Watercress Research urease inhibitor

Watercress Research is developing a natural phytochemical extract derived from watercress that acts as a urease inhibitor. Urease is an enzyme produced by various bacteria (such as *Helicobacter pylori* and those causing urinary tract infections) and fungi, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. By inhibiting this enzyme, the extract aims to address conditions where ammonia production is a key pathogenic factor. These include nappy rash (caused by ammonia-induced skin irritation), *H. pylori* infections (where ammonia neutralizes stomach acid to protect the bacteria), hepatic encephalopathy (characterized by toxic ammonia levels in the blood), and struvite kidney stones (which form in alkaline urine produced by urease-positive bacteria). The product is also being investigated for its potential in managing frailty and sarcopenia. It is currently in preclinical development.

Brand names

Watercress Tonic

Other names

Watercress Research phytochemical extract