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 also called as holy-hay, Lucerne and trefoil. Alfalfa is the oldest cultivated plant and is in use for centuries. It is also useful as human food. It has acquired the name from Arabic word al-fac-facah. This Arabic word meant father of foods. Alfalfa offers vitamins E, C and K and beta-carotene. The sprouts, seeds and the herb are used for tea and are also employed in capsules. Alfalfa seeds or leaves are used in capsules. The sprouts are used in salad bars and groceries. The alfalfa is boiled for 10 minutes in boiling water while preparing tea. Alfalfa is also the best sources of vitamin K and works in association with vitamin D. this combination helps in building good bone structure. Alfalfa is useful as homeopathic remedy as it stimulates milk production in the mothers who breastfeed. Alfalfa can also be employed with fenugreek and blessed thistle. Alfalfa seeds evidently lower the levels of cholesterol and hence are used widely.

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, is a supple gray alkaline earth metal, which is the fifth most abundant element by mass in the Earth's crust. Calcium is also at the fifth most profuse dissolved ion in seawater by both molarities and mass. Calcium is a significant nutrient that we require in our bodies. It has many imperative functions. It helps getting strong teeth and bones and is involved in muscle contractions and blood clotting, The calcium is mainly stored in our teeth and bones. Low calcium level may lead to the bone fractures and in some cases porous bones or osteoporosis, generally in old age. The intake of calcium can drop down the high blood pressure, maintain your heart functions, avert gum disease, prevent colon and rectum cancer, and help blood to clot.

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 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.

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, also known as Vitamin B9 or Folacin is a water-soluble vitamin. It is very essential to several bodily functions including nucleotide synthesis to the remethylation of homocysteine. Vitamin B9 is also very important during the periods of rapid cell division and growth and thus it is essential that pregnant women have an adequate intake of folic acid. This is also because Vitamin B9 helps protect against a number of congenital malformations like spina bifida etc. Vitamin B9 should be a part of the diet of both adults and children as it is required to produce healthy red blood cells as well as prevent anemia. It is also necessary for fertility in both men and women. It isn’t difficult ingesting vitamin B9 since it is present in green leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, beans, peas, sunflower seeds, liver, baker’s yeast etc.

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, 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 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 essential to all living cells and is a vital component to a healthy diet. Calcium absorption for the body largely depends on magnesium to facilitate this.

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 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 is considered good for health if taken in small amounts. It is a trace mineral which when incorporated into protein, makes selenoproteins that helps stop cellular damage due to free radicals. The major source of selenium is plant foods and its content in the food depends on the selenium content in the soil where it was grown. Also known as selenium acid, selenium sulfide and selenium yeast, this mineral is available in seafood and meat products. The main function of selenium is to work with vitamin E in order to maintain the elasticity and preservation of tissues. It not only helps in improving the supply of oxygen and blood to the muscles in the heart but also slows down the aging process by enhancing endurance.

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, also known as cobalamin, which is naturally found in foods such as fish, milk and milk products, eggs, meat and poultry. Vitamin B12 is important for good health, necessary for the proper digestion and absorption of foods and for normal metabolism of carbohydrates, and fat. It helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is needed to make DNA. Vitamin B12 is bound to the protein in food. Hydrochloric acid in the stomach releases B12 from protein during digestion. Unlike other water-soluble nutrients, vitamin B12 is stored in the liver, kidney, and other body tissues. It can take several years before signs of the deficiency appear due to poor dietary intake. Vitamin B12 functions as a "methyl donor." A methyl donor is a compound that carries and donates methyl groups to other molecules, including cell membrane components and neurotransmitters. As a methyl donor vitamin B12 is involved in homocysteine metabolism and plays a critical role in proper energy metabolism, immune function, and nerve function. Therefore, vitamin B12 is clearly an added benefit for anyone wanting to lose weight, as without it, metabolism is not at its peak potential.

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 allows the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, as well as lipids to take place, also aids in keeping skin vibrant.

Vitamin C is well known for its powerful ability to help boost the immune system as well as fight off damage causing free radicals. As an anti-oxidant, vitamin c binds with free radicals, preventing them from damaging cells. This damage can cause early aging and even has been linked to some cancers. By taking vitamin C supplements, you are helping prevent these free-radicals, as well as giving your immune system a boost as well. Vitamin C is integral to cellular metabolism as well and a lack of vitamin C can cause a myriad of issues, including scurvy.

Vitamin D2

Vitamin E consists of eight related vitamins that are all fat soluble and have antioxidant properties. The alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-tocopherols with the corresponding tocotrienols all belong to the Vitamin E group, whereby the alpha-tocopherol has been found to be the most bioavailable form. Vitamin E is commonly found in food sources like eggs, milk, nuts, seeds, vegetable oil like olive oil, wholegrain foods, wheat germ, red palm oil, but also in asparagus and avocado fruits. While Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, several other properties have been noted as well, such as prevention of damage to neurons, cholesterol reduction and cancer prevention. Vitamin E has been also identified as a vital signaling molecule, whereby the primary necessity of Vitamin E to human survival is still not clear.

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 acknowledged as essential to the human organism. It is a trace element found in over a hundred and up to three hundred enzymes. It is the second most important mineral in the body, after iron. Zinc is also defined as an important catalytic agent, which is active in enzymatic reactions such as hydroxilation, which is essential for the protein forming amino acid proline, but also for hypoxia response. Zinc is naturally found in red meat, milk, spinach, nuts, oysters, beans and oats. Low zinc counts can attribute to a weakened immune system, interfere with muscle building, cause diarrhea and all kind of other deficiencies. In body building circles, Zinc is an important supplement, valued for the indirect increment of testosterone and the muscle building role.