Acerola, also known as the Barbados or West Indian cherry, is a fruit that is popular in the southern parts of the world. It is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants which make this fruit extremely popular with those who are interested in healthy living. As a natural product, this is a great fruit to incorporate into foods as a drink, snack or dessert. For those looking at Acerolas additional curative benefits without having to actually eat the fruit, there are many supplements available that are derived from this fruit. The product does not have any severe side effects that have been documented but prolonged use may cause an upset stomach.

Alfalfa Leaf is an insoluble fiber that bulks stool and promotes peristalsis.

Betaine HCL, or betaine hydrochloride, is not an essential nutrient, but it helps in absorption of proteins, vitamin B12, iron and calcium and helps in the digestive tract with the protein and fat breaking up abilities. It is a supplemental source of hydrochloric acid, with a low pH level. Besides the obvious use against indigestion and heartburn, other uses have been proclaimed for betaine HCL, such as lowering the homocysteine level, helping with thyroid conditions and others. With progressing age, hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes may decrease, with a poor digestion as a result. With betaine HCL, when taken at the beginning of a meal, proper digestion can be accomplished. Betaine HCL is most commonly provided with the addition of pepsin, a digestive enzyme.

Biotin, also known as vitamin H, but is more commonly called Biotin. It is a vitamin which is B-complex in nature and is water soluble. Biotin helps in transferring carbon dioxide along with helping in various metabolic reactions. A steady blood sugar level can also be maintained by the help of biotin. Hair and nails are strengthened by the consumption of biotin. Therefore, a lot of hair and cosmetic products use biotin as one of its ingredients. The body’s daily requirement of vitamin B7 is produced by the intestinal bacteria. This therefore reduces the chances of vitamin B7 deficiency. There a large number of foods that contain biotin in large quantities. Swiss chard, tomatoes, liver,eggs, almonds, cumcuber, cauliflower, legume, soybeans, raspberries, carrots are some of those foods.

Boron is a trace element required by our body for proper metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It has many medicinal uses and helps in preventing arthritis, reduces the severity of rheumatoid arthritis, reduces congestive heart failure, decreases the severity of fungal infections and helps in the production of estrogen. It is also useful for body building, in cancer therapy, improves brain function, helps in bone building, helps in preventing blood clots, used in cancer therapy, ensures proper embryonic development, lowers plasma lipid levels, prevents post menopausal osteoporosis, helps in preventing blood clots, helps to maintain proper cell membrane function and it serves as enzyme inhibitors.

Calcium, a mineral vital to the human body, Calcium is necessary for many bodily functions, such as muscle contraction, and proper heart function.

Chamomile - There are two different species of chamomile used for supplements and balms – the German and the Roman varieties. However, both types have the same effects and are safe for human consumption. It is an herbal remedy since it lacks side effects and offers numerous benefits. Chamomile is a mild relaxant and is commonly used to combat stress, depression, and anxiety. It is also utilized for treatment of other diseases. Chamomile supplements are most commonly used as a muscle relaxant. It can help with menstrual cramps and other muscle complaints. Chamomile can help alleviate the pain and uncomfortable feelings linked with allergies, burns, and other problems.

Choline is an essential nutrient grouped with the Vitamin B complex and an organic compound. It is a natural amine can be found in the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and in the lipids which are in the cell membranes. Most well known supplement for choline is lecithin, but generally choline is found in egg yolks, soy, wheat germ and beef and poultry livers. Choline is commonly added to supplements which are deemed to reduce excess body fat, because of the claim that choline helps the body metabolize cholesterol and fat. In humans there is a choline transporter, which allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier, where it is believed to have nootropic effects, improving the cognitive abilities and memory.

Chromium is an essential mineral that plays an important role with how the body uses glucose. Chromium may be found in brewer’s yeast, grains, cereal and in some beers. It aids in maintaining the ideal blood sugar level which helps diabetic patients. It also helps in the metabolism and storage of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body that may help reduce fats. It helps improve muscle tone by burning the fats. It reduces hunger pangs, suppress cravings and appetite. It is help control the blood cholesterol level. It lowers the risks of cardiovascular problems. It also alleviates depression by stimulating the fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis that is important for brain function.

Copper, a trace element that is essential for the human body. Copper is needed to absorb and utilize iron in the body. Copper is a part of enzymes, essentially proteins that assist biochemical reactions in cells.

Folic Acid or Vitamin B9 is essential as it assists the formation of red blood cells in the body and genetic material within every cell. It helps in metabolism of proteins and prevention of anemia and is vital for cell growth and division. Folic acid is an important nutrient for pregnant women to prevent congenital malformation in the fetus. It reduces the risk of brain and spinal cord defects, heart defects, limb defects, urinary tract abnormalities and cleft palate in the fetus. It is highly beneficial if taken prior to and during the first month after conception. In men, folic acid reduces chromosomal defects in the sperm. Spinach, lettuce, peas, beans, sunflower seeds, asparagus, baker’s yeast, fortified cereal products and liver are rich in folic acid.

Inositol named as “myo inositol” is a nutrient that is considered to occur naturally and considered as “carbocyclic polyol”. One of the major advantage that inositol has is the prevention of fat formation around the liver. It is also good to promote healthy, thick hair growth. It improves the body metabolism by better conversion of nutrients into energy. Insufficient amount of inositol in the body can be dangerous leading to vision problems, constipation, hair loss and high cholesterol. Much has been talked about inositol being beneficial for the human body however; there is no good evidence that proves any noticeable difference by extra addition of inositol in ones diet. Some good sources of inositol include read beans, kidney beans, cantaloupes, organs and many more.

Iodine is an important trace element that plays an important role in the normal growth and development. It essential in maintaining a healthy thyroid gland which, kills harmful germs, makes up its own hormone thyroxin, and gives energy. It assists in maintaining a proper metabolic rate which can influence the blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and body weight. It is also important in the utilization of calories for energy. It plays an important role in hair, nails and teeth growth. Iodine also aids in the normal growth and maturity of reproductive organs. It also helps prevent still birth or neurocognitive conditions in babies.

Iron is a necessary mineral for humans, needed for example to help form red blood cells which transport oxygen around the body. Fortunately there are plenty of good sources available for both the omnivore and the vegetarian or vegan These include liver, meat, beans, nuts, dried fruit , also whole grains and many of dark green leafy vegetables, although some such as spinach also contain substances that prevent the absorption of iron as do caffeine based drinks such as tea and coffee. On the other hand the drinking of fluids containing vitamin C aids the body in its necessary task of absorbing iron.

Lutein is concentrated in retinas of eyes and is vital for good vision. It has many positive benefits for the eyes, particularly when compounds lutein and xeaxanthin are mixed. Xeaxanthin helps increase the affect. A diet that is rich in lutein can lower the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. It may also prevent or decelerate atherosclerosis, thickening of arteries, which is one of the major risks for cardiovascular disease. Since it is an antioxidant, lutein removes free radicals from the body. Lutein intake also benefits the cardiovascular system. It also has benefits for skin and keeps it healthy. Lutein can also reduce growth of colon cancer.

Magnesium is the chemical element found in the periodic table with the atomic number 12. This alkaline earth metal is one of ten most common elements in the known universe and also very prominently present in the human body. It manipulates polyphosphate compounds, most prominently the DNA, RNA and the ATP. Numerous enzymes rely on magnesium ions to function properly. Most common application of magnesium in medicine may be the addition to antacids and laxatives. This metal is not found as a free element naturally on Earth, generally the metal is obtained through electrolysis of magnesium salts. The most common deficiency in the United States with staggering two thirds of the population is the magnesium deficiency. Magnesium can be obtained through vegetables, tea, cocoa, cereals, coffee, nuts and spices.

Manganese is a trace mineral that has long been associated with musculoskeletal health. It activates enzymes in the body that is necessary for the production of collagen and proteoglycan, components of connective tissue. It also aids in the absorption of calcium in the body. It helps prevent the development of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Manganese helps in the digestion and utilization of vitamin E in the body that makes it a potent antioxidant. It fights free radicals from damaging the cells that may lead to premature aging, heart problems and cancer. It alleviates premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as mood swings and nausea.

