The Botanicals in Intra

What is a botanical?

When we speak of botanicals, we refer to extracts obtained from different parts of a plant — this includes roots, leaves, berries, bark, stems, and flowers. Sometimes the whole plant is used and, in other instances, it may be a specific plant part that has healing and restoring powers.

It’s amazing what happens when you combine 23 natural botanicals in one formula!

It took many years of testing a number of formulas to perfect the combination of botanicals found in Intra. These 23 naturally-sourced botanical extracts were specifically formulated to work together with each of the body’s eight biological systems.

The result? Intra goes exactly where it’s needed — giving your body the right amount of phytonutrients to keep you strong and healthy.

A natural botanical blend

Lifestyles combines this ancient worldwide knowledge of botanicals with advanced science to create Intra, a natural botanical supplement geared to today’s lifestyles. Since 1992, premium-quality Intra has found a loyal and dedicated following, and has been enjoyed by millions the world over.

Suitable for people of all ages, an ounce or two of Intra a day helps nourish body cells and provides essential plant-based nutrients no longer available from our modern process food supply.

All natural botanicals from around the world

Alfalfa
Native to the Near East, now found worldwide, Alfalfa is rich in vitamins, minerals, flavinoids, amino acids and protein. Human consumption of older plant parts is limited primarily by very high fibre content. Dehydrated alfalfa leaf is commercially available as a dietary supplement.

Aloe vera gel
Commonly used in health food and cosmetic industries, Aloe vera gel has a long history of use for those seeking a healing remedy for minor burns, abrasions and other skin irritations. Taken internally, Aloe has been used for treatments ranging from cough to constipation.

Astragalus root
In western herbal medicine, Astragalus root is considered a tonic for enhancing metabolism and digestion and is consumed as a tea made from the roots of the plant. Traditionally used to strengthen the immune system and heal wounds and injuries.

Bee pollen
A popular nutritional supplement thought to build the immune system and provide energy for the entire body. Bee pollen contains protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins. It is high in B-complex and vitamins A, C, D, and E. It also contains lecithin, beta-carotene and selenium. This combination makes bee pollen an excellent source of antioxidants.

Capsicum
Rich in vitamins, traditionally used to stimulate metabolism; commonly used to help improve action of other botanicals in formulations.


Cascara bark
Known as “sacred bark” by Spanish explorers. Native to the Pacific coast of North America; harvested by early American natives who felt it had strengthening properties.


Celery seed
Native to Southern Europe believed to diffuse through the system a calming influence.


Chicory root
Native to Europe and Asia, Chicory’s roasted root has been used as a coffee substitute while the bruised leaves have been used as a poultice for relief of swelling and inflammation. In the 1970s it was found that the root contains up to 20% inulins. Since then, new strains have been created, giving root chicory an inulin content comparable to that of sugar beet.

Chinese pearl barley
Found in tropical regions worldwide, Chinese pearl barley has a use history that spans 2000 years. Possesses qualities similar to oriental ginseng. Believed to promote urination, strengthen spleen, and eliminate pus, and alleviate rheumatic pain.

Chinese rose hips
Native to China and Japan, these highly valued rose hips are rich with bioflavinoids, plant acids and nutrients. Rose hips are sometimes eaten, mainly for their vitamin C content. They are usually pressed and filtered to make rose-hip syrup.


Dandelion root
Known for its strong roots, Dandelion root is believed to stimulate digestive functions. Considered by many as an excellent cleansing tonic for the liver.

Fenugreek seed
Mainly found in the Middle East and Mediterranean region, Fenugreek seed is one of the truly ancient traditional plants with records of use dating back to ancient Egypt. Modern research has shown fenugreek seeds to lower serum cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein in human patients and experimental models of hypercholesterolemia.

German chamomile
Native to Europe, German chamomile is known for its mild properties. This botanical has been used medicinally for sore stomachs, irritable bowels and as a gentle sleep aid. It can be taken as an herbal tea. It is also used as a mouthwash against oral mucositis.

Ginger root
Native to Southern Asia and cultivated in tropics worldwide. Modern research has shown that Ginger root contains many antioxidants, and has been found to be an effective treatment for nausea caused by motion sickness.

Juniper berries
Native to Eastern Europe, some specimens of Juniper are more than 1000 years old. The resinous aromatic berry-cones were highly valued by early Europeans who believed in Juniper’s “lifepower.” Oil of Juniper is given as a diuretic and is used as an aid for indigestion, flatulence, and diseases of the kidney and bladder.

Licorice root
Since ancient times, powdered Licorice root has been used as an effective expectorant and in tooth powders. Modern cough syrups often include licorice extract as an ingredient. Additionally, licorice has been used in treatment of peptic and oral ulcers. Licorice is also a mild laxative.

Passion flower
Native to southern U.S. it was highly valued in traditional preparations by Cherokee Indians. Recent studies have pointed to the flavonoids in Passion flower as the primary components responsible for its relaxing and anti-anxiety effects.

Pipsissewa
Native to North America, Pipsissewa has been extensively used by native North American Indians for traditional medications.


Reishi mushroom
Used as a tonic, the Reishi mushroom is believed to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, control coughing and stimulate the immune system. Thought to improve heart and liver function and have anti-allergy, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. No wonder it has been called the elixir of life, reserved for Chinese emperors.

Sarsaparilla
Native to tropical America and the West Indies. Long famed as a folk remedy and currently used in many food products.


Schisandra berry
Native to Asian countries, Schisandra berry is also known as the “five taste” fruit because it has an usually sour, sweet, bitter, warm, and salty taste, hence the name “five taste.” Contemporary research has focused on its strong antioxidant characteristics and its potential liver-protective benefits.

Siberian ginseng root
One of the most documented botanicals, Siberian ginseng is recognized more for maintaining good health than treating ill health or illness. Research shows it stimulates resistance to stress and is now widely used as a tonic.

Thyme
Native to the Mediterranean region, now cultivated worldwide for its unique properties. Believed to have antiseptic, antispasmodic, tonic and digestive properties.