IMBY Allergy & Itch Supplement

Colostrum contains immunoglobulins and growth factors that can support the gutlining and immune defenses. In dogs, published research has explored its influence on immune function during longer-term feeding, which is why it is often positioned for digestive and immune resilience. It is supportive nutrition, not a substitute for investigating chronic diarrhea, weight loss, or suspected allergies (Satyaraj; 2013; Beynen, 2013; DuBourdieu, 2019).

Lactobacillus helveticus is a probiotic bacterium commonly used in nutritional formulations to support the balance of the intestinal microbiome. A healthy microbiome plays an important role in digestion, immune signaling, and metabolic stability.

Research increasingly highlights the connection between gut health and skin health, often referred to as the gut–skin axis. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiota can therefore contribute to overall immune balance and support normal skin function.

For this reason, probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus helveticus are sometimes included in nutritional strategies aimed at supporting digestive health and maintaining a balanced immune response in animals with sensitive skin (Duysburgh, 2025).

Algal oil is a sustainable, traceable source of omega-3s, naturally rich in DHA and often EPA, and it supports the body’s healthy inflammatory balance. 

• Joint health: Omega-3s help keep the normal inflammatory response in check, which can support more comfortable movement and recovery after exercise. 
• Skin and coat: DHA and EPA support the skin barrier, helping reduce dryness and supporting a softer, shinier coat, especially in animals prone to flaky skin or seasonal itchiness. 
• Lung health: Omega-3s can support respiratory comfort by helping maintain a balanced inflammatory response in the airways, which is relevant for pets that react to dust, pollen, or environmental triggers. 

Because algal oil delivers omega-3s in a consistent way, it is a practical alternative to fish oil for long-term daily support of joints, skin, and respiratory resilience (ScienceDirect). 

Cranberry is used to support urinary tract health in dogs and cats because it contains proanthocyanidins (often called PACs) that can make it harder for certain bacteria, especially E. coli, to stick to the bladder wall. When bacteria cannot attach as easily, they are more likely to be flushed out during normal urination. This is why cranberry is mainly positioned for prevention support in pets that are prone to recurring urinary issues, not as a stand-alone solution for an active infection. 

In practice, cranberry works best as part of a broader urinary plan, alongside good hydration and regular toilet breaks for dogs. It should not replace veterinary care if a pet shows signs of a UTI such as frequent urination, straining, accidents, blood in the urine, pain, or lethargy. Cats in particular can have urinary problems that are not bacterial (for example stress-related inflammation), so getting the right diagnosis matters. Chou HI et al., 2016, Olby et al., 2006 

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions throughout the body. It plays a key role in cellular metabolism, immune function, and tissue maintenance.

In the skin, zinc contributes to normal cell turnover and supports the structural integrity of skin tissues. Adequate zinc intake is therefore important for maintaining healthy skin and coat condition.(Schwartz et. al., 2006; Glutsch et. al., 2019).

Zinc is also involved in immune system activity and antioxidant defense mechanisms that help protect tissues from oxidative stress. Because of these roles, zinc is commonly included in pet nutrition to support immune balance, skin health, and overall physiological function (Animals, 2021).

Evening primrose oil is a plant-derived oil known for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid involved in skin barrier metabolism. GLA plays a role in maintaining the structure and function of skin lipids that help protect the skin from environmental stressors (Veterinary Herbal Medicine, 2007).

In dogs with sensitive or reactive skin, maintaining adequate fatty acid intake can contribute to supporting the natural protective function of the skin barrier. Healthy skin lipids help maintain moisture and support normal skin comfort.

Because of its fatty acid composition, evening primrose oil is often included in nutritional strategies aimed at supporting skin condition and coat quality in animals with sensitive skin. Verhelst, 2025

Peas are widely used in animal nutrition as a plant-based protein and fiber source. Their protein can be highly digestible depending on processing, and peas can also contribute fermentable fiber that supports normal stool quality. Wang et al., 2022

Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a functional yeast ingredient naturally rich in nutrients and yeast-derived compounds such as beta-glucans, mannan-oligosaccharides, and fermentation metabolites. These components are studied for their role in supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall wellbeing in dogs.

In canine studies, Saccharomyces cerevisiae products have been shown to positively influence the gut microbiota, including increased beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, while also supporting immune markers and normal inflammatory balance.

Research in dogs also links Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products to skin and coat support, including effects on skin sebum, antioxidant status, and immune responses. This makes brewer’s yeast especially relevant in formulations aimed at supporting gut health, skin resilience, and coat quality (Jouany et al., 2009; Davenport, 2023; Lin, 2019; Wilson, 2022).

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism. These minerals are important for maintaining normal bone formation and overall structural support.

Beyond its role in mineral metabolism, vitamin D3 also contributes to immune system regulation. Immune cells contain vitamin D receptors, and adequate vitamin D levels support normal immune responses and physiological balance.

Vitamin D is also involved in cellular growth and differentiation, including in tissues such as the skin. These processes contribute to maintaining skin integrity and overall tissue health.

Because of its role in immune function, skin health, and metabolic balance, vitamin D3 is commonly included in nutritional formulations designed to support overall wellbeing and resilience in dogs (Chrobak-Chmiel, 2023; Dogru, 2017; Hattangdi-Haridas, 2019; Mostafa, 2015).

Bacillus subtilis is a spore-forming probiotic bacterium that is valued for its stability and ability to survive harsh conditions such as stomach acid. Once in the digestive tract, it can contribute to maintaining a balanced gut microbiome.

This strain has been studied in animal nutrition for its role in supporting digestive function, including its interaction with gut bacteria and its contribution to a stable intestinal environment. A balanced microbiome is important for nutrient digestion and overall gut health.

