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 with several health benefits. It is used for hormone regulation as it increases estrogen levels in post-menopausal women. It improves cognitive function for improved performance of hand-eye coordination, attention, perception, and memory. Boron may also be beneficial for people with joint disorders such as osteoarthritis. Boron helps regulate the use of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in the body. In one study it was shown to control cell growth. This mineral also plays a role in how the body uses energy from fats and sugars.

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 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.

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 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 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 vital in human nutrition as the adult human body contains 3-4 grams of iron. Haem-iron and non-haem iron are the two types of iron. Foods rich in haem-iron include meat, liver, fish, and poultry. Foods that are high in non-haem iron are those of vegetable origin, like green leafy vegetables, cereals, legumes, oilseeds, nuts, dry fruits and jiggery. Iron is vital for numerous body functions, including hemoglobin formation, brain development and function, muscle activity, regulation of body temperature and catecholamine. Deficiency of iron affects immune system, reduces the number of T-cells and production of antibodies. Iron is also necessary for binding oxygen to body cells as its main function is oxygen transport and cell respiration. It works as an anti-cancer agent. Iron increases energy level of the body, improving physical performance. It prevents insomnia.

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 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 used for improving poor night vision, dry skin, and it can help acne. It is also a fat soluble vitamin. Too much vitamin A can cause side effects. An excess of vitamin A can actually make acne worse.

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 called Riboflavin, B2 is a water absorbed vitamin of which the body must replenish its supplies each day as it cannot be stored. It is necessary for the production of red blood cells and, like the other B vitamins, it works at supporting it supports energy production by helping in the metabolism of various foods.B2 is required for healthy skin as well as hair growth, the nails and has a role in regulating the activity of the thyroid gland. It is also necessary in order that the body can process amino acids found in proteins and fats and to activate vitamin B6 and folic acid.

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 B6contains pyridoxal phosphate, or PLP for short, as the active ingredient and is a vitamin belonging to the B complex grouping. It is functioning mainly as a co-enzyme with others in the human body, aiding in the proper function of several metabolic processes. Neurotransmitter synthesis, as well as hemoglobin and histamine synthesis are just some of the functions of PLP, hemoglobin function, gene expression and aiding in the facilitation of decarboxylation, elimination and other reactions, mainly taking place in the liver. Vitamin B6 was found to diminish by 50% the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Alternative medicine suggests the use of Vitamin B6 to combat autism, in combination with magnesium. This combination has shown effects with children suffering from attention deficit disorders. PLP also seems to show therapeutic effects for diabetic nephropathy.

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 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.