The Prime Iguard Vegetable Capsule

The Prime Iguard Vegetable Capsule is a herbal supplement from The Prime, presented as vegetarian capsules. Each capsule contains a proprietary herbal blend that includes cordyceps, black elderberry (Sambucus nigra), astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) and ginger extract. Because the formula is a proprietary blend, the amount of each individual herb per capsule is not listed separately, and the complete ingredient list should be checked on the product label.

The herbs in the blend have a long history in traditional Chinese and European herbal practice. Cordyceps is a fungus traditionally valued in Chinese medicine, astragalus root is a traditional tonic herb, black elderberry fruit is widely used in seasonal wellness preparations, and ginger root is a familiar culinary and herbal ingredient. Scientific evidence for these herbs in humans is still limited and varies by herb, so the product should be viewed as a herbal supplement to complement a healthy lifestyle rather than as a treatment for any illness.

The capsules are described as vegetarian and free from preservatives, and the product is supplied in a pack of 30 capsules. As with any herbal product, natural ingredients can still cause side effects and interact with medicines, particularly immune-suppressing medicines, blood thinners and diabetes medicines. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor.

Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water after a meal. Taking it at around the same time each day can help you remember your daily serving.

Follow the serving stated on the product label, or as advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not open or chew the capsules unless the label says this is acceptable.

Adults: 1 to 2 capsules daily after meals, or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not exceed the recommended daily serving. The product is not intended for children unless advised by a doctor. If you miss a serving, simply take the next one at the usual time — do not double up.

• Common: Mild stomach discomfort, slight nausea or heartburn, which may be related to the ginger content.
• Common: Dry throat or dry mouth.
• Uncommon: Drowsiness.
• Serious: Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing. Stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

• Known allergy to cordyceps, elderberry, astragalus, ginger or any other ingredient in the product, or to mushrooms and moulds.
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis, unless approved by a doctor, as some of the herbs may stimulate immune activity.
• People who have had an organ transplant or who take immune-suppressing medicines, unless approved by their specialist.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, unless advised by a doctor.
• Children, unless advised by a doctor.

• Immunosuppressants (such as ciclosporin, tacrolimus, mycophenolate or corticosteroids): cordyceps, astragalus and elderberry may stimulate immune activity and could reduce the effect of these medicines.
• Blood thinners and antiplatelet medicines (such as warfarin, aspirin or clopidogrel): cordyceps and ginger may slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
• Diabetes medicines: cordyceps and ginger may lower blood sugar, so blood glucose should be monitored when combined with diabetes medicines.
• Diuretics and lithium: astragalus and elderberry may have a mild diuretic effect, which could affect fluid balance and lithium levels.
• Other herbal or immune supplements: avoid combining with other products containing the same herbs to prevent excessive intake.

• Take your capsule after a meal to reduce the chance of stomach discomfort.
• Check the full ingredient list on the label, since a proprietary blend may contain herbs beyond those named here.
• Stop taking herbal supplements about 2 weeks before planned surgery and tell your surgeon what you take.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about this supplement if you take blood thinners, diabetes medicines or immune-suppressing medicines.
• Keep up good everyday habits such as a balanced diet, adequate sleep and regular handwashing — a supplement does not replace these.
• Keep the container tightly closed in a dry place to protect the capsules from humidity.

Precautions: Herbal ingredients are not automatically safe for everyone. Use with caution if you have an autoimmune condition, a bleeding disorder, diabetes or a planned surgery, and avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor. People allergic to mushrooms, moulds or any of the listed herbs should not use this product. This supplement is not a substitute for vaccination, a balanced diet or medical treatment.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take regular medicines, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines, immune-suppressing medicines or lithium. See a doctor if you have a fever, cough or other symptoms that last more than a few days or worsen, and stop the product if you notice any unusual bruising, bleeding or allergic reaction.