Phytochemical enhanced water

Abstract

A method and formulation for fluids, such as drinking water, containing plant phytochemicals are disclosed. Some plants can survive in water without a root system, and the formulation includes fluid, such as water, with one or more of the plants maintained in the fluid. Cold storage resulted in enhanced production and excretion of phytochemicals from the plants into the fluid, including bacosides and bacopasides. These phytochemicals have been shown to exhibit antioxidant properties, promote memory and provide additional health benefits, as well as replace bottled water or other fluids as a means to ensure proper hydration. The fluids are useful for enhancing alertness.

Claims

1. A method of preparing phytochemical-fortified water or beverage, comprising the steps: (a) placing live, fresh cuttings of aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into water, wherein the water has at least trace amounts of minerals; wherein the trace amounts of minerals are at least sodium, calcium, and potassium; wherein the water has a pH of 7 to 7.8 or greater; (b) maintaining the live, fresh cutting of aerial or leaf leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof in the water in a live state for at least two weeks: and (c) extracting phytochemicals from the fresh cuttings of aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the water, wherein the extracting step is at between 1.6 C. and 10 C. for the at least 2 weeks of the maintaining step; wherein the extracting step forms the phytochemical-fortified water or beverage.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial sections of Bacopa or Centella are collected at a distance of 8-10 cm from the apex of the branch.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the extraction step is at 1.7 C.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the extraction step is at a pH of 7 or 7.8.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa or Centella or a combination thereof are added at between 1 g and 4 g per 100 ml of fluid.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof is Bacopa or a combination of Bacopa and Centella; and wherein the extraction step extracts Bacoside A3 from the Bacopa or the combination of Bacopa and Centella, wherein the Bacoside A3 has a level of 0.43 to 0.56 mg per 100 mL of water.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof is Bacopa or a combination of Bacopa and Centella; and wherein the extraction step extracts Bacopaside II from the Bacopa or the combination of Bacopa and Centella, wherein the Bacopaside II has a level of 2.0 to 2.43 mg per 100 mL of water.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof is Bacopa or a combination of Bacopa and Centella; and wherein the extraction step extracts Bacopaside X from the Bacopa or the combination of Bacopa and Centella, wherein the Bacopaside X has a level of 0.32 to 0.81 mg per 100 mL of water.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof is Centella or a combination of Bacopa and Centella; and wherein the extraction step extracts Bacosaporin C from the Centella or the combination of Bacopa and Centella, wherein the Bacosaporin C has a level of 0.72 to 0.96 mg per 100 mL of water.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising adding dietary fiber to the fluid.

11. The method of claim 1, further comprising adding flavoring to the fluid.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the flavoring is berry flavor, fruit flavor, spice flavor, coffee flavor, tea flavor, vitamins, minerals, fiber, spices, sucralose, aspartame, a combination of dextrose aspartamine and maltodextrin, cyclamate, saccharin, neotame, acefultame potassium, alitame, sodium cyclamate, glucin, D-tagatose, mogroside, stevia stecioside, sucrose, mannitol, brassein, curculin, erythritol, glycerol, clycrrhizin, inulin, isomalt, lactitol, miraculin, monatin, monellin, pentadin, sorbitol, thaumain, xylitol, and honey.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the flavoring is an artificial sweetener or natural sweetener, and where the concentration of the artificial sweetener is between 110.sup.5 and 210.sup.1 g/L, or wherein the concentration of the natural sweetener is 1.4610.sup.1M.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the trace amounts of minerals are provided by mineral salts, and wherein the mineral salts are CaCl.sub.2, NaCl, MgCl.sub.2, VCl, KCl, CrCl, MnCl.sub.2, CoCl, CuCl, ZnCl.sub.2, MoCl, SeCl, CaSO.sub.4, Na.sub.2SO.sub.4, MgSO.sub.4, VSO.sub.4, KSO.sub.4, Cr.sub.2SO.sub.4, MnSO.sub.4, CoSO.sub.4, Cu.sub.2SO.sub.4, ZnSO.sub.4, Mo.sub.2SO.sub.4, SeSO.sub.4, CaI.sub.2, NaI, MgI.sub.2, VI, KI, CrI, MnI.sub.2, CoI, CuI, ZnI.sub.2, MoI, SeI, CaBr.sub.2, NaBr, MgBr.sub.2, VBr, KBr, CrBr, MnBr.sub.2, CoBr, CuBr, ZnBr.sub.2, MoBr, or SeBr.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the mineral salt added at between 110.sup.1 mg/L and 210.sup.2 mg/L.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the mineral salts provide at least one dietary mineral, wherein the dietary mineral is between 2 mg/L and 20 mg/L of calcium, between 4 mg/L and 15 mg/L of magnesium, between 5 mg/L and 20 mg/L of sodium, between 0.2 mg/L and 6.0 mg/L of potassium, between 5 mg/L and 15 mg/L of chloride, or between 100 mg/L and 200 mg/L of bicarbonate.

