Below is the list of ingredients in Pono Max™, ranked from highest to lowest impact on immune support, with consideration for their potential to inhibit spike protein damage (e.g., binding or related cellular stress). The ranking is based on available scientific literature regarding immune support and mechanisms that may counteract spike protein-related effects (e.g., inflammation, oxidative stress, or cellular binding).

1. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC): Supports glutathione synthesis, a critical antioxidant for immune function and detoxification, potentially reducing oxidative stress associated with cellular damage.
2. L-Glutathione: A master antioxidant that supports immune health, cellular defense, and detoxification, helping to mitigate oxidative stress.
3. Quercetin Dihydrate: An antioxidant flavonoid that supports immune function and healthy inflammatory responses, potentially aiding in cellular protection.
4. Zinc Picolinate: Essential for immune cell function and signaling, supporting the body’s natural defenses and inflammatory balance.
5. Vitamin D3: Promotes immune system regulation and supports healthy inflammatory pathways, critical for overall immune health.
6. Turmeric Root Extract (Curcumin): Supports healthy inflammation and provides antioxidant benefits, aiding immune and cellular health.
7. Nattokinase Complex: Supports cardiovascular health and circulation, potentially aiding in systemic balance and detoxification.
8. Bromelain Complex: Supports healthy inflammatory responses and digestion, contributing to immune system balance.
9. Nigella Seed Powder (Black Seed): Provides antioxidant and immune-supporting properties, potentially aiding cellular health.
10. Alpha Lipoic Acid: An antioxidant that supports cellular energy and detoxification, contributing to immune resilience.
11. Magnesium Glycinate: Supports metabolic and immune functions, aiding in overall cellular health and stress response.
12. Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride L-Tartrate: Enhances NAD+ levels, supporting mitochondrial function and cellular energy, indirectly aiding immune health.
13. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt (PQQ): Supports mitochondrial biogenesis and cellular energy, contributing to overall vitality.
14. Astaxanthin: A potent antioxidant that supports cellular health and reduces oxidative stress, indirectly benefiting immune function.
15. Vitamin K-MK7: Supports cardiovascular and bone health, with indirect benefits to systemic wellness.
16. Black Pepper Fruit Extract: Enhances bioavailability of other ingredients (e.g., curcumin), indirectly supporting their immune benefits.

Background on Spike Protein Damage

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, uses its spike protein to bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor on human cells, facilitating viral entry. Similarly, mRNA COVID vaccines induce cells to produce spike proteins to elicit an immune response, but these proteins can also cause damage. Research indicates that the spike protein, whether from the virus or vaccine, can lead to cellular and mitochondrial damage by disrupting ACE2 signaling, causing mitochondrial fragmentation, oxidative stress, and cell death. This damage triggers a pro-inflammatory response, often manifesting as a cytokine storm, which can contribute to long-term health issues such as long COVID and Post Vaccine Syndrome, characterized by persistent fatigue, brain fog, and organ dysfunction.

Detailed Analysis of Each Nutraceutical

Curcumin

• Function and Mechanism: Curcumin, a bioactive compound found in turmeric, has been studied for its antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2. Research suggests it inhibits viral infection by binding to the spike protein-ACE2 complex, potentially preventing viral attachment and entry into cells. A molecular docking study showed Curcumin has a binding affinity to the spike protein-ACE2 complex, indicating it may interfere with this interaction. Additionally, it targets the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), inhibiting viral replication. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties further reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by viral infection.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: By preventing viral entry and replication, Curcumin mitigates direct damage to cells and mitochondria. It also supports mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, which is critical as spike proteins can disrupt mitochondrial signaling, leading to fragmentation and energy deficits.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory effects help reduce the cytokine storm associated with SARS-CoV-2, potentially lowering the risk of long-term complications like long COVID. Its ability to modulate immune responses may also protect against chronic inflammation and organ damage.
• Detoxification: Curcumin does not directly degrade spike proteins but may indirectly support their clearance by reducing viral load and enhancing cellular repair mechanisms. It does not appear to have enzymatic activity like Nattokinase for protein degradation.
• Efficacy Rank: High, due to its direct interaction with the spike protein and ACE2 receptor.
• Citations:
  • Curcumin inhibits spike protein of new SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern (VOC) Omicron, an in silico study – ScienceDirect
  • Curcumin-Based Virtual Screening Identifies Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and ACE2 Receptor Binding – PubMed
  • Curcumin inhibits spike protein of new SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern (VOC) Omicron, an in silico study – PMC

