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 belongs to the Fabaceae pea family and is a flowering plant grown as a forage crop. This is a perennial of the cool season that exists from three to twelve years. The survival of Alfalfa depends on the climate and variety. This is grown widely as forage for cattle and is also harvested as hay. These can also be made into grazed, silage or can be fed. It is the crop that is less used as pasture and is widely used as hay crops enjoying highest feeding value. If the crop is well adapted, it yields well. Alfalfa is the important legume employed in agriculture and the United States is the biggest producer. The other areas are Argentina, South Africa, Australia and Middle East. In Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore district this is grown well. The basic use of Alfalfa is dairy cattle feed and is given as it is high in proteins and has digestible fiber. This is also given to horses, beef cattle, goats and sheep. The alfalfa sprouts are eaten by humans in sandwiches and salads. It is available commercially in various forms such as powders, tablets and tea.

Betaine HCL is a source of hydrochloric acid that occurs naturally and is as well a non-essential nutrient that assists in digesting food by breaking proteins and fats. Betaine HCL is essential for absorption of calcium, protein, iron and vitamin B12. This is a hydrochloric acid that destroys the microorganisms and ingested bacteria. Betaine HCL is taking by people having reduced stomach acid levels. There is no proper food source to enhance the levels. The acidity is strong and this is supplemented in the tablets or capsules form in grains or milligrams. There is no adverse effects detected, but further studies are being done. Betaine HCL is effective for Asthma, Thyroid, arthritis, diarrhea, gallstones and food allergies. Betaine HCL should be discontinued immediately if one experiences a burning sensation. Nursing or pregnant women and children or people with severe kidney or liver disease should shun away from taking this nutrient. Even people having a history of gastritis or ulcers should consult doctor.

Biotin is essential to cellular metabolism, as it plays an important coenzyme role in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

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 is a mineral that plays an important role in the development of the human body. It is common knowledge that calcium is important in preventing osteoporosis. However, calcium also provides structural support in the development of muscles. Deficiency in calcium could cause obesity because it triggers the release of parathyroid hormone that stimulates the production of fats in the body and inhibits its breakdown. It also reduces the blood pressure. Calcium also has the ability to fight colon cancer by binding itself with cancer cells to inhibit its growth and progression. It is also beneficial to women suffering from PMS or premenstrual syndrome such as depression, mood swings, anxiety, water retention, breast tenderness, and headaches.

Chamomile has been used for more than 1000 years for its medicinal value and has mild or nil side effects. It’s used in the form of liquid extracts, to make teas, capsules, or tablets. Because of its anti inflammatory and anti spasmodic properties it’s widely used in aromatherapy. Chamomile is used as a muscle relaxant and in treating skin irritations such as ulcers, infections, rashes and burns. It’s widely used for treating common symptoms such as cold, fever, menstrual cramps, stomach cramps, nausea, sleeplessness, stress, headaches, nervousness, indigestion, diarrhea and vomiting. It’s also used in treating eczema and infantile colic, teething pains, and diaper rash. Chamomile acts as an excellent relaxant and can be taken as tea or used as an essential oil in bath to elevate mood, reduce anxiety and depression.

Choline is a water soluble essential nutrient of every human cell which belongs to the Vitamin B family. It helps in the transfer of fat-based nutrients and waste from the cells. It plays a vital role in maintaining mental health and is used in treating brain disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. It assists the transfer of messages to and from the nerves and reduces inflammation. A choline deficiency results in insomnia, problems with memory, fatigue, nerve-muscle problems, inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine properly, accumulation of fats in the body, cardio vascular and liver problems. Wheat germ, soy products, cauliflower, peanuts, oats, potatoes, lentils, flax and sesame seeds are rich in choline. It is also found in egg yolks, veal, chicken, beef and turkey livers.

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 is being considered a mineral with immense medical advantages, copper has been used as a supplement in its gluconate form. Copper is one of the most important constituents of the blood and prevents poly – unsaturated fatty acids from turning rancid. Copper also increases the health of the cell membranes and is actively involved in the formation of hemoglobin. Copper Gluconate is instrumental in treating conditions such as irregular beating of the heart, hypoglycemia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and in lowering the cholesterol levels of the body. Copper Gluconate is known to have side effects and is toxic if taken excessively. In the case of women who are expecting or mothers who are nursing, it is advisable to consult with your docter before taking any Copper based supplements.

