Amino
Acids
Amino
acids are small, highly
reactive molecules composed of 20 to 30 HCNO atoms. When amino acids link
together in strings they form proteins.
Proteins govern chemical reaction rates and form the structural material
for cell parts.
Antioxidant Vitamins
Much research has recently focused on how antioxidant (an"tih-OK'sih-dant) vitamins may reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Antioxidant vitamins -- E, C and beta carotene (a form of vitamin A) -- have potential health-promoting properties. Though the data are incomplete, up to 30 percent of Americans are taking some form of antioxidant supplement.
Beta
Sitosterol
Beta
Sitosterol is a potent substance found naturally in many vegetables. It is
also sometimes referred to as phytosterol. The "ol" in
sitosterol means it is an alcohol compound of plants and vegetables. Beta
Sitosterol is a nutrient that has a wide range of health benefits. Most
notably, clinical studies show that it exerts a powerful influence on male
prostate health. Most men with prostate issues have heard of the herb
Saw Palmetto as a prostate supplement, but almost none have heard of Beta
Sitosterol.
Besides
helping maintain the health of the prostate and helping to alleviate the
symtpoms of BPH (Enlarged Prostate Gland), Beta Sitosterol has other
potential health benefits: studies show it may help with high
cholesterol and high triglycerides. Both of these are primary culprits
in heart disease, and, thus heart attacks.
Studies are also being performed at various major Universities to see whether Beta Sitosterol can boost the immune system, help with diabetes, and even prevent some types of cancers. Many of the initial results are promising, but a lot more studies will need to be conducted to say whether or not these projections are overly optimistic, or will bear out. (see phytosterols)
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are a class of natural fat-soluble pigments found principally in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria, where they play a critical role in the photosynthetic process. They also occur in some non-photosynthetic bacteria, yeasts, and molds, where they may carry out a protective function against damage by light and oxygen. Although animals appear to be incapable of synthesizing carotenoids, many animals incorporate carotenoids from their diet. Within animals, carotenoids provide bright coloration, serve as antioxidants, and can be a source for vitamin A activity (Ong and Tee 1992; Britton et al. 1995).
Carotenoids are responsible for many of the red, orange, and yellow hues of plant leaves, fruits, and flowers, as well as the colors of some birds, insects, fish, and crustaceans. Some familiar examples of carotenoid coloration are the oranges of carrots and citrus fruits, the reds of peppers and tomatoes, and the pinks of flamingos and salmon (Pfander 1992). Some 600 different carotenoids are known to occur naturally (Ong and Tee 1992), and new carotenoids continue to be identified (Mercadante 1999).
Collagen
Collagen
is the main protein of connective tissue. It has great tensile strength,
and is the main component of ligaments and tendons. It is responsible for
skin elasticity, and its degradation leads to wrinkles that accompany
aging. Collagen also fills out the cornea where it is present in
crystalline form. Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals.
Cosmecuetical
Functional cosmetic products which produce physiological changes in appearance, feature improvement of function, and offer specific therapeutic benefits for skin and hair.
Cytokines
Cytokines are small secreted proteins which mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. They must be produced de novo in response to an immune stimulus. They generally (although not always) act over short distances and short time spans and at very low concentration. They act by binding to specific membrane receptors, which then signal the cell via second messengers, often tyrosine kinases, to alter its behavior (gene expression). Responses to cytokines include increasing or decreasing expression of membrane proteins (including cytokine receptors), proliferation, and secretion of effector molecules.
The largest group of cytokines stimulates immune cell proliferation and differentiation. This group includes Interleukin 1 (IL-1), which activates T cells; IL-2, which stimulates proliferation of antigen-activated T and B cells; IL-4, IL-5, and IL-6, which stimulate proliferation and differentiation of B cells; Interferon gamma (IFNg), which activates macrophages; and IL-3, IL-7 and Granulocyte Monocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF), which stimulate hematopoiesis.
Ellagic
Acid
Ellagic acid is a powerful antioxidant, polyphenol. Human research reveals that the body readily absorbs ellagic acid leading to inhibition of abnormal division of cells and promoting the normal death of healthy cells. Ellagic acid has been clinically shown to cause apoptosis (cell death) in certain cancer cells and has exhibited anti-carcinogenic effects against a wide range of carcinogens in several tissues. Ellagic acid contributes to significant inhibition of colon, esophageal, liver, lung, tongue, and skin cancers. The interaction of ellagic acid and quercetin demonstrated an enhanced anticarcinogenic potential of polyphenol combinations, which was not based solely on the additive effect of individual compounds, but rather on synergistic biochemical interactions.