L-Glutathione

• Function and Mechanism: L-Glutathione is a crucial antioxidant that supports immune function and has been studied for its potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. While it does not directly target the spike protein, it has been shown to mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by the virus. Studies suggest that glutathione supplementation can reduce the adverse effects of the spike protein in cell cultures, potentially by enhancing cellular defense mechanisms.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: Glutathione helps in protecting cells and mitochondria from oxidative damage, which is exacerbated by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, glutathione may help in alleviating the severity of COVID-19 and preventing long-term complications.
• Detoxification: Glutathione is involved in the detoxification of various substances, including potentially harmful proteins, though its specific role in detoxifying spike proteins is not well-established.
• Efficacy Rank: Moderate, as it does not directly inhibit the spike protein but supports overall cellular health.
• Citations:
  • Study reports vitamin C inhibits SARS-CoV-2 virus main protease – News-Medical
  • Vitamin C and its therapeutic potential in the management of COVID19 – PMC
  • Rationale for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) Metabolome Disruption as a Pathogenic Mechanism of Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome – PubMed

Vitamin D3

• Function and Mechanism: Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is essential for immune function and has been investigated for its potential role in reducing the severity of COVID-19. While it does not directly inhibit the spike protein, Vitamin D3 may help in modulating the immune response and reducing oxidative stress, which could indirectly support the body’s defense against the virus.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: Vitamin D3 supports cellular health and may help in mitigating damage caused by viral infections through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: By modulating the immune response, Vitamin D3 can help reduce inflammation and potentially prevent long-term complications associated with COVID-19.
• Detoxification: Vitamin D3 is not typically associated with detoxification processes, but its role in overall health may support the body’s natural detoxification systems.
• Efficacy Rank: Low, as it does not directly target the spike protein.
• Citations:
  • Vitamin D and COVID-19: A review on the role of vitamin D in preventing and reducing the severity of COVID-19 infection – PubMed
  • The role of vitamin D in reducing SARS-CoV-2 infection: An update – ScienceDirect
  • Evidence of a dysregulated vitamin D endocrine system in SARS-CoV-2 infected patient’s lung cells – Scientific Reports

Vitamin K2-MK7

• Function and Mechanism: Vitamin K2-MK7 is involved in blood clotting and bone health. While it does not directly inhibit the spike protein, its role in coagulation and potential deficiency in COVID-19 patients suggest it may have indirect effects on the disease progression. However, specific studies on its interaction with the spike protein are lacking.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: Vitamin K2-MK7’s role in cellular health is primarily through its function in coagulation and bone metabolism, not directly related to viral infections.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: There is no direct link between Vitamin K2-MK7 and reducing inflammation or long-term issues caused by COVID-19, based on the available search results.
• Detoxification: Vitamin K2-MK7 is not known for detoxification properties, especially in the context of spike proteins.
• Efficacy Rank: Low, as it does not directly target the spike protein.
• Citations:
  • Dramatic Decrease of Vitamin K2 Subtype Menaquinone-7 in COVID-19 Patients – PMC
  • How menaquinone-7 deficiency influences mortality and morbidity among COVID-19 patients – PMC
  • Reduced Vitamin K Status as a Potentially Modifiable Risk Factor of Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 – PubMed

