Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

N/A

Common Names

CoQ10, Ubiquinone, Ubiquinol

Plant Family

N/A

Part Used

Synthesised compound (can be extracted or produced via fermentation)

Taste Profile

Energising, warming, cellular restorative

Energetics

Mildly bitter (in powder form)

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Co-Enzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble compound vital for mitochondrial energy production and cellular respiration. It acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cardiovascular function, and is widely used for fatigue, heart disease, and statin-induced deficiency.

Herb Actions

mitochondrial support, antioxidant, cardioprotective, energy enhancer

Herbal Category

nutritional therapeutics, cardiovascular & energy support

Medicine System

functional medicine, orthomolecular medicine

Active Ingredients

Ubiquinone (oxidised form)
,
Ubiquinol (reduced active form)
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

CoQ10 plays a key role in the electron transport chain within mitochondria, enhancing ATP production. It also scavenges free radicals, stabilises cell membranes, and improves oxygen utilisation in tissues—especially the heart and brain.

Modern Applications

Used in chronic fatigue, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, neurological decline, periodontal disease, and as a counter to statin-induced CoQ10 depletion.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Not used historically in herbal systems; identified and utilised in modern clinical nutrition. However, whole-food diets high in organ meats and fermented foods supplied CoQ10 naturally

Preparation & Usage

Available in softgel, capsule, or liquid form. Ubiquinol is preferred for older adults or those with absorption issues

Recommended Dosage

General: 100–200 mg/day; Cardiovascular/neurological: 200–400 mg/day. Divide doses with meals containing fat for absorption

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

None known at standard doses. Use caution in those with hypotension.

Drug Interactions

May reduce the effectiveness of warfarin (monitor INR). Can be depleted by statins, beta blockers, and some antidepressants

Pregnancy & Lactation

use only under professional supervision.

Side Effects

Very well tolerated. Rare: mild nausea, headache, or GI discomfort.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Littarru, G.P. & Tiano, L. (2007). Bioenergetic and antioxidant properties of coenzyme Q10: Recent developments. – Mortensen, S.A. et al. (2014). Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure (Q-SYMBIO).

Sourcing Notes

Typically produced via yeast fermentation or bacterial synthesis. Ubiquinol is the reduced, more bioavailable form. Look for lipid-based delivery systems for maximum absorption.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Hair, _skin_&_nail_capsules

Hair, Skin & Nails 120’s

R440.00