Healthy joints and ligaments are never appreciated until problems arise. This includes pain, swelling, loss of flexibility and difficulty in mobility. One of the worst problems characterised by these signs is arthritis. There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease and represents a major cause of morbidity and disability in the elderly. Many factors can contribute to joint disease, such as aging, diet, injuries, and "wear and tear".

Morlife’s Phytofood Joints is formulated with a synergistic blend of food ingredients and nutrients including vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino acids that are especially beneficial for joints.

Alfalfa has a powerful reputation as a healing herb which is a nutritious source of chlorophyll, beta carotene, calcium, and vitamins D, E and K. It has laxative, diuretic and antiseptic effects. It is also valued as a detoxifier, improving liver function and cleansing the blood. Alfalfa is nutritionally useful in bone and joint disorders, digestive problems, skin disorders, ulcers, urinary tract infections, and kidney, bladder and prostate disorders.

Licorice is one of the most widely used herbs and has an important place in both Western and Eastern herbal medicine. It has hormonal, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antibacterial and antiviral effects. It has been shown to stimulate the immune system, and to help with inflammatory and allergic conditions, colds, viral infections, hepatitis, premenstrual syndrome, Addison’s disease, peptic ulcers and skin conditions.

Barley Grass is a rich source of chlorophyll and it contains vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. It also consists of antioxidants to protect against free radical damage that has been associated with degenerative diseases such as aging and arthritis.

Ginger is highly valued as a spice especially with its warming properties. It acts as an antioxidant and has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting, anti-ulcer and pain-killing properties. Ginger helps to increase acid secretion in the stomach, improve liver function, lower cholesterol, relieve spasms in the gut, as well as having beneficial effects on the heart. It is used to help with nausea and vomiting, to improve digestion and inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

Boswellia is a plant commonly found in India. It has good anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and analgesic activity. A randomized double blind placebo controlled crossover study was conducted to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of boswellia in 30 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Half of the sample received boswellia and the other half received a placebo for eight weeks. After the first intervention, a washout was given and then the groups were crossed over to receive the opposite intervention for eight weeks. All patients receiving boswellia reported a decrease in knee pain, increased knee flexion, increased walking distance and decreased frequency of swelling in the knee joint.

Kelp is a type of brown-coloured seaweed that contains a range of minerals including iodine, potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium.

Parsley is one of the most commonly used culinary herbs. It has a diuretic action and is often used with urinary infections and stones. It also aids in improving digestion and flatulence.

Fennel Seed has been used in herbal medicine since it has anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. It is beneficial for respiratory infections and digestive problems such as gas and bloating.

Dandelion is a well-known garden weed and is much valued as an herbal remedy. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium. Its root has been used to improve digestion as it stimulates the flow of digestive juices, including bile from the liver and gallbladder. The root is also used to improve liver function, skin conditions and arthritis.

Yucca has been used traditionally by Native Americans for numerous conditions including inflammation of all sorts. The main constituent of yucca is saponin. Trials have been done and reported that yucca was found beneficial for arthritis.

Celery Seed has diuretic and antiseptic effects. It helps to relieve smooth muscle spasm and is used to ease arthritis and urinary tract infections.

Nettle Leaf has been used in ancient Greece to be beneficial for coughs, tuberculosis, arthritis and stimulating hair growth. Its use for joint pain had been studied by eighteen self-selected patients. All except one respondent were sure that nettle had been very helpful and several considered themselves cured. There were no side effects reported, except a transient urticarial rash.

Tumeric is a family of the ginger family and is commonly used as a curry spice. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, carminative and cholesterol-lowering effects. It is beneficial for the digestive system and useful in inflammatory conditions.

Grape seed extract is a rich source of proanthocyanidins. It has been known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps prevent free radical damage and improve circulation. It may help heal wounds and protect against effects of radiation. It is these proanthocyanidins that facilitate the activity of vitamin C by up to 25 times and vitamin E by 50 times.

Glucosamine Sulphate seems to be the most beneficial form of glucosamine, which is made in the body to make glycosaminoglycans, key structural components of cartilage. It helps to stimulate the cells that produce these glycosaminoglycans and normalise cartilage metabolism by inhibiting their breakdown and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Glucosamine sulphate is used to help the body to repair damaged or eroded cartilage. It has been used to help with osteoarthritis, and acts to improve connective tissue structure in the intestine.

