Blackmores Vitamins Review & Guide
Founded in the 1930s by naturopath Maurice Blackmore, the Blackmores brand creates a variety of products supposedly by incorporating the latest research in nutrition with traditional herbal medicine. This can be seen in products like the ‘Blackmores Flexagil Pain Relief Cream’, claimed to be a clinically proven plant-based cream which contains natural comfrey root extract. The company’s product range targets a large number of issues. These include brain health, muscle function, fertility, gut health, infant nutrition, diet deficiencies, liver function, cold and flu symptoms, weight management, migraines, heart health, nervous tension, stress and general wellbeing. Read on for our guide to Blackmores vitamins, to help you decide if the brand is right for you.
Range of Blackmores Vitamins
Blackmores provides an extensive range of products, likely the most diverse range available in Australia today. Here is a guide to what’s on offer and who these products are targeted at:
- Arthritis, joint, bone and muscle
- Brain health
- Cold, flu and immunity
- Digestive health
- Energy and exercise
- Eye health
- Fish and nutritional oils
- Heart and circulation
- Kids health
- Infant nutrition
- Men’s health
- Women’s health
- Nails hair and skin
- Probiotics
- Pregnancy
- Stress relief
- Weight management
Arthritis, joint, bone and muscle
From treating muscle cramps and spasms, to relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, Blackmores offers a number of products claimed to be created to target arthritis, joint, bone and muscle problems. While products like Blackmores Total Calcium Magnesium + D3 usually cost $14.79, most of the products are priced between $49.99 and $69.99.
Blackmores Flexagil Pain Relief Cream
Blackmores Flexagil Pain Relief Cream is said to be a clinically proven plant-based cream suitable for people suffering from muscle and joint pain. It features natural comfrey root extract and is said to be an alternative to topical diclofenac, which is found in some pain relief gels. The product is stated to offer relief from a number of issues such as acute and lower back pain, joint pain and swelling and symptoms of osteoarthritis. For people looking to alleviate pain resulting from acute sports injuries, the cream is also said to relieve pain, inflammation, swelling impaired movement and muscle pain. The Blackmores Flexagil Pain Relief Cream is also claimed to alleviate pain, swelling and impaired mobility relating to ankle sprains.
Blackmores Flexagil is said to be ideal for adults and is not suitable for children under 12 years. The cream cannot be used under occlusive dressing, or on broken skin, open wounds, mucous membranes or on the eyes. People who are allergic to peanut oil or are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients in the product must avoid using Blackmores Flexagil. The cream may also be unsuitable for pregnant or lactating women.
Blackmores Joint Formula with Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Blackmores Joint Formula with Glucosamine and Chondroitin contains chondroitin sulfate, which is said to help lubricate and nourish the joint, as well as glucosamine which is also said to protect joint cartilage in osteoarthritis. If you’re currently taking warfarin, make sure to consult with your doctor before taking this product from Blackmore. When taken with warfarin, these joint tablets are stated to potentially increase the risk of bleeding. The product is also not suitable for people with any seafood allergies as glucosamine is said to come from seafood.
Blackmores Magnesium Powder
For people looking to manage muscle cramps and spasms, as well as support energy production during exercise, Blackmores Magnesium Powder features a bioavailable form of magnesium and includes other amino acids and B vitamins. Claimed to be Ideal for people who exercise regularly, the product is said to support muscle function and repair, as well as support the production of energy during exercise. The product is also suitable for preventing magnesium deficiency and helps maintain cardiovascular and healthy function of the nervous system. Available in the orange flavour, the powder can be added to cold beverages. The product is suitable for adults, but can only be consumed by children under the age of 12 if professionally prescribed.
Brain health
Blackmores Brain Active
If you’re looking for something to keep you alert at work, Blackmores Brain Active is aimed to reduce mental fatigue and support part of your short-term memory. The product features Longvida, which is said to be an optimised form of curcumin. Blackmores Brain Active is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Blackmores Ginkgo 6000mg (Tebonin® EGb 761®)
Blackmores Ginkgo 6000mg (Tebonin® EGb 761®) is said to improve memory and cognition, and may also assist with blood circulation and alleviate vertigo. Unlike Blackmores Brain Active, this product is claimed to be clinically proven to relieve mild tinnitus, but the effects may take between four to six weeks to appear.
Cold, flu and immunity
When one person catches the flu, sometimes it’s only a matter of time until the rest of the family gets it too. This range is family friendly, with many of the products suitable for most ages. The supplements are available in a variety of forms, including chewables, loazanges, tablets and oral liquids. These products typically cost between $10 and $20.
Blackmores Olive Leaf Extract
Blackmores offers a liquid formula featuring olive leaf extract, which is said to be traditionally used in western herbal medicine to treat coughs, colds, flu, sore throats as well as alleviate feverish conditions. The product can be used by the whole family as it’s suitable for children aged over two years. Adults are recommended to take a 5mL dose between two to three times a day, while children are advised to take the same dose either 1 or 2 times a day, depending on their age.
Blackmores Kaloba
Blackmores Kaloba is a plant-based medicine which has been claimed to help reduce the duration and symptoms of acute bronchitis and acute sinusitis. Similar to Blackmores Olive Leaf Extract, this AUST-R medicine is suitable for the whole family. The product features Kaloba, which is claimed to be clinically proven to reduce the severity of symptoms and recovery time. It’s also said to alleviate acute bronchitis symptoms and to speed up recovery. But if you’re using Kaloba to treat acute bronchitis, the product should not be used for more than one week. The product should similarly not be used for more than three weeks if it’s used for acute sinusitis.
Blackmores Kaloba may not be appropriate for people taking blood thinners or for those who have an increased tendency for bleeding as it contains coumarins, which is said to increase the risk of bleeding in such people. Kaloba is also not suitable for children under two years, while children under the age of six must only use the product if advised by a doctor. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should similarly talk with their doctor before using the formula.
Blackmores Omega Brain
If the strong smell of the sea makes taking fish oil capsules difficult, Blackmores Omega Brain is claimed to have a low odour and not contain artificial surfactants. The product is said to use a concentrated source of omega-3s and has high DHA to help brain performance. It is also stated to support mental and cognitive function as you age. These capsules can be taken by adults and children from the age of 6. For children, the capsule can be squeezed into milk, juice or cereal.
Digestive health
Blackmores provides various products to support digestive health. There is even a Party Season Kit, which includes Blackmores Milk Thistle, Blackmores Probiotics+ Immune Defence and Blackmores Sustained Release Multi+ Antioxidants. Many of the items aim to support liver function, support fat metabolism and relieve symptoms such as constipation.
Blackmores Recharge Liver Detox Plus Super Foods
The Blackmores Recharge Liver Detox Plus Super Foods features artichoke, which is claimed to be traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to alleviate digestive discomfort and help cleanse the liver. It also includes milk thistle, which is said to provide antioxidant to promote liver function. The product is ideal for adults, but is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breast feeding. If you’re taking products like Blackmores Magnesium Powder which contain selenium, you should be aware one of the ingredients in this product is selenium. Exceeding the daily intake of selenium is said to be toxic.
Blackmores Digestive Bitters
Blackmores Digestive Bitters may be an ideal liquid tonic to take if you’re struggling with indigestion, bloating, gas or loss of appetite, according to Blackmores. The product contains ingredients said to be traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to stimulate appetite, alleviate gastrointestinal spasms, and encourage the production of gastric juices to stimulate digestion. Some of these ingredients include dandelion, meadowsweet, gentian and cinnamon bark. Digestive Bitters may be added to water, juice or herbal tea.
Energy and exercise
If you’re looking for multivitamins to complement your healthy and active lifestyle, Blackmores offers a number of products claimed to support daily energy production, as well as muscle health and exercise performance.
Blackmores Exercise Multi
Blackmores Exercise Multi features Siberian ginseng, which is said to support stamina, endurance, exercise performance and daily energy. It also includes vitamin D to promote muscle and bone health. These tablets may be best taken at the start of the day as it includes a small dose of caffeine.
The product is suitable for adults, but can only be taken by children under the age of 18 if professionally prescribed. These tablets are not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you’re taking methotrexate as part of treatment for leukaemia, the folinic acid in the Exercise Multi tablets is also stated to decrease the effectiveness of the medication. There are also a number of medications which should be taken at least two hours before or after consuming the Exercise Multi tablets. These include:
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Quinolone antibiotics
- Biphosphonates (osteoporosis drugs)
- Thyroid hormone
- Methyldopa
- Carbidopa
- Levodopa
- Thyroid hormones
- Penicillamine
Iron may also decrease the effectiveness of methyldopa, carbidopa, levodopa, thyroid hormones, penicillamine, tetracycline antibiotics or quinolone antibiotics or biphosphonates (osteoporosis drugs).
