding the insurgence of complications;
“selective” cleansing action and drainage of the nasal cavities, maintaining fluidity of the mucus and preventing it from stagnating, thereby contributing to soothe inflamed mucosae and strengthen their defences.
aerosol therapy to promote “selective” cleansing, drainage, expectoration and decongestion of the upper airways.

This approach, combined with a healthy lifestyle (in terms of diet, but not only), includes the use of natural remedies that are well known in folk tradition and the efficacy of which in providing a definitive solution has been confirmed by recent studies.

1 - Systemic action by means of a product that can stop the evolution of viral aggressions if taken when initial symptoms appear, thereby solving the problem rapidly while avoiding the insurgence of complications
Nature can help you with …

Grapefruit Seed Extract: it acts on viruses, inhibiting them directly. Moreover, as an extraordinary “selective cleanser”, it is effective on pathogens, without having a negative impact on microbial flora of the mucosae, enabling reconstruction of beneficial flora instead, thereby improving the efficiency of the immune system’s response. In addition, its proven antibacterial activity is essential to prevent and contain any potential, further infections, which are often of bacterial origin.

Prunella vulgaris: the extract of this plant offers proven antiviral action against A type influenza viruses, thanks to a mechanism of action that interferes with viral antigen attacks (Neuroaminidase) against cellular receptors. It also has an immunodulating activity, since it can improve phagocytosis and type Th1 lymphocyte responses.

Echinacea purpurea: its phytocomplex shows antiviral activity against influenza viruses, as its mechanism of action inhibits the link of the virus with the cellular receptor, preventing its access. Moreover, it has a strong immunomodulating activity, regulating phagocytosis as well as the production of lymphocytes.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Elderberry extract has shown extraordinary antiviral activity, both directly as it inhibits viral antigen attacks (Hemagglutinin) against cellular receptors, and indirectly, with its immodulating effect, as it improves the efficiency of the Th1 lymphocyte component. The ursolic acid contained in its phytocomplex moreover ensures anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and antipyretic action.

Biosterine®: the phytocompound consisting in Holy Basil and Sage, titrated at 40% in Rosmarinic Acid, presents multiple properties, among which its immunomodulating activity, enabling to improve the efficiency of the Th1 lymphocyte component, to better respond to viral attacks. Additionally, Biosterine® has powerful natural anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and antipyretic features.

Swallowable tablets are the most suitable form of intake for these plant active constituents, to be taken as soon as symptoms appear, at the recommended doses and preferably before meals, for 5 days.

2.To enhance “selective” cleansing action and drainage of the nasal cavities, maintaining fluidity of the mucus and preventing it from stagnating, contributing to soothe inflamed mucosae and strengthen their defences.
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: results obtained with regard to the antimicrobial efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) confirm GSE to be beneficial also if used in specific formulations for aerosol. Its synergy with specific plant extracts makes the formulation effective and safe to use.

Altea: the extract obtained from Altea root is extremely rich in mucilages (up to 20 – 35%, principally galactose, rhamnose – galacturo-rhamnans, arabinans, glucans and arabinogalactans), as well as containing flavonoids, tannins, pectins and starches. The strong presence of mucilages makes Altea an excellent remedy for the respiratory tract.

Mucilages, in fact, determine the formation of an adhesive mucus film that not only protects the area from external agents, but also carries out a soothing, decongestant action, reducing inflammation of mucosae that are particularly irritated and weakened by the ongoing infection. Use of Altea therefore gives the product beneficial properties that are important both to protect the mucosae and to solve the problem of nasal congestion rapidly.

Echinacea: by slowing down the spread of pathogenic germs, it triggers a defensive mechanism against germs while activating a regenerative process of tissues at the same time. For this reason, preparations based on Echinacea are considered effective in the treatment of septic conditions and in situations of infectious diseases in general featuring high temperature, particularly when there is a tendency to chronicity and relapses.

Thymus Serpyllum: its most significant action is as an expectorant and it is therefore successfully employed in the treatment of catarrh in the respiratory tract. Moreover, its proven bacteriostatic property, especially on Gram + bacteria, completes the antiseptic and secretolytic action on the nasal cavities.

