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 is required for the fatty acids and glucose formation so that essential energy is produced. Biotin also assists in the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Biotin is available in food naturally and the dietary sources of biotin comprise of brewer’s yeast, cauliflower, bananas, egg yolks, salmon, liver, sardines, mushrooms and legumes. The deficiency of biotin is uncommon. The other possibilities for having biotin as deficiency is genetic biotin deficiency, surgical stomach removal, excessive consumption of alcohol and infant dermatitis. Biotin deficiency leads to hair loss, skin rash, heart problems and high cholesterol. Biotin supplements are effective for eczema, acne, diaper rash, brittle nails and hair loss. People having a history of seizures should avoid using biotin. This is a B vitamin that helps in converting food to energy. It is mandatory that minimum 30 mg is taken daily as there are adequate health benefits. Normal biotin intake strengthens fingernails and also controls blood sugar levels.

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 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 protects our livers from accumulating excess fatty build up as well as acting as a neurotransmitter within our brains.

Chromium.

Copper is a naturally occurring mineral in foods like shell fish, vegetables, avocado fruits, legumes, grains, nuts, and beef. As copper originates from the earth's crust, the surface water and ground water contains small traces of copper. Copper is implicated in many biochemical reactions within the human cells.

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 is a carbocyclic polyol and a former member of the Vitamin B complex, listed as the Vitamin B8. Its most widely observed naturally occurring form is myo-inositol, which is found in many foods, such as high bran cereals, nuts beans, but also oranges and cantaloupe melons. Biological processes which are affected by inositol include the insulin signal transduction, nerve guidance in correlation with Epsin, cell membrane potential maintenance, serotonin activity modulation, cytoskeleton assembly, gene expression and breakdown of fats as well as reduction of blood cholesterol. Several psychiatric conditions can be treated with inositol, including obsessive compulsive disorder, clinical depression, panic disorder, bulimia and others. Due to all the positive influences, Vitamin B8 is a popular body building supplement; in particular the activity pertaining to the lipid metabolism is of essence.

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 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, 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, also known as para-aminobenzoic acid is best known as an effective sunscreen as it blocks the ultraviolet rays from the sun. However it is also used to improve the protein used in the body and plays a role in red blood cell formation as well the manufacture of folic acids in the intestines. Some people have reported the reversal of gray hair and improvement of "age spots". PABA deficiency has been known to cause fatigue, nervousness, irritability and constipation.

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 essential for normal heart and kidney functionin. It speeds up the healing of broken bones and other injuries and functions to metabolize fats and starches for energy, as well as being necessary for correct nerve impulses and for niacin assimilation. Phosphorus is needed for the growth, maintenance, and repair of all tissues and cells, and for the production of the genetic building blocks, DNA and RNA. Phosphorus is also needed to balance and metabolize other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, iodine, magnesium, and zinc. It is also important for forming cell membranes, the specialised layers that enclose body cells. It is a principal mineral of bones and teeth.

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 vitamin is needed by the retina of our 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 mainating body health, such as skin health, bone metabolism and immune function. Vitamin A is also commercially produced and administered as esters such as retinyl acetate commonly called Vitamin A acetate. Its defeciency can cause blindness. Some other problems include impaired immunity, keratosis pilaris and squamous metaplasia of the epithelium lining the upper respiratory passages and urinary bladder to a keratinized epithelium.

Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin with no known toxic effects if taken with other members of the vitamin B complex. Thiamine is essential to a strong appetite and to enable the body to use sugars and other carbohydrates.

Vitamin B12 is a water-souble member of the vitamin B complex. Requirements are in the microgram range, which is lower than the milligram range of the other B vitamins. Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of red blood cells and is usually known as the anti-anemia vitamin.

Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin with no known toxic effects. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is necessary in the oxidative process of metabolism. It is also sometimes used to correct certain enzyme deficiencies and improve mental processes.

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 water soluble and is needed by every cell in the body to maintain good health. It helps in breaking down carbohydrates, fats and proteins to provide the body with energy. It assists in the production of red blood cells and hormones and ensures a healthy pregnancy. It is also known to lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the body. It helps in reducing stress and treating people with rheumatoid arthritis. Pantothenic acid is found in small quantities in almost all foods but abundantly in meats, fish, poultry, avocados, peas, broccoli and whole grains. A deficiency which is rare, leads to leg cramps, gastrointestinal problems, anemia, insomnia, depression, a burning sensation in the limbs and a weakened immune system.

Vitamin B6, which active form pyridoxal phosphate or otherwise known as PLP and pyridoxal-5’-phosphate, is a prosthetic group of tightly bound cofactors responsible for many reactions within the amino acid metabolism and the manipulation of the enzymatic reaction behind the release of glucose from glycogen. Vitamin B6 generally comprises three organic compounds, pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine, all of them heterocyclic organic compounds that are converted in the human body to the active pyridoxal phosphate form. There are three reactions attributed to PLP, namely transamination, alpha elimination and beta elimination. Over one hundred and forty enzyme activities depend on pyridoxal phosphate, neurotransmitter and histamine synthesis, synthesis and function of hemoglobin, and gene expression. As a cofactor, PLP is active in amino acid metabolism, glucogenesis and lipid metabolism.

Vitamin C- The essential nutrient L-ascorbic acid, or rather Vitamin C, is necessary for a wide plethora of metabolic reactions in almost all living beings. In humans, Vitamin C is vital in the collagen synthesis. While most beings are able to make it internally, apes and humans cannot. Interestingly enough, while widely promoted as the best dietary source of Vitamin C, Oranges are dwarfed by the Kakadu plum, which has sixty times the amount. Prominent are rose hips, blackcurrant, red peppers, parsley, the kiwifruit, broccoli, redcurrant, several berries including strawberries and raspberries, as well as more exotic fruits and vegetables like Camu Camu, acerola, seabuckthorn, Indian gooseberry, jujube, guava and baobab. Tomatoes, while very popular Vitamin C source in the US, are very low on the Vitamin C scale.

Vitamin D2

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, 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.