Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' organism which
helps the body fight disease and restore health. Modern research has discovered that
acidophilus kills the harmful bacteria strain of E. coli in the intestinal tract.
Acidophilus breaks milk sugar down into lactic acid. Bacteria which produce putrefaction and gas in the intestines
cannot live in lactic acid. Acidophilus also has the unique ability to help the body
synthesize, or manufacture all of the 'B' vitamins in the system. This makes it especially
valuable since there is literally a host of agents which destroy B vitamins. A few are
antibiotics, birth control pills, eating sugar and refined foods and drinking coffee. A
diet high in red meat will destroy the beneficial bacteria, due to the concentration of
antibiotics and steroids given to the animals before they are slaughtered.
Allium sativum(Garlic)
Plant part used: bulb. Main active constituents: thiosulphinates
- mainly alliin and allicin, scordinins, a-glutamyl peptides, trace elements (especially
selenium), vitamins B, C, E. Actions: hypolipidaemia (lowers blood triglycerides and
cholesterol), hypotensive (lowers blood pressure), lowers blood viscosity (blood thinner),
inhibits clotting, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant (dislodges
mucous).
Amino Acid
Amino acids are often referred to the
"building blocks of life" because they are the essential components of protein.
Proteins are the basic material of all living things. Next to water, protein accounts for
the greatest portion our body weight. Protein makes up our muscles, bone, cartilage,
glands and vital body fluids.
It is
estimated that there are over 20 commonly known amino acids. Of these, about 8 or 9 are
considered essential because they must be obtained from dietary sources. They include:
histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan,
and valine.
Non-essential
amino acids are classified as such, not because they are not important-to the contrary,
your body needs all the amino acids in the proper balance for optimum health-but because
they are manufactured in the body. Some of these are alanine, arginine, aspartic acid,
cysteine, glutamine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, serine, and tyrosine. Read more
Angelica archangelica
(Angelica)
Plant part used: root. Main active constituents: coumarins
Actions: aids digestion, antitussive (fights coughs), photosensitising (treatment of
vitiligo and psoriasis).
Apium graveolens (Celery)
Plant parts used: fruit and seed. Main active
constituents: terpenes, phthalides, coumarins, furanocoumarins, flavonoids. Actions:
carminative (relieves gas cramps) mild diuretic (helps excrete excess fluid),
antispasmodic.
B Complex
B-complex vitamins play many roles in
the human body, but primarily they nourish the brain and nervous system. A diet high in
refined foods or a life full of stress puts a greater demand on the body for these
important nutrients. B1 - skin, eyes, hair; B2 - nourishes the tissues of the body; B6 -
mild diuretic, PMS; B12 - anxiety and depression; Folic Acid - works synergistically with
B12, cell division and replication; Biotin - metabolism of protein, fats and
carbohydrates, cholesterol; B3 (Niacin) - energy production; Pantothenic acid - nourishes
the adrenal glands which help the body to withstand stress; PABA - works synergistically
with folic acid; Choline bitartrate - helps make acetylcholine, an important
neurotransmitter in the brain; Inositol - metabolism of fat and cholesterol; absorption
and utilization of fat.
Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is a rich source of many
nutrients, including amino acids. It bursts with easily assimilated protein and lecithin,
which nourish the brain and nervous system. Bee Pollen nutritionally supports the body in
many ways, including assisting with vitality and a feeling of well-being. It has been used
by athletes, along with Ginseng, to maintain energy and stamina.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are nutrients which are
related to the Vitamin C family. They cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore
must be obtained from food or supplements. Bioflavonoids are helpful in nourishing the
integrity and strength of capillaries and cells.
Biotin
Biotin assists in the metabolism of fat
and protein. It nourishes muscles.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic
acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of
hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the
circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural
component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Borage Oil
Borage oil is an excellent source of
gamma-linolenic acid. It also nourishes the heart.
Boron
Boron may retard bone loss.
Calcium
Calcium is essential to strong bones
and may prevent osteoporosis.
Calcium Pantothenate
Calcium pantothenate nutritionally
supports the glandular system and helps promote a feeling of well-being.
Caprylic Acid
Caprylic acid is a nutrient from
coconuts which helps burst yeast cells and hinder their reproduction.
Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid which
nourishes the heart, nourishes and strengthens muscles, and nutritionally supports the
circulatory system. L-Carnitine is considered to be a "carrier" of fat to the
mitochondria or "fatburning" area of the cell. This remarkable amino acid-like
substance is not only necessary for the metabolism of fat at the cellular level; it is
also essential in the forming of firm, lean muscle tissue in the body. Recent studies
support earlier research which shows that the heart has the greatest amount of L-Carnitine
of any muscle in the body. L-Carnitine has also shown to be instrumental in the metabolism
of cholesterol. Some overweight people may lack L-Carnitine in their bodies. The heart
produces most of its energy from fats; thus is dependent upon L-carnitine. An L-Carnitine
deficiency causes extreme metabolic impairment to heart tissue. On the other hand,
supplemental L-Carnitine has proved to be beneficial to heart patients.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its
benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist
abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the
body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied
topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and
B-complex.
Chitosan
Chitosan provides a natural source of
fiber and acts like other dietary fibers by benefiting the circulatory system. It also
helps the body maintain normal functions of digestion and elimination. Researchers believe
that if we cleanse our colon with frequent bowel movements, we can rid ourselves of these
dangerous toxins, therefore reducing our risk for disease. And how do we create this
cleansing process? Fiber is the most important source in reducing your chances. Chitosan
is a natural dietary fiber.
Choline
Choline helps in the formation of
acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which assists brain function and health. It also helps
the body break down fats effectively.
Chromium
Chromium is necessary for the body to
convert glucose to energy. A U.S. Department of Agriculture study has shown that nine out
of ten Americans get less than the low end range of chromium recommended by the National
Academy of Sciences. Biologically-active chromium (as found in ChromaTone), helps maximize
the body's efficient use of insulin. Insulin regulates the metabolism of blood sugar,
lipids (including cholesterol) and protein. Studies also indicate that chromium, when
combined with appropriate exercise, has very positive muscle-tissue building and toning
properties.
Chromium Polynicotinate
Chromium polynicotinate is
nutritionally beneficial as an appetite suppressant and for normalizing blood sugars.
Co-enzyme
Q10
Studies that have been conducted on
this co-enzyme in the past 40 years demonstrate that it can help maintain healthy immune
and cardiovascular systems, tissues and organs, and oral health (especially the gums). It
also assists the body to maintain proper weight balance.
Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that
prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract.
This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection.
Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Research conducted by Dr. Jon
Michnovicz of the Institute for Hormone Research and Dr. Leon Bradlow of the Strang
Institute, suggests that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli,
cabbage and Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly breast
cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles - a unique class of phytonutrients that
have been scientifically shown to balance hormone levels, detoxify the intestines and
liver and reinforce the body's immune system.
DHEA
DHEA is a short name for the fancier
name of Dehydroepiandrosterone, a hormone normally produced by the adrenal glands, but
which diminishes as a person ages. It is a precursor to male (androgens) and female
(estrogens) steroid hormones. DHEA seems to increase a feeling of vitality in many people.
Enzymes
The enzymes Amylase, Cellulase,
Invertase, Lipase, Protease, Glucoamylase act as catalysts for proper assimilation of
vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids (EFA), sometimes
referred to as vitamin F, cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the
diet. Essential fatty acids nourish the body at the very foundation of health . . . at the
cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to fortify against the invasion of harmful
microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve body fat and increase metabolism and
energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful in a comprehensive weight management
program. Essential Fatty Acids help reduce cravings for sweet and fatty foods.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil supplies both
linolenic and linoleic essential fatty acids.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a vitamin that stimulates
the formation of normal red blood cells. Folic acid helps nourish the skin and nervous
system.
Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the
circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation,
nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural
ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Germanium
This trace mineral is a potent
antioxidant. It improves oxygen flow to cells, and strengthens the immune system. It has
pain-relieving properties and studies have shown that organic germanium (sesquioxide) can
nutritionally support the body's defense system. Many people have attributed remarkable
benefits with the intake of Germanium. One woman had suffered many years with arthritis,
nervous problems and a painful muscle disease called "fibrositis." She could not
stand to even barely be touched because it caused her such agony. This person began taking
one capsule daily of 30 mg. of germanium sesquioxide, which also had odorless garlic
added. She said, "Now I'm on 'cloud nine' since taking Germanium ... and I have so
much energy, I don't know what to do with it all!"
Glucosamine
Glucosamine stimulates the body's
manufacture of collagen, the protein portion of the fibrous substance that holds joints
together. Collagen is also the main component of the shock-absorbing cushion called
articular cartilage — the white smooth surface which covers the ends of body joints
— such as those in the wrist, fingers, toes, ankles, knees, hips and between the
discs of the spine.