Cypress: an extract is obtained from Cypress fruit, also called cone or galbulus, rich in several active principles, in particular proanthocyanidins, terpenic acids, tannins, flavonoids and essential oils. Cypress extract has numerous beneficial properties: in particular, it has extraordinary anti-inflammatory and balsamic attributes and contributes to restore the physiological conditions of the nasal mucosa, providing rapid relief from symptoms of cold. Finally, having a good concentration of proanthocyanidins, Cypress also offers a strong antiviral effect, supporting action carried out by Grapefruit Seed Extract.

Calendula: rich in triterpene derivatives, it has marked anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. Other components present are caretonoids, numerous resins, flavonoids, polisaccharides and mucilages, markedly bioadhesive on the skin and mucosae, thereby contributing to the plant’s health properties. The most significant actions that Calendula carries out are: anti-inflammatory, anti-reddening, immunomodulating, antimicrobial, cicatrizing, analgesic, soothing and decongestant, promoting rapid healing of localized inflammations at connective tissue level.

Kiwi water: distilled Kiwi water enriches and completes the product by supplying a number of indispensable elements such as vitamins (A,C and E) as well as minerals (in particular Potassum, Copper and Iron) that together favour riepithelisation of the mucosa, restoring its original physiological conditions. Being rich in vitamins, it moreover reinforces the immune system of the mucosa, contributing to improve its response against infections.

These plant ingredients are combined in a completely natural and sterile solution, ideal to be debulised directly in the nasal cavities, using a practical eco-spray nebulizer with a preservative-free packaging.

3 - Aerosol therapy to promote “selective” cleansing, drainage, expectoration and decongestion of the upper airways;
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: results obtained with regard to the antimicrobial efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) confirm that GSE is beneficial also if used in specific formulations for aerosol. The synergy with specific plant extracts makes the formulation effective and safe to use.

Drosera rutundifolia: it carries out a spasmolytic activity on smooth muscles, with an action similar to adrenalin that reduces spasms caused by histamine on the chain of bronchial rings; consequently, it relaxes the bronchi.

Enula bell: it has secretolytic properties, thanks to its sesquiterpene lactones in particular, and is markedly anti-inflammatory.

Dwarf pine: the extract obtained is a mixture of monoterpene hydrocarbons such as alfa and beta pinene, limonene, phellandrene, camphene and borneol: all these substances have antiseptic, balsamic and secretolytic properties, particularly aimed at the respiratory tract.

Thymus: its essence includes, among other constituents, thymol (up to 55%) and other volatile compounds such as: geraniol, terpineol, cymene, linalool, camphene, borneol. It has antiseptic, balsamic and fluidifying properties.

Atomised sea water: sea water is the most complete mineral water because it contains all elements present in nature. Used for inhalation, it is beneficial in treating or preventing numerous affections and is a good remedy for all respiratory disorders.

In both adults and children, the ideal means of intake is a solution to nebulise with an aerosol devise.

The association of the above-described active principals, essential for a definitive solution of cold, can be further supported by specific remedies indicated for:

– “selective”, systemic cleansing action, preventing the development of bacterial infections and insurgence of complications, while strengthening the organism’s natural defences: GSE, Echinacea purpurea, Rhodiola, Uncaria and Tea tree oil in swallowable tablets; in children, the drinkable version is to be preferred, based on GSE, Rhodiola, Noni, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia.

As an alternative to these two solutions, both for adults and for children, it is also possible to resort to an innovative formulation in effervescent tablets, based on GSE at high concentrations and Uncaria; the exclusively natural composition, the high concentration of active principles and the benefits of the effervescent formulation (allowing rapid dissolution and increased bioavailability), give the product a pleasant taste, making it also rapidly effective.

To restore balance of the intestinal flora and at the same time strengthen the organism’s natural defences: for adults, single use vials with patented proportioning cap based on probiotics (B. bifidum, L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Uncaria and Morinda citrifolia (Noni); for children, single use vials with patented cap, based on probiotics (B. infantis, B. longum, L. Rhamnosus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Astragalus and Uncaria tormentosa.