17. The method of claim 1, further comprising carbonating the fluid.

18. The method of claim 1, further comprising: enhancing the phytochemical levels by adding at least one processed phytochemical source to the fluid after extraction of at least one phytochemical from the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof; wherein the processed phytochemical source is powdered Bacopa, powdered Centella, powdered aerial plant parts of Bacopa, powdered aerial plant parts of Centella, water extracts of Bacopa, water extracts of Centella, alcohol extracts of Bacopa, alcohol extracts of Centella, dried aerial plant parts of Bacopa, or dried aerial plant parts of Centella.

19. The method of claim 1, further comprising: placing the fluid into a storage container prior to storing the fluid at between 1.6 C. and 10 C. for at least 2 weeks; wherein a homogenizer is disposed in the storage container, and wherein the homogenizer is an electric blender, a mechanical blender, or a sonicator; wherein the electric blender further comprises: a homogenizer blade rotatably fixed to the storage container; an electric motor disposed along the rotation axis of the homogenizer blade; a power source in electrical communication with the electric motor; a switch, toggle switch, momentary switch, or button adapted to control the flow of electricity from the power source to the electric motor; wherein the mechanical blender further comprises: a homogenizer blade rotatably fixed to the storage container; a hand crank or shaft adapted to accept mechanical inputs from an external source; and wherein the sonicator further comprises: an ultrasonic bar or fork; a power source in electrical communication with the ultrasonic bar or fork; a switch, toggle switch, momentary switch, or button adapted to control the flow of electricity from the power source to the ultrasonic bar or fork.

20. The method of claim 1, wherein the water is processed prior to placing the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the water, further comprising: removing contaminants from the water using filtration; subjecting the water to at least one disinfection agent; combining the water and aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof to form the extraction fluid, where the water and aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof are combined in a bottle.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the at least one disinfection agent is ultraviolet radiation, ozone, or a combination thereof.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the step of removing contaminants from the water using filtration is performed with an ultrafiltration membrane.

23. The method of claim 20, further comprising: subjecting the water to active carbon filtration prior to the step of removing contaminants from the water using filtration; pretreating the water prior to the step of removing contaminants from the water using filtration, wherein the pretreating step removes minerals from the water or adds minerals to the water; wherein the pretreating step forms water having a mineral concentration of soft to slightly hard; wherein soft water has a concentration of less than 1.0 grains per gallon, less than 17.1 mg/L, or than 17.1 parts per million; and wherein slightly hard water has a concentration of between 1.0 grains per gallon and 3.5 grains per gallon, 17.1 mg/L and 60 mg/L, or 17.1 parts per million and 60 parts per million.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein the step of combining the water and aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof to form the extraction fluid is performed manually or automatically; wherein the manually combining step further comprises: inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the bottle, wherein the bottle is filled with the water; wherein the automatically combining step further comprises: inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into an automated dispenser, wherein the automated dispenser comprises: a plurality of cages circumferentially disposed on a rotatable drum; where the cages comprising at least one vertical wall, a drum wall disposed on a first edge of the at least one vertical wall and mounted to the rotatable drum, a door disposed on a second edge of the at least one vertical wall, wherein the first edge and second edge are opposite edges of the at least one vertical wall; a plurality of plant clips circumferentially disposed on a rotatable drum; transporting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof and at least one bottle to a loading location; inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the at least one bottle at the loading location; wherein the at least one bottle contains the water; and sealing the bottle.

