Ingredient Science Library

What the research actually says.

Every ingredient we use, reviewed against the actual clinical evidence — not the marketing copy. We rate each one Strong, Moderate, or Mixed, and we say so plainly when the evidence doesn't fully back the hype. Last reviewed: .

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

Emerging evidence

Does NMN support cellular energy?

NMN is a precursor your body converts into NAD+, a coenzyme cells use for energy production. NAD+ levels decline with age. Human trials on NMN supplementation are still relatively early-stage compared to more established ingredients on this page, but early studies support that oral NMN does raise NAD+ levels in the body.

Studied dose
250–500mg/day
In our formula
500mg, 99.9% purity

Creatine Monohydrate

Strong evidence

Does creatine support muscle growth and strength?

Yes — creatine is the most extensively studied sports supplement in existence, with decades of randomized controlled trials. Combined with resistance training, it consistently supports increases in strength and lean mass over 4–12 weeks. It does not work as a standalone — the training is doing real work too.

Studied dose
3–5g/day + resistance training
In our formula
5,000mg + electrolytes

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong evidence

Does magnesium glycinate support sleep and stress?

Multiple RCTs support magnesium's role in sleep quality and nervous system regulation. The glycinate form is used specifically because it's better absorbed and gentler on the stomach than cheaper forms like magnesium oxide.

Studied dose
200–400mg elemental/day
In our formula
275mg elemental

Ashwagandha

Strong evidence

Does ashwagandha support stress response?

Multiple RCTs using standardized extracts (commonly KSM-66) support ashwagandha's role in the body's response to everyday stress. Paired with black pepper here to support absorption.

Studied dose
300–600mg/day, 8 weeks
In our formula
Organic root + black pepper

Omega-3 (EPA + DHA)

Strong evidence

Does omega-3 support heart and brain health?

Omega-3 fatty acids have one of the largest randomized-trial evidence bases of any supplement category, supporting healthy triglyceride levels and cardiovascular function. Our formula is a standard-potency formulation (300mg combined EPA/DHA per softgel) — not a high-potency product, and we don't market it as one.

Studied dose
1–4g combined EPA/DHA/day
In our formula
180mg EPA + 120mg DHA

Vitamin D3

Strong evidence

Does vitamin D3 support bone health?

Well-established evidence supports D3's role in bone strength and calcium regulation, with even stronger outcomes when paired with K2. Most people, especially with limited sun exposure, run low on D3 without knowing it.

Studied dose
1,000–4,000 IU/day
Used in
Vitamin D3

Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides

Mixed evidence

Is collagen proven for skin, hair, and joints?

Evidence for joint and connective tissue support is solid. Evidence for skin specifically is genuinely mixed — several meta-analyses show benefit, but a 2025 review restricted to independently funded, high-quality studies found no significant effect on skin aging. We lead with hair, nail, and joint support because that's where the evidence is strongest, not because it sounds bigger.

Studied dose
2.5–10g/day
In our formula
Grass-fed bovine, single ingredient

Niacinamide

Strong evidence

Does niacinamide even skin tone and repair the barrier?

One of the most well-established actives in dermatology, with decades of research behind it. Supports tone, redness, and barrier function. We pair it with sodium hyaluronate so hydration is covered in the same step.

Studied dose
Topical, 2x/day

Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid

Strong evidence

Does vitamin C + ferulic acid brighten skin?

One of the most studied antioxidant combinations in skincare — the same pairing behind the category's most expensive serums. Supports an even, bright complexion and helps defend against daily oxidative stress. Not a replacement for sunscreen.

Retinol + Hexapeptide-11

Strong evidence

Does retinol support skin firmness and texture?

Decades of research support retinol for cellular turnover and texture. Paired with Hexapeptide-11 and soothing agents (bisabolol, phospholipids) to reduce the irritation that comes with cheaper retinol formulas.

Maca Root

Moderate evidence

Does maca root support libido?

Multiple RCTs support maca's role in sexual desire and satisfaction in both men and women, without altering testosterone or estrogen levels. Evidence for erectile function specifically is thinner — we don't make that claim.

Studied dose
1.5–3.5g/day, 6–12 weeks
Used in
Maca Plus

How we rate evidence: Strong = multiple independent RCTs or meta-analyses in agreement. Moderate = RCT support exists but is more limited in scope or population. Mixed = credible studies point in different directions, often due to funding bias or study quality. Emerging = early-stage human research, more limited than the other categories.

This page is for education, not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.