Blackmores B12 Rapi-Melt 1000mcg
If you’re looking for an alternative to capsules, Blackmores provide melts which quickly dissolve in your mouth. Blackmores B12 Rapi-Melt 1000 mcg is aimed to help reduce tiredness and fatigue, as well as support healthy nerve and brain function. As the product contains a high dose of vitamin B12, the melt is also stated to be ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and people who may not be getting enough their daily meat and dairy intake. There are also no added artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. But the melts are not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The product is also not recommended for children under 18 years, unless professionally prescribed.
Essentials
If you’re new to the world of vitamins, Blackmores has an essentials range exclusive to Woolworths. For $10, these supplements offer all-round support and are said to be ideal for those looking to start adding extra nutrients into their day.
If you’re getting treatment for leukaemia, the folic acid is said to decrease the effectiveness of methotrexate. The calcium, zinc, iron and magnesium in some of these products are also stated to potentially reduce the effectiveness of some medications. Certain medications such as bisphosphonates (osteoporosis drugs), tetracycline antibiotics or quinolone antibiotics, thyroid hormone, methyldopa, carbidopa or levodopa or penicillamine should also be taken at least two hours before or after consuming Blackmores multivitamins.
Blackmores Multivitamin
The Blackmores Multivitamin is said to contain 24 ingredients which are key to support your general wellbeing and assist with energy production. The tablets are claimed to be ideal for the whole family, although not recommended for children over the age of 12. This product is also not suitable for women who are pregnant or thinking about pregnant as these supplements contain vitamin A, which is said to increase the likelihood of causing birth defects.
Everyday health
For everyday health, Blackmores offers a range of products to suit people of different ages and lifestyles.
Blackmores Teen Multi for Girls
For teenage girls, Blackmores offers multivitamins claimed to help them get the nutrients they need to deal with stress, school, and help maintain their mood and behaviour. It is also stated to provide the nutrients they need for healthy skin and bones, and sports and exercise. Teen Multi for Guys are also available.
Eye health
Blackmores offers a range of supplements claimed to support healthy eye function and protect the macula against free radical damage and ensure healthy mucous membranes.
Blackmores MacuVision Plus
For people looking for a vitamin to help protect the macula from oxidative damage, Blackmores MacuVision Plus is said to support healthy eye function and maintain the density of the protective macular pigment of the retina. The product is said to feature naturally sourced vitamin E, which is claimed to be better absorbed and retained by the eye than synthetic forms of vitamin E.
These capsules are not recommended for children under the age of 18 and are not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. These tablets are also best taken with food as it may cause gastric irritation if taken on its own. For people looking for long-term support, this product contains zinc which is said to be dangerous if 50mg or more is taken daily, or if its’ taken for 10 weeks or longer.
Fish and nutritional oils
Blackmores Odourless Fish Oil 1000
If you’re looking for fish oil capsules without the fishy aftertaste, Blackmores Odourless Fish Oil 1000 may be an ideal option. Made without artificial surfactants, these tablets are said to contain odourless omega-3, EPA and DHA to support eye and brain health. It is also claimed to help reduce inflammation and joint swelling, support heart and cardiovascular health and maintain normal triglycerides (fat) levels in blood. The product does not contain additional gluten, wheat, milk derivatives and preservatives. There is also said to be no added artificial colours or sweeteners.
Heart and circulation
Blackmores offers a range of products claimed to support healthy heart function, promote circulation, and complement a healthy diet.
Blackmores Smart Heart
If you’re looking for ways to reduce blood cholesterol, Blackmores Smart Heart is a natural oat bran powder which can be added to cereal, drinks or smoothies. The product contains betaglucan, which is said to help reduce cholesterol when included as part of a diet that is low in saturated fats. The powder also includes gluten and may be unsuitable for people with a gluten allergy.
Blackmores CardiWell Omega Q10
Blackmores CardiWell Omega Q10 is described as a two-in-one formula claimed to support adults with their general heart health. The product features CoQ10, a potent antioxidant said to help fight against free-radical damage and support healthy arteries. It also contains omega-3s to keep the fat in the blood, otherwise known as triglycerides, at a healthy level.
