Congaplex Review: Is It Safe and Effective? A Detailed Look

Find out if Congaplex is good for Strep Throat here.

Standard Process Congaplex is advertised as a whole food RNA supplement specially formulated to support the immune system. This potent antioxidant formulation contains thymus, shiitake mushrooms, reishi mushrooms, organic sweet potato, wheat germ, vitamin A, and other plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals.

Congaplex is produced by the American company Standard Process, one of the highest regarded supplement manufacturers today. Standard Process uses ingredients ranging from animal gland extracts to organic herbal extracts, vitamins, and minerals to produce supplements for various health conditions.

What is Congaplex?

Standard Process Congaplex is a popular dietary supplement for short-term support of the immune system. The formula consists of a proprietary blend of various animal and plant extracts, supported by a vitamin and mineral complex. 

Unlike other Standard Process supplements (the company sells many of its products exclusively through healthcare providers), Congaplex is widely available online. 

Read our full Congaplex review below for an in-depth analysis of all the key features of this immune support supplement. 

Furthermore, our in-depth analysis will offer helpful information on the company behind the product, claimed benefits, who can help, core active ingredients, potential side effects, cost per serving, buyers’ take on the product, claimed benefits, best stores to order from, and our take on whether you should consider trying the product or not.

Everything about Standard Process

Congaplex is made by Standard Process, a multi-generational, family-owned, and operated nutritional supplement company for over 90 years. 

In 1929, Dr. Royal Lee founded Standard Process as an alternative to processed foods and low-quality dietary supplements available in the United States at that time. Dr. Lee believed that processed foods depleted our food sources of the rich nutrition once found in them. 

He realized that good health comes from healthy nutrition, and the best nutrition comes from whole foods. So Dr. Lee devoted his life to perfecting whole-food-based supplements from the soil used to grow crops to the production methods used to create the supplement.

Today, Standard Process is one of the leading supplement manufacturers and sellers. Some of their best sellers include:

• Tuna Omega-3 Oil EPA and DHA
• Catalyn
• Drenamin
• Symplex F
• Immuplex
• Ligaplex II
• ProSynbiotic
• Cyruta Plus
• SP Complete
• Ferrofood

How to contact Standard Process:

• Address: 1200 W. Royal Lee Drive, Palmyra, WI 53156
• Website: standardprocess.com
• Fax: 800-438-3799
• Phone: 800-558-8740 (toll-free)

Evaluation of ingredients

Congaplex contains the following active ingredients per serving (3 capsules):

• Vitamin A 900 IU
• Vitamin C 6 mg
• Calcium 80 mg
• Magnesium 15 mg
• Proprietary blend [Bovine thymus Cytosol extract, ribonucleic acid, bovine bone, dried alfalfa (whole plant) juice, sweet potato, alfalfa flour, oat flour, veal bone, bovine kidney, veal bone PMG extract, shiitake mushroom (powder), reishi mushroom (powder), buckwheat (seed), dried buckwheat (leaf) juice, rice (bran), vitamin E (sunflower), sunflower lecithin, and carrot oil)] 638 mg

Inactive ingredients include calcium lactate, gelatin, magnesium stearate, water, ascorbic acid, calcium stearate, arabic gum, starch, sucrose (beets), and vitamin A palmitate.

How it works

This next part of our Congaplex review will analyze some core active ingredients included in the formula. 

Vitamin A (900 IU)

Vitamin A is important for your overall health, strengthening the immune system, cell growth, vision, and fetal development. In addition, vitamin A supports T-lymphocyte activity and helps lymphocytes’ formation and differentiation. Vitamin A also maintains skin and mucosal-cell integrity, which provides a barrier function to defend against cell damage.

Provitamin A carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin, alpha-carotene, and beta-carotene are precursors of vitamin A and possess antioxidant properties. Carotenoids battle free radicals – highly reactive molecules that can harm your body by generating oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress has been linked to chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

Vitamin C (6 mg)

Vitamin C is one of the safest and most essential vitamins, according to research. Though it may not cure a common cold, the benefits of vitamin C include protection against cardiovascular disease, immune system deficiencies, eye disease, prenatal health problems, and even skin wrinkling.

