For The Biome (Dummerston, VT) is launching a three-product system designed to support a wiser immune system. The three products – Immune Therapy, Stress Therapy, and Gut Therapy –synergistically support the gut microbiome, nervous system, gut-lung axis, and gut-brain axis. Paul Schulick, master herbalist and founder of For The Biome and New Chapter, which he parted ways with after the company was acquired by Proctor & Gamble, designed these formulations based on his research and expertise.
“I designed these three products to train and nourish the nervous system, gut, and microbiome so they can support a wiser immune response,” Schulick said in a press release. “Immune health isn’t about strengthening one system in the body. The most effective and lasting results come from treating the body as a whole and interdependent communication system.”
The Immune Therapy and Stress Therapy products are infusions while the Gut Therapy product comes in a vegan capsule. According to For the Biome, invitro testing shows Immune Therapy balances immunomodulating markers within two hours, as it bathes the mouth and gut microbiome with a protective liquid infusion. Stress Therapy is a restorative infusion that soothes the immune system and nervous system and supports the gut microbiome. Gut Therapy is a fermentate featuring clinically studied prebiotics, postbiotics, para-probiotics, and live probiotics that support a resilient gut microbiome and its connection to immune, respiratory, and emotional health.
The new collection includes Immune Therapy, Stress Therapy, and Gut Therapy that synergistically nourish the gut microbiome, nervous system, gut-lung axis, and gut-brain axis.
The formulations are the culmination of immune research and over four decades of experience from Co-Founder Paul Schulick. As the company’s formulator, Schulick launched For The Biome after parting ways with New Chapter, a company he founded in 1982 which was later acquired by Procter & Gamble in 2012.
“We identify For The Biome as a wellness company and although we launched with skincare, my intention has always been to expand into ingestibles. We like to say that ‘you have to treat as a whole to heal as a whole’ — so it’s only natural that we offer products designed for internal and topical use. The choice to move into immunity was simply nature calling. It was an opportunity to make a contribution, which is what I am here to do,” said Schulick.
Biomarkers
The master herbalist explained that the products target specific biomarkers to bring an exhausted or overactive immune system back to balance.
“We looked at a panel of cytokines, both pro and anti-inflammatory, and a window of immediate effects and response to the exposure of the products. We wanted to see the acute effects and what was moving the needle,” said Schulick. “Examples of the biomarkers include IL-1B, IL-Ra., IL-2, CD69, CD25, and G-CSF, which help modulate inflammation, signal an immune response, and support renewal. We also looked at the CAP-e antioxidative capacity for the product, or its ability to get into the cells and protect them from the inside out.”
Backed by science
Schulick said the Immune Therapy and Stress Therapy are both backed by clinical studies and the probiotic strains in Gut Therapy are backed by several clinical studies as well, adding, “We invest heavily to conduct ongoing research and will share this with our customers as it breaks.”
In-vitro testing suggests that Immune Therapy balances immunomodulating markers within 2 hours as it coats the mouth and gut microbiome with a protective liquid infusion.
Stress Therapy is a restorative infusion that delivers stress relief by soothing the immune system, nervous system, and supporting the gut microbiome.
The company said Gut Therapy is a first-to-the-world fermentate featuring clinically studied prebiotics, postbiotics, para-probiotics, and live probiotics that support a resilient gut microbiome and its connection to immune, respiratory, and emotional health.
Strain selection
“We select the most healing and restorative prebiotic, whole-food, and certified organic botanicals for the digestive system (eg., flax, chaga, aloe, and moringa) and then utilize the power of fermentation to further amplify their benefits. This is no ordinary fermentation process. It is a dual-stage process using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and two of the most researched probiotic strains from Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria genera, GG and BR03. These strains produce many important immunologically active peptides also known as postbiotics.”
Schulick added that Gut Therapy then completes the formulation with a therapeutically validated, live dose of Lactobacillus plantarum DR7, a probiotic with multiple positive effects on immunity (NK cell upregulation, respiratory protection), stress response (cortisol, serotonin) and cognition (enhanced learning and social emotional reasoning).
Ingredient selection
“When formulating these products, I referenced groundbreaking research that focused on advancements in immune support around the world. This research, coupled with my passion for herbalism, guided me as I chose plants, mushrooms, and probiotics renowned for their ability to support a ‘wiser’ immune response.”
Schulick told NutraIngredients-USA that his goal was to source the best possible forms of these components and introduce some of them for the first time to North America. “One of the most remarkable is the herb Cistus incanus, popular in the Mediterranean, and known for its remarkable restorative and protective abilities. It’s featured in Immune Therapy because of its notable ability to signal immune response and recovery. What’s more is that, while this ingredient is phenomenal on its own, it’s even more effective when paired with symbiotic nutrients. We saw increased activity of Cistus incanus when we paired it with vitamin C-rich black currant leaves and rose hips, and birch-grown chaga with betulinic acid. All three of our formulas deliver these kinds of extraordinary synergies.”
