Detoxification and elimination of chemicals from your body is a necessity. You can truly turn your life around. Your present health can improve significantly and your future wellbeing can be made much more secure.

Conclusion

Since 1997, scientists, doctors and medical researchers in Croatia, Austria, Germany and the United States have performed extensive studies that have confirmed the benefits of using zeolite in a wide variety of health applications.  It is being researched just how zeolite may assist in the production of tumor suppressor cells and immune system helper cells, which are known to strengthen natural immunity.  We are faced with a number of health challenges today.  Zeolite is an exceptionally powerful antioxidant capable of cleansing the body of free radicals and heavy metals.

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ABSRACT

It is very necessary to find an alternative resource to fossil ones. Such kind of fuel must be improvable, friendly with natural and found with huge amounts. The production, storage and usage of the fuel are also important points when choosing the fuel. It must be easy reachable, carriage of it must not be dangerious.

The most powerful alternative is Hydrogen Energy. The storage and material become very important. In that view, Natural Zeolite is one of the fuel resources which have been experienced. In this paper, the encapsulation of hydrogen gas in zeolite, which is used in industry and in different branches of technology, is examined and some offers are made depending on literature searches.

Enver Metin Kendirlik, Metin Altan, Ertuğrul Yörükoğullari

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Zeolites have been the focus of intensive activity and growth in applications over the past 25 years in ion exchange, in adsorption and in catalytic process technology. Beginning with the synthetic zeolites A,X and Y, continuing into the emerging ZSM series, and including selected natural zeolites, applications span the range from large-scale purification and separation to such major petroleum and petrochemical processes as catalytic cracking and aromatics alkylation.

The future promises several new areas of significant use as our energy resource base is expanded. As a result, a NATO Advanced Study Institute on Zeolites was held in Alcabideche, Portugal, May 1-12, 1983. Its purpose was to summarize the state-of-the-art in zeolite science and technology, with particular emphasis on recent developments. This summary is intended to complement presentations of the latest research results at the 1983 International Zeolites Association meeting in Reno, Nevada – USA.

Both the fundamentals concepts and industrial applications addressed in the lectures of the Institute. Individual chapters cover historical development, structure, crystallography and synthesis techniques. Basic principles of adsorption, diffusion, ion exchange and acidity are reviewed. A section on catalysis addresses shape selectivity, transition metals, bifunctional catalysis and “methanol-to-gasoline”.

Included in the section on industrial applications are chapters on reactor and adsorber design, catalytic cracking, xylene and n-paraffins isomerization, as well as ion-exchange and adsorption.

May 1982
Alcabideche

F. Ramôa Ribeiro, Alírio E. Rodrigues, L. Deane Rollmann, Claude Naccache

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This summary details a major breakthrough in detoxifying the human body of the carcinogens, heavy metals, viruses, bacteria, fungi, and overall acid conditions that promote and cause disease. Some 70,000 chemicals are being dumped into our environment, 65,000 of which are potentially hazardous to our health. We live in a virtual sea of pollutants, and carry many of these toxins within us. They can be found even in unborn children. A 2004 study by the Environmental Working Group identified 287 industrial chemicals in babies’ umbilical-cord blood, including 180 known to cause cancer and 217 that are toxic to the brain and nervous system.
In my research to develop a detoxification system for prospective mothers, I recently learned about a naturally occurring mineral called zeolite, which has a unique, negatively charged, crystalline structure. Zeolite is formed from the fusion of lava and ocean water, and combines all four elements. I feel that zeolite is an alchemical gift from God. It has been used for more than 800 years in Asia as a remedy for overall health and well-being, and is on the FDA’s GRAS list (generally recognized as safe). Zeolite is available commercially in a purified, activated form.

The results of research on zeolite are very impressive:

• It has a chelation-like effect in removing heavy metals (particularly lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic), pesticides, herbicides, PCBs, and other toxins from the body. These toxins are strongly correlated with the occurrence of a wide range of diseases, including cancers and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, autism, and dementia.
• Zeolite also improves liver function, indirectly improving elimination of pesticides, herbicides, and xeno-estrogens.
• Zeolite appears to block viral replication, and may prove to be a potent anti-viral and general remedy for all viruses. To date, 40 anecdotal cases of herpes zoster have reportedly been healed. Preliminary anecdotal case studies suggest that it may help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and hepatitis C as well as the common cold and flu.
• Zeolite’s binding power was proven during the Chernobyl disaster, when tons of it were used to remove radioactive cesium and strontium-90 before they contaminated local water systems.
• Zeolite creates a natural buffer in the system by establishing an optimal pH level (between 7.35 and 7.45), which in turn activates healthy brain function and a strong immune system.
• It is an effective detoxifier for prospective mothers and fathers. Anecdotal evidence and centuries of use in Asia suggest that zeolite is safe to use even during pregnancy and breastfeeding, although its safe use in pregnancy has not been proven in double-blind studies.
• According to testimonials, zeolite promotes a sense of well-being, clarity, and happiness. It appears to do this as a consequence of eliminating toxins and also, according to preliminary research, by increasing serotonin production. One study suggests that zeolite also helps relieve depression.
• Anecdotal reports suggest that zeolite increases energy, immune function, and general health.
• Zeolite neutralizes the formation of nitrosamines in the stomach. Found in processed meats, nitrosamines are one cause of stomach cancer. Another positive effect on the stomach, according to many anecdotal reports, is relief of acid reflux.
• Testimonials suggest that zeolite captures triggering antigens, which cause allergies, migraines, and asthma, decreasing the rate and severity of these symptoms.
• Zeolite directly absorbs free radicals and thus decreases free radical activity and damage to the body.