Research shows that vitamin C may improve lymphocyte division and replication, plus support for natural killer cells. In addition, vitamin C provides strong antioxidant protection by protecting cells, including immune cells, from free-radical damage.

Vitamin C also plays a role in cognitive function and neurotransmitter synthesis. Neurotransmitters are necessary for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body. And more vitamin C may be correlated with improved cognitive function. 

A systematic review published in September 2017 in Nutrients showed how cognitively intact study participants had increased vitamin C concentrations than those with impaired cognition.

Calcium (80 mg)

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. 99% of the body’s calcium supply is stored in teeth and bones, supporting their structure and function. Most people get enough calcium from foods (such as green leafy vegetables, dairy, and fortified foods). We can also obtain calcium from dietary supplements, so calcium deficiencies are pretty uncommon. 

Calcium acts as a cell-signaling molecule to trigger T-cell activation. Thus, calcium is also involved in immune-cell differentiation and regulation of cell differentiation. 

Calcium is necessary for blood coagulation, nerve impulse transmission, vasoconstriction and vasodilation, muscle contraction, maintenance and function of cell membranes, hormone secretion, and membrane permeability.

Magnesium (15 mg)

Many scientists regard magnesium as one of the seven essential macrominerals (minerals people need in large amounts – at least 100 mg daily). The rest of the macrominerals include calcium, chloride, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and sulfur.

Microminerals (such as zinc and iron) are also important, but people need them in much smaller amounts.

Despite being one of the essential minerals for general health, many Americans do not get sufficient magnesium in their diet. Experts connect magnesium deficiency with a spectrum of health conditions, so people should try to meet their daily suggested magnesium levels.

Magnesium is vital for many bodily functions. Getting enough magnesium (either through proper nutrition or supplementation) can help treat or prevent various chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, migraine, and cardiovascular disease.

Although the mechanisms remain unclear, research shows a link between magnesium status and immune response, proving that magnesium status is correlated with the body’s natural inflammatory response.

Magnesium supports DNA synthesis, the antioxidant enzyme glutathione synthesis, and ionizable calcium and potassium transport across cell membranes.

Proprietary blend (638 mg)

Now, the most important part of the Congaplex formulation is the proprietary blend (638 mg) consisting of a combination of key ingredients such as bovine thymus Cytosol extract, ribonucleic acid, bovine kidney, veal bone PMG extract, shiitake mushroom, and buckwheat extracts.

Congaplex contains a unique bovine thymus gland extract called Cytosol. Also known as intracellular fluid (ICF), cytoplasmic matrix, or groundplasm, Cytosol is the liquid found inside cells.

The thymus gland is one of the key organs for immune health and produces some essential immune cells, such as T-cells. In addition, research shows that thymus extracts may support proper functions of the thymus.

Generally, thymus extracts are used for hay fever, airways infection, the common cold, flu, food allergies, asthma, weakened and enlarged heart (dilated cardiomyopathy), and many other conditions. However, in some cases, scientific evidence is lacking, and more research is needed.

Shiitake and reishi mushrooms are two superfoods that have gained a lot of traction in the supplement industry too. 

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) have been a natural remedy in alternative medicine for centuries. Some of their claimed benefits include:

• Promote heart health
• Reduce the risk of prostate cancer
• Help prevent gingivitis
• Boost immunity

On the other hand, reishi mushrooms are recognized for their purported effects in helping fight off cancer and boosting the immune system. However, more extensive clinical research and human trials are ongoing on the potential benefits of reishi mushrooms. 

Laboratory test-tube studies have discovered that reishi could provide some health benefits, but the research is still minimal. For instance, limited evidence from in vitro and animal studies showed that reishi mushrooms might support the immune system. Still, high-quality studies in humans are necessary before researchers draw any conclusions.

Price per serving

Standard Process Congaplex is available in two packages:

• 90 capsules for $27.99 ($0.31 per capsule)
• 150 capsules for $42.16 ($0.28 per capsule)

For those interested in getting this dietary supplement, there are two ways of doing that. 

First is through your healthcare provider. Standard Process sells mainly through various healthcare providers. More information is available on their official website here.

