N.A.C. – N-acetyl L-cysteine (Willow)

Description

What is N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) used for?

N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) has been proposed for use in the therapy and/or prevention of several respiratory diseases and of diseases involving an oxidative stress including COVID-19.

This form of the amino acid Cysteine is known to boost the production of Glutathione, an important antioxidant produced by the body for reducing free radical damage and helping with detoxification of heavy metals and other harmful substances.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the natural amino acid cysteine, which serves as a substrate for the synthesis of glutathione (GSH) in the body which an antioxidant effect. This reduces the formation of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-9 and TNF-α and also has vasodilator properties by increasing cyclic GMP levels and by contributing to the regeneration of endothelial-derived relaxing factor. It is this potential antioxidant mechanism that has sparked interest with the current COVID-19 pandemic and whether this might be useful in community settings.

NAC appears to support the synthesis of glutathione (GSH) under conditions when the demand for GSH is increased, during oxidative stress. GSH is a critical molecule in resisting oxidative stress with the enzyme glutathione reductase (GR) recycling oxidized glutathione back to the reduced form. GSH levels decrease with age and due to certain disease states e.g Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, cardiovascular disease. Oral NAC increases GSH levels by providing the liver with an increased supply of cysteine promoting an increase in GSH synthesis, and therefore reduce oxidative stress. Based on a small case series (n=198) patients with COVID-19 had a noticeable increase of glutathione reductase (GR) levels occurring in around 40% of COVID-19 patients.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is a mucus eliminator.

Uses: Bronchitis, sinus congestion, allergies, migraine, emphysema, hepatitis, liver conditions, oedema, colds & influenza and Parkinson’s disease. Helpful for arterial plaque, especially Lipoprotein (a) and appolipoprotein (b) (genetic cholesterols).
Dosage:
Take 1 capsule 3 times a day on empty stomach.