25. The method of claim 20, wherein the step of combining the water and aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof to form the extraction fluid is performed manually or automatically; wherein the manually combining step further comprises: inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the bottle; adding the water to the bottle; wherein the automatically combining step further comprises: inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into an automated dispenser, wherein the automated dispenser comprises: a plurality of cages circumferentially disposed on a rotatable drum; where the cages comprising at least one vertical wall, a drum wall disposed on a first edge of the at least one vertical wall and mounted to the rotatable drum, a door disposed on a second edge of the at least one vertical wall, wherein the first edge and second edge are opposite edges of the at least one vertical wall; a plurality of plant clips circumferentially disposed on a rotatable drum; transporting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof and at least one bottle to a loading location; inserting the aerial or leafy sections of Bacopa, Centella, or a combination thereof into the at least one bottle at the loading location; adding the water to the at least one bottle; and sealing the bottle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is a graph showing Bacopa monniera plant survival at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or cold temperature (35 F., 1.7 C.; in refrigerator). Plant survival at pH 7.0 was assessed at various times as shown. Plant survival at room temperature was significantly lower.

(3) FIG. 2 is a graph showing Centella asiatica plant survival at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or cold temperature (35 F., 1.7 C.; in refrigerator). Plant survival at pH 7.0 was assessed at various times as shown. Plant survival at room temperature was significantly lower.

(4) FIG. 3 is a graph showing Bacopa monniera survival at different pH. The plant survival at acidic pH is poor. Neutral or alkaline pH enhances plant survival.

(5) FIG. 4 is a graph showing Bacopa saponin levels (% of control) in bacopa plant material following maintenance at different pH levels in refrigerator (35 F., 1.7 C.). The untreated plant material saponin levels are used as control values.

(6) FIG. 5 is a graph showing Bacopa saponin levels in water (g/100 ml) after removal of plant material following maintenance at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or refrigerator (35 F., 1.7 C.).

(7) FIG. 6 is an illustration of a first embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. The plant material is free floating in the fluid.

(8) FIGS. 7(A) and (B) are illustrations of a second embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. (A) The plant material is trapped in a free-floating bag; (B) the plant material is trapped in a bag connected to the bottle cap.

(9) FIG. 8 is an illustration of a third embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. The plant material is trapped by a mesh material on the bottom of the bottle.

(10) FIG. 9 is an illustration of a fourth embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. The plant material is attached to the bottle using a hook. Means for attachment include twine or other material, a hole in the plant.

(11) FIG. 10 is an illustration of a fifth embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. A knob of material is affixed to the base of the bottle and the plant material attached.

(12) FIG. 11 is an illustration of a sixth embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. The plant material is free floating in the fluid and retained in the bottle using a sieve or mesh cone.

(13) FIGS. 12(A) and (B) are illustrations of a seventh embodiment design for maintaining plant material in a fluid. (A) The plant material is free floating in the fluid and retained using a mesh cap. (B) The mesh cap in an expanded view, shown clipped onto the lip of the bottle.

(14) FIG. 13 is an illustration of an eighth embodiment design for plant material in a fluid. The plant material is free floating in the fluid and blended into the water prior to consumption.

(15) FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the processessing of water for bottling with the plant material.

(16) FIG. 15 is an illustration of an automatic dispenser using cages for delivering the plant material to fluid for bottling.

(17) FIG. 16 is an illustration of an automatic dispenser using clips for delivering the plant material to fluid for bottling.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

(18) As used herein, Bacopa or BM refers to Bacopa monnieri, a small creeping herb with numerous branches, small fleshy, oblong leaves and light purple flowers. It grows in wet and sandy areas in tropical regions. Common names for the plant include Brahmi, bacopa, and water hyssop. The term is meant to include, in its broadest sense, Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Bacopa monniera (L.) Pennell yes, Herpestis monniera L. Kunth, Lysimachia monnieri L. Cent, Gratiola monnieri (L.) L, and/or Monniera cuneifolia Michaux.

