Dr Vanessa Ingraham, ND. Two diagrammes showing Cox2 pathways, Petri dishes

Dr Vanessa Ingraham, ND: Scientific Evaluation of Lab Results

As a Naturopathic Doctor committed to integrative, evidence-informed practice, I was invited to review the clinical relevance and lab-validated effects of a selection of X-ZONE products and constituent ingredients.

X-ZONE produces natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory products, blending traditionally recognised herbal ingredients with native New Zealand botanicals. While many natural brands rely on anecdotal feedback alone, X-ZONE took the additional step of partnering with Trinity Bioactives, an independent New Zealand-based research facility, to scientifically investigate a selection of their formulations and ingredients.

Laboratory results were presented by Trinity Bioactive's Director of Research, Dr Paul Davis PhD, in late 2024. 

1. Study Design: Evidence-Based Inflammation Testing

The investigation focused on how X-ZONE products influence the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inflammatory pathway, a key mechanism involved in pain and swelling. Trinity Bioactives used U937 human immune cells, a well-established in vitro model mimicking macrophage behavior during inflammation. This approach is both ethical (no animal testing) and clinically relevant, offering insight into cellular-level immune responses.

Importantly, while COX-2 was the primary pathway assessed, it it should also be noted  that the X-ZONE range is grounded in a holistic healing philosophy. These formulations aim not only to modulate inflammation but to support the body’s broader healing and energetic balance. The inclusion of flower essences and native New Zealand botanicals speaks to this integrative approach.

2. Key Findings: Immune Cell Modulation by X-ZONE Products

The results were compelling. When applied to immune cell cultures:

  • X-ZONE Sports Rub reduced inflammatory cell proliferation by 54.1%

  • X-ZONE Joint Rub reduced proliferation by 48.1%

  • X-ZONE Relief Rub by 42.7%

This indicates strong immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory activity, potentially reducing chronic inflammation at the root — a key driver of musculoskeletal pain and joint degeneration. While inflammation plays a necessary role in healing, prolonged or excessive inflammation can harm tissue integrity. These findings suggest X-ZONE products may help restore balance, not just mask pain.

3. Comparison to NSAIDs: Natural Alternatives with Comparable Effects

Conventional NSAIDs like Indomethacin, Ibuprofen and Diclofenac are well-known COX-2 inhibitors but may come with risks—gastrointestinal damage, cardiovascular stress, and renal toxicity.

In comparison:

  • Indomethacin; direct test comparison by Trinity Bioactives showed a 30% inhibition (topical). 

    A particularly notable finding is the close proximity between Tupakihi, (an ingredient in X-ZONE Joints Rub), which tested at 28.4% versus Indomethacin (30%).
  • Ibuprofen shows 30–50% PGE2 inhibition in monocyte and epithelial models (oral).
  • Diclofenac shows 30–60% inhibition in COX2/PEG2 cell models (oral).

X-ZONE’s cell suppression rates are comparable or higher, with the added advantage of working within the body’s natural systems and avoiding common side effects of pharmaceutical NSAIDs. More notably, X-ZONE showed inhibition of immune cell proliferation, suggesting a broader spectrum of action than NSAIDs, which tend to act only downstream of inflammation through inhibition of PGE2. 

4. Native New Zealand Botanicals.

X-ZONE’s use of native New Zealand plant tinctures is particularly interesting, as most of these botanicals have not been rigorously studied in modern research settings. Each was evaluated for its influence on COX-2:

Puriri (Vitex lucens)

  • Effect: Significant COX-2 inhibition.

  • Traditional Use: Used topically for sprains, ulcers, and pain relief.

  • Scientific Insight: Related species exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Tupakihi (Coriaria arborea)

  • Effect: Strong COX-2 inhibition.

  • Traditional Use: Known as the “bone mender,” used for arthritis, gout, and fractures.

  • Scientific Insight: Recent studies support anti-inflammatory activity when used topically. 

Harakeke (Phormium tenax)

  • Effect: Increased COX-2 activity.

  • Interpretation: Suggests a tissue-repair or wound-healing mechanism.

  • Traditional Use: Gel used for burns and wounds; root used internally for digestive support.

  • Scientific Insight: Contains pro-healing compounds like flavonoids and sterols.

Pukatea (Laurelia novae-zelandiae)

  • Effect: Minimal impact on COX-2.

  • Interpretation: Likely works through alternative brain pathways to reduce pain, similar to a natural, non-addictive morphine alternative. 

  • Traditional Use: Analgesic bark decoctions for toothaches and nerve pain.

  • Scientific Insight: Contains pukateine, a dopamine agonist with opioid-like effects, but non-addictive.

Kumarahou (Pomaderris kumeraho)

  • Effect: Minimal COX-2 impact.

  • Interpretation: May influence detoxification pathways to reduce inflammation.

  • Traditional Use: Lung tonic and skin remedy.

  • Scientific Insight: Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants; likely supports immune modulation via alternate pathways.

5. Final Thoughts

These findings confirm what many clinicians and customers have long observed: X-ZONE’s natural formulations are not only effective but biologically active in meaningful, measurable ways. The scientific results support their traditional uses and point to multi-pathway inflammation modulation, not just symptom suppression.

From a clinical standpoint, I am particularly encouraged by:

  • The immune cell proliferation inhibition (rather than just COX-2 suppression).

  • The synergy between traditional healing knowledge and modern lab validation.

  • The absence of known pharmaceutical side effects, making X-ZONE suitable for long-term, supportive care.

As a practitioner, I would feel confident recommending X-ZONE products as part of a holistic pain management strategy. They offer a rare balance of natural integrity, clinical relevance, and scientific validation—an ideal fit for naturopathic practice.


Dr Vanessa Ingraham, ND, NZNMH, FAARFM, ABAAHP
https://drvanessa.life

References

  • Brune K, Hinz B. Arthritis Rheum. 2004;50(8):2391-9.

  • Tinz J et al. Br J Pharmacol. 2003;139(3):552–559.

  • Chan CC et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1995;274(3):1531-1537.

  • Mitchell JA et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1993;90(24):11693–11697.

  • Additional sources: Te Ara, Science Learn NZ, Aotea Health, Tane’s Tree Trust.

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