Germanium

Germanium is a much-acclaimed trace element. Nutritionally, organic germanium boosts the immune system by stimulating the production of interferon and other immune cells, increasing resistance to various diseases. It also lowers the oxygen requirements of body organs and is a powerful antioxidant, reducing peroxidation damage, and helping the debilitating diseases of ageing. As such, it was found to have a beneficial effect on ovarian malignancies, colon cancer and Hodgkin's disease. Organic germanium was also found to have anti-arthritic properties.

Trace amounts of germanium are present in most foods, but richer amounts are found in ginseng, garlic, aloe vera and comfrey, which may partially explain the health promoting effects of these foods. Germanium is also available as a supplement in health food shops, and online.