O-Ring Testing Results by Gabriel Cousens

O-Ring Testing which has been shown in 23 published scientific journal articles to be more accurate for testing for certain kinds of cancers than any other scientific diagnostic procedure. O-Ring Testing is used as an inexpensive but highly accurate way to assess the nutritional & physiological needs of the body. There is no claim to be used for diagnosis and treatment, simply the “O” Ring Testing tunes into the subtle messaging system of the body with a high degree of accuracy. Based on O Ring testing, we are able to assess the nutritional needs of the body in regard to 26 different toxins before and after the use of fasting and the use of NCD simultaneously. This in-house clinical exploration was not a double blind study; placebo methods were not used. to be clear, these should be understood as preliminary results. These results strongly suggest that ncd and fasting together significantly accelerated the removal of these 26 bio-toxins.

These treatments were carried out at the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center. 60 patients participated. Treatment was based on my non-toxic baby protocol for preparing parents to bring forth non-toxic babies. The protocol consisted OF a one-week green juice fast and detox support program with liquid zeolite, 15 drops, 4X/day.

The following very significant results were found.  22 people who showed as positive during o-ring testing for depleted uranium. DU IS A very serious worldwide radioactive contamination resulting from the use of DU armaments, especially used in Iraq.

20 of the 22 people showed DU in at least the liver, the breast, or the brain, and 17 of the 22 people had started with it in all three organs, the liver, the breast, and the brain.

In one week on this protocol, all the people became DU-free except for one person, who still had DU in the liver.

Thirty-two people were tested for Teflon and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the carcinogenic element of teflon.  Teflon was found in the livers of 27 people, the breasts of 25 people, and the brains of 28 people.  All but two people became teflon-free after one week.  Only one person had Teflon remaining in the breast, and one person had Teflon remaining in the brain.

In the same 32 people, initially PFOA was found in the liver of 28 people, the breast of 29 people, and the brain of 28 people.

After one week, all people became PFOA-free except for one person having PFOA remaining in the breast and brain.  O-ring testing was carried out for 14 to 26 of the common heavy metals and pesticides. (“Pesticides” covers both herbicides and insecticides).  Initially, people showed, on average, 90 to 95% of THESE toxins in the liver, breast, and brain, whether they were live-food eaters or not.

O-ring testing was used once again for measuring levels of toxins remaining. The overall percentage of removal of these toxins from these organs was 87%, leaving only 13% of the toxins in patients’ systems overall.  This included 90% removal from the liver, 87% removal from the breast, and 86% removal from the brain.

Of the 60 people tested for the heavy metals and pesticide toxins, initially 845 toxins were found in the subjects’ livers, 876 toxins in the breasts, 875 toxins in the subjects’ brains.  This means an average of:
14.1 of the toxins were found in the liver of each person,
14.6 of the toxins in the breast of each person, and
14.6 of the toxins in the brain of each person.

After the one-week protocol, just 88 toxins were left in the liver, 115 toxins left in the breast, and 124 toxins left in the brain. This means, on average, that:
1.5 of the toxins remained in each person’s liver,
1.9 of the toxins remained in each person’s breast, and
2.1 of the toxins remained in each person’s brain.

Results of week-long NCD and juice fasting non-toxic baby protocol

The four patients who continued the green juice fasting with NCD for two weeks went down to 0 toxins, a 100% removal rate.

These results suggest a powerful synergy of NCD plus a detoxifying green juice fast.

In observing thousands of fasters since 1988, fasting alone—although wonderful for enhancing the vital force—does not seem to significantly remove pesticides, and heavy metals after just 1 week by itself.

I am proposing a theoretical model for explaining the testimonials of the powerful, across-the-board healing effects of Liquid Zeolite for such health problems as ADD/Hyperactivity, Addiction, Agent Orange Exposure, Arthritis, Autism, Cysts and Tumors, Depression, DES Exposure, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, Flu, Colds, and Respiratory Problems, Gastro-Intestinal Problems, Heavy Metal Poisoning, Hepatitis C, High Blood Pressure, Kidney Stones, Lack of Mental Clarity, Pain, PMS/Menstrual Pain, Silicone Breast Implant Toxicity, Skin Conditions, Toothache/Gum Disease, Varicose and Spider Veins, Viral and Other Infections, Yeast Infections.

