Papaya extracts and papaya-associated phytochemicals possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Papaya contains a wide range of bioactive secondary metabolites (eg alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins, saponins) and proteolytic enzymes (papain and chymopapain).

Both marigold and papaya are also rich in lutein, a type carotenoid. The importance of carotenoids in promoting health in people and dogs is well documented. However, a study on 56 young beagles receiving a dietary lutein supplement, showed a significantly enhanced cell-mediated and humoral immune response in dogs. The study also showed that dietary lutein may enhance the antibody response of dogs given routine vaccinations.

Adaptogens increase the state of non-specific resistance in stress and decrease sensitivity to stressors, which results in stress protection, and prolong the phase of resistance (stimulatory effect). Instead of exhaustion, a higher level of equilibrium (the homeostasis) is attained the heterostasis. The higher it is, the better the adaptation to stress. Thus, the stimulating and anti-fatigue effect of adaptogens has been documented in both in animals and in humans. The mushroom and herb ingredients in this formulation are classified as adaptogens.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the adaptogen herbs that is known to have anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, anti-arthritic and anti-ageing properties. It’s a good source of natural antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols and consumption of ashwagandha may contribute substantial amounts of antioxidants to the diet. It’s also been shown to have a beneficial effect on dogs with liver dysfunction.

Astragalus is a member of the legume family that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to promote strong immunity and boost “vital life energy”. It contains astragalans, polysaccharide constituents that stimulate white blood cells production, T-cells, killer cells and antibodies in a fashion that helps maintain and restore the immune system. It’s also been shown to improve the clinical signs and regulate the immune cells, cytokines and other immune-related parameters, of immunosuppressed dogs.

Medicinal mushrooms are reported to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer properties. It is well-established that mushrooms are adept at immune modulation and affect immature red blood cells, lymphocytes, macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells. All that medical jargon aside, the bottomline is that both reishi and maitake have been used extensively in cancer treatment in humans and mice.

Shiitake is another medicinal with a bunch of benefits - in medical jargon: antiproliferative, immunostimulatory, hepatoprotective, and antimutagenic! There have also been anti-tooth decay effects in vitro and in mice. Lentinan, a carb (polysaccharide) isolated from shiitake, has been well studied and is thought responsible for the mushroom’s beneficial effects. It’s been shown to improve immunity, as seen by improved cell proliferation and activation and increased sIgA (secretory immunoglobulin A) production, in humans.