Amino Acid & Peptide · Compound

Lactoferrin

Provisional Strong Scoreamino_acid

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein that supports immune function through its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It works by sequestering iron from pathogens and modulating immune cell activity through lactoferrin receptors on intestinal and immune cells.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryAmino Acid & Peptide

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordlactoferrin benefits

Lactoferrin close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, iron-binding

Lactoferrin — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Boosts immune system function by stimulating white blood cell activity and enhancing natural defense mechanisms. - Acts as a potent antimicrobial agent, fighting bacteria, viruses, and fungi by binding iron and depriving pathogens of essential nutrients. - Supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. - Enhances iron absorption and regulates iron metabolism, reducing the risk of anemia. - Promotes skin health and wound healing by modulating inflammatory responses and supporting tissue repair. - May reduce allergy symptoms by balancing immune responses and lowering histamine release. - Supports respiratory health by inhibiting the growth of respiratory pathogens. - Contributes to healthy aging by reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular renewal.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein commonly found in milk, saliva, and other bodily fluids. It is extracted from bovine whey through advanced filtration and purification processes.

“Lactoferrin has been recognized for its health benefits since its discovery in the 1930s, traditionally consumed through dairy products.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Several clinical trials have demonstrated lactoferrin's role in enhancing immune function and its antimicrobial properties. Meta-analyses support its use in iron metabolism and gut health.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in iron-binding glycoproteins. - Contains antimicrobial peptides. - Found in high concentrations in colostrum.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Lactoferrin binds iron through its two iron-binding domains, depriving bacteria and fungi of essential iron for growth. It modulates immune responses by binding to lactoferrin receptors on macrophages, neutrophils, and intestinal epithelial cells, triggering cytokine production and enhancing phagocytic activity. The protein also exhibits direct antimicrobial effects by disrupting bacterial cell walls and viral envelope proteins.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies on lactoferrin supplementation show mixed but promising results for immune support. A randomized controlled trial with 199 adults found 200mg daily lactoferrin reduced upper respiratory tract infections by 23% over 12 weeks. Several smaller studies (30-60 participants) demonstrated improvements in gut microbiota and reduced inflammatory markers, though larger long-term trials are needed. Most research focuses on bovine lactoferrin supplements at doses ranging from 100-400mg daily.

Also Known As

LactotransferrinLTFLFIron-binding proteinMilk transferrinBovine lactoferrinHuman lactoferrinRed protein

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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