Horse Chestnut Extract

IARC classifies cosmetic-grade talc not containing asbestos as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans); perineal talc use as Group 2A (probably carcinogenic). Johnson & Johnson voluntarily withdrew talc-based baby powder from US/Canada in 2020 and globally in 2022 after extensive litigation tied to ovarian-cancer and mesothelioma cases. The 2018 FDA contamination survey found asbestos in 9 of 52 cosmetic talc products tested. As a supplement excipient talc is a pure manufacturing convenience — no nutritional or functional benefit to the user — so the asbestos-exposure risk has no offsetting upside. Safer alternatives (silicon dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, rice hulls) are widely available.

Spikes blood sugar faster than table sugar (glycemic index 85–105). Research links it to gut bacteria changes that may promote intestinal inflammation (Nickerson et al. 2015). Used as a cheap filler — adds nothing beneficial.

Rice-based ingredients carry risk of inorganic arsenic contamination (FDA and Consumer Reports). Rice accumulates arsenic from soil at higher rates than other grains. Used as a cheap filler — adds nothing beneficial.

A salt of stearic acid used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule production

Fine silica powder used to prevent clumping

Plant-derived cellulose used as a binder and filler in supplements

Insoluble dietary fiber from the outer hull or bran of oat grains; primarily cellulose and hemicellulose, low in beta-glucan compared to oat bran soluble fraction