Ellagic Acid and Quercentin are found together in Seabuckthorn Tea, along with other powerful anti-oxidants like Ve, Beta Carotene, catechins, other flavonoids!
How
does Ellagic Acid work?
Healthy cells have a normal life cycle of approximately 120 days before they die. This process is called apoptosis (natural cell death). The body replaces these dying cells with healthy cells. Conversely, cancer cells do not die. They multiply by division, making 2 cancer cells, then 4, 8, 16, 32 and so on. In lab tests, Ellagic Acid caused the cancer cells to go through the normal apoptosis process without damaging healthy cells. Chemotherapy, radiation, and most conventional treatments cause the death of cancer cells and healthy cells indiscriminately, possibly destroying the immune system in the process. Ellagic Acid is clearly the sensible choice.
Elastin
Elastin is
our body's structural protein
that gives elasticity to our tissues and organs. Elastin is found
predominantly in the walls of our arteries, in our lungs, intestines, and
skin, as well as in other elastic tissues. It functions in connective
tissue in partnership with collagen. Whereas collagen provides rigidity,
elastin is the protein which allows the connective tissues in our blood
vessels and heart tissues, for example, to stretch and then recoil to
their original positions.
Imagine
elastin within the body's connective tissue to act like a bunch of rubber
bands that are tied together at a number of places. When the elastic bands
are pulled, they will stretch, and when there is no longer a pull, they
will return to their original relaxed state. You can't pull the elastin
chain too far because the companion stiff collagen fibers in the
connective tissue limit the stretching of the elastin fibers in the
tissue.
Epithelial Tissue
Epithelial
tissue covers the whole surface of the body. It is made up of cells
closely packed and ranged in one or more layers. This tissue is
specialised to form the covering or lining of all internal and external
body surfaces. Epithelial tissue that occurs on surfaces on the interior
of the body is known as endothelium. Epithelial cells are packed tightly
together, with almost no intercellular spaces and only a small amount of
intercellular substance. Epithelial tissue, regardless of the type, is
usually separated from the underlying tissue by a thin sheet of connective
tissue; basement membrane. The basement membrane provides structural
support for the epithelium and also binds it to neighbouring structures.
Essential Fatty Acids
Throughout
human history mankind has ingested an approximate equal proportion (1/1
ratio) of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids. The Omegas 6 and 3 are two of
forty-nine known essential nutrients. As essential nutrients they cannot
be synthesized by the body, but must be ingested directly in foods or in
the form of dietary supplements. The relationship of equivalence between
the two Omegas is critical because they self-check each other in a
delicate balance to regulate thousands of metabolic functions through
prostaglandin pathways. Nearly every biologic function is
somehow interconnected with the delicate balance between Omega-6 and
Omega-3.
Ferulic
Acid
Ferulic Acid
(4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid) is a ubiquitous phenolic acid in the
plant kingdom. It is mainly conjugated with mono- and oligosaccharides,
polyamines, lipids and polysaccharides and seldom occurs in a free state
in plants. Ferulic acid is a phenolic acid of low toxicity; it can be
absorbed and easily metabolized in the human body. Ferulic acid has been
reported to have many physiological functions, including antioxidant,
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombosis, and anti-cancer
activities. It also protects against coronary disease, lowers cholesterol
and increases sperm viability. Because of these properties and its low
toxicity, ferulic acid is now widely used in the food and cosmetic
industries. It is used as the raw material for the production of vanillin
and preservatives, as a cross-linking agent for the preparation of food
gels and edible films, and as an ingredient in sports foods and skin
protection agents. Ferulic Acid is present in Seabuckthorn Tea
Flavonoids
(FLAV'oh-noidz)
Any
of a group of organic compounds that occur as pigments in fruit and
flowers [ETYMOLOGY: 20th Century: from flavone
+ -oid] Flavonoids are compounds with varied chemical structures present in fruits,
vegetables, nuts and seeds. The major flavonoid categories are flavonols
(FLAV'oh-nolz), flavones (FLAV'onz), catechins (KAT'eh-kinz),
flavanones (FLAV'ah-nonz) and anthocyanins (an"tho-SI'ah-ninz).
The main dietary sources of these compounds are tea, onions, soy and wine.
The main flavonoid in onions is quercetin glucoside (KER'seh-tin
GLU'ko-s?d) and the main flavonoid in tea is quercetin rutinoside
(KER'seh-tin roo-TIN'o-syd. Other flavonoids in seabuckthorn are kaempherol
and isorhamnetin
Free Radical
A highly chemically reactive atom, molecule or molecular fragment with a free or unpaired electron. Free radicals are produced in many different ways such as, normal metabolic processes, ultraviolet radiation from the sun, nuclear radiation and the breakdown in the body of spoiled fats. Free radicals have been implicated in aging, cancer, cardiovascular disease and other kinds of damage to the body, (see antioxidants).