The model is a foundational healing concept. Based on the use of purified clinoptilolite zeolite. The basic mechanism we can draw from the literature and my work with this amazing substance is this:

By removing heavy metals, pesticides, and DU, as well as through its effect of increasing immune system function, alkalizing the blood, blocking viral replication, and neutralizing free radicals, the liquid zeolite removes the blocks which compromise the vital life force. When the vital life force is freed up and activated, the body’s natural ability does the healing and relieving of these chronic diseases itself. With the liquid zeolite, we have returned to the basic natural healing theory for all chronic diseases. Purified, activated liquid zeolite is truly an alchemical gift from the Divine.

This liquid zeolite product, taken daily as oral drops, supports us in living healthy, happy, and active lives in an increasingly toxic world.

© Gabriel Cousens, M.D., M.D. (H) Diplomate of the American Board of Holistic Medicine, Diplomate of Ayurveda, & Director of the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center

The Natural Zeolite Product Main Article

Toxins poison our air, our water, our food, and our bodies. According to the EPA, 70,000 chemicals are used commercially in the U.S., 65,000 of which are potentially hazardous to our health. The Environmental Defense Council reports that more than four billion pounds of toxic chemicals are released into the environment each year, including 72 million pounds of known carcinogens.

Cancer fatalities account for approximately 12 percent of all deaths worldwide each year. Across the globe, 10.9 million people are diagnosed with cancer annually and 6.7 million die because of it. According to the World Health Organization, global cancer rates could increase by 50 percent in the next 15 years. The U.S. ranks in the top three countries with the highest cancer rate in both men and women.

The toxic onslaught doesn’t stop with carcinogens. A joint study by Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, Commonweal, and the Environmental Working Group in 2003 identified a total of 167 hazardous compounds in the blood and urine of American adults (with an average of 91 per person tested), including 76 known to cause cancer, 94 that are toxic to the nervous system, 82 that damage the lungs, 86 that affect hormone function, and 79 that cause birth defects. A study by the Environmental Working Group in 2004 found a total of 287 industrial chemicals in babies umbilical-cord blood, including 180 known to cause cancer, 217 that are toxic to the brain and nervous system, and 208 that cause birth or developmental defects in animals.

As many as 25 percent of Americans are estimated to suffer from some degree of heavy metal poisoning, particularly from mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. We are also exposed to a significant amount of radiation and increasing viral attacks. Our immune systems are further compromised by poor nutrition and unhealthy lifestyles, and most of us suffer from an excessively acidic pH level, which creates an internal environment in which cancer as well as viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can thrive.

In my work to develop a detoxification system for prospective mothers to enable them to bring non-toxic babies into the world, I have searched for a simple, natural remedy that could serve as a practical antidote for toxicity. Recently, I learned about zeolite, a naturally occurring, negatively charged mineral, with a unique crystalline structure. Zeolite is formed from the fusion of volcanic lava and ocean water, and combines the four elements air, earth, water, and fire. It has been used for 800 years throughout Asia as a traditional remedy to promote overall health and well-being, and for 30 years in the U.S. in animal feed. It has also undergone 13 years of pharmaceutical research in the U.S. with humans. Zeolite is included on the Food and Drug Administrations GRAS list (generally recognized as safe) and thus is considered to be “completely safe.”

A biochemist from a small pharmaceutical company in Ohio researched and purified zeolite, was amazed by its potential, and was granted a patent (U.S. #6,288,045). That patent is now held by a nutritional and research biochemist, who leases it to the company that markets purified zeolite.

Zeolite’s mechanism of action against cancer cells is unique and unlike that of any other substance I have studied. Theoretically, it has the rare ability to take in a tremendous amount of positively charged toxins, indirectly neutralizing their effect in causing cancer. In the process, the zeolite develops a slight positive charge. It is then attracted to and pulled right into the negatively charged membrane of the cancer cell. When the zeolite moves inside the cancer cell, the cell’s P21 gene is activated. This gene acts as a tumor suppressor through its ability to control cell-cycle progression. The activation of P21 appears to halt the growth of tumors by directly suppressing growth signals.

What we can say is that zeolite has a chelation-like effect in removing heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and other positively charged toxins from the system. Zeolite’s negatively charged crystalline structure is what makes this possible. Its crystals act as “cages” inside of which are positive ions. These positive ions switch places with positively charged toxins in the body, tightly bind them, and excrete them completely. One of the benefits of binding toxins in this manner is that they are 100 percent excreted. Heavy metals, pesticides, and herbicides all leave the system; they do not get deposited elsewhere in the body. Forty percent of zeolite binds heavy metals in the gastrointestinal tract, and 60 percent binds toxins in the bloodstream and at the cellular level. Zeolite’s binding power was proven during the Chernobyl disaster, when tons of it were used to remove radioactive cesium and strontium-90 before they contaminated local water systems. Acting primarily as a chelator, zeolite trapped these radioactive minerals within its crystalline cage structure.