Because of its resilience and activity in the gut, Bacillus subtilis is often used to support digestive stability and maintain normal stool quality in dogs with sensitive digestion (ScienceDirect, 2020; Portella Félix; 2010).

Enterococcus faecium is a probiotic bacterium commonly used in animal nutrition to support the balance of the gut microbiome. It contributes to maintaining a stable population of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.

A balanced microbiome plays an important role in digestion, as it helps break down nutrients and supports the normal function of the intestinal environment. In dogs, supplementation with E. faecium has been studied for its effects on gut health, including improvements in microbial balance and digestive stability (Bybee et al., 2011; Microorganisms, 2022).

By supporting the intestinal environment, this probiotic strain can contribute to maintaining normal stool quality and overall digestive comfort, especially in animals with sensitive digestion (Benyacoub et al., 2003).

Vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol) is an essential fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from oxidative stress. Because these membranes are rich in fatty acids, they are particularly sensitive to oxidative damage, making antioxidant protection important for normal cellular function (ScienceDirect, 2014).

Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining muscle cell integrity and supports normal nerve function. It also contributes to immune function and helps maintain healthy tissues such as skin and coat (Fagan, 2018).

Horses naturally obtain vitamin E from fresh grass, but intake can be limited when pasture access is restricted, making additional supply relevant (University of California, 2019).

Vitamin E can occur in different forms (tocopherols), each with specific antioxidant properties. A combination of these forms provides broader antioxidant support compared to a single form alone. As a fat-soluble vitamin, delivering vitamin E in an oil-based form supports its natural absorption (Quigley, 2021).

Apple (Malus domestica) is a natural source of pectin, a soluble fiber known for its role in supporting digestive health. Pectin forms a gel-like structure in the gut, which helps regulate intestinal transit and contributes to normal stool consistency.

As a fermentable fiber, pectin serves as a substrate for beneficial gut bacteria. This supports a balanced microbiome, which plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.

The gut and nervous system are closely connected through the gut–brain axis. Supporting a stable gut environment can therefore contribute to overall wellbeing and a more balanced response to everyday stressors. This makes pectin relevant not only for digestive support but also as part of a broader approach to maintaining calm and comfort in sensitive animals (Wikiera, 2014; Zaitseva, 2020).

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a botanical root widely used in nutritional and herbal formulations for its bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols. These compounds have been studied for their role in supporting digestive and metabolic processes.

In the digestive system, ginger is associated with supporting normal gastric activity and digestive comfort. A well-functioning digestive system is important for nutrient absorption and maintaining a balanced gut environment, which is especially relevant for animals with sensitive digestion.

Ginger is also linked to processes involved in bile production and flow. Bile plays a key role in digestion and contributes to the processing of dietary fats and metabolic by-products. Supporting these natural processes helps maintain normal liver and digestive function (Williams & Lamprecht, 2008; BenthamDirect).

Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a key role in maintaining strong bones and overall structural support in the body. A healthy skeletal system is important for movement, stability, and joint function.

Beyond its role in bones, calcium is involved in muscle function and nerve signaling, helping support coordinated movement and normal physical activity.

Calcium also plays a role in normal cellular processes, including those involved in skin renewal and tissue maintenance. These processes contribute to maintaining healthy skin and overall physiological balance (Böswald, 2019; British Journal of Nutrition, 2011; Foods, 2025).

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a natural ingredient that provides a range of vitamins and minerals important for overall health. It contains nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to normal physiological processes in the body.

These nutrients play a role in maintaining cellular function, supporting the immune system, and contributing to normal muscle and nerve activity. Potassium and magnesium, for example, are involved in fluid balance and muscle function, while vitamin C supports antioxidant processes.

By supplying essential micronutrients, potato contributes to maintaining overall wellbeing and supports the body’s daily nutritional needs.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is a botanical rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, alkylamides, and polysaccharides. These compounds have been studied for their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties (Burlou-Nagy et al., 2022).

Through its interaction with the immune system, echinacea supports normal immune responses and contributes to maintaining overall physiological balance. A well-functioning immune system plays an important role in skin health, as it helps the body respond to external challenges.

Echinacea is also studied for its dermatological relevance, with research suggesting that its bioactive compounds contribute to maintaining skin condition and resilience. These combined properties make it a valuable ingredient in formulations aimed at supporting both immune function and skin health (Verhelst, 2025).

Sophora japonica is a botanical rich in flavonoids such as rutin and quercetin. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties and their role in supporting normal cellular function.

Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can affect skin condition and overall tissue health. Maintaining this balance is important for supporting skin integrity and resilience.

Flavonoids from Sophora japonica are also associated with supporting microcirculation and tissue health, contributing to maintaining healthy skin and coat condition (Health Supplements Future Forum, 2021; Food Frontiers, 2024).

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is a water-soluble vitamin involved in carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. It plays a key role in converting nutrients into usable energy, supporting overall vitality.

Thiamine is also important for normal nervous system function, as it supports nerve signaling and cellular communication. Proper nervous system function contributes to overall physiological balance and behaviour.

Because of its role in energy metabolism and nerve function, vitamin B1 contributes to maintaining general health and resilience in both dogs and horses (Curely, 2025).

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a water-soluble vitamin involved in energy metabolism and cellular function. It acts as a cofactor in enzymatic reactions that help convert nutrients into energy.

Riboflavin also plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and supporting normal cellular turnover. These processes are important for preserving skin integrity and overall tissue health.

In addition, vitamin B2 contributes to antioxidant processes in the body, helping maintain cellular balance and supporting overall wellbeing (Curely, 2025).