(19) As used herein, Centella or CA refers to Centella asiatica, a small creeping perennial herbal plant found in wet tropical and subtropical regions. The plant has slender, long stems with rounded leaves and reddish-green stolons. The herb is also known as Indian (or Asiatic) pennywort, Gotu kola, tiger herb, sarswathi aku, muththil, kudangal, thankuni, mandukaparni, ondelaga, vallaarai, brahmi booti (or brahmabuti), along with a variety of other regional names.

(20) As used herein, trace amounts refers to compounds at a concentration of at least 0.01 mg/L to about 300 mg/L.

(21) As used herein, minerals refer to elements or chemical compounds that are naturally occurring and normally crystalline and stable at room temperature, and which are required by living organisms for growth or maintenance.

(22) As used herein, apex of the branch means the tip, i.e. the extreme end, or the growing point of a branch.

(23) As used herein, substantially means largely if not wholly that which is specified but so close that the difference is insignificant, and such differences do not influence the functional properties of the term beyond the normal tolerances permitted by one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, substantially means that the differences do not vary by more than 10% or less.

(24) As used herein, about means approximately or nearly and in the context of a numerical value or range set forth means 15% of the numerical.

Example 1

(25) Seedlings of BM & CA were obtained from commercial suppliers. The plants were identified and grown in the summer rainy season (May-September) in Florida, USA. The seedlings were grown in containers filled with clean, pollutant-free soil with abundant supply of water and sun exposure. The soil was kept moist and wet with additional water as necessary. At 4 months of age BM shoots containing the leaves (aerial parts at 8-10 cm from the apex) were cut with sterile scissors. For CA, a leaf with a 5 cm stem was trimmed. The plant samples were inspected, rinsed with tap water 5 times to remove adhering soil and other extraneous particles. The plant material was rinsed twice with sterile distilled water. The water was drained and the plant material was again rinsed with sterile distilled water, spread on paper towel and gently blotted to remove any adhering moisture. The plant samples were immediately weighed and placed in bottled drinking water using sterile forceps.

Example 2

(26) Weighed samples of freshly collected and cleaned samples of Bacopa (BM) and Centella (CA) samples were either processed as in Example 1 or processed as discussed in Example 1 followed by soaking in 0.2% sorbic acid (natural antibacterial agent approved for food processing) for 15 minutes, to confirm antibacterial processing will not affect the phytochemicals. Bacopa (BM) and Centella (CA) were added at 1-4 g per 100 ml to distilled or other test samples of water, in a bottle. The bottles were capped and kept at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or in the refrigerator (35 F., 1.7 C.) for 16 weeks, or until the plant sample died. The viability of the plant material was periodically checked. The plant survival was estimated by physical and morphological characteristics (leaf and stem color: green, yellow, brown; number of leaves shed; odor, and clarity of water).

(27) The plant survival in distilled water was poor, lasting less than two weeks. Survival was optimal in presence of small amounts of trace elements in the water, namely 2-20 mg/L of calcium, 4-15 mg/L of magnesium, 5-20 mg/L of sodium, 0.2-6.0 mg/L of potassium, 5-15 mg/L of chloride, and 100-200 mg/L of bicarbonate. Testing showed most brands of bottled drinking water possess levels of electrolytes comparable to these amounts.

(28) Treatment with the natural antibacterial agent, sorbic acid did not markedly increase the survival of the plant in water.

(29) Storage of Bacopa samples at 22.2 C. showed a dramatic drop in survival starting at week 4, with viability dropping to 60%, as seen in FIG. 1. By week 8, survival had further decreased to under 20% and the plant was completely dead by week 12. By comparison, plants stored at 1.7 C. showed little decrease in survival with approximately 90% plant survival in week 4, compared to 60% when stored at 22.2 C., and 80% survival out through week 16, when the testing was completed. As such, storage at 1.7 C. significantly improved plant survival to 80%, whereas storage at room temperature (22.2 C.) resulted in complete plant death during testing.

(30) Testing of Centella asiatica showed similar results to the Bacopa. By week 4, plant samples stored at 22.2 C. showed a decrease in survival to about 50%, compared to storage at 1.7 C., which showed about a 90% survival, as seen in FIG. 2. By week 12, the samples stored at 22.2 C. were completely dead, where the samples at 1.7 C. still exhibited approximately 82-85% survival, and remained at about 80% survival at the end of the 16-week testing.

