Cistus – A Distinct Wonder Plant

In the folk medicine of the Mediterranean region, Cistus has been known since ancient times. The leaves of the plant were used to make teas and oils. Tea preparations in particular were highly valued for digestive problems. The secreted resin of the leaves served as a wound healing agent in ointments to accelerate the healing as well as to help for skin diseases. The resin was used as incense in ritual ceremonies.

At the end of the 1990s, Cistus Incanus was established in our country as a medicinal plant and in 1999 was even named "European Plant of the Year" by the German academic society Herba Historica. This further emphasizes the value of this plant.

The leaves are used as a traditional remedy in folk medicine. Cistus extracts with a high polyphenol content are used in food supplements and are usually offered in combination with immune-strengthening nutrient mixtures such as Vitamin C and Zinc.

Cistus leaves are among the richest sources of polyphenols in nature

Cistus Incanus is considered one of the "polyphenol-richest" edible plants. Polyphenols are secondary plant substances with a variety of health-promoting effects on the human organism. They are only built up by plants and serve as antibodies against diseases and pests. For the human organism they have an outstanding protective effect on cells and health.

Widely researched is the strongly cell-protective (antioxidant) effect of Cistus Incanus extract with the ability to repel and neutralize free radicals, thus preventing cell-damaging oxidation processes that could otherwise promote diseases.

In addition to their antioxidative properties, polyphenols are also attributed to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Extracts from Cistus Incanus also have virus-inhibiting (virostatic) properties

Viral infections continue to be a major challenge for science. However, the wonder plant is bringing new approaches. Studies have shown that Cistus extracts block the viruses' attaching to our cells. In a way, Cistus hangs a "no trespassing" sign on the host cells and blocks the viruses' way in by, among other things, preventing the viruses from binding to cell surfaces. They can no longer penetrate the cell and the reproduction of the viruses - as well as infection - is thus blocked.
This would be a new antiviral mode of action, because the virustatics commonly used today only attack in the advanced cycle of the viruses. 

Cistus as a boost for the immune system

There is certainly no lack of insider tips on how to strengthen the immune system, especially now in winter. The viruses are happily making the rounds again and the last thing we need is a weakened immune system. The cold season is definitely a stressful phase for the body.
Timely prevention before the next wave of the flu is important and Cistus can be recommended as a safe medicinal plant to stabilize the immune system.

The plant-based kick from Cistrose in combination with Vitamin C and Zinc optimally supports the immune system !