Botanical ingredients play a crucial role in supplement development for several reasons. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, they are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents and compounds that support health areas from immune function to cognitive health.
As botanical ingredients have been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries, integrating these into supplements allows for leveraging their historical uses and potential benefits.
Consumer interest is also growing in the area of botanicals as plant derivatives provide a more natural and whole-food approach to supplementation compared to synthetic nutrients.
Seeing this resurgence in interest from the industry and consumers, the finalists chosen by the NutraIngredients’ expert panel are to be celebrated for their natural solutions.
Weight management
Calocurb is a natural appetite control supplement, taking a novel approach to weight management through the activation of GLP-1 and other satiety hormones.
At the heart of Calocurb lies its active ingredient, Amarasate, derived from bitter hops. Recent reasearch showed that it reduced appetite by 30%, cravings by 40% and caloric intake by 18%.
Unlike some weight loss drugs which have been linked to adverse effects, Calocurb aims to harness the body's natural hormonal rhythm to promote sustainable, long-term weight management. It is metabolized in the colon with minimal bloodstream interference, aiming to ensure compatibility with other medications and minimal side effects.
Sleep Health
Serene Sleep by Life Extension is a melatonin-free sleep supplement featuring a blend of ashwagandha and black cumin extracts.
Research suggests that these ingredients aid in stress management, promote overall sleep quality and maintain healthy cortisol levels.
Serene Sleep aims to target those seeking improved sleep without melatonin, addressing some consumer concerns of next-day grogginess or ineffectiveness.
PCOS support
Sophy is a supplement designed to address the symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women, a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting reproductive, dermatologic and metabolic aspects.
Its key ingredient, Berberine Phytosome, utilizes innovative technology to enhance absorption, which the company says makes it ten times more effective than berberine alone.
The supplement aims to alleviate PCOS symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian polycystosis, acne and improve overall quality of life after just three months of treatment. Recent research found the Berberine Phytosome ingredient had positive effects in women with PCOS.
Winner reveal
The awards will be presented at a VIP party hosted by NutraIngredients in Geneva, Switzerland on May 15, recognizing leading initiatives and products across industry categories and celebrating the 10th anniversary of the awards.
"With a stellar line-up of competitors in this year's finals, the team is excited to celebrate our worthy finalists and winners as well as mark a huge milestone for the brand," said Nikki Hancocks, editor of NutraIngredients.com.