Example 3

Plant Survival and pH

(31) Weighed samples of freshly collected and cleaned samples of Bacopa (BM) and Centella (CA) samples (1-4 g per 100 ml) were added to the bottles with water at pH 6, 7, or 7.8. The bottles were capped and kept in the refrigerator (35 F., 1.7 C.) for 16 weeks. Survival was periodically checked at 2 week, 8 weeks and 16 weeks. Plant survival was estimated by physical and morphological characteristics (leaf and stem color: green, yellow, brown; number of leaves shed; odor, and clarity of water).

(32) Results of pH tests showed Bacopa samples are sensitive to pH, as seen in FIG. 3. Storage of the plant sample at pH 6 showed reduced survival at week 2, of around 50%, which further dropped to 20% by week 8 and down to about 5% by week 16. By comparison, storage at pH 7 exhibited 100% survival at week 2, around 90% survival by week 8 and around 85% survival by week 16. Bacopa also showed good survival at slightly basic pH, with survival around 90% at week 2, 80% survival at week 8 and 70% survival at week 16 when stored at pH 7.8. As such, the plant material handles storage at a very slightly acidic to slightly basic pH, with optimal storage at a neutral pH.

(33) Due to the similarities in the plants, Centella samples are expected to respond in a similar fashion.

Example 4

(34) Weighed samples of freshly collected and cleaned samples of Bacopa (BM) and Centella (CA) samples were added at 1-4 gm per 100 ml to electrolyte-water, pH 7 in bottles. The bottles were capped and kept at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or in the refrigerator (35 F., 1.7 C.) for 16 weeks, as indicated in Table 1.

(35) Following storage under various conditions the plant material was removed from the water. The plant materials and the water samples from the bottle were immediately frozen till analysis. For analysis the plant material was freeze-dried and powdered. Weighed samples (120-150 mg) were mixed with 1 ml ethanol in a 15 ml centrifuge tube. After vortexing the samples were dispersed using an ultrasonic sonicator. The samples were centrifuged for 10 min; and the supernatant was transferred into a 5 ml volumetric flask. The extraction, sonication and centrifugation were repeated three more times. The extracts were combined and the volume was adjusted to 5 ml. After mixing the samples were filtered using 0.45 m PTEF filter and subjected to liquid chromatography analysis.

(36) For analysis liquid samples (50-200 ml) were freeze dried. The material was re-dissolved in 8 ml methanol and transferred to a 10 ml volumetric flask. The container was rinsed again with 2 ml methanol. The combined solution was adjusted to a volume of 10 ml, mixed thoroughly and filtered using 0.45 m PTEF filter. The filtered sample was subjected to liquid chromatography analysis.

(37) The phytochemical levels were quantified by HPLC method previously described (Phrompittayarat W, Jetiyanon K, et al; Influence of seasons, different plant parts, and plant growth stages on saponin quantity and distribution in Bacopa monnieri. Songklanakarin J. Sci. Technol. 33(2), 193-199, 2011). The HPLC method was validated for linearity, limit of detection, precision and accuracy. The accuracy of the method was determined by analyzing the prepared sample following addition of known amounts of standard saponins.

(38) The major phytochemicals detected in the plant material were saponins; Bacopaside A3, Bacopaside X, Bacopaside II, Bacosaponin C and small amounts of Bacopaside IV and Bacopaside V, as seen in Table 1. The levels of saponins in the water increased with storage time in refrigerator. About 2-4% of the plant saponins were released into the water. The low level of saponins in the water ensures safety.

(39) TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Bacopa saponin levels in untreated plant material (control) and following maintenance in water at room temperature (72 F., 22.2 C.) or cold temperature (refrigerator at 35 F., 1.7 C.). The plant material was removed at the end of various time periods and analyzed for Bacopa saponin levels. Values represent the mean of 3 values (mg/100 ml). Bacoside Bacopaside Bacopaside Bacosaponin Treatment A3 II X C Control 0.38 1.65 0.54 0.31 22.2 C., 2 wks 0.36 1.77 0.47 0.39 1.7 C., 2 wks 0.43 2.00 0.32 0.72 1.7 C., 8 wks 0.51 2.41 0.09 0.96 1.7 C., 16 wks 0.56 2.43 0.81 0.77

(40) Plants increase the production certain phytochemicals in response to stressful conditions. The increase in bacopa levels when exposed to cold temperatures may be a natural response to stress. This is similar to the increase in the level of the stress hormone cortisol in humans on cold exposure (Geliebter, et al., Cortisol and Ghrelin concentrations following a cold pressor test in overweight individuals with and without night eating. Int'l J Obesity (Lond), 37:1104-1108, 2013). Testing of phytochemical release over time on Bacopa indicated the plant sample steadily increases phytochemical release for bacoside A3 and bacopaside II, as seen in FIG. 4. Interestingly, release of bacopaside X decreased during storage at 1.7 C. through 8 weeks, then spiked at week 16. However, it is unclear whether this is due to a required storage time period or whether it is an artifact of testing. For bacoside A3, bacopaside II, and bacopaside C, storage at 1.7 C. resulted in higher release of phytochemical than storage at 22.2 C. at the same time point, i.e. 2 weeks. All phytochemicals showed higher levels in water at 16 weeks at 1.7 C. compared to both control and to samples stored at 22.2 C.

(41) Chemical analysis of the phytochemical amounts in water showed Bacopa released mostly bacopaside II during storage at 22.2 C. and 1.7 C., with levels of the other phytochemicals, bacoside A3, bacopaside X and bacopaside C approximately similar. Of note, storage at 1.7 C. showed higher release of the phytochemicals except bacopaside X from weeks 2 through 8, as seen in FIG. 5. By week 16, levels of all tested phytochemicals were higher than those in the 22.2 C. sample.

(42) Due to the similarities in the plants, Centella samples are expected to respond in a similar fashion and produce similar types of phytochemicals at similar levels.

Example 5

(43) Samples of freshly collected and cleaned samples of Bacopa (BM) and Centella (CA) were added at 1-4 gm per 100 ml to electrolyte-water, pH 7 in bottles. The plant can be maintained in the fluid as free floating or can be enclosed in plastic mesh tubing in a manner to prevent unintentional ingestion of the plant. Examples are shown in FIGS. 6 through 12. Plant material 2 is placed into bottle 1 and submerged in fluid 3. Mesh filter 4 is then fixed to the neck of bottle 1, thereby preventing plant material 2 from exiting the body of bottle 1, as seen in FIG. 6. Alternatively, plant material 2 is placed into mesh bag 8 and placed into bottle 1, as seen in FIG. 7(A). Mesh bag 8 can optionally be attached to the cap of bottle 1 by cord 9, as seen in FIG. 7(B). Plant material 2 may also be placed into bottle 1 and contained in the base of bottle 1 using mesh filter 12, as seen in FIG. 8. Mesh filter 12 is optionally fixed by heat sealing, pressure fitting, or snapping into place. Fluid 3 is then added to bottle 1 and allowed to extract the phytochemicals from plant material 2.

(44) Bottle 1 can alternatively include hook 15 fixed to the base of the bottle using means known in the art. Nonlimiting examples include thermal welding and sonic welding. Plant material 2 is attached to hook 15 and fluid 3 added to bottle 1, as seen in FIG. 9. Alternatively, mount 20 is formed on the base of bottle 1, as seen in FIG. 10. Mount 20 may be formed during manufacture of bottle 1 or may be attached by means such as thermal welding or sonic welding. In some variations, plant material 2 is embedded in mount 20 prior to fixing mount 20 in bottle 1. Plant material 2 may alternatively be contained in bottle 1 by funnel or conical mesh 25, as seen in FIG. 11. Finally, mountable mesh 30 may be affixed to bottle 1, as seen in FIG. 12. Mountable mesh 30 comprises a mesh filter having clip 31 adapted to snap onto bottle lip 28, as seen in FIGS. 12(A) and (B). This allows the user to apply the mesh prior to consumption.

(45) The bottles were capped and stored at a temperature sufficient to permit extraction of the phytochemicals. In specific embodiments, the bottles were stored at (35 F., 1.7 C.). During storage, BM or CA plant material, or a combination, was allowed to steep in water for at least 2 weeks.