Zeolite appears to remove toxins from the body in a hierarchical order. It first acts strongly to remove lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. This first phase may take one to four weeks or longer. Zeolite then removes second-priority toxins, including pesticides, herbicides, and plastics. Zeolite appears to increase the rate of glucuronization in the liver, activating phase II of the glucuronidase function. This in turn removes pesticides, herbicides, and xeno-estrogens from the body, releasing them through the urine. Interestingly, it also appears to neutralize the aflatoxin poison.

A third function of zeolite is to trap pre-virus components, preventing the replication of viruses and their ability to make us sick. In this way, zeolite may play an important role as a broad-spectrum anti-viral. Viruses are produced in parts as on a production line, at the end of which the virus is fully constructed. Zeolite absorbs viral parts into the pores of the mirconized zeolite aggregates (not into the chelating-like cages described above). This explains why zeolite seems to block the development of many viral infections, including herpes virus 1, coxsachie virus B-5, ecco-virus 7, and adeno virus 5. Forty anecdotal cases of herpes zoster have reportedly been cured, with sufferers becoming pain-free in one to three days after beginning to take zeolite. Anecdotal testimony also reports that it is effective in alleviating or curing the flu, colds, hepatitis C, viral or heavy-metal induced multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Zeolite’s effect as an anti-viral appears to be a preventative function that builds up over time, beginning after approximately four to six weeks of use, when heavy metals, pesticides, and herbicides have been mostly eliminated. There is anecdotal evidence, however, that in some cases its anti-viral effect seems to be immediate.

Zeolite also is a unique antioxidant. A traditional antioxidant works by absorbing excess free radicals into its system because it has an unpaired electron. In contrast, zeolite traps free radicals in its complex structure, inactivating and eliminating them. In this way, it acts as a complement to traditional antioxidants.

In addition, zeolite buffers the system towards slight alkalinity by establishing pH levels of 7.35 to 7.45, which is the optimum pH for the human body. The body’s pH level influences both immunity and brain function. An acid blood pH (7.34 or lower) creates a precondition for cancer. In an acid environment, brain cell function can also be impaired, causing depression, anxiety, stupor, paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, or even psychosis.

Zeolite also appears to balance the immune system, either up- or down-regulating it as needed. Although the precise mechanism for this is not entirely understood, this function is clearly very important in a world in which most people’s immune systems are seriously compromised.

Because zeolite so powerfully removes various types of toxins from the body, it naturally increases energy and well-being. Users report improvements in mental clarity and a sense of peace, wellness, and happiness. These are what we term positive secondary effects. For example, clearing out heavy metals allows the body’s magnesium stores to work efficiently with adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the biological source of energy in the body. When this interaction is occurring optimally, people have more energy and experience greater well-being. One study has demonstrated that zeolite also appears to increase serotonin level, which is known to help alleviate some forms of depression.

Zeolite shows promise as an effective detoxifier for women who plan to become pregnant. Recently, at the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center, it was added to the protocol for the 10-day detoxification program for prospective mothers. In two women who just completed the program, toxins in their breast tissue dropped significantly from 12 in one and 13 in the other to only two in seven days. Toxins in their liver and brain tissue also dropped to an average of only two.

Based on centuries of use in Asia and anecdotal accounts of its use by pregnant women, zeolite appears to be safe even for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, its safe use in pregnancy has not been tested in double-blind studies, and no claims for safe use in pregnancy can be made.

Zeolite is commercially available in a purified and activated form. There are no reports of side effects, except one: because of its natural action to absorb water, zeolite can cause dehydration. It is therefore important to drink sufficient water (approximately eight glasses a day) both before and while taking zeolite to ensure adequate hydration.

There is only one contraindication: Zeolite is contraindicated for anyone taking a medication containing heavy metals, such as lithium, or containing platinum, which is found in some cancer medications. Before taking Zeolite, check with your doctor to determine if your medication contains heavy metals or platinum.

Dosage: The product with zeolite is a clear, tasteless, and odorless liquid. The general adult dosage is 10 drops three times a day. It can be taken with or away from meals. As a support for cancer prevention or as an addition to a cancer treatment program, 15 drops three to four times a day is recommended. Zeolite remains active in the body for five to seven hours, and then needs to be replenished. After four to six weeks of use (at 10 drops three times a day), a maintenance dosage of three to five drops three times a day can be taken, with the amount increased if ever there is a viral, chemical, or other exposure. Children can be given two drops, three times a day, as a general dose.

Higher doses of 15 drops, three times a day, require about four bottles a month. Doses of 10 drops, three times a day, require about three bottles a month. And the maintenance dosage of three drops, three times a day, requires one bottle a month.