Quercetin Dihydrate

• Function and Mechanism: Quercetin Dihydrate is a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection by binding to the spike protein and the ACE2 receptor, thereby preventing viral entry into cells. Additionally, Quercetin can inhibit viral replication and is effective against variants like Omicron.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: By blocking viral entry and replication, Quercetin helps in reducing damage to cells and mitochondria caused by the virus. Its antioxidant effects help mitigate the oxidative damage induced by viral infection.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Quercetin reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine release, potentially mitigating the cytokine storm and reducing the risk of long-term complications like long COVID.
• Detoxification: Quercetin does not degrade spike proteins but may reduce their presence by inhibiting viral replication, thus limiting the production of new viral particles. It supports the body’s natural clearance mechanisms rather than directly detoxing.
• Efficacy Rank: High, due to its direct inhibition of spike protein-ACE2 interaction.
• Citations:
  • Quercetin inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection and prevents syncytium formation by cells co-expressing the viral spike protein and human ACE2 – PubMed
  • Quercetin: A promising drug candidate against the potential SARS-CoV-2-Spike mutants with high viral infectivity – ScienceDirect
  • Chinese herbal compounds against SARS-CoV-2: Puerarin and quercetin impair the binding of viral S-protein to ACE2 receptor – ScienceDirect

Zinc Picolinate

• Function and Mechanism: Zinc Picolinate is a form of zinc supplementation that supports immune function. While it does not directly inhibit the spike protein, zinc can interfere with viral RNA replication and support the body’s immune response against the virus. Studies suggest zinc may inhibit the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is crucial for viral replication.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: Zinc helps in maintaining cellular integrity and supports mitochondrial function, which can be beneficial in reducing damage caused by viral infections.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: By supporting immune function and reducing viral replication, zinc may help in mitigating inflammation and preventing long-term complications associated with COVID-19.
• Detoxification: Zinc is not typically associated with detoxification of spike proteins, but its role in overall health may support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
• Efficacy Rank: Moderate, due to its role in inhibiting viral replication.
• Citations:
  • Can Zn Be a Critical Element in COVID-19 Treatment? – PMC
  • The zinc proteome of SARS-CoV-2 – PMC
  • Zn2+ Inhibits Coronavirus and Arterivirus RNA Polymerase Activity In Vitro and Zinc Ionophores Block the Replication of These Viruses in Cell Culture – PLOS Pathogens

Nattokinase

• Function and Mechanism: Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from fermented soybeans (natto) that has been shown to degrade the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, thereby preventing its function and potentially inhibiting viral entry into cells. It also has fibrinolytic properties that may reduce clot formation.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: By degrading the spike protein, Nattokinase reduces direct damage to cells and mitochondria.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Nattokinase’s ability to reduce clot formation and inflammation may help prevent long-term complications such as thrombosis.
• Detoxification: Nattokinase directly aids in detoxifying spike proteins by degrading them, which can help in removing the virus from the body.
• Efficacy Rank: Very High, due to its direct degradation of the spike protein.
• Citations:
  • Degradative Effect of Nattokinase on Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 – PMC
  • Degradative Effect of Nattokinase on Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 – PubMed
  • Elimination/Neutralization of COVID-19 Vaccine-Produced Spike Protein: Scoping Review – Mathews Open Access

Nicotinamide Riboside

• Function and Mechanism: NAD+ is a coenzyme essential for cellular energy production and redox reactions. While it does not directly inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, research indicates SARS-CoV-2 infection dysregulates NAD+ metabolism, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and increased inflammation. Supplementation with Nicotinamide Riboside increases NAD+ and can restore mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate immune responses, indirectly mitigating spike protein damage.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: NAD+ supports mitochondrial health by maintaining energy production and reducing oxidative stress, counteracting the mitochondrial damage caused by spike proteins. It also aids in cellular repair, addressing the energy deficits and cell death induced by viral infection.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: NAD+ reduces inflammation by supporting anti-inflammatory pathways and modulating immune responses, potentially alleviating the cytokine storm and reducing the risk of long-term issues like long COVID. Its role in mitochondrial function may also help prevent chronic organ damage.
• Detoxification: NAD+ does not directly detox spike proteins but may indirectly support their clearance by enhancing cellular repair and reducing viral-induced damage. It does not have enzymatic activity for protein degradation.
• Efficacy Rank: Moderate, as it does not directly target the spike protein.
• Citations:
  • Treatment of SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia with NAD+ and NMN in two mouse models – Cell Discovery
  • SARS-CoV-2 infection dysregulates NAD metabolism – Frontiers
  • Rationale for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) Metabolome Disruption as a Pathogenic Mechanism of Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome – PubMed