The efficacy and tolerance of glucosamine sulphate were investigated in 30 patients with osteoarthritis. The patients were divided into two groups where one group received glucosamine and the other one received placebo for three weeks. Efficacy was tested by semi-quantitative scoring of pain at rest and during active and passive movements, as well as the limitation of articular function, before and after 7 and 21 days of treatment. Patients were positively questioned daily for possible intolerance symptoms. During both initial parental treatments, each symptom significantly improved, but to a faster and greater extent in the group treated with glucosamine. A further improvement was recorded in the patients treated with glucosamine during the maintenance period, whereas in the placebo group, the symptom scores increased almost to the pre-treatment level. Clinical and biological tolerances were excellent with both treatments. It is suggested that parental and oral treatment with glucosamine sulphate should be considered as basic therapy for the management of primary or secondary degenerative osteoarthritis disorders.

Chondroitin Sulphate is found in the cartilage, bone and connective tissues of most mammals. It is rich in sulphur and consists of repeating chains of molecules called glycosaminoglycans. Several clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of chondroitin sulphate in osteoarthritis involving the hip, knee and finger joints.

A controlled randomized double-blind study versus placebo was conducted in 104 patients with femorotibial osteoarthritis. After one year of consuming, the functional impairment was reduced by approximately 50% and a significant improvement over placebo for all clinical criteria. Chondroitin was well tolerated by the patients and it acts as structural modulators.

Citrus Bioflavanoids are a brightly coloured, chemical constituent of the pulp and rind of citrus fruits. It may act as an antioxidant, preventing vitamin C and adrenaline from being oxidized by copper-containing enzymes. It may also increase the effectiveness of vitamin C and decrease cholesterol levels.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is necessary for collagen formation and tissue repair. It promotes healthy capillaries, gums and teeth; aids iron absorption; increases calcium absorption; helps heal wounds, burns and broken bones; acts as an antioxidant and reduces free-radical production; and strengthens blood vessels. It also aids the utilization of carbohydrates, synthesis of fats and proteins, and preservation of the integrity of blood-vessel walls.

The association betweeb the intake of antioxidant vitamins and trace elements from foods and supplements with risk of getting rheumatoid arthritis was evaluated by Cerhan, Saag, Merlino, Mikuls and Criswell in a prospective cohort study of 29,368 women who were aged 55-69 years. Through the eleven years of study, 152 cases of rheumatoid arthritis were identified. After controlling for other risk factors, greater intake of supplemental vitamin C and antioxidants, including vitamin E and zinc, were inversely associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This suggested that antioxidant nutrients may be protective against the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

Bromelain is one of a group of protein-digesting enzymes obtained from pineapple. It assists the digestion function in the stomach and small intestine; acts as an anti-inflammatory enzyme to reduce swelling and pain after injury; has antibiotic activity; and has been shown to have anticancer activity. Bromelain has been used to aid in several conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, athletic injuries, cancer and to improve recovery after surgery.

Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) is a naturally occurring, organic, sulphur-containing compound. It is found throughout nature and has been detected in the blood and urine of humans. A double blind study of its use in degenerative arthritis has been carried out by Lawrence RM. Sixteen patients suffering from degenerative arthritis were evaluated on the effect of using MSM to control their pain. Ten randomly chosen patients were given 2250 mg of MSM per day and six received placebo capsules for six weeks. The result indicated 80% improvement in pain on average among the patients receiving MSM, while a minimal improvement in the placebo group.

Methionine is one of the essential amino acids, which cannot be manufactured by the body. It supplies sulphur and other compounds required by the body for normal metabolism and growth. The efficacy and tolerance of methionine were studied for 24 months in 108 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, hip and spine. At the end of the observation period, 97 of the patients were still in the study and methionine administration showed good clinical effectiveness and was well tolerated. The improvement was evident after the first week of treatment and continued up to the end of the 24 months. There was also improvement observed on the depressive feelings associated with osteoarthritis.

Calcium pantothenate, vitamin B5, is essential for the release of energy from food. It is necessary for the production of some neurotransmitters and is essential for normal body function. It is required for antibody synthesis and is involved in wound-healing. Normal adrenal gland function requires vitamin B5 as it is vital for the production of adrenal hormones, which play an important part in the body’s reaction to stress. It is also involved in the production of healthy red blood cells.

