Bovine Colostrum

Scientific Name(S): Bovine colostrum

Common Name(S): Cow milk colostrum

Bovine colostrum is the pre-milk liquid produced from the mammary glands of cows during the first 24 to 48 hours after giving birth.

Bovine colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins (antibodies), growth factors, various proteins, and enzymes. The question is whether these factors, which are meant for the calf, exert any effects in humans.

Source: Colostrum is the premilk fluid produced from mammary glands during the first 2 to 4 days after birth. It is a rich natural source of nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors for the newborn.

Uses of Bovine Colostrum

Bovine colostrum has been used to treat diarrhea, to improve GI health, to boost the immune system.

Bovine colostrum may be helpful in protecting against peptic ulcer formation caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) such as aspirin , ibuprofen , and indomethacin.

Side Effects of Bovine Colostrum

Bovine colostrum appears to be safe and effective.

Dosage

Bovine colostrum is available in several forms, including tablets, powders, bars and liquid solutions. Dosage is variable. Hyperimmune bovine colostrum used for AIDS-associated diarrhea usually caused by Cryptosporidium parvum is dosed at 10 grams four times daily for 21 days. This must only be taken under medical supervision.

Toxicology: A few symptoms, including mild nausea and flatulence, were seen in certain trials, but most have reported bovine colostrum to be well tolerated. At least 2 allerginicity studies have been performed in humans.

Summary: Bovine colostrum is rich in nutrients, immune factors, immunoglobulins, antibodies, and other important constituents, all of which benefit the immune system. Many studies have been performed resulting in its successful use for severe diarrhea in certain populations such as the immunocompromised. Bovine colostrum also has other positive GI effects and may help rebuild muscle and other tissue. There is no major toxicity associated with bovine colostrum supplementation. Continued studies will further elucidate its true benefits.