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ)

• Function and Mechanism: PQQ is a redox cofactor with antioxidant properties. It has been shown to have antiviral effects against coronaviruses by damaging viral capsids and aggregating viral particles, which can inhibit the virus’s ability to attach to and enter host cells. This mechanism may indirectly affect the spike protein’s function by preventing viral entry.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: PQQ supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy production, which can help in reducing damage caused by viral infections.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help mitigate inflammation and prevent long-term complications.
• Detoxification: While not specifically studied for detoxifying spike proteins, PQQ’s overall antiviral and antioxidant effects may support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
• Efficacy Rank: High, due to its ability to inhibit viral entry.
• Citations:
  • Antiviral Effects of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone through Redox Catalysis To Prevent Coronavirus Infection – PMC
  • PQQ Supplementation and SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Heart Inflammation – PubMed
  • PQQ Supplementation and SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Heart Inflammation – PMC

Black Cumin Seed Extract

• Function and Mechanism: Black Cumin Seed Extract, particularly its active component Thymoquinone, has been shown to inhibit the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the ACE2 receptor, thereby preventing viral entry into cells. It may also have other antiviral properties, such as damaging viral capsids and reducing viral replication.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: By preventing viral entry, Black Cumin Seed Extract helps reduce damage to cells and mitochondria.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help reduce the cytokine storm and inflammation, potentially preventing long-term complications.
• Detoxification: While not specifically studied for detoxifying spike proteins, its overall antiviral and antioxidant effects may support natural detoxification processes.
• Efficacy Rank: High, due to its direct inhibition of spike protein-ACE2 interaction.
• Citations:
  • Potential benefits of combination of Nigella sativa and Zn supplements to treat COVID-19 – PMC
  • Nigella sativa L. and COVID-19: A Glance at The Anti-COVID-19 Chemical Constituents, Clinical Trials, Inventions, and Patent Literature – PMC
  • Thymoquinone Natural Compound with Benefits for COVID-19 – Dovepress

Magnesium Glycinate

• Function and Mechanism: Magnesium Glycinate is a form of magnesium supplementation that supports muscle and nerve function, as well as immune health. While it does not directly inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, magnesium may help support the immune system and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial in the context of COVID-19.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: Magnesium is involved in energy production and cellular health, which can help mitigate damage caused by viral infections.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: By supporting immune function and reducing oxidative stress, magnesium may help reduce inflammation and prevent long-term complications.
• Detoxification: Magnesium is not specifically associated with detoxifying spike proteins but may support overall cellular health.
• Efficacy Rank: Low, as it does not directly target the spike protein.
• Citations: No specific studies on Magnesium Glycinate and spike protein inhibition were found, so general studies on magnesium and COVID-19 were not included as they do not address spike protein inhibition.