Second, you can order Congaplex from several online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, or Walmart. Prices may differ from one retailer to another.

Of the same product line

Those who don’t like taking pills or capsules can choose Congaplex chewable (90-count for $17.98). Congaplex chewables are flavored and can also be given to children and teenagers. 

However, recommend consulting a pediatrician before administering Congaplex, or any other dietary supplement, to children.

Congaplex review – Pros and cons

Read Also

Is Congaplex Good For Strep Throat?

Customer testimonials

I regularly take several Standard Process supplements as I am a “Naturalist” and shy away from prescriptions and antibiotics. I have been taking Congaplex for years and find it highly effective in fighting off colds and the flu. I’m in my 60’s and don’t have a flu shot but […] Read full review

I got bit by a spider which knocked out my immune system. This helped to bring it back. I noticed a massive difference within 12 hours after taking it. I honestly believe […] Read full review

I have been using Congaplex for years instead of antibiotics. My daughter gets strep once or twice a year, and this kicks it every single time. None of us have used […] Read full review

Recommendations, adverse effects, and warnings

Standard Process Congaplex contains a blend of animal extracts, plant extras, and several vitamins and minerals. Most of these ingredients are deemed safe to use with no associated adverse effects.

Congaplex also has some ingredients that may cause side effects or negative interactions with other dietary supplements or prescriptions when taken over long periods. 

A good example is the reishi mushroom. While likely safe, reishi mushrooms can cause stomach upset, dizziness, itching, nausea, dry mouth, and rash when taken daily for up to 16 weeks.

As always, we recommend consulting the product packaging label for the most accurate product information. Avoid taking Congaplex, or any other dietary supplement, if you are under treatment or have a known medical condition.

Dosage and how to take Congaplex

As a dietary supplement, take three (3) capsules or gummies daily or as directed by your healthcare provider.

How it compares

Before we conclude our Congaplex review, let’s take a quick look over several other immunity support supplements that may represent good alternatives for those not convinced by this formulation’s benefits.

Immune Defense made by Dakota – This popular immune system support supplement can be a cheaper alternative to Congaplex. 

On top of that, Immune Defense can be used by vegans and vegetarians and offers a more “traditional” approach combining seven potent ingredients (herbs, vitamins, and minerals) to strengthen the immune system, support cell function growth, and stimulate antioxidants.

A two-bottle pack of Dakota Immune Defense (120 capsules) costs $29.95. The product is made in the United States, and it’s free of soy, gluten, milk, egg, wheat, GMOs, peanut, and shellfish. The formula is all-natural, and it doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients, fillers, chemicals, colors, binders, or preservatives. 

Grass Fed Thymus made by Ancestral Supplements – This could be another alternative to Congaplex. Unlike Congaplex, Grass Fed Thymus’ formula contains only two active ingredients: grass-fed thymus (ovine) extract and grass-fed liver (bovine) extract.

The supplement made by Ancestral Supplements has excellent customer reviews (averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 1,400 reviews on Amazon). However, it is more expensive. One bottle of Grass Fed Thymus supplement costs $68.00 (180 capsules / 30 servings at a recommended dose of six capsules per day).

Thyroid Support made by 1 Body – Thyroid Support is a well-known supplement for healthy thyroid hormone function, energy, focus, mental clarity, and concentration. 

The formula contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and herbal extract, most of which have been thoroughly researched and proven to offer some benefits for overall health. 
Vegans and vegetarians can use 1 Body Thyroid Support supplement. One bottle (60 capsules / 30 servings) costs $23.99.

Our final take

Standard Process Congaplex includes essential vitamins and minerals that may support immune cells and other nutrients to promote healthy energy metabolism and provide antioxidant protection. 

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and tissues that help defend against microscopic invaders. Since we are constantly exposed to environmental and lifestyle stressors, Congaplex is designed to replenish the body with the best defense.

If you are looking for a potent antioxidant and immune support supplement, Congaplex may be the right choice for you. However, keep in mind that the formula contains several animal extracts, making it a hard pass to vegetarians and vegans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

At OneBrainReviews, we only use primary references for our articles, including peer-reviewed medical journals or well-respected academic institutions.