Niacin (Vitamin B3), like other B vitamins, is essential for the manufacture of enzymes that provide cells with energy through tissue respiration and carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. It is also vital for the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system.

A double-blind, placebo controlled study was carried out by Jonas, Rapoza and Blair to evaluate the effect of Vitamin B3 on selected parameters of osteoarthritis. Seventy-two patients with osteoarthritis were randomized for treatment with Vitamin B3 or an identical placebo for 12 weeks. The result indicated that Vitamin B3 improved the global impact of osteoarthritis, improved joint flexibility, reduced inflammation and allowed for a reduction in standard anti-inflammatory medications when compared to placebo.

Calcium (citrate) is the most abundant mineral in the body. The main function of it is in the structural development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It plays a vital role in muscle contraction, nerve impulse conduction and regulating blood pressure and water balance. Calcium is also essential for cell division, healthy immune function, for enzyme activity and for the production and activity of hormones involved in digestion, energy and fat metabolism, and the production of saliva.

Quercetin is a class of flavonoids, which are water soluble plant pigments. It has been shown to exert anti-histamine, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. There is evidence to suggest that this flavonoid may be beneficial to connective tissue for limiting inflammation and associated tissue degradation, improving local circulation and promoting a strong collagen matrix.

Magnesium (citrate) is one of the most abundant minerals in soft tissue. It is a co-factor in over 300 enzyme reactions, particularly those involving the metabolism of food components and the formation of new compounds essential for good health. Magnesium is vital for healthy bone structure.

Piperine is a component of black pepper and has been known for improving nutrient absorption. A study was done by Vladimir B., Muhammed M. and Piscataway N.J. to investigate whether piperine could enhance absorption of beta-carotene, a fat-soluble nutrient. The results showed 5mg/day dose of piperine taken with 15mg beta-carotene resulted in a 60% increase in serum beta-carotene levels compared with placebo. Similar increases in absorption have been found for many other nutrients.

Manganese (chelate) is an essential trace element for humans. It acts as a co-factor for enzymes necessary for energy production and is involved in glucose metabolism, the stimulation of glycogen storage in the liver, protein digestion and cholesterol and fatty acid, DNA and RNA synthesis. Manganese is necessary for growth, maintenance of the nervous system, the development and maintenance of healthy bones and joints, the formation of blood clotting factors, female sex hormone function and thyroid hormone function. The study done by Cerhan et al also indicated that manganese showed suggestive inverse association with rheumatoid arthritis.

Phosphorus (chelate) is the primary ion in extra and intracellular fluid. It aids absorption of dietary constituents, helps to maintain the blood at a slightly alkaline level, regulates enzyme activity and is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. Phosphorus combines with calcium and is a major component of the structural part of bones and teeth.

Silicon (silica chelate) is the most abundant mineral in the earth’s crust. It is present in bone, blood vessels, cartilage, tendons, skin and hair. Silicon is found in areas of growth of bone crystals and calcification. It may play a role in the formation of cartilage and other connective tissue, giving strength and stability, and maintaining the elasticity of arterial cell walls.

Zinc (citrate) is a trace mineral and a part of the molecular structure of 80 or more known enzymes which work with red blood cells to move carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs. It functions in antioxidant reactions; maintains one’s normal taste and sense of smell; aids wound healing; promotes normal fetal growth; helps synthesize DNA and RNA; promotes cell division, repair and growth; and maintains the normal level of vitamin A in blood. Zinc is a pivotal component of the antioxidant defense network that protects membranes from oxidation. Cerhan’s study also confirmed the greater use of supplemental zinc was inversely associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Glycorrhizin is a component of licorice root. It is a saponin and it exhibits a number of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammation, anti-ulcer, anti-allergy and anti-carcinogenesis.

Boron (chelate) is distributed throughout the human body with the highest concentration in the bones and dental enamel. It seems to be essential for healthy bone and joint function, possibly via effects on the balance and absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. It affects the metabolism of steroid hormones and may also play a role in converting vitamin D to its more active form, thus increasing calcium uptake and deposition into bone.