I take this natural product with zeolite, and I feel that everyone living in the industrial world should be taking it on a regular basis. This product is very different from supplements that add to well-being, but are not essential. Zeolite is simple, elegant, extraordinary, and vital for healthy living in today’s toxic world. I believe this most unique, natural substance is an alchemical gift from God to help us face our present-day health challenges due to ecological ignorance or, as they are called in Ayurveda, prajna prathara or crimes against nature.

© 2008 Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center Patagonia, AZ

Slavko Ivkovic, MD, Zagreb, Croatia
Ulrich Deutsch, MD, Negast, Germany
Angelika Silberbach, MD, Richtenberg, Germany
Erwin Walraph, MD, Laboratory for Immunology, Neubrandenburg, Germany
Marcus Mannel, MD, Ad libitum Medical Services, Berlin, Germany

ABSTRACT

Natural zeolites are crystalline aluminosilicates with unique adsorption, cationexchange, and catalytic properties that have multiple uses in industry and agriculture. TMAZ®, a natural zeolite clinoptilolite with enhanced physicochemical properties, is the basis of the dietary supplements Megamin® and Lycopenomin®, which have demonstrated antioxidant activity in humans. The aim of this prospective, open, and controlled parallel-group study was to investigate the effects of supplementation with TMAZ on the cellular immune system in patients undergoing treatment for immunodeficiency disorder. A total of 61 patients were administered daily TMAZ doses of 1.2 g (Lycopenomin) and 3.6 g (Megamin) for 6 to 8 weeks, during which the patients’ primary medical therapy was continued unchanged. Blood and lymphocyte counts were performed at baseline and at the end of the study. Blood count parameters were not relevantly affected in either of the two treatment groups. Megamin administration resulted in significantly increased CD4+, CD19+, and HLA-DR+ lymphocyte counts and a significantly decreased CD56+ cell count. Lycopenomin was associated with an increased CD3+ cell count and a decreased CD56+ lymphocyte count. No adverse reactions to the treatments were observed.

INTRODUCTION

Zeolites are natural minerals of volcanic origin that can be characterized as crystalline hydrated aluminosilicates of alkali and alkaline earth cations having an infinite and open three-dimensional structure (Fig 1). The ability of zeolites to lose and gain water reversibly and to exchange extra-framework cations, both without change to the crystalline structure, is the basis of their unique properties as “molecular sieves.” Zeolites exhibit versatile adsorptive, cation-exchanging, dehydrating-rehydrating, and catalytic properties that make them suitable for multiple uses in industry and agriculture. Specifically, they are used to dry acid gases; separate oxygen from air; remove NH₃ from drinking water and municipal wastewater; extract cesium and strontium from nuclear wastes; deodorize animal litter, household items, and clothing; serve as soilless zeoponic substrates for greenhouses and space missions; and supplement swine and poultry feed.¹

Fig 1. Crystal structure of the zeolite clinoptilolite with its 8-ring and 10-ring channels.

When ingested, powdered zeolites, like almost all silicates, are inert and therefore do not react chemically with food or body fluids or their metabolites. The risk of any associated adverse effects is therefore insignificant. In toxicology studies involving mice and rats, the administration of the zeolite clinoptilolite during a period between 6 and 12 months caused no changes that could be considered a toxic effect of treatment.²

Zeolites have also been investigated in a broad spectrum of medical uses. Several of these applications take advantage of the adsorption and ion exchange properties of zeolites. A urease-zeolite preparation is administered in oral microcapsules, for example, to remove urea from the blood in patients with uremia.³ Zeolites are also used as a filter medium for exchanging NH₄ + during hemodialysis and hemoperfusion.^4,5 They are also used as an antidiarrheic drug.⁶ Among the zeolites that have shown promise in medical applications, Na₂CO₃-clinoptilolite has proved to be an effective and safe antacid for patients with ulcer disease,^1,2 and gadolinium zeolite has proved useful as a contrast medium that enhances the imaging of the gastrointestinal tract during magnetic resonance imaging.⁷ In vitro studies of the synthetic zeolite A revealed the mineral induces the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast cells and the activation of osteoblast cell function, findings that suggest zeolites may have therapeutic properties in the treatment of osteoporosis.⁸ Recently, two clinical studies involving healthy volunteers and patients suffering from malignant disease and diabetes demonstrated that orally administered natural clinoptilolite is a potent antioxidant.^{9, 10} When applied externally in powder form, zeolite has also been found to quicken the healing of wounds and surgical incisions; in Cuba, clinoptilolite is commonly used to treat topical wounds in horses and livestock.¹ As proven bactericides and fungicides, zeolites have been used to control urinary tract infection and dental plaque formation.^11-13 It is well known that silica particles prevent almost completely the onset of spontaneous diabetes in young BB rats and the destruction of ß cells in nonobese mice given cyclophosphamide.^{14, 15} In mice with alloxan-induced diabetes, natural clinoptilolite has been shown to avert or diminish some late sequelae of the disorder, such as polyneuropathy.²