Folic Acid- We know Folic acid by various names - Folate, Folacin, Pteroylglutamic acid, or just Vitamin B9. No matter what we call it, Folic acid is basically a B vitamin that helps the body to create healthy new cells. Folic acid is thus necessary for each one of us though pregnant women require it all the more. A woman who has a sufficient intake of folic acid both before and during pregnancy can protect the baby from major birth defects of the brain or spine. The best part about this vitamin is that it is readily available in fruits, dried beans, nuts, peas, cereals, grain products, and leafy green vegetables. It is however important to consume this vitamin regularly through proper diet. This is because folic acid being water soluble, it easily dissolves in water and the leftover vitamin is passed out through the urine.

Inositol works as a second messenger within our bodies to stimulate the release of calcium from its storage place within our bodies; it allows the transmission of neural signals to be enhanced.

Iodine, a necessary element used by the body to make the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These Thyroid hormones are needed to maintain a healthy metabolic rate and cellular metabolism.

Iron is one of the most commonly available chemical elements which are used in the form of metal. When in the presence of oxygen and moisture, iron gets oxidized very easily. Therefore it is never available on the surface of earth. Iron is a metal whose properties can be changed by mixing it with the various other metals. Humans need iron as a daily dietary substance. There are a number of supplements available in market which provides the daily required dose of iron. But the best way to consume iron is by eating the food that is rich in iron. Fish, poultry, beans, lentils, leafy vegetables are some of food items that are a good source of iron. Although, research shows that it is easier to digest the iron found in meat and meat products than the vegetables.

Lutein belongs to the carotene family that is present in many foods. It is a carotenoid that is found in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, broccoli, collards, and spinach. It is also present in eggs. It is an effective antioxidant that scavenges free radicals in the body and prevents them from causing damages to the cell that may lead to diseases. It is becoming popular for its benefits in promoting a healthy eye sight and high visual acuity. It helps regulate blood cholesterol level and keeps the arteries clear. It also helps alleviate the pains caused by osteoarthritis. It is also beneficial to the skin.

Magnesium, which is a mineral used by the body to help maintain muscles, bones, and nerves. Magnesium is also needed for energy metabolism and protein synthesis.

Manganese is a mineral that is required in small amounts to manufacture enzymes necessary for the metabolism of proteins and fat. It also aids the immune system and blood sugar balance. Manganese is also involved in the production of cellular energy, reproduction and bone growth.

Molybdenum is essential in regulating pH balance in the body, enhancing the body’s ability to burn fat. Very small amounts are needed. Molybdenum is necessary for the proper function of certain enzyme-dependent processes, including the metabolism of iron. Molybdenum also promotes normal cell function and helps in the activation of certain enzymes, it is a key component of the metabolic enzyme xanthine oxidase. Molybdenum is found in the liver, bones and kidneys. It supports bone growth and teeth strength. A deficiency may cause impotence in older men. High intakes of sulfur and diets high in refined and processed foods may decrease molybdenum levels.There is no recommended dietary allowance for molybdenum.

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 perhaps one of the most important mineral, which in form of phosphate as an intercellular anion serves a multitude of functions. Not only are phosphates essential for the utilization of most vitamins belonging to the B complex, but they are vital for energy storage and the overall metabolism. But that is not all, phosphate is essential for healthy bones and teeth, calcium with phosphorus are required for them and soft tissues as well. But also body fluids require phosphates for excretion of hydrogen ions through the kidneys. Somewhere around one per cent of the body weight should be phosphorus in some form, therefore it is vital to supply your body with sufficient phosphates through milk, cheese, nuts, peanut butter, peas and other sources, including supplements.

Rose Hips- High in Vitamin C, rose hip is the pomaceous fruit or seed pod of the roses. Usually found in red to orange or dark purple to black color, this fruit is not poisonous. However, rose hips from plants that have been treated with pesticides should not be used. Rosa Canina (dog rose), R. moschata and R. rubiginosa are few species referred to as rose hips. With the intake of these fruits in a powdered form, you can get vitamin E, C and K naturally. It not only helps in treating several infections like flu and cold but it can also speed up the healing of skin irritation and bruises. Rose hips taken in capsule form can provide you relief from sore throat and inflammation. It is also useful in treating breast cancer and uterine cramps.

Selenium is a chemical element and a trace mineral deemed essential to human nutrition. It is found in many food sources, like beef liver, turkey, chicken breast, roast beef, white bread, whole eggs, rice, oatmeal, pasta, Brazil nuts, tuna and many others. Just recently a correlation between selenium, Vitamin E and cancer prevention has been scientifically proven. This essential trace element nutrient is nevertheless toxic in excessive doses, but is vital as a cofactor where antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase is required. Besides the belief that selenium may have a role in prevention from cancer, it has been observed that population in HIV and AIDS stricken countries where the soil is deficient in selenium have larger outbreaks than areas where selenium is sufficiently present. Other uses, such as in prevention from recurrence of tuberculosis, have been recommended by researchers.