Example 6

(46) Phytochemical levels can be further enhanced from the levels obtained in Examples 1-5 by having the consumer ingest the plant material along with the liquid. Fortified liquid was prepared as described in Example 5. During consumption of the fortified liquid, the consumer collects the plant material from the container and masticates the plant material, thereby freeing up additional phytochemicals in the plant. Alternatively, the plant material is homogenized with the liquid just prior to consumption.

(47) The plant material is optionally homogenized using a blender, other bladed mixer, or other homogenizing device, such as sonicators and ultrasonic treatment. Advantageously, a blender blade is rotatably fixed to the base of bottle 1. As seen in FIG. 13, homogenizer blade 40 is fixed to electric motor 41 via a sealed shaft. Battery 44 is electrically connected to electric motor 41 as would be evident to one of skill in the art. Activator button 42, or other means known in the art, is disposed in the electrical circuit between battery 44 and electric motor 41, allowing the consumer to activate the homogenizer blade 40 by closing the circuit. Alternatively, homogenizer blade 40 is operated by other mechanical means, such as by hand crank, placing bottle 1 onto a motorized device, such as a blender, food processor, or similar device.

Example 7

(48) Analysis of consumption levels indicate that fortifying drinking fluids with the phytochemicals that are safe. For example, consumption of five bottles of 500 ml each would result in saponin intake below recommended levels and will not cause any toxicity, as seen in Table 2.

(49) TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Calculation of Bacopa saponin intake (g) at various levels of water consumption. Consuming up to five, 500 ml bottles of water per day provides only a small amount of saponins and will not cause any toxicity. Bacoside 100 ml 500 ml 5 500 ml Bacoside A3 19.60 98.00 490.00 Bacopaside II 60.75 303.75 1518.75 Bacopaside X 24.30 121.50 607.50 Bacopaside C 23.10 115.50 577.50

Example 8

(50) Seedlings or cuttings of BM & CA are optionally grown hydroponically or aeroponically, at temperatures of between about 20 C. to about 50 C. (plant growth zones 9-11). This reduces potential bacterial contamination of the plants. Further, it reduces processing time, such as by eliminating extensive washing of the plants prior to use in the invention. In solution culture hydroponic growth, the seedlings or cuttings are suspended in a netting and the lower section or roots of the seedlings or cuttings placed in 3% Hoagland's medium with a 12 hour light/dark cycle, relative humidity of 70-80%, and temperature between 25 C. and 37 C. (Krishnaraj, et al., Effect of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles on Bacopa monieri (Linn.) Wettst. Plant growth metabolism. Process Biochem. 2012 April; 47(4):651-658; Gupta, et al., Effect of cadmium on growth, bacoside A, and bacopaside I of Bacopa monnieri (L.), a memory enhancing herb. Sci World J. 2014; 2014:824586-1-824586-6). Medium was removed and changed every two days.

(51) In solution culture hydroponic growth, the seedlings or cuttings are embedded in a solid medium such as rockwool or MS (Murashige and Skooge, 1962) basal solid medium (Asha, et al., In vitro regeneration of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri (Linn) Pennell)an important medicinal herb through nodal segment culture. Res Plant Biol. 2013; 3(1):01-07). MS medium was supplemented with 3% (w/v) sucrose and the pH adjusted to 5.8, followed by solidification of the medium using 0.8% (w/v) agar. The medium was placed into molds. Where increased shoot multiplication is desired, the medium is optionally supplemented with cytokinin BAP (1.0-5.0 mg/l).

(52) Hydroponic culturing showed vigorous growth with water supplemented with nutrients, allowing new shoots to be harvested within 3 weeks of sprouting. Aeral portions of the plant were harvested using clean clippers, with minimal required cleaning. The cut plant segments, labeled plant material 2, were submerged in clean water and rinsed 3 minutes with gentle agitation, performed three times, i.e. a total of 9 minutes of washing. Plant material 2 was transferred to plastic, sealed and refrigerated for processing into bottled water, as seen in FIG. 14, left side.

(53) Plant material 2 are optionally shipped to a water bottling center. Standard shipment, such as using moist packing of the plants in cartons damaged the plants. As such, plant material 2 was sealed in plastic bags containing cold water and placed in Styrofoam containers. The syrofoam containers were then lined with ice or cold packs and shipped via a commercial shipping company (FedEx/UPS). This allowed the plant material to be shipped over 100 miles from the harvesting site, and allowed for shipping times of up to 4 days, with the plants arriving in excellent condition, i.e. no bruising or discoloration of the plants.

Example 9

(54) Water was collected from conventional supply sources, such as a municipal source, spring, or well, and transferred to a holding tank. The source water was then inspected for obvious signs of contamination, such as dirt or pesticides. Water found to be clear of large debris was filtered using activated carbon filters, such as Hi-Flo filter (Culligan Matrix Solutions, Culligan Int'l Co., Rosemount, Ill.) or STiR industrial water filters (Filtra Systems Company, Inc., Farmington Hills, Mich.). However, other activated carbon filters may be used. The water was then pretreated by using either a water softener or water hardener to reach soft to slightly hard, as seen in Table 3, using lime or ion-exchange resins.

(55) TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Correlation of minteral content to water hardness. grains per milligrams per liter (mg/L) or gallon parts per million (PPM) classification less than 1.0 less than 17.1 soft 1.0-3.5 17.1-60.sup. slightly hard 3.5-7.0 60-120 moderately hard 7.0-10.5 120-180 hard over 10.5 Over 180 very hard

(56) The water was then placed in storage, such as a clean holding tank for further use. When ready for bottling, the water was filtered using microfiltration, such as a polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) double-walled hollow fiber membrane (DOW) or reverse osmosis filter (Lenntech BV, Netherlands). However, other microfiltration filters may be used. The water was then subjected to ultraviolet (UV) light for 2,500 W.Math.s/cm.sup.2 or greater (2,500 W.Math.s/cm.sup.2 to 8,000 W.Math.s/cm.sup.2) to disinfect the water, followed by ozone (O.sub.3) treatment for 10 minutes to further disinfect the water. The water was then placed in a storage tank for dispersal into bottles.

(57) Water was added to bottles to a predetermined amount, such as 1 pint (700 mL). One or more plant segments (plant material) processed as described in Example 8 were then inserted into the bottle, as seen in FIG. 14.

(58) Alternatively, an automated system may be used to add the plant material into the bottle. In one variation, plant material 2 was inserted into cage 85 on conveyor system 82 at loading area A, seen in FIG. 15. As shown in the Figure, conveyor system 82 comprises a series of cages, fixed on rotatable drum 83. Cage 85 includes door 86 disposed on the cage wall farthest from rotatable drum 83. Once plant material 2 was inserted into cage 85, door 86 was closed and rotatable drum 83 advanced, moving cage 85 circumfrentially. Concurrently, bottle 1, filled with water, is transported along conveyor belt 80 to unloading area B, as seen in FIG. 15. Once cage 85 containing plant material 2 advances to unloading area B, door 86 is opened, transferring plant material 2 from cage 85 to bottle 1.

(59) In another variation, plant material 2 was attached to plant clip 92 on conveyor insertion device 90 at loading area A, seen in FIG. 16. As shown in the Figure, insertion device 90 comprises a series of plant clips, fixed on rotatable insertion drum 93. Once plant material 2 was attached to plant clip 92, rotatable insertion drum 93 was advanced, moving plant clip 92 circumfrentially. Concurrently, bottle 1, empty, is transported along conveyor belt 80 to unloading area B, as seen in FIG. 16. Once plant material 2 and plant clip 92 are advanced to unloading area B, plant material 2 is inserted into the neck of bottle 1 and plant clip 92 opened, releasing plant material 2 into bottle 1. Water is then added into bottle 1 from the storage tank, as described above.

(60) In the preceding specification, all documents, acts, or information disclosed does not constitute an admission that the document, act, or information of any combination thereof was publicly available, known to the public, part of the general knowledge in the art, or was known to be relevant to solve any problem at the time of priority.

(61) The disclosure of all publications cited above are expressly incorporated herein by reference, each in its entirety, to the same extent as if each were incorporated by reference individually.

(62) It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described, and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.