radical chain reaction that otherwise damages a large number of cell membranes. Beta carotene reduces the energy from free radicals formed by UV radiation. The potent antioxidant properties of green tea, grape seed and bilberry derives from their different polyphenols (quercitin and resveratrol are also polyphenols). CoQ10 is active inside cells while alpha lipoic acid is known as an antioxidant that protects brain tissue.
    IMMUNOMAX also contains four botanical extracts that have long historical use. Their specific beneficial effects have been documented in modern medical studies:
    Echinacea contains echinacosides and other compounds that have immunostimulanting effects on T-cells and macrophages (white blood cells). The antioxidant activity of astragalus comes from its flavonoids, while the plant's polysaccharides stimulates T-cells and possibly also the production of interferon (immune proteins). Andrographis has antimicrobial activity due to the combined effect of the plant's arabinogalactan proteins and andrographolides. Cat's Claw contains pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids that stimulate the production of immune system T-cells.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that damage cells by oxidation. Antioxidants are protective substances that neutralize free radicals.
     Free radicals come from drugs, cigarette smoke and other pollution or toxins. Exposure to UV radiation creates free radicals. They also form in the body during normal metabolic processes, and more are generated during exercise when the body uses more oxygen.
    If antioxidants are not available, free radicals can trigger chain reactions that create more and more cell-oxidizing free radicals. Such damage accumulates over time, aging the body and weakening its immune system.
    Antioxidants are divided into water-soluble antioxidants,which neutralize free radicals inside cells and in blood plasma, and fat-soluble antioxidants that protect cell walls.
     The water-soluble antioxidants in IMMUNOMAX are vitamin C, green tea extract, alpha lipoic acid, bilberry extract and resveratrol. Vitamin E, beta carotene and co-enzyme Q10 are fat-soluble antioxidants. Quercitin is unique in that it is both a water- and fat-soluble antioxidant.
     While the basic action of the antioxidants is the same-preventing oxidation-some have special roles. The body uses vitamin C to prevent damage to its hundreds of enzymes. Vitamin E inhibits plaque formation in arteries by protecting cholesterol from oxidation. Selenium is a component of an enzyme that breaks a free