Accumulating evidence has suggested that zeolites may significantly affect the regulation of the immune system. Ueki et al have reported that silica, silicates, and aluminosilicates may act as nonspecific immunostimulators in a manner similar to that of the superantigens (SAgs),^{16, 17} a class of powerful, immunostimulatory bacterial and viral toxins that are able to cause a number of diseases characterized by fever and shock. Unlike conventional antigens, SAgs bind as unprocessed proteins to particular motifs of the variable region of the ß chain (Vß) of the T-cell receptor (TcR) outside the antigen-binding groove and to invariant regions of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). As a consequence, SAgs, in nanogram to picogram concentrations, stimulate up to 10% to 30% of the host T-cell repertoire, whereas in conventional antigenic peptide-TcR binding, only 1 in 10⁵ to 10⁶ T cells (0.01%-0.0001%) is activated.¹⁸ In accordance with this theory, proinflammatory macrophages, which belong to MHC class II APCs, are activated by fibrogenic silicate particles,^{19, 20} and the removal of MHC class II DP/DR+ cells results in a lack of macrophage stimulation by the silicate chrysotile.¹⁶ More recently, Pavelic et al have demonstrated that the lymphocytes from lymph nodes of mice that were fed for 28 days with micronized zeolite clinoptilolite provoked a significantly higher allogeneic graft-versus-host reaction than did lymphocytes in control mice. After the mice were administered clinoptilolite intraperitoneally, the number of peritoneal macrophages increased significantly, as did their superoxide anion production.²¹

The significant immunostimulatory properties of natural zeolites, as described in these in vitro and animal studies, suggest that zeolite may provide clinical benefits as an oral dietary supplement. This study is the first to evaluate the impact of dietary supplements containing the natural zeolite clinoptilolite on the immune system of patients who demonstrate immunodeficiency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study Population

Adult outpatients suffering from primary or secondary immunodeficiency were eligible for participation in this prospective, open, and controlled parallel-group observational study. Nine primary care physicians in the greater Neubrandenburg area in Germany participated as investigators and recruited patients frequenting their private practice for the treatment of known immunodeficiency, determined in each case on the basis of clinical symptomatology (such as recurrent infections and autoimmune disorders) and pathologic lymphocyte counts.

Interventions

The dietary supplements administered in this study consisted of Megamin^® 500 mg and Lycopenomin^® 500 mg (both manufactured by Tribomin d.o.o., Osijek, Croatia), which were provided by Megamin GmbH, Berlin, Germany. The primary ingredient in both products is TMAZ^® (Tribomin d.o.o.), a tribomechanically activated version of the natural zeolite clinoptilolite (Table 1). Each 500-mg Megamin capsule also contains 87 mg of dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2), and each 500-mg Lycopenomin capsule contains several antioxidants, including 75 mg of vitamin C, 50 mg of natural tomato-derived lycopene, 50 mg of tomato powder, 25 mg of grape seed extract, and 2 mg of plantderived magnesium stearate.

During a 6- to 8-week period, eligible patients received, depending on the severity of their immunodeficiency, either 4 Megamin capsules or 2 Lycopenomin capsules three times a day. Patients with more severe immunodeficiency were given Lycopenomin, since this product was anticipated to be the more powerful antioxidant. All other medical therapies intended to treat the immunodeficiency disorder were to be continued unchanged throughout the study.

*Analysis by ISEGA Forschungs- und Untersuchungsgesellschaft mbH, Aschaffenburg, Germany

Laboratory Measurements

To evaluate changes in the status of the immune system, blood and lymphocyte counts were obtained at baseline and after about 6 weeks of supplementation therapy, each time within the framework of routine laboratory assessments. Routine visits took place about twice monthly. All laboratory assessments were established in accordance with the Guidelines of the German National Medical Council (Bundesärztekammer) at the Laboratory for Immunology, Neubrandenburg, Germany. Blood samples were obtained routinely with an EDTAS-Monovette^® 2.7 mL (Sarstedt AG & Co., Nümbrecht, Germany) between 12 and 1 PM to avoid variation due to circadian rhythm. Blood counts were performed with an automated blood counting machine (Sysmex Corporation, Kobe, Japan). Monoclonal antibodies (Beckman Coulter, Inc., Fullerton, California) in conjunction with flow cytometry (FACScan^IM Becton, Dickinson and Co., San Jose, California) were used for the quantitative analysis of several lymphocyte subsets in erythrocyte-lysed whole blood, including mature B lymphocytes (CD19+), mature T lymphocytes (CD3+), T-helper cells (CD3+/CD4+), T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells (CD3+/CD8+), activated T lymphocytes (CD3+/HLA-DR+), and natural killer (NK) cells (CD56+).