If you’re on warfarin therapy, or already taking heart medication, make sure to have a chat with your doctor before trying these capsules. People currently being treated for diabetes should also see their doctor as these tablets are said to potentially change the glucose-lowering effect in medication. Blackmores CardiWell Omega may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms.
Kids health
For kids, Blackmores’ Superkids range features a number of gummies and chewables to help children get the dietary supplements they need for their development.
Blackmores Superkids Growing Bones Chewables
The Blackmores Superkids Growing Bones Chewables are said to help children grow strong bones and support muscle function. The mostly sugar-free chewables are also claimed to assist in the development and maintenance of teeth, and in the absorption and use of calcium. These are available in a forest berry flavour. The product is not suitable for children under the age of two and must be taken with adult supervision. The chewables are also said to have a laxative effect.
Infant nutrition
Blackmores’ infant range includes a number of products designed to provide young children with nutrients as they develop. Products like the Blackmores Newborn Formula is claimed to be ideal for babies, while the Blackmores Follow-on Formula is designed for children between six and 12 months. The Blackmores Toddler Milk Drink is also available for toddlers aged 12 months and older.
Women and Men’s health
Blackmores Vitex Agnus-Castus
If you’re looking for a multivitamin to help deal with premenstrual symptoms like breast tenderness and fluid retention, Blackmores Vitex Agnus-Castus is said to be a Western herbal remedy that alleviates any breast pain or swelling associated with premenstrual tension. This product is also claimed to regulate the menstrual cycle, which may be a solution for women with irregular periods or who may sometimes miss their period for a certain month.
Blackmores Menopause Day/Night Relief
Women experiencing menopausal and peri-menopausal symptoms may find Blackmores Menopause Day/Night Relief helpful in dealing with issues such as irritability and mild anxiety.
The day formula is said to contain isoflavones to minimise hot flushes and Siberian Ginseng to alleviate tiredness. Schisandra, traditional Chinese medicine, is also claimed to help reduce irritability. The night formula similarly may assist with night sweats. It also contains Ayurvedic medicine, which is said to reduce nervous tension and help manage stress. The night formula also includes zizyphus, traditional Chinese medicine stated help you get a restful sleep and deal with mild anxiety.
Blackmores Men’s Performance Multi
Blackmores Men’s Performance Multi is said to be ideal for men looking to support their mental and physical performance. The product features Tribulis – an ingredient claimed to be used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicines to help with male sexual performance. These tablets are also claimed to offer nutrients necessary to support sperm production and male reproductive health.
Blackmores Men’s Performance Multi also includes milk thistle, which is said to be traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support a healthy liver. Each tablet also contains Ginkgo, which is stated to be traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote circulation. These capsules may not be suitable for men seeking treatment for leukaemia as the folic acid may decrease the effectiveness of methotrexate.
Nails hair and skin
Blackmores Natural Vitamin E Cream
If you’re looking for relief from dry, cracked skin, Blackmores has a number of products like Natural Vitamin E Cream said to help nourish the skin and prevent moisture loss. The fragrance-free cream is stated to contain vitamin E, avocado oil, apricot kernel oil and vitamin A. There are also products like Blackmores Insolar tablets which contain a high dose of vitamin B3. This is said to assist with DNA repair, maintain skin health and provide cellular energy production. This product is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breast feeding.
Probiotics
Dealing with gut trouble is never easy. Blackmores offers a number of probiotics which are claimed support a healthy gut and target a range of other issues such as eczema and general immunity.
Blackmores Probiotics+ Bowel Support
People on a low FODMAPS diet may find Blackmores’ Probiotics+ Bowel Support helpful in alleviating symptoms of medically diagnosed IBS. The product is claimed to use probiotics and prebiotic fibre suitable for those on the FODMAP diet. It is also claimed to relieve constipation associated IBS-C and promote a healthy digestive system, while maintaining healthy gut bacteria. The dairy and gluten free product is also claimed to normalize and balance gut flora. Each sachet can be added to a glass of cold drink.
Blackmores Probiotics+ Daily Health
For people looking to get rid of bloating, gas and flatulence, the Blackmores Probiotics+ Daily Health is said to include five clinically proven probiotic strains which restore digestive balance as well as support digestive and intestinal health. The product is also stated to promote a healthy immune system and assist with general wellbeing.