Newnham R.E., the writer of "Essentiality of boron for healthy bones and joints", mentioned that there was evidence suggesting boron was a safe and effective treatment for some forms of arthritis. It was followed by findings from numerous observations epidemiologic and controlled animal and human experiments. One of the epidemiologic evidence is the estimated incidence of arthritis ranges from 0 to 10% in areas of the world where boron intakes are usually 3 to 10 mg, whereas in areas of the world where boron intakes usually are 1 mg or less per day, the estimated incidence of arthritis ranges from 20 to 70%.

Copper (gluconate) is an important component in many enzymes in the body. Enzymes require copper for the production of the connective tissue proteins, collagen and elastin. Therefore, copper is necessary for the development and maintenance of blood vessels, skin, bone and joints. It is also involved in the release of iron from storage sites and is involved in the formation of bone marrow and the maturation of red blood cells.

Phylloquinone (Vitamin K) is necessary for the conversion of osteocalcin, a bone protein that regulates the function of calcium in bone turnover and mineralization. Hence it is vital for the function of a protein known as MGP which is present in bones, teeth and cartilage.

Selenium (chelate) acts as an efficient antioxidant and it works closely with Vitamin E. It is extremely powerful and protects red blood cells and cell membranes from free radical damage. Selenium is important in maintaining resistance to disease by enhancing the production and effectiveness of white blood cells, increasing antibody production and strengthening the body’s surveillance of abnormal cell growth.

Antioxidant micronutrients have been hypothesized to provide protection against rheumatoid arthritis. Knekt et al investigated this prediction in a case-control study nested within a Finnish cohort of 18,709 adult men and women who had neither arthritis nor a history of it. After 11 years of study, 122 had developed rheumatoid arthritis and 34 were rheumatoid factor-negative. Serum selenium was measured and found to be inversely related to the subsequent occurrence of rheumatoid factor-negative but not rheumatoid factor-positive rheumatoid arthritis. The low selenium status may be a risk factor for rheumatoid factor-negative rheumatoid arthritis.

Retinol palmitate, pre-formed vitamin A, is commonly known for healthy eyes and vision. It plays a central role in tissue development and maintenance and is necessary for growth and repair of many body cells including bones, teeth, collagen and cartilage. Vitamin A stimulates and enhances many immune functions including antibody response and the activity of various white blood cells.

A study was designed to determine if serum concentration of retinol might be lower among those who develop rheumatoid arthritis than those who do not. Those with rheumatoid arthritis that developed 2 to15 years after donating blood for a serum bank in 1974 were designated. Four controls were selected from the serum bank donors, matched for race, sex and age. Stored serum samples and controls were assayed for concentration of retinol. The findings confirmed that low antioxidant status was a risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis.

Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is essential for maintaining the blood calcium levels within an acceptable range. It stimulates intestinal calcium absorption and re-absorption in the kidneys, and regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. It also enables bones and teeth to harden by increasing the deposition of calcium into these structures and may assist in the movement of calcium across body cell membranes. Vitamin D is also involved in the regulation of the immune system, secretion of insulin, and normal impulse transmission and muscle contraction.

The effects of a short-time treatment with cholecalciferol on both disease activity and bone metabolism were evaluated in 20 patients with rheumatoid arthritis for eight weeks. The results indicated that an adjuvant therapy with active vitamin D metabolites may not only have preventive effects on systemic bone mass but also may inhibit the inflammatory and destructive process in rheumatoid arthritis.

The combination of all these anti-inflammatory, antioxidant herbs and nutrients makes Phytofood Joints a unique product beneficial for joint problems.

Suggested Use

Take 1-2 teaspoons of Phytofood Joints up to two times daily. Mix into juice, milk shake, smoothie or other food.

Phytofood Joints contains phytonutrient fine powders of

Pineapple, Blueberry, Alfalfa, Licorice Root, Barley Grass, Hawthorn Berries, Ginger, Boswellia, Kelp, Parsley, Fennel Seed, Dandelion Root, Yucca, Celery Seed, Soya Bean Isolate, Nettle Leaf, Tumeric, Grape Seed.

Fortified with extra Nutrients:

Contains Niacin which can have flushing effects. Consult your health care professional if pregnant, lactating, taking medications or suffering from a serious health conditions before taking. Discontinue taking and seek professional advice if any adverse reaction occurs.

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