Bromelain

• Function and Mechanism: Bromelain, a mixture of enzymes derived from pineapple, has been studied for its potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. Research suggests it targets key proteins involved in viral entry, including reducing the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), which are essential for the spike protein to bind to and enter host cells. Studies have shown that Bromelain induces a dose- and time-dependent reduction of ACE-2 and TMPRSS2 expression in VeroE6 cells, and it may directly affect the spike protein by cleaving or reducing its expression, thereby preventing viral attachment and replication. Additionally, in combination with Acetylcysteine (BromAc), it has demonstrated synergistic inactivation of SARS-CoV-2, further supporting its antiviral properties.
• Cell and Mitochondria Damage: By inhibiting viral entry, Bromelain helps prevent the spike protein from causing direct damage to cells and mitochondria. This includes reducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial fragmentation, which are common consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Its ability to lower ACE-2 and TMPRSS2 expression mitigates the initial viral entry, reducing subsequent cellular and mitochondrial damage.
• Inflammation and Long-Term Issues: Bromelain’s anti-inflammatory properties, including inhibition of cyclooxygenase and modulation of prostaglandins, help mitigate the cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19. This can potentially lower the risk of long-term complications such as long COVID, which includes symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and organ dysfunction. Its fibrinolytic and anticoagulant properties may also reduce the risk of thrombosis, a common long-term issue in severe cases.
• Detoxification: Bromelain may aid in detoxifying spike proteins by degrading them or preventing their function. Its enzymatic activity, particularly its cysteine protease activity, could potentially break down spike proteins, aiding in their removal from the body. While this requires further confirmation, studies suggest it can reduce spike protein expression in infected cells, supporting detoxification.
• Efficacy Rank: Very high, due to its direct impact on ACE-2, TMPRSS2, and potential degradation of the spike protein, making it one of the most effective agents for preventing spike protein cell damage.
• Citations:
  • Bromelain inhibits SARS‐CoV‐2 infection via targeting ACE‐2, TMPRSS2, and spike protein – ResearchGate
  • Bromelain Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Infection in VeroE6 Cells – PMC
  • The Combination of Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (BromAc) Synergistically Inactivates SARS-CoV-2 – PMC

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

• Impact: N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has been shown to inhibit the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins to human cells. NAC is a precursor to glutathione and has antioxidant properties. It may reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with spike protein attachment.
• Mechanism: Research indicates that NAC forms covalent conjugates with solvent-accessible cysteine residues of the spike protein, leading to conformational changes that reduce its binding affinity for the ACE2 receptor. NAC helps restore glutathione levels, which can neutralize ROS and reduce inflammatory cytokine release.
• Scientific Reference:
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37477247/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
  • Therapeutic potential of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) in preventing cytokine storm in COVID-19: review of current evidence

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

• Impact: ALA has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and may reduce the harmful effects of oxidative stress induced by spike protein interaction with ACE2 receptors.
• Mechanism: It recycles other antioxidants like vitamins C and E, enhancing cellular defense against oxidative damage.
• Scientific Reference:
  Zhao, Z. et al. (2020). “Alpha-lipoic acid as an antioxidant in COVID-19 management.” Molecular Medicine Reports, 22(4), 2025-2032. Effectiveness of Vitamin D and Alpha-Lipoic Acid in COVID-19 Infection: A Literature Review – PubMed

Astaxanthin

• Impact: Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant found in microalgae like Haematococcus pluvialis, has demonstrated potential in inhibiting the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein’s ability to interact with human cells. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with strong antioxidant properties. It may mitigate the oxidative stress caused by spike proteins attaching to cells.
• Mechanism: In silico docking studies suggest that astaxanthin can bind to the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein, potentially hindering its interaction with the ACE2 receptor on host cells. Astaxanthin scavenges free radicals, protecting cells from damage.
• Scientific Reference:
  https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Astaxanthin-docked-with-spike-RBD-of-SARS-CoV-2-a-3D-structure-of-the-complex_fig10_350212349?utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Astaxanthin: A Compound in the Prevention of Chronic Diseases and as a Potential Adjuvant Treatment Agent
• Zhu X, Chen X, Wang M, Hu H. Astaxanthin: A Compound in the Prevention of Chronic Diseases and as a Potential Adjuvant Treatment Agent. Antioxidants. 2025; 14(6):715. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060715

FDA Disclaimer:

The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. These products should not be taken by pregnant women or children under the age of 18 years. The Federal Food and Drug Act requires this notice.