Free-Radical Scavenger
The
cascade of chemical reactions that occurs when a free radical reacts with
another molecule in order to gain an electron. The molecule that loses an
electron to the free radical then becomes a free radical, repeating the
process until the energy of the free radical is spent, or the reaction is
stopped by an antioxidant. In biological systems, this cascade can damage
important molecules like DNA.
Mucous
Membrane
Thin
skin lining all animal body cavities and canals that come into contact
with the air (for example, eyelids, breathing and digestive passages,
genital tract). It contains goblet cells that secrete mucus, a moistening,
lubricating, and protective fluid. In the air passages mucus captures dust
and bacteria. In the gut it helps food slip along, and protects the
epithelial cells from being damaged by digestive enzymes. Mucous membranes
line the air passages from the mouth
to the lungs
and to the gut.
The layer of cells next to the space in the tubes is an epithelium. In the
air passages many of these cells have hair-like projections called cilia
and the epithelium is then called a ciliated epithelium.
Lipids
a
broad class of organic products found in living systems. Most are
insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar solvents. The definition
excludes the mineral oils and other petroleum products obtained from
fossil material. Major classes of lipids include the fatty acids, the
glycerol-derived lipids (including the fats and oils and the phospholipids),
the sphingosine-derived lipids (including the ceramides, cerebrosides,
gangliosides, and sphingomyelins), the steroids and their derivatives, the
terpenes and their derivatives, certain aromatic compounds, and long-chain
alcohols and waxes. In living organisms lipids serve as the basis of cell
membranes and as a form of fuel storage. Often lipids are found conjugated
with proteins or carbohydrates, and the resulting substances are known as
lipoproteins and lipopolysaccharides. The fat-soluble vitamins can be
classified as lipids. Liposomes are spherical vesicles formed by mixing
lipids with water or water solutions. They have found applications in the
oral administration of some drugs (e.g., insulin and some cancer drugs),
since they retain their integrity until they are broken down by the
lipases in the stomach and small intestine.
The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth
Edition. 2001
Glossary of Terms
Nutraceutical
Health
Canada defines nutraceutical as: 'a product isolated or purified
from foods, and generally sold in medicinal forms not usually associated
with food and demonstrated to have a physiological benefit or provide
protection against chronic disease.'
Oxidation
Technically,
oxidation is the chemical process by which an atom, molecule, or ion robs
another of one or more of its electrons. Chemicals exhibiting this
tendency for stealing electrons are referred to as oxidizing agents.
Perhaps the most familiar oxidizing agent is oxygen itself. We can see
many examples of oxygen doing its electron stealing in our everyday lives:
the browning of an apple, the rusting of an iron nail, the slow fading of
blue jeans. When a material is oxidized, its chemical structure is
altered, often irreversibly. The human body is no exception.
We
are constantly exposed to oxidative stress. This stress is partly brought
on by environmental parameters, such as air pollution, tobacco smoke,
exposure to chemicals, and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or other
forms of ionizing radiation (Møller et al. 1996; Papas 1999).
Partly, however, oxidative stress in animals, including humans, arises as
a natural result of the body sustaining itself by aerobic
(oxygen-requiring) metabolism (Ames et al. 1993; Davies 1995).
Normal aerobic metabolism produces as its by-products various highly
reactive molecules, collectively termed "oxidants". These
oxidants include a variety of electron-stealing molecules known as free
radicals, as well as the highly reactive singlet form of oxygen (Darley-Usmar
and Halliwell 1996). Some of these reactive molecules (e. g., superoxide,
hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide) are physiologically useful and, in
fact, are necessary for life, but can also be harmful if present in excess
or in inappropriate situations. All of these oxidants can react with
various components of a living cell, such as proteins, DNA, or lipids
(fats), thus causing damage by changing the chemical structure of these
components. Such damage has been linked to a number of pathological
conditions including aging (Harman 1981; Ames and Shigenaga 1992),
atherogenesis (Steinberg et al. 1989; Esterbauer et al.
1992), ischemia-reperfusion injury (Simpson and Lucchesi 1987; Takayama et
al. 1992), infant retinopathy (Phelps 1987), age-related macular
degeneration (Gerster 1991), and carcinogenesis (Moody and Hassan 1982;
Marnett 1987; Breimer 1990). For us, oxygen is therefore both necessary
and harmful; this sobering conclusion has been referred to as the
"paradox of aerobic life" (Davies 1995).
A
complex lipid containing phosphorus. