PluriActiv FAQ

Clear Answers to Common Questions

About Dokudami PluriActiv

* Dokudami PluriActiv is Illumera Life's exclusive version of Dr. Aswin Wattanapramote's Dokudami botanical formulation. Throughout this guide, we'll refer to it simply as PluriActiv for readability while explaining the ingredients, fermentation process, and formulation philosophy.

Questions Are a Good Place to Start

At A Glance

When people encounter something new, they naturally have questions — what it is, where it comes from, how it's made, how it's different, etc.

🌿 About PluriActiv

What is PluriActiv, where does it come from, and what makes it different?
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🔬 The Science

Explore the research surrounding Dokudami, fermentation, formulation, and the science behind PluriActiv.
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✅ Quality and Manufacturing

Learn where PluriActiv is made and what the certifications and manufacturing standards on the label mean.
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🧬 How It's Made

From the Dokudami botanical to proprietary fermentation and formulation — here's how PluriActiv is made.
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💊 Using PluriActiv

Questions about how to take PluriActiv, how much to take, timing, daily use, and more.
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 ❓Other Common Questions

Some of the questions people naturally ask when they first discover PluriActiv and Dokudami.
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About PluriActiv

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PluriActiv?

PluriActiv is a proprietary formulation derived from Dokudami (Houttuynia cordata), a botanical that has a long history of traditional use in Asia. What makes PluriActiv different is the proprietary fermentation process used to transform the Dokudami botanical into the finished formulation. PluriActiv is available initially in capsule form, with additional delivery formats planned.

What Is Dokudami?

Dokudami is the Japanese name commonly used for Houttuynia cordata, a botanical plant native to parts of Asia. It has been used traditionally for generations and has also attracted scientific interest. The plant is sometimes known by other names, including fish mint and chameleon plant. Dokudami is the botanical foundation of PluriActiv.

Where Does the Dokudami Used in PluriActiv Come From?

The Dokudami used as the foundation for PluriActiv comes from Thailand. PluriActiv was developed from Dr. Aswin Wattanapramote's Dokudami botanical formulation and proprietary fermentation work. Illumera Life's PluriActiv is an exclusive version of that formulation for its current markets, giving us a unique opportunity to introduce this lesser-known botanical to a much wider audience.

Why Is PluriActiv Different From Simply Taking Dokudami?

PluriActiv isn't simply raw Dokudami placed into a capsule. The botanical undergoes a proprietary fermentation process designed to transform the original plant material. Fermentation is an important part of the PluriActiv formulation and is one reason the finished product is different from simply consuming the unfermented plant. The specific fermentation strains and process details are proprietary.

What Makes PluriActiv Unique?

PluriActiv brings together several elements that aren't commonly found in one botanical product: Dokudami as its foundation, a proprietary fermentation process, and a formulation developed specifically around that transformed botanical. Rather than focusing on a single isolated ingredient, PluriActiv represents a broader formulation approach. That's what makes it different — and why we're taking a closer look at how it works.

Is PluriActiv the Same as Dokudami?

Not exactly. Dokudami refers to the botanical plant, Houttuynia cordata. PluriActiv is a finished formulation made from Dokudami that has undergone a proprietary fermentation process. So while Dokudami is the foundation of PluriActiv, the two terms aren't interchangeable. Think of Dokudami as the botanical source and PluriActiv as the finished, specially formulated product.

dokudami pluriactiv logo

Fermentation & How It's Made

How Is PluriActiv Made?

Why is Dokudami fermented?

Fermentation is a key part of the PluriActiv formulation. Rather than simply using unfermented Dokudami, the botanical undergoes a proprietary fermentation process developed specifically for the formulation. The process is intended to transform the original botanical material and is one of the defining features that distinguishes PluriActiv from simply consuming Dokudami.

What does fermentation do to Dokudami?

Fermentation changes the botanical material through a controlled biological process. In PluriActiv, this process is used to transform the Dokudami before it becomes part of the finished formulation. The exact changes depend on the fermentation process and conditions, which are proprietary to the PluriActiv formulation.

Does PluriActiv contain the same compounds as raw Dokudami?

Not necessarily. Fermentation can change the composition of botanical material, so the fermented formulation should not automatically be considered identical to the original plant. PluriActiv begins with Dokudami, but the proprietary fermentation process is an important part of what makes the finished formulation different from raw, unfermented Dokudami.

What makes the fermentation process proprietary?

The PluriActiv fermentation process was developed specifically for the Dokudami formulation and involves controlled fermentation methods that are not publicly disclosed. Certain details, including the specific strains and process parameters, are proprietary. That means we can explain the role fermentation plays in PluriActiv without revealing the underlying process used to create it.

Who developed the PluriActiv fermentation process?

The PluriActiv formulation and its proprietary fermentation process were developed by Dr. Aswin Wattanapramote in Thailand. His work with Dokudami and botanical fermentation is central to the development of the formulation. Illumera Life's PluriActiv is based on this proprietary Dokudami formulation.

DOKUDAMI

The botanical foundation

Houttuynia cordata is the botanical foundation from which PluriActiv begins.

PROPRIETARY FERMENTATION

The transformation

The Dokudami undergoes a controlled proprietary fermentation process.

PLURIACTIV

The finished formulation

The result is the finished PluriActiv formulation.

Science & Research

What Does the Science Tell Us?

Has Dokudami been scientifically studied?

Yes. Houttuynia cordata, the botanical known as Dokudami, has been the subject of extensive scientific research. Published studies and scientific reviews have examined its traditional uses, chemical constituents, biological activity, and potential mechanisms of action. Research has included laboratory studies, animal studies, and some human research.


The important distinction is that this body of research relates primarily to Houttuynia cordata and various preparations or extracts, not necessarily to the finished PluriActiv formulation.

Where can I find research about Dokudami?

Scientific research on Houttuynia cordata can be found in databases such as PubMed, along with other academic and scientific research databases. Searching by the botanical name Houttuynia cordata rather than only the common name Dokudami will generally produce more relevant results.

For readers who want to explore the research for themselves, our Science & Research page provides a starting point and selected references.

Does research on Dokudami automatically mean PluriActiv has been studied?

No. This distinction is important.

Research conducted on Houttuynia cordata, raw Dokudami, or other extracts does not automatically constitute research on the finished PluriActiv formulation. Different preparations can differ in their composition, extraction methods, processing, and formulation.

For example, PubMed contains published reviews covering the plant's traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological research and safety.

PluriActiv begins with Dokudami but undergoes a proprietary fermentation and formulation process. Therefore, research on the botanical can provide scientific context, while research specifically conducted on the finished PluriActiv formulation would provide product-specific evidence.

Quality, Certifications & Manufacturing

PluriActiv is manufactured in Thailand by Prolac (Thailand) Co., Ltd., the facility identified on the product packaging. The label also identifies certifications and manufacturing standards that provide additional information about how the product is produced and handled.

Where is PluriActiv manufactured?

PluriActiv is manufactured in Thailand by Prolac (Thailand) Co., Ltd., the manufacturer identified on the product packaging. The packaging also identifies the product as being made in Thailand and lists the manufacturer's location in Lamphun, Thailand.

styled list showing dokudami plauriactiv's certifications

What's On The Dokudami PluriActiv Label?

🏭  What does GMP Certified mean?

GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practices. For dietary supplements, current GMP requirements establish standards for manufacturing, packaging, labeling, holding, quality control, sanitation, equipment, testing, recordkeeping and other aspects of production.

In practical terms, GMP is about having controlled processes in place so a dietary supplement is consistently produced according to established specifications.

🌿 What does certified Organic mean?

Organic certification means that the applicable agricultural ingredients, production or handling processes meet the standards established by the relevant organic certification program. USDA organic standards include requirements for how qualifying agricultural products are produced, handled and labeled, with certification overseen by accredited certifying agents.

The specific organic certification shown on the PluriActiv packaging relates to the certified operation or product represented by that certification. For exact certification details, consumers can refer to the certification information associated with the product.

☪️  What does Halal certified mean?

Halal certification verifies that a product and its relevant ingredients, handling and production processes meet the requirements of the certifying organization. Halal certification can involve review of ingredients, manufacturing processes and handling practices, followed by ongoing oversight.

The Halal certification mark shown on the PluriActiv packaging provides information for consumers who want products that meet Halal requirements.

🛡️  WHAT DOES ISO 22000 CERTIFICATION MEAN?

ISO 22000 is an internationally recognized standard for food safety management systems. It provides a structured framework for identifying, controlling, and monitoring food safety risks throughout the production process.

For a dietary supplement manufacturer, ISO 22000 certification indicates that established food safety management procedures are in place to help ensure products are consistently produced and handled under controlled conditions.

🌱  WHAT DOES NON-GMO VERIFIED MEAN?

Non-GMO verification indicates that the product meets established standards for avoiding genetically modified ingredients. The verification process involves reviewing ingredients and manufacturing practices against the requirements of the applicable non-GMO standard.

For consumers, this provides additional assurance that the ingredients used in the product have been evaluated according to recognized non-GMO criteria.


image depicting the manufacturing plant for Dokudami PluriActiv
dokudami pluriactive image showing bottle next to packaging box

What does FDA Registered mean?

FDA registration is different from FDA approval. The FDA does not approve dietary supplements before they are marketed in the way it approves drugs. Facilities that manufacture, process, pack or hold dietary supplements for consumption in the United States are generally required to register with FDA. FDA also regulates dietary supplements through requirements involving manufacturing, labeling, safety and compliance.

The PluriActiv packaging identifies FDA registration, but this should not be interpreted as FDA approval or endorsement of the product.

Why are these certifications and manufacturing standards important?


Certifications and manufacturing standards don't tell you everything about a product, but they can provide useful information about how a product is produced, handled and documented. They are one part of evaluating a supplement alongside its ingredients, formulation, research, manufacturing practices and labeling.

The goal isn't simply to collect badges. It's to understand what those badges and standards actually represent.

Using PluriActiv

How do I take PluriActiv?

PluriActiv is taken orally as capsules. The product label directs users to take 1 to 2 capsules per day, with the directions specifying use in the morning and at bedtime.

Take the capsules according to the directions on the current product label.

How much PluriActiv should I take?

The product label lists a serving size of 1 to 2 capsules, with each capsule containing 500 mg. The directions specify taking 1 to 2 capsules per day in the morning and at bedtime.

Because the wording on the label is the controlling instruction, follow the dosage directions provided with the product you receive.

When should I take PluriActiv?

The product directions specify taking PluriActiv in the morning and at bedtime.

For consistency, follow the timing provided on the current product label rather than assuming that PluriActiv needs to be taken with meals or at another particular time.

Can PluriActiv be taken every day?

Yes. The product directions are written for daily use, specifying 1 to 2 capsules per day in the morning and at bedtime.

As with any dietary supplement, follow the current product label and any individualized guidance provided by your healthcare professional.

How long does it take to notice something?

There isn't a specific timeframe on the product label for when someone should expect to notice an effect. Individual experiences can vary, and we don't want to imply a guaranteed result or a specific time period that hasn't been established for the product.

PluriActiv is intended to be used according to the product directions rather than around a promised timetable.

Can PluriActiv be taken with other supplements?

The PluriActiv label does not provide specific instructions about combining it with other dietary supplements. Because individual products and circumstances can vary, it's best to review your complete supplement routine with a qualified healthcare professional, particularly if you're taking multiple products or medications.

Questions About Safety & Use

Is PluriActiv safe?

PluriActiv is formulated as a dietary supplement and is manufactured under established quality and manufacturing standards. As with any supplement, individual responses can vary. Follow the recommended directions on the product label and use PluriActiv as directed.

If you have questions about whether PluriActiv is appropriate for you, especially if you have a medical condition or are under medical care, consult your healthcare professional before use.

Are there any precautions I should know about?

As with any dietary supplement, it is important to follow the directions on the label and not exceed the recommended use.

If you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition, or have specific health concerns, it is a good idea to discuss PluriActiv with your healthcare professional before adding it to your routine.

Can everyone take PluriActiv?

PluriActiv is intended for adults as a dietary supplement. However, individual circumstances can differ, so it should not be assumed that every person is an appropriate candidate for every supplement.

If you are unsure whether PluriActiv is right for you, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are under medical care, consult your healthcare professional before use.

Should I talk to my healthcare professional before using it?

If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, are under medical care, or simply have questions about adding a new supplement to your routine, discussing PluriActiv with your healthcare professional is a sensible step.

Your healthcare professional can consider your individual health circumstances and help you decide whether it is appropriate for you.

