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Nicotine is the main alkaloid in tobacco and its harmful effects on smokers, apart from addiction and habituation, are well known. However, not everyone knows that, in addition to tobacco, nicotine is also found naturally and in low concentrations in other plants of the Solanaceae family – such as the tomato, potato, aubergine and bell pepper – where it plays a defensive function against pests[...]

Seasonal changes are periods of the year when our immune system is more vulnerable. There isn’t a single cause for coughs, flu, sore throats, and other autumnal illnesses, but a combination of factors to take into account. Cold weather and the decrease in natural daylight hours during the day, which promotes more sedentary behavior, while not directly responsible for seasonal illnesses, can undoubtedly contribute to[...]

According to an analysis by Fortune Business Insights, the global herbal medicine market will grow from USD 165.66 billion in 2022 to USD 347.50 billion by 2029. This is unprecedented growth, not least as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic, when people turned to traditional medicine to defend themselves against the infection. However, from 2001 to 2014, the global market for medicinal plants (MAP) had[...]

Hyperpigmentation is a skin imperfection consisting of dark spots of varying size, caused by an overproduction of melanin, the skin pigment also responsible for tanning. According to data from an Ipsos market research study, skin hyperpigmentation affects more than 54 percent of women between 20 and 60 years of age and, particularly on the face, is perceived as the third most common aesthetic nuisance, after[...]

We are taking a break to recharge our batteries and come back more energetic than before. Our offices will be closed from 7th to 18th August. In the meantime, you can contact us at epo@eposrl.com for any urgent requests. We wish everyone a happy and relaxing holiday!

Sweating is a physiological mechanism through which our body emits a liquid produced by sweat glands in order to regulate body temperature and perform other functions, such as excreting ‘waste’ substances or non-verbal communication. However, while it is normal to sweat a little more than usual when it is hot, and it is normal to sweat a lot more than usual when engaging in strenuous[...]

Why has man, since prehistoric times, sought to surround himself with color? Where did he find the material in nature to meet a need so deep-rooted in his soul? The art of extracting colors from natural resources has roots that go back to the dawn of mankind, but with the advent of synthetic dyes – which are cheaper and more versatile – the knowledge associated[...]

In March, the European Commission launched a public consultation in order to receive comments in relation to a proposal aimed at introducing maximum levels of nickel in foodstuffs; at present, nickel is not regulated by Regulation (EC) 1881/2006, now replaced by Regulation (EU) 915/2023, which comes into force on 25/05/2023. As early as 2020, EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) expressed concern about the presence[...]

A new study published in the scientific journal Foods shows that the combination of Cistus incanus L. and Scutellaria lateriflora L. (PLANoràl®) has promising and useful effects for the treatment of gingivitis and for the eubiosis of the oral cavity. These plant extracts contain a very complex mix of polyphenols, stable after simulated in vitro oral digestion, and, when combined into a patented blend, show[...]

The arrival of fine weather entices us to spend more time outdoors, but for seasonal allergy sufferers, even a simple walk in the park can turn into the worst nightmare. Allergies are among the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide; according to the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), the prevalence of allergic rhinitis is steadily increasing: in Europe, it is estimated at between 10 and[...]

A new study published in the scientific journal Nutrients shows that two ellagitannins contained in chestnut leaves play an important role in the interaction between H. pylori and human gastric epithelium; these bioactive molecules have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties through an inhibition of the NF-kB factor, that plays a key role in regulating the response to infection. That provides, for the first time,[...]

On August 5th, 2022, the European Commission issued the new EU Regulation 2022/1370, updating the previous EC Regulation 1881/2006, and amended the list of foodstuffs that contribute to human exposure to ochratoxin A. Underlying this decision is concern about the intake of foodstuffs, contaminated with this mycotoxin, in quantities potentially dangerous to human health. Read on to find out about the consequences of EU Regulation[...]

The use of botanicals as “green” raw materials in industry and art restoration is part of the growing focus on the environment and the use of “eco-friendly” strategies, in line with the challenges of the UN 2030 Agenda. Since the dawn of mankind, medicinal plants have been used to improve the health of humans and animals. However, botanicals can also be used in contexts other[...]

A new European Union regulation limits the amount of green tea extract containing epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that can be present in food and sets new labeling requirements.  Underlying this decision are health concerns related to EGCG, a catechin responsible for potential liver damage. Continue reading to find out the consequences of the regulation that went into effect on December 22, 2022, and the measures we[...]