Challenges
Schulick said identifying the ingredients is the easier part. “Getting the level of efficacy and quality that meets our standards” is another story.
“For the most part, this has always been the case, COVID or not. Certainly, this period of time during COVID has made that more difficult and we’ve had to search around the world two or three times, sometimes, to find what we needed. We then independently test and confirm for levels of active compounds to deliver what we are seeking.”
People who dwell in the Halkidiki region of Greece have been sipping tea infused with Cistus incanus for thousands of years. This population is known for having more centenarians than any region in the world, and the miracle botanical has been touted as a major contributing factor. Now, For The Biome has brought this potent herb to the western world.
Cistus incanus gets to work when it enters the body, delivering immune support within two hours of consumption. Rather than simply having immune-boosting capabilities often seen in other supplements, For The Biome’s herb blends make the immune system wiser. A “smart” immune system is one that is perpetually alert and ready to fight against potential infection, yet flexible enough to return to a balanced, resting mode after the threat has been neutralized. These immunomodulating properties are fortified with a synergistic combination of vitamin-C rich rosehip, blackcurrant leaf and chaga mushroom, which has been shown to lower chronic inflammation, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
For The Biome’s Gut-Lung Therapy addresses the gut-lung axis; studies suggest disruptions in gut bacteria has a profound effect on respiratory health. Simultaneously promoting microbiome diversity and lowering cortisol levels, Gut-Lung Therapy contains pre-, pro- and postbiotics from sprouted flaxseed, moringa, chaga, amla and aloe. For The Biome’s herb blends coat the mouth, esophageal and intestinal microbiomes with protective botanicals, strengthening the body’s entire digestive system.
High stress levels have the capability to hinder gut health and immune response, blocking the absorption of nutrients and weakening intestinal walls. For The Biome’s Stress Therapy blend features a fast-absorbing infusion of calming flowers including chamomile, passionflower, calendula, hibiscus, elderflower, rose and saffron to balance the central nervous system. Third-party studies have shown that Stress Therapy has the power to clarify the mind, boost mental resilience and regulate emotions after seven daily uses. “I formulate for the world like I would formulate for my own family,” says Paul Schulick, For The Biome’s master herbalist. “It is my unwavering life’s purpose and passion to make innovative contributions to the wellness market that have the ability to change lives.”
Use code Purist15 for 15 percent off online orders at forthebiome.com
Many people thought that 2021 would be a farewell to the stresses and anxieties of 2020 – a year that many would like to forget. If you’re like me, the stress of enduring a global pandemic, working from home while taking care of children, canceling travel plans and major events, and forgoing socializing with friends and family, was indeed a challenging, anxiety-ridden time.
And while we are far from finished with COVID-19, I think we could all use a collective sigh of relief from the stressful time we’re living in. Though none of us can fast forward time, there are easily attainable tools and tricks for managing stress and anxiety.
I spoke with three therapists, all ranging in a variety of specialties, who gave insightful wisdom and advice on managing stress and anxiety in practical, easy-to-apply methods, with things like journaling and jewelry.
For Anxiety:
Journaling
Audrey Grunst, LCSW, is the owner of Simply Bee Counseling in Vernon Hills and Northbrook, Illinois. Like many therapists, Grunst believes in the art of journaling, which is why she created a five-month set of therapeutic journals called the “Bee You Planner Series,” which guides users through the often overwhelming process of self-reflection and self-improvement.
Bee You Planner
“Each month is a new step, so it gives you an opportunity to advance yourself one step at a time. The first month is about becoming aware. It teaches you how to become aware of the big four, which are your thoughts, feelings, urges, and physical sensations. The second level is how to use mindfulness and observe the things you’ve become aware of. The third [level] is how you respond to the things you’re observing rather than react. Step four is to integrate. You know how you feel inside now, so it’s how you go to your environment and interact with other people and make action plans outside yourself. The fifth step is growth and reflection. Basically, let’s recap the last four steps, what I’ve learned, and what I need to do next.”
Though Grunst uses the series with her patients, she said you don’t have to be in therapy to appreciate the journals and utilize their therapeutic benefits.
“I’ve sent it to all my therapist friends, and they often suggest it to their clients to use, but I have had people in my own family who don’t go to therapy use it, and they feel like it’s very effective,” she said.
Shop at Bee You Planner
$
The Five-Minute Journal
Anita Guajardo, LCSW, a psychotherapist and owner of Ilumina Counseling in Austin, Texas, helps individuals struggling with self-care and setting boundaries. Like Grunst, Guajardo believes in the power of journaling.
She understands, though, why the activity might be overwhelming for some to consider, especially for those who lead busy, jam-packed lives. That’s why she encourages people to look into “The Five-Minute Journal,” which includes daily thought-provoking, easy-to-tackle prompts.
