Colostrum
Synopsis of colostrum
Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by mammals (including humans, cows, goats, and other animals) immediately following childbirth. It is a thick, yellowish fluid that precedes mature breast milk and is incredibly rich in antibodies, growth factors, immune cells, and bioactive nutrients. The most commonly used form in supplements is bovine colostrum, which closely resembles human colostrum and is well tolerated across species.
Bovine colostrum contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins (especially IgG), lactoferrin, growth factors (IGF-1, IGF-2), proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), lysozyme, enzymes, cytokines, and oligosaccharides. These compounds contribute to colostrum’s broad benefits, including:
- Immune support: enhancing defense against infections and regulating immune response
- Gut health: repairing intestinal lining, reducing permeability (leaky gut), and supporting beneficial microbiota
- Tissue regeneration and muscle repair: via anabolic growth factors like IGF-1
- Athletic performance and recovery
- Anti-aging and cognitive support through cellular repair mechanisms and reduction of systemic inflammation
Colostrum is especially beneficial in immune-compromised individuals, athletes, those recovering from GI damage (e.g., from NSAIDs or antibiotics), and people with autoimmune conditions or gut-related disorders like IBS or IBD.
Modern colostrum supplements are often low-heat processed to preserve bioactivity and may be formulated as powders, capsules, or chewables. It is considered safe for most people, though it is derived from dairy and may not be suitable for individuals with milk allergies.
Historical Use
While the scientific understanding of colostrum is recent, the practice of consuming it has ancient roots. In Ayurvedic medicine, bovine colostrum (godhūma-kṣīra) was considered a sacred and rejuvenating substance used to strengthen ojas (vital energy), support fertility, build immunity, and restore vitality after illness. It was traditionally given to infants, the elderly, and those recovering from weakness or injury.
In traditional European folk medicine, colostrum from cows or goats was often consumed by farming communities during calving season. It was believed to promote digestive health, build strength, and ward off infection. Sometimes called “beestings”, fresh colostrum was used in puddings or consumed warm for its nourishing properties.
Among indigenous cultures, colostrum was regarded as the most potent form of nourishment. It was valued not just for infant survival but also for adult healing, particularly during times of famine, infection, or childbirth recovery.
With the rise of immunology and nutritional science in the 20th century, colostrum began to be studied for its unique role in passive immunity, gut lining repair, and systemic regulation. Its use has since expanded into sports nutrition, integrative medicine, and functional gut health therapies.
Today, colostrum is considered a whole-food immune modulator and regenerative agent, bridging ancestral wisdom and modern biomedical validation.
Colostrum is used for these health conditions
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Scientific)
Autoimmune Disorders (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Colds (general) (Scientific)
Colds (prevention) (Scientific)
Convalescence (Scientific)
Cuts (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Exercise (Scientific)
Failure to Thrive (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Nursing (Scientific)
Pets (supplements for) (Scientific)
Post Partum Weakness (Traditional)
Skin (dry and/or flaky) (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Wasting (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
colostrum is used to support these body systems
Brain (Scientific)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Mucus Membranes (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Stomach (Scientific)
