Broccoli extract, sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, is one of the most powerful natural inducers of phase II detoxification enzymes, as it neutralises toxins. Phytochemicals such as sulforaphane are antioxidants that scavenge free radicals. These are small particles that weaken and damage healthy cells. They are formed in the body by pollution, UV rays, additives and preservatives in food and by natural processes such as digestion. Some research has shown that sulforaphane blocks mutations in DNA that lead to cancer. Sulforaphane reduces the ability of cancer cells to multiply. This means it can slow the growth of a tumour or reduce its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Research has shown that it also protects our hereditary material and mitochondria, which has implications for prolonged cell life and health, and prevents neuro-degeneration.

The spotted knapweed (Silybum marianum), a well-studied herb in the treatment of liver disease, contains a mixture of several related polyphenolic compounds called silymarin. Silymarin promotes detoxification by several complementary mechanisms. The antioxidant capacity of silymarin may reduce oxidative stress in the liver associated with toxin metabolism, especially lipid peroxidation, which affects the maintenance of cellular glutathione levels. Like NAC (N-acetylcysteine), silymarin may protect against paracetamol toxicity (probably by a similar mechanism of maintaining glutathione levels).

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, was discovered in 1951 as a molecule that helps in the transfer of acyl groups and as a coenzyme in the Krebs cycle. In the 1980s, scientists found that alpha-lipoic acid is also a powerful antioxidant. ALA differs from other fatty acids in that it is a water- and fat-soluble antioxidant and that it is an antioxidant in both its oxidised and reduced forms. This is different from, for example, vitamin C, which is a water-soluble antioxidant, and vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble antioxidant. ALA also increases intracellular glutathione and CoQ10 levels. Its other mechanisms of action include promoting normal glycosylation of proteins and inhibiting the enzyme aldose reductase, which inhibits the conversion of glucose to sorbitol.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) may provide an alternative source of sulphur for glutathione production. It is itself a free radical scavenger, effective in reducing oxidative stress, particularly from heavy metal toxicity. As it can directly replenish glutathione stores, NAC is more effective than methionine in preventing liver damage.

Artichoke extract - Artichoke has been used for centuries in folk medicine to protect the liver and stimulate bile flow and is the best-studied herbal choleretic. Artichoke contains several antioxidants that may protect against oxidative liver damage and caffeoylquinic acid, which have been shown to stimulate bile flow in animal models. 

Green tea tannins can increase CYP activity in vivo and also increase phase II activity (GST and UGT). Green tea provides a triple effect by stimulating fat burning, acting as an antioxidant, and supporting the cardiovascular system by improving blood circulation and nutrient transport, and removing waste substances. Catechins such as EGCG from green tea neutralise reactive oxygen and nitrogen compounds, act against inflammation, cancer, viruses and bacteria, and anti-ageing.

B-vitamins, increase energy production and promote a healthy metabolism, promoting brain, cell and organ health. They influence normal nervous system function, healthy cell division, support the immune system, reduce fatigue and exhaustion, regulate hormonal activity and protect against oxidative stress.

Selected amino acids - L-methionine is an essential amino acid. This means that it cannot be produced by the body on its own and must be obtained from food or supplements. L-methionine supports the production of glutathione, a scavenger of cellular radicals, thus stimulating the natural detoxification process. In the body, L-methionine can also be converted to SAM (S-adenosylmethionine), a compound that supports healthy joints. In addition, the human body needs sulphur-containing amino acids consumed through food, such as L-methionine, for protein synthesis and as biologically active sulphur. Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid which is not used for protein synthesis but is mostly free in most tissues, especially in the nervous system. In tissues, it acts by stabilising cell membranes and helping to transport potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium into and out of cells. Taurine helps to generate and regulate nerve impulses and helps maintain normal fluid balance. It is also used by the body in the visual pathways and in the brain and nervous system, where it acts as a neurotransmitter together with glycine and GABA. Cysteine is a non-essential sulphur amino acid that plays an important role in the metabolism of methionine, taurine and glutathione. It is also an important component of hair, nails and keratin in the skin. Cysteine stabilises the structure of proteins and helps in the formation of collagen, which is essential for the health of skin, hair and nails.

Other vitamins and minerals, deficiencies of vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, B12, C and E are associated with reduced Phase I activity and may slow down the metabolism of some drugs. B vitamins are particularly important as cofactors in Phase II reactions. Deficiencies of copper, zinc, molybdenum, magnesium and selenium have been shown to reduce Phase I enzyme activity. Each of the ingredients has been carefully selected and added to the formulation in order to work in synergy to provide the best possible effect.