Glycogen
Glycogen is the body's natural form of
stored energy. Glycogen provides the long drive of energy known as the athlete's
"second wind." Stored half in the muscles and half in the liver, glycogen is
enzymatically controlled for a natural time release of energy to maintain necessary blood
sugar levels.
Grapefruit Pectin
Grapefruit pectin (derived from the
pulp and rind of this citrus fruit) is a type of fiber which can bind toxins and help
eliminate them from the body.
Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed extract is a rich source of
potent antioxidant bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanidins. Grape seed extract provides
92-95% potency, as compared to 80-84% yielded by pine bark. This means that its
antioxidant and nutritional properties are far superior. According to proanthocyanidin
researcher, Dr. Jack Masquelier, only grape seeds contain powerful gallic esters, dynamic
ingredients in the battle against free radicals.
Inositol
Inositol nourishes the brain and helps
balance cholesterol levels. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.
Iodine
The thyroid depends upon minerals,
especially iodine, to function properly and to secrete adequate amounts of thyroxine and
triiodothyronine. These hormones influence metabolic rate and body temperature, as well as
regulate protein, fat, and carbohydrate utilization in cells.
Iron
In North America, 58% of the population
consume less than the recommended daily amount of iron. Iron deficiency is the single most
common nutrient deficiency in the world today. Growing children, females and athletes all
have increased need for iron in order to avoid anemia. Iron is vital to healthy blood and
an essential part of the oxygen-carrying hemoglobin of the blood.
Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals
which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action
of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns
calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface
pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial
for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain
membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help
protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lecithin
Lecithin is essential to every cell and
organ in the body. It provides nourishment to the body so that the body can regulate
metabolism, increase defenses and break down fat and cholesterol.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps with the absorption of
calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, B complex, C and E.
Manganese
When manganese is bound or
"chelated" with specific amino acids, it targets parts of the body to help
metabolism. When manganese is chelated with the amino acids proline, histidine, and
glutamic acid, it travels through the blood to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the
organ below the brain which is responsible for regulating many body functions, including
temperature, appetite and sleep. The chelated manganese increases the natural
thyrotropin-releasing hormone secreted by the hypothalamus. This hormone, known as T.R.H.,
has a direct effect on the master gland (pituitary).
Melatonin
Melatonin is produced in the body by
the pineal gland in the brain while we sleep. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in food, is
taken in by the body and made into serotonin, a neurotransmitter (conductor of nerve
signals). The pineal gland takes the serotonin and makes it into melatonin, but only
during the night. (The enzymes in the brain which change serotonin into melatonin are
inactivated by light). Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter which assists in
melatonin production. It acts as a catalyst to melatonin production by stimulating cells
in the pineal gland to begin making melatonin in the absence of light. Sometimes, for one
reason or another, the body does not produce adequate amounts of melatonin for its needs.
This can result in insomnia and depression, among other symptoms. The body's ability to
synthesize melatonin may decrease with age.
It
has been well documented that the production of Melatonin by the pineal gland falls
drastically as we age. These results have been demonstrated by Russel J. Reiter of
the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and N.P.V. Nair of McGill
University in Montreal, in studies. Nighttime levels of Melatonin are averagely
double in young people aged 21 to 25, compared to those in middle aged 51 to 55.
Results are further magnified with older people. Levels of Melatonin age 82 to 86
are about one quarter of the early twenties group. This alone suggests that the
body's depletion of Melatonin may be related to causes of aging.
Melatonin is the most effective antioxidant
yet studied because it easily penetrates cell membranes (especially in the brain) to
provide protection against free radicals throughout all our cells. Melatonin crosses the
blood-brain barrier very effectively. It appears to protect the central nervous system
against injury, disease, and aging better than any other substance. Melatonin is used to
induce drowsiness and improve sleep patterns. More and more doctors are recommending
melatonin as a safe and effective insomnia therapy. European doctors are prescribing
melatonin in doses of 10 to 50 mg a night to help treat cancer.
In many of published studies, melatonin has been shown to protect against almost every
disease associated with aging including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis,
age-associated immune impairment, and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, as
well as against aging itself. Evidence shows that melatonin is safe in humans in doses of
up to 1000 mg daily. The most common side effect of taking too much melatonin is feeling
drowsy when you wake up. This can be prevented by taking less melatonin the next night.
