This original formula includes concentrated 4:1 extracts of shiitake and maitake medicinal mushrooms, which provide additional beta-glucans and immune-activating polysaccharides. The mushroom-free version is identical otherwise and was created for people with mushroom sensitivities or those following protocols that avoid fungal ingredients. Both versions contain the same clinically-researched Transfer Factor NK+ complex, beta glucan, astragalus, and botanical extracts. The research demonstrating immune activation was conducted on the original formula with mushrooms.

Transfer factors are small immune messenger molecules (made of amino acids) discovered in 1949. They carry immune "intelligence" between cells, helping your immune system recognize threats faster, respond more effectively, and remember invaders for future encounters. They're extracted from bovine colostrum and work across species—cow-derived transfer factors benefit human immune systems. The unique aspect is their ability to modulate immunity by supporting healthy Th1/Th2 balance, which is why they're not recommended during pregnancy when the body intentionally shifts to a Th2-dominant state to protect the fetus.

Both! This formula is designed for daily use to maintain healthy immune function and can also provide additional support during acute immune challenges. The clinical research showed that consistent supplementation enhances baseline NK cell activity, cytokine response, and immune modulation. Many healthcare practitioners use this as a foundational immune support supplement while adding targeted transfer factor products (like Transfer Factor PlasMyc or Transfer Factor L-Plus) for specific immune challenges. Daily use helps maintain optimal immune surveillance and readiness.

Taking away from food enhances absorption of the transfer factors and colostrum peptides. If you take digestive enzymes, separate them by at least two hours because enzymes can break down the protein-based transfer factors and colostrum before they're absorbed. The best times are first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or at bedtime if you haven't eaten for 2-3 hours. While you can take it with food if needed, absorption may be reduced. The green tea extract is decaffeinated (less than 2mg caffeine), so nighttime dosing won't affect sleep.