Natural actives and nutritional interventions for sun care

TRADITIONAL cultures evolved seasonal dietary and topical interventions to combat the heat and humidity of the warmer months.  These measures addressed concerns such as skin rashes, scalp irritation, accelerated photo-aging, insect bites, sunburn, dehydration, heat stroke, and food and water-borne infections.

In recent years, ingredient manufacturers have revisited many of these natural approaches, and through technological innovation, developed these phytonutrients into forms and delivery systems that blend seamlessly into cosmetics and functional food formulations.  

Coconut water and hydration

Coconut water, the liquid endosperm of green coconuts (Cocos nucifera), is a refreshing beverage, a natural rehydration medium, and is used as a supplement in nutrient media for tissue culture. In addition to quenching thirst and replenishing electrolytes, the nutrients and growth factors in green coconut water help to hydrate and protect the skin as well. It offers higher amounts of electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium than regular sports drinks, so coconut water is known as a "natural isotonic sports drink". The amount of RNA-phosphorus (RNA-P) in coconut water was discovered to be consistently high in green coconut water.  The role of RNA in amino acid transport and respiratory metabolism of living cells is well known.  The RNA of coconut water efficiently supports the metabolic mechanism vital to the budding endosperm tissue of the coconut, and sustains the growth of other living cells as well in tissue culture.

A proprietary lyophilisation process produces a stable composition of coconut water with its inherent biological activity preserved. In preparing the proprietary lyophilised composition, Cococin*, green coconuts are harvested at the right stage of maturity to guarantee optimal content of RNA and growth factors, including shikimic acid, quinic acid and indole-3-acetic acid, essential vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. 
 
The proprietary freeze-dried coconut water solids blend seamlessly with dry products, and readily dissolve in water. Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) self-affirmed Cococin provides a valuable nutrient pool for enhancing food and beverage formulations. Similarly, the ingredient blends well into gels, creams, lotions and other delivery systems for topical use.

Probiotics in immune support

A healthy immune system is essential to combat the effects of stressors such as insect bites and sun exposure. 

Probiotics produce metabolites such as lactic acid and antibiotic-like substances called bacteriocins that suppress the growth of putrefactive microorganisms. Their metabolic activities also help in the pre-digestion of food components and the production of vitamins B, and improve the bioavailability of minerals and other nutrients, for example, isoflavones from soy milk, as reported in a recent study. Additionally,   their cell wall components and metabolic products   provide   immune support and anti-inflammatory action.

Probiotic cultures in the form of vegetative cells that are not room temperature stable need to be freeze-dried or encapsulated by special processes to remain viable after processing, storage and exposure to acid and bile in the gastrointestinal tract.  Such probiotics are therefore "dead on arrival" if they are not adequately protected.

Bacillus coagulans, formerly known as Lactobacillus sporogenes (marketed as LactoSpore*, GRAS self affirmed), is a shelf-stable (at room temperature) probiotic, with clinically documented efficacy in supporting health and wellness. It was originally isolated from green malt. Being in sporulated form,Zoom Kobe Venomenon V 5