Vitamin A is needed by the retina of the eye in the form of a specific metabolite(the light-absorbing molecule retinal). This molecule is absolutely necessary for both scotopic and color vision. It also palys an important role in the health or our skin, bone metabolism, immune function. It is also commercially produced and administered as esters such as retinyl acetate commonly called Vitamin A acetate. Its defeciency can cause blindness. Other problems include impaired immunity, hypokeratosis (white lumps at hair follicles), keratosis pilaris and squamous metaplasia of the epithelium lining the upper respiratory passages and urinary bladder to a keratinized epithelium.

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, or rather the Vitamin B complex, is a group of vitamins that are all soluble in water and very often coexist in food sources. While every single Vitamin from the B complex group has a name, they are very often referred to by the number added to the Vitamin B group name, like Vitamin B1, which is thiamine, or Vitamin B2, which is riboflavin. Some other compounds have been added to the Vitamin B group at some time, but were later dropped, like adenine, orotic acid or adenosine monophosphate, where later research found that they are either synthesized by the human body or simply no Vitamins. Vitamin B complex supports the metabolism rate, maintains muscle tone and skin, raises functions of the nervous system and the immune system, promotes red blood cells and cell growth and division and much more.

Vitamin B2 , also called Riboflavin, is naturally manufactured by the body. Vitamin B2 is needed for the proper use of oxygen and amino acids, carbohydrates and fatty acids. Vitamin B2 is also utilized by Vitamin B6 in the body and is used to manufacture niacin. Vitamin B2 is especially needed when eating large amounts of protein.

Vitamin B3 is also known as Niacin or nicotinic acid. It helps in the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose that serves as fuel for energy. It also helps the body in metabolizing fats and proteins. Niacin also helps in the production of hormones necessary for the body to function properly. It is also effective in improving the circulation in the body. It lowers cholesterol, triglycerides and blood sugar level. It also helps in the treatment of coronary artery disease. It also helps in regulating the blood sugar level. Niacin also helps prevent the Pellagra disease, which causes digestive problems, diarrhea, dermatitis, hyper-pigmentation, amnesia, dementia, delirium, and even death. Niacin also helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and is also effective in treating acne.

Vitamin B5 is widely used for its effective use to treat acne. It is also used to relieve pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis and to relieve morning stiffness. Deficiency of Vitamin B5 is rare but can cause nausea, fatigue, headache and skin abnormalities. It plays a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats to release energy. It is also vital in antibody formation which helps in building immune system and preventing infections.

Vitamin B6, also known as Pyridoxine, plays an important role in the breakdown of protein, fats and carbohydrates. It helps in the production of antibodies that keeps the immune system strong. It promotes red blood cell (RBC) production. It alleviates the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or PMS such as headaches, bloating, depression, mood swings, and abdominal pains. Vitamin B6 also prevents the development of kidney stones. It also helps reduce the build-up of homocystein in the vessels that may cause hearth attack. Vitamin B6 is also beneficial in the overall nerve health. It also prevents or decreases the susceptibility to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

Vitamin C- Perhaps the most popular vitamin, L-ascorbic acid is viewed as an essential nutrient and is required to synthesize collagen in humans. The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid, or Vitamin C for short, is the famous ingredient of oranges and other citrus fruits. It has been said that a glass of pure squeezed orange juice provides the daily requirement of Vitamin C. While the antioxidant function is deemed important, other biosynthetic functions are of vital significance. It provides an electron for eight different enzymes, besides the aforementioned synthesis of collagen; it aids the synthesis of carnitine and neurotransmitters, synthesis and catabolism of tyrosine and the metabolism of microsome. The additional function as a reducing agent, keeping iron and copper at bay is an additional trait.

Vitamin D2

Vitamin E is the name for a group of tocopherols and tocotrienols that are soluble in fat and display antioxidant properties. The most important vitamin out of this group is alpha tocopherol, which professes the highest bioavailability, and therefore, was the most studied Vitamin E. Found in such foods as nuts, seeds, milk, wheat germ and most vegetable oils, this Vitamin is said to be perhaps the most important antioxidant in human nourishment, although this trait is not deemed the imperative reason why Vitamin E is required to be in every diet. Most clinical studies which were supposed to crown Vitamin E as the prevention from prostate cancer or cardiovascular wonder supplement have been either inconclusive or were discontinued due to poor results. Vitamin E deficiency results in neurological and neuromuscular problems, but also in failure to absorb fat.

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, a mineral needed for cell division and repair as well as proper functioning of the immune system. Zinc is also an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body.