Statistical Analysis

Owing to the explorative character of the study and because multiple testing was performed without adjustment for type 1 error, all statistics reported in this study are interpreted descriptively. The statistical significance was set to P<.01 for treatment effects within groups. In addition to the standard methods used for reporting descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests such as the ÷2 test, Wilcoxon test, and Mann- Whitney-U test were applied to assess treatment effects within groups and differences between groups. Between-group comparisons were based on the change from baseline values of variables to adjust for potential baseline differences between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 65 patients with a diagnosis of immunodeficiency participated in the trial. Four patients withdrew prematurely and were not included in the analysis. Thus, 61 subjects formed the primary analysis sample, 31 of whom received Megamin and 30 Lycopenomin.

Both groups had similar baseline characteristics (Table 2) except for the white blood cell count, which was lower in patients given Lycopenomin; this was expected, as these patients had the more severe immunodeficiency disorders (Tables 3 and 4).

Values are expressed as number (%) unless otherwise noted.

*X² test for binomial data, and Mann-Whitney-U test for continuous data.

Values are given as medians (percentiles 25-75). Between-group comparisons analyzed baseline-final differences.

*Within group comparisons: Wilcoxon test; between groups comparisons: Mann-Whitney-U test

Hb=hemoglobin; Hc=hematocrit; WBC=white blood cells; PLT==platelets; RBC=red blood cells; MCH=mean corpuscular Hb;

MCHC=mean corpuscular Hb concentration; MCV==mean corpuscular volume.

Values are given as medians (percentiles 25-75). Between-group comparisons analyzed baseline-final differences.

*Within group comparisons: Wilcoxon test; between groups comparisons: Mann-Whitney-U-test.

CD=Clusters of Differentition; HLA=Human Leukocyte Antigen

Six to 8 weeks of supplementation therapy did not relevantly affect the blood counts in either of the 2 treatment groups (Table 3). Among patients given Megamin, the CD4+, CD19+, and HLA-DR+ lymphocyte counts were significantly increased over baseline values, whereas the CD56+ cell count was significantly decreased. Among those given Lycopenomin, the CD3+ cell count was significantly increased over baseline and the CD56+ lymphocyte count was also significantly decreased. In general, the relative lymphocyte counts corresponded with the absolute cell counts (Table 4).

No adverse reactions to treatments were observed.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this is the first prospective clinical study of the effects of oral supplementation with the natural zeolite clinoptilolite on the immune system of patients with an immunodeficiency disorder. In this population, 6 to 8 weeks of therapy did not cause relevant changes in blood counts. This finding is in accordance with data from a toxicology study in which mice had been fed a clinoptilolite-rich diet for 6 months.²² Indeed, clinoptilolite supplementation produced significant and relevant increases in the B lymphocyte (CD19+), T-helper cell (CD4+), activated T lymphocyte (HLA-DR+), and, to a lesser extent, total T lymphocyte (CD3+) counts and decreases in the NK cell (CD56+) count. The clinical relevance of these findings is supported by the improved well being reported by the patients (data not shown) who underwent clinoptilolite supplementation therapy. The effects of supplementation, particularly on the activated T lymphocyte count, were more pronounced in the Megamin group than in the Lycopenomin group.

Patients given Lycopenomin exhibited significantly lower total lymphocyte counts at baseline than did patients given Megamin, which is why they were assigned the more powerful antioxidant. The TMAZ doses administered with Megamin were three times higher than those taken with Lycopenomin (3.6 vs 1.2 g daily). Hence, the more pronounced effects in the Megamin group may be attributed to a dose-response relationship of the zeolite, although the results are not adjusted for baseline differences in severity of illness between groups. In addition, the contribution of Lycopenomin’s other antioxidants to the net effects was not addressed or examined. Moreover, it remains unclear whether 6 to 8 weeks of treatment is sufficient to achieve the maximal effect. The results of other studies that have investigated drug-induced immunomodulation suggest that more-significant effects may be realized beyond two months of treatment.²³ Thus, future studies should include a 4- to 6-month treatment period and employ repeated measurements.

In this study, because the patient population did not alter their primary therapy for the treatment of their immunodeficiency disorder, the observed treatment effects can likely be attributed to the Megamin and Lycopenomin supplements. Although no adjustments were made for type 1 error, the number of statistically significant test results suggests these effects are beyond chance. Obviously, these effects must be examined further in a suitably sized, randomized placebo-controlled trial.

Although an immunomodulatory effect of natural zeolite has been clinically demonstrated, its mode of action must still be elucidated. After ingestion, clinoptilolite is resistant to degradation by gastric and intestinal juices, and its major constitutive elements are not significantly absorbed from the gut into systemic circulation. No traces of silicon have been detected in the serum of Wistar rats or CBA mice fed with clinoptilolite. Zeolite particles, however, have been found in the first and second layers of duodenal cells.² The interaction of orally administered zeolite particles with mucosal associated intestinal lymphoid tissue may trigger an immune response similar to the one observed after the intraperitoneal administration of micronized zeolite. In both cases, the number of peritoneal macrophages, as well as their superoxide anion (O₂-) production, is increased, while NO production is decreased.²¹ Resident macrophages in the airways and alveolar spaces have also been observed to release reactive oxygen species, such as O₂-, after phagocytosis of inhaled silica particles. Reactive oxygen species have been found to be important second messengers for signal transduction in general,²⁴ and alterations in the redox homeostasis of cells may play an important role in modulating immune functions. For example, transmembrane redox signaling activates nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB) in macrophages and T lymphocytes.^25,26 NFKB is involved in the activation of a large number of genes in response to inflammation, viral and bacterial infections, and other stressful conditions that necessitate rapid reprogramming of gene expression.