“The fact that it’s called ‘The Five-Minute Journal’ is very appealing to the fast-paced lifestyle most of us have. Having a structure with prompts helps contain the experience of what’s coming up so you’re not getting overwhelmed and re-living a stressful story because you’re writing about it,” she said.
Shop at Amazon
$
Fidget Jewelry
Fidget Ring Set of 3
Grunst also recommends investing in calming objects like fidget jewelry, such as a ring or a necklace, to help people soothe themselves in stressful situations.
Shop at Etsy
$
Fidget Pendant
“Fidget jewelry can have smooth edges, rough edges, and can help you cope with anxiety,” she said. “Fidgeting is you trying to release the anxious energy in your body through certain ways. So instead of doing something harmful like picking at your nails or your skin, you are using something that isn’t harmful.”
Shop at Etsy
$
Essential Oils
Hamoery Natural Stone Lava Rock Diffuser Bracelet
Grunst said rubbing essential oils into lava rock jewelry can also help soothe anxiety: “The essential oils absorb into the beads and you can rub those in between your fingers and have that fragrance with you all day. Lavender can calm you down, or you can have orange or lemon to wake you up. You can use oils to bring your energy up or down.”
Shop at Amazon
$
For Stress Management:
Apps:
Daylio App
Guajardo also said her patients have experienced great results using apps that help encourage self-awareness, such as Daylio. The free, mood-tracking app tracks a person’s various moods with their daily activities, which in turn is used to track a person’s overall happiness. Individuals can utilize the app to understand the association between their moods and activities.
“It’s a quick check-in tool that lets people log on for a couple of seconds and you just put in an emoji visual selecting your mood right now and your activity, and then it tracks it, “ she said. “Technology is with them, so they’re using something that is already part of their day. This is adding in something quick, simple, that doesn’t take up too much time, and can be very engaging.”
Shop at Google Play
$
Shop at App Store
$
Mindful Breathing Necklace
Guajardo said there are also mindful breathing necklaces “that almost look like a whistle,” which can help a person calm down and focus on breathing during particularly stressful, triggering situations.
Shop at UncommonGoods
$
Supplements and Teas
Lastly, Guajardo said carving out meaningful time to enjoy beverages like tea or coffee can help people decompress and get in touch with their thoughts and feelings.
“I say find time to create moments, and in those moments are pockets for intentions. Take a moment with a cup of tea, and the entire time you’re drinking it set an intention to slow down and practice gratitude, from the time the mug is full to the time it’s empty. You decide if that time is going to be fast or slow.”
For The Biome Stress Therapy 7-Flower Infusion
Dr. Anne Black, a community psychologist and founder of the Warrior Connection, also has a great appreciation for enjoying a tea-like beverage. In fact, Black suggests For the Biome’s Stress Therapy 7-Flower Infusion as a supplement that can help manage stress and anxiety.
“I take and recommend For The Biome Stress Therapy for daily stress management because it is a science-backed, clinically proven formula that improves your ability to adapt to stress [and provides] emotional strength and clarity of mind,” she said. “It also helps support serotonin production and strengthens your gut barrier. Its synergistic bouquet of restorative flowers has an immediate and lasting impact on your central nervous system, mood, gut microbiome, and even your immune system.”
Shop at Amazon
$
Gifts for The Stressed Out:
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty Hot Head
Black once owned a condolence-based gift business, which sold tangible items that helped individuals navigate stress, depression, and anxiety following a loss in their life. According to Black, the business featured a multitude of products, including items like Angry Putty and lavender-scented eye pillows.
Shop at Amazon
$
Blissful Being Namaste Yoga Eye Pillow with Lavender
“[Angry] Putty is a palmer that physical therapists use to build up hand muscles. Sometimes just having something to squeeze, touch, and hold is useful,” she explained. “With the [lavender-scented] eye pillow, you can lie down and let the eye pillow take that stress of even just holding your eyes closed away.”
Shop at Amazon
$
Linen Pocket Square or Handkerchief
Black said it’s also useful to keep a handkerchief on hand as a reminder that it’s perfectly okay, and often healing, to cry during stressful, depressing times. Black said this tool has been particularly meaningful for veterans, who often have the “if you cry, you die” mentality instilled in them.
“Many people have thousands of uncried tears in their body. Going through a hard time can be a great opportunity to offload some of that,” she said. “All of those unprocessed feelings and experiences are in there. They’re still stuffed in the body. So they’re either going to implode or they’re going to explode.”
Shop at Etsy
$
NEWSLETTERS
The Scouted Newsletter
Product recommendations that’ll make your life better and tips to help you shop smarter.
By Clicking “Subscribe” you agree to have read the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Scouted selects products independently and prices reflect what was available at the time of publish. Don’t forget to check out our coupon site to find deals from Sephora, CVS, and more. If you buy something from our posts, we may earn a small commission.