Molybdenum is a micromineral needed by the body for the metabolism of purines, a protein component of the DNA. Microminerals are minerals required by the human body in minute amounts (<0.005% of body weight) for enzymatic reactions. These are also known as trace elements. Molybdenum, although needed and present in the body in small amounts, it is as significant as the B-complex vitamins and Magnesium. Found abundantly in the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands and blood cells, it exists in bound form as a central part of various enzyme molecules. Some of these enzymes are: xanthine oxidase for the oxidation of xanthine to uric acid; liver aldehyde oxidase, a flavoprotein, for catalyzing the oxidation of aldehydes to corresponding carboxylic acid; and, sulfite oxidase which affects degradation of amino acid-derived sulfur. It is excreted in the urine. Molybdenum toxicity has not been observed in humans but high intakes of molybdenum can alter the activity of alkaline phosphatase and produce bone abnormalities. Doses above 10-15 mg each day causes gout-like symptoms.

PABA is an important growth factor for many micro-organisms and a deficiency causes a loss of hair color in mice. No vitamin function has been shown in humans.

Pectin is a polysaccharide made up of a long chain of peptic acid and pectinic acid molecules. It is derived from citrus peels and apples. It is present in the cell wall of plants, that regulates the flow of water and moisture to keep them rigid. It helps fight cancer by binding and inhibiting the production of galectin 3, a protein that plays a role in cancer. It also helps alleviate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea, and improves the overall stomach heath. It is not digested and is considered to be a dietary fiber. It also works as a thickening agent in medications such as cough syrups.

Phosphate (Phosphorus) is the chemical element with the atomic number 15 in the periodic table. It is not found as a free element anywhere in the world. In biology and biochemistry it may be the most important element, being present in all living cells of living species. It is present in the DNA, in the RNA, in ATP, but is also found in cell membranes in form of phospholipids. It is also present in the bones, where it builds calcium phosphate salts, responsible for strong bones. Apatite is a collection of phosphate minerals which are generally found in bones and teeth; namely bromapatite, fluorapatite, chlorapatite and hydroxyapatite. Several phosphates are being added to body building supplements and powders, intended to aid in skeletal and cellular strength improvement.

Rose Hips- Rose has been considered as the symbol of love and beauty all over the world and is cultivated widely for its beauty and fragrance. Rose hips are small berry-like fruits, which look just like small tomatoes or miniature pomegranate fruits and grow on the rose plant after it blossoms. Certain species such as Dog Rose (Rosa canina) and R. majalis are more popular than the rest for their rose hips and are especially cultivated for being a rich source of vitamin C. Rose hips have also made their way into culinary recipes such as puddings, marmalade, tarts, breads, pie, apple sauce, soups, jam, and jelly. Rose hips due to their excellent anti-inflammatory properties are used in treating patients suffering from knee or hip osteoarthritis. Regular consumption of rose hip powder may help in joint stiffness and pain, and maintain good mood.

Selenium , an essential mineral that is toxic at high dosages. Selenium plays an important function in the antioxidant enzymes that protect cells against free radicals. Selenium also promotes proper thyroid hormone metabolism.

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin with known toxicity. Although its toxicity has been exaggerated, it is a factor worth keeping in mind. Carotine is converted in the human body to Vitamin A, it comes from vegetable sources. Vitamin A is necessary for normal growth and for skeletal development.

Vitamin B1, also called Thiamin, is needed to help the body utilize energy from proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Vitamin B1 is commonly found in breads and cereals. Vitamin B1 is water-soluble and is concentrated in muscle tissue as it passes thru the body.

Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin and is one of the 8 B vitamins. It has the chemical formula C63H88CoN14O14P. In the absence of Vitamin B12, the brain and the nervous system will not be able to function properly. It also plays a key role in the formation of blood. Vitamin B12 was discovered from its relation to the ailment pernicious anemia. Plants and animals are not capable of synthesizing VitaminB12; the enzymes required for this purpose are found only in bacteria. Vitamin B12 deficiency in human beings is due to its complex human physiology. It is available singly or in combination with other supplements.

Vitamin B2 , an easily absorbed micronutrient, is also known by the name of Riboflavin. It plays a key role in maintaining the health of animals as well as humans. A wide variety if cellular processes require this vitamin. It plays a key role in energy metabolism, just like other B vitamins. It is the kind of micronutrient which required for the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and ketone bodies. There are a lot of food products that are a good source of Vitamin B2. Matured soybeans, yeast, mushroom, livers, kidneys, leafy vegetables, milk, cheese, almonds are such products that are rich in this vitamin. But riboflavin does get destroyed if exposed to light. Riboflavin is a non toxic vitamin. Hence, there is no harm in taking it orally.

Vitamin B3, also called Niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin needed for the conversion of food into energy so that it may be used by the body. Vitamin B3 also helps metabolize protein, sugar and fat.

Vitamin B5, commonly called Pantothenic acid, it is a water-soluble member of the vitamin B complex. Pantothenic acid is involved in adrenal gland function and is required to fight stress.

Vitamin B6 is important to a healthy human diet and is equally important in various metabolic and synthesis functions as well as gene expression.

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid, is also known as the antiscorbitic vitamin because it prevents the nutritional disease Scurvy. Its most active form is L-ascorbic acid and L-dehydroascorbic acid. Vitamin C is known for building up the body’s defenses against infection. However, there is more to this vitamin than just being an immunity-builder. It is essential to normal functioning of all cellular units including ribosomes and mitochondria. This is because it is a primary requirement in the formation and maintenance of the “binder” that holds cells as well as the cellular fluid inside. Furthermore, this water-soluble vitamin is necessary in the conversion of folic acid into its active form, folinic acid, necessary for the formation of red blood cells. It also speeds up wound and fracture healing, is involved in metabolism of some essential amino acids, plays a role in the production of steroid hormones for stress response and promotes the absorption of iron for the body to use. It is also an antioxidant vitamin that protects normal cells from the damage of oxidative free radicals.

Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol or irradiated ergosterol, is found only in lipid portions of plants. A study, done by Lisa A Houghton and Reinhold Vieth of Acadia University, breaks the old idea of Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 being equivalent in potency and effectiveness. Their study noted that of the emergence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D as a measure of vitamin D and that of cholecalciferol as the most potent vitamin D form. Ergocalciferol metabolites even have a diminished binding capacity in vitamin D-binding protein in the plasma. Moreover, D2 has a shorter shelf life than that of D3’s. Their study concluded that ergocalciferol should not be regarded as a nutrient suitable for supplementation or fortification.

Vitamin E, an anti-oxidant nutrient, neutralizes free radicals in the human body to prevent cell damage. This fat-soluble vitamin not only aids the formation of red blood cells but also helps in the absorption of vitamins A, C and K. It is also very helpful to fight various ailments. Since the human body cannot produce vitamin E on its own; it has to be incorporated in our daily diet. This can be done either by consuming foods that are rich in vitamin E or by taking vitamin E supplements. The RDA for adult males is 10 mg. while 8 mg. is the daily requirement for adult females. Expecting and nursing women should compulsorily take 10 mg. of vitamin E supplements. Vitamin E supplements are most effective when consumed with food.

Vitamin K- The lipophillic, hydrophobic vitamins needed for the posttranslational modification of certain proteins is denoted by the Vitamin K. It is required mostly for blood coagulation. K3, K4 and K5 are the three types of synthetic Vitamin K that are used in many areas. Pet food industry makes use of Vitamin K3 whereas Vitmanin K5 is used to inhibit fungal growth. The main sources of vitamin K are spinach, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and a few fruits like kiwifruit and avocado. Recent research shows that vitamin K helps in increasing bone mass. Research also shows that the consumption of vitamin K helps in promoting osteotrophic processes while at the same time slowing the osteoclastic processes. This process is done by achieving the calcium bonding in the bones.

Zinc is a metallic chemical element and an essential trace element, whereby only two to four grams of Zinc are found in the human body. There are several biological roles that Zinc plays in humans, including the metabolism of RNA and DNA, gene expression and the regulation of apoptosis. It is deemed vital for proper brain activity and essential in the learning process. It is also critical for the central nervous system, but is also found in muscle, bones, liver, kidneys, eyes and most prominently in the prostate. It is supplied to the body by the ingestion of red meats, particularly beef and lamb, but can also be found in seeds, including sesame and mustard, wheat, beans, whole grains, sunflower seeds and nuts, including almonds.