In addition, direct interactions of silicate particles with alveolar cells have been observed that may enhance the understanding of the immunostimulation provided by orally administrated zeolite. It seems that mineral particles can trigger alterations in gene expression by initiating signaling events upstream of gene transactivation.²⁷ The exposure of alveolar macrophages to silicate particles can also activate mitogenactivated protein kinases, stress-activated protein kinase, and protein kinase C.²⁸ Important transcription factors such as activator protein 1 and NFKB are also activated, and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 1α, interleukin 6, and TNF-α is enhanced.²⁹

Macrophage activation and the subsequent initiation of intracellular signaling pathways, together with the polyclonal human T-lymphocyte activation observed in vitro, have led to the hypothesis that silicate particles act as SAgs.¹⁶ If this hypothesis can be confirmed, dietary supplementation with natural zeolites holds promise in the treatment of autoimmune disorders and infectious and malignant diseases, the pathogenesis of which is linked to the action of SAgs.^30-32 Zeolite supplementation therapy has demonstrated other antitumor effects in in vitro and animal studies and may prove beneficial as an adjunct to cancer therapy.^33,34

CONCLUSION

Accumulating evidence from preclinical studies and the first human trials suggests oral zeolite supplementation therapy is associated with significant immunomodulatory effects that can enhance the primary treatment of a variety of immunodeficiency disorders. Further research is necessary to clarify the proposed mechanisms of action of the zeolite compounds and to confirm the promising results observed in this pilot study.

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Natural Cellular Defense is derived from a naturally-occurring mineral zeolite. Zeolites are considered 100 percent safe and non-toxic by the FDA. Natural Cellular Defense and its constituent zeolite have been shown to have the following functions:

• Retains the natural zeolite property of reducing cancer risk
• Acts as a potent anti-oxidant
• May aid in balancing bodily pH levels
• Acts to chelate and remove heavy metals from the system
• Reduces the incidence of diarrhea
• Improves nutrient absorption in the digestive tract
• Acts to balance digestive pH, thus reducing acid reflux
• Acts to stabilize immune system function (immunomodulatory)
• Acts as a broad spectrum anti-viral agent

1. Introduction

For the purpose of this Review, only the properties of zeolites that address its effects as a supplement will be investigated. Although the mechanism of action of many of these claims is not well understood, the complex structure of the zeolite in question may provide clues to this mechanism. The zeolite acts as a ‘cage’ and allows the molecule to trap a variety of ions and compounds. By trapping charged particles, the zeolite can: act as an antioxidant, balance pH levels, lower incidence of heavy metal damage, improve nutrient absorption and reduce gastric reflux. The cage may also trap potential carcinogens, thereby reducing the risk of developing cancer. The anti-viral activity of zeolites may be founded in the molecule’s ability to trap viral particles during assembly, thereby preventing viral assembly and proliferation.

2. Description
3. Reducing Cancer Risk Factors
4. Potent Antioxidant
5. Systemic pH levels
6. Heavy Metals and Chelation
7. Digestive Disorders
8. Immune System Modulation
9. Safety and Tolerability
10. References

Scientific Research Monograph, © 2005
by Rik J. Deitsch

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¹ Research Institute for the Built and Human Environment, School of Environment and Life Sciences, Peel Building, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK
² Institute of Materials Research, Cockcroft Building, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK

L. S. Campbell¹, A. Chimedtsogzol^2, and A. Dyer²

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• The new synthetic Zeolite membrane successfully tested by Dr. Dong’s PRRC/NM Tech.
• The Zeolite membrane has ~ 90% of an 80,000 ppm produced water.
• It is an inorganic membrane.
  – High flux
  – High thermal and chemical stability
  – Regeneration capability
  – Perhaps, low pretreatment cost

Summary:

• Zeolite membranes show promising properties for ion removal in
  produced water.
• The preliminary ion removal cross-flow experiment revealed that:
  - MFI Zeolite membrane shows salt rejection of 75% in 4×10 mg/l brine and 90% for 5500mg/l sodium chloride solution.
  - Thin and defect-free Zeolite membranes may show high ion rejection and high flux for application in produced water treatment.

Robert L. Lee, Petroleum Recovery Research Center (PRRC)
New Mexico Tech, Socorro

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Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Minho, Portugal
Lameiras S, Quintelas C, Tavares T.

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Conclusion: Potassium permanganate-based product, Ethylene Control, could be shown to remove ethylene from the enclosed air space.

Trevor Suslow, Department of Vegetable Crops
November 1997

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