Pregnancy
Blackmores offers various products said to help men and women with pregnancy and preconception. Some of these include Blackmores Pregnancy & Breast-Feeding Gold, Blackmores I-Folic, Blackmores Folate, Blackmores Pregnancy Iron, Blackmores Conceive Well Gold and Blackmores Conceive Well Men.
Blackmores Conceive Well Gold
If you’re attempting to fall pregnant, the Blackmores Conceive Well Gold is claimed to give women the nutrients necessary to prepare the body for conception, as well as offer support during the early stages of foetal development.
It’s recommended that women start taking the tablets and capsules at least a month pre-conceptually and during pregnancy as it contains folic acid, which is said to minimise the risk of neural tube defects. The product also includes iodine, which is stated to be vital for the baby’s brain development, eye health and hearing. Omega-3 from the fish oil is similarly claimed to support brain function and eyesight. The product also contains antioxidants, which are said to be necessary to raise the chances of conception. Other ingredients include CoQ10, vitamin C, vitamin D3, iron, zinc and B group vitamins.
Blackmores Conceive Well Men
Blackmores Conceive Well Men is claimed to be the first Australian formula to feature Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which is said to protect sperm cells from free radical damage and have a vital part in sperm cell energy production and motility. The product is stated promote optimal sperm DNA and support male fertility, as well as assist with general wellbeing.
Stress relief
Life gets busy and sometimes we need a little help in managing our stress. Blackmores offers a number of products to help support a healthy mood balance, reduce migraine-headaches and assist with getting a restful sleep.
Blackmores Executive B Stress Formula
In times of stress, Blackmores Executive B Stress Formula is claimed to help manage your body’s response to stress. It features passionflower, an ingredient said to have been traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve nervous tension. The product is also claimed to convert food into energy. These tablets are not suitable for people who are gluten intolerant.
Blackmores REME-D for Migraine Headache
For people who suffer from migraine headaches regularly, Blackmores REME-D for Migraine Headache may help manage the attacks. The tablets are suitable for continual use, and it is recommended adults take one or two tablets daily. If you’re taking methotrexate, Blackmores REME-D for Migraine Headache may be unsuitable as the folic trying the product. The product is also not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Weight management
To assist with weight loss and support promote energy production, Blackmores offers a couple of products to help with weight management. These products include Blackmores Sugar Balance and Blackmores Weight-Less.
Blackmores Sugar Balance
The Blackmores Sugar Balance apparently aims to give you the nutrients you need to support the metabolism of sugar and energy production. The product is said to supplement the nutrients the body needs for sugar metabolism, which may be lost due to changes in diet and exercise habits. The tablets are also stated to maintain energy production as well as support metabolism during and after exercise.
Does Blackmores have the vitamin for me?
Blackmores offers an extensive selection of products to target various needs. Some supplements are multipurpose and are created to target gut health, stress relief, men’s and women’s health, eye health, heart and circulation, digestive health, pregnancy and also general immunity. There are also products designed to focus on specific problems like ankle sprains, migraine headaches and irregular menstrual cycles.
If you’re currently taking other medications or supplements, make sure to check with your doctor before taking on any new supplements. Products like Blackmores Magnesium Powder are unsuitable for people with severe kidney or heart disease. If you’re also taking products containing selenium, you need to consider how much selenium you’re consuming as it is said to be toxic in high doses. If you’re having surgery, products like Blackmores Gingko must not be taken for at least two weeks prior as it is said to increase the risk of bleeding related to surgery. Medications such as warafin, aspirin and ibuprofen are similarly stated to increase the chance of bleeding.
Some multivitamins containing folic acid may also decrease the effectiveness of methotrexate for people currently seeking treatment for leukaemia. If you’re taking tetracycline antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, or penicillamine or thyroid hormones, supplements are recommended to be taken at least two hours before or after. The calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron in products like Blackmores Teen Multi for Girls are also said to potentially reduce the effectiveness of some medications.
If Blackmores doesn’t have what you’re looking for, there are plenty of ratings and reviews on the Canstar Blue website to help you find the right multivitamins for you.
About the author of this page
This report was written by Canstar Blue’s Site Editor, Dean Heckscher. He’s our resident expert on all things automotive, health & fitness, streaming and more. Dean is also one of Canstar Blue’s customer research report producers, helping to turn complicated subjects into easily-digestible information for our readers. He’s passionate about helping consumers make better-informed purchase decisions on all manner of consumer goods and services.