What should I do if I'm taking medications?

If you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, speak with your healthcare professional before adding PluriActiv to your routine.

Your healthcare professional can review your medications, supplements, and individual circumstances and advise you about whether PluriActiv is appropriate for you.

What if I have allergies or sensitivities?

If you have known allergies, sensitivities, or concerns about any of the ingredients in PluriActiv, review the product label carefully before use.

If you are uncertain about an ingredient or how it may relate to your individual circumstances, consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.


A Few More Questions People Ask

Is PluriActiv a probiotic?

No. PluriActiv is not a probiotic. Probiotics are products containing live microorganisms intended to provide a health benefit when consumed in adequate amounts.

PluriActiv is a botanical dietary supplement derived from Houttuynia cordata (Dokudami) and produced using a proprietary fermentation and formulation process. Fermentation is part of how PluriActiv is made, but that does not make the finished product a probiotic.

Is PluriActiv the same thing as Dokudami?

It depends on what you mean by "Dokudami." Dokudami is a common name for Houttuynia cordata, the botanical source used in PluriActiv. The name Dokudami is also used by Prolac for its own finished herbal supplement.

PluriActiv begins with Dokudami (Houttuynia cordata) but is not simply the plant itself. It undergoes a proprietary fermentation and formulation process to produce the finished PluriActiv formulation.

In simple terms: Dokudami is the botanical source; Dokudami PluriActiv is the finished formulation.

Why is fermentation important to PluriActiv?

Fermentation is a key part of how PluriActiv is produced. The process uses proprietary fermentation methods to transform the original botanical material before it is formulated into the finished product.

This matters because the properties of a botanical can be influenced by how it is processed. PluriActiv is therefore not simply dried Dokudami placed into a capsule — it is a fermented and formulated preparation developed through a controlled manufacturing process.

Is PluriActiv an herbal supplement?

Yes. PluriActiv is a botanical dietary supplement derived from Houttuynia cordata Thunb, commonly known as Dokudami or Fish Mint.

The plant has a long history of traditional use in parts of Asia, while modern research has investigated its chemistry and biological properties. PluriActiv begins with this botanical source and is then processed through a proprietary fermentation and formulation process.

Why haven't I heard of Dokudami before?

Dokudami is much more familiar in parts of Asia than it is in North America. Houttuynia cordata has a long history of traditional use in countries where the plant is native or commonly cultivated.

Its relative unfamiliarity in the United States and Canada is one reason PluriActiv may seem like a new discovery. The plant itself isn't new — it's the introduction of this particular formulation to the North American market that's new.

Where can I learn more about PluriActiv?

There are several places on this website to learn more about PluriActiv. You can start with What Is PluriActiv? for an introduction to the product and its botanical source, or explore PluriActiv Benefits for an overview of the areas of interest surrounding the product.

For readers who want to go deeper, the PluriActiv Science page explains the botanical research, fermentation process, formulation, and the broader scientific context surrounding Dokudami.

You can also explore the Research Library and/or PubMed for selected scientific references related to Houttuynia cordata and the research surrounding the botanical.

A Note From Brett ...


After many years of being involved in health and wellness companies and products, I know what it's like to be told of an exclusive product, but having to move mountains to get any resemblance of realistic and accurate information on that product. That's why I'm happy to make this page ... so you don't have to move mountains.

Note: This isn't a copycat product. It is a deeply researched, masterfully crafted innovation that represents the absolute future of wellness—and I couldn't be prouder to share it with you.

We hope you enjoyed our PluriActiv FAQ page, and that you found it valuable to you in some way. Please feel free to roam around the remainder of the site. There are more PluriActive pages for you to explore and learn. Thank you

Interested in Learning More?

PluriActiv is currently available through Illumera's wellness product line.

If you'd like to learn more about the PluriActiv product, or if you're ready to become a customer, click below.

About The Author

Brett Gurney is an entrepreneur, online marketer, and lifelong student of emerging trends in wellness, technology, and business. He likes taking complex ideas and breaking them down into practical, easy-to-understand information that helps readers stay informed and make confident decisions for themselves.

Brett is a big fan of the PluriActiv product and the technology behind it. So he shares what he learns and helps others discover trends they may not have encountered otherwise.

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