The Life Extension Foundation uses only pharmaceutical-quality melatonin that has been
assayed to exceed 99.9% purity. Favorable reports on melatonin have been featured on
almost every news program and in almost every magazine, including cover stories in Newsweek and USA Today, and
feature stories on ABC’s 20/20.
Caution:
- Do not take melatonin if you are under 85
pounds, pregnant, seeking to become pregnant, or nursing. Do not use if you are driving or
operating heavy machinery.
- Melatonin boosts the production of
immune system cells throughout the body. This is extremely important for people over age
40 who will suffer a progressive decline in immune function as they age. If you have an
immune system cancer such as leukemia or lymphoma, you may not want to take melatonin
until more is known about its effects on these types of cancer. Melatonin may relieve many
forms of depression, but if taking melatonin makes you feel more depressed, stop taking
it. For normalizing sleep, melatonin should only be taken directly before bedtime.
Minerals
Trace (micro) and major (macro)
minerals play a crucial role in maintaining health. It is well-established that some
mineral deficiencies can be linked to physical conditions including grey hair, baldness,
asthma, eczema, psoriasis, epilepsy, diabetes, arthritis and mental illness.
MSM
MSM is simply an acronym for
methylsulfonylmethane, a dietary source of sulfur that naturally supports the immune
system and plays a major role in the formation of enzymes and hormones that control body
activities.
Niacin
Niacin is nutritionally beneficial for
circulation. Niacin reduces low-density lipid (LDL) forms of cholesterol and improves
peripheral blood flow.
Nicotinamide
Nicotinamide nourishes the digestive
and circulatory systems.
Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy
uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples to especially help support the body's
respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems.
Octacosanol
Octacosanol is derived from wheat germ
oil and helps improve endurance and stamina.
PABA
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) helps
assimilate pantothenic acid and nourishes the skin.
Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain
which helps the body break down protein.
Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder,
cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
Potassium
Potassium nourishes the heart, kidneys,
pancreas, muscles and the nerves. It assists in the growth and repair of body tissues, and
also helps conduct messages in the body through the nervous system. Potassium helps
regulate blood pressure. There must be a balanced potassium-to-sodium ratio in the body
for all systems to function at their optimum level.
Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the
body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.
Resveratrol
Red wine extract contains the recently
acclaimed flavonoid, resveratrol. Resveratrol is found naturally in many fruits and
vegetables, however, red wine and other grape products are the richest source. Recent
research has linked resveratrol supplementation with enhanced immune and cardiovascular
support.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus
adhering to the walls of the colon.
Salmon Oil
Salmon oil is rich in Omega-3 Essential
Fatty Acids. These nutrients are recognized as having many beneficial properties. They
include regulating the body's production of cholesterol, and strengthening cell walls,
fortifying them against the invasion of viruses and bacteria.
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that reinforces
the body's defense system.
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has positive
effects on the nervous system, mental well-being, skin, eyes, and hair.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) nourishes skin,
nails, hair, growth, reproduction and vision. The body needs more of this nutrient during
stress situations.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCL) is
necessary to metabolize B12 in the body. It helps the body release excess water and
nourishes the nervous system.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is used in the
production of energy and it nourishes the nervous system. Vitamin B12 supports the
maturation of red blood cells.
Vitamin C
We do not produce our own vitamin C
— it must be obtained from our diet. Science continues to confirm, with ever
increasing evidence, the benefits of the C vitamin family to especially nourish the body's
structural and defense systems. Vitamin C strengthens cells and tissues and helps build
the body's defense system.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and
helps the body cope with toxic substances such as air pollution. It also helps protect the
cells and increase oxygen to them. Research shows that animals who were exposed to various
concentrations of ozone and took vitamin E lived longer than animals whose diets were not
supplemented with this nutrient. Vitamin E strengthens the circulatory system and may help
soothe leg and foot aches that occur at night.
Vitamin F
Vitamin F, also know as Essential Fatty
Acids (EFA), cannot be made from the body - they must be supplied in the diet. Essential
fatty acids nourish the body at the cellular level. They strengthen cell membranes to
fortify against the invasion of harmful microorganisms. These nutrients also help dissolve
body fat and increase metabolism and energy production. Thus, they are also very helpful
in a comprehensive weight management program.
Watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body
eliminate excess water.
Whey
Whey is derived from the cheese-making process, and is full of
vitamins and minerals. It is also a superior protein source, with a protein efficiency
rating that exceeds that of soy, wheat, and even whole milk. This means that the protein
in whey is used more efficiently by the body than by the protein from these other sources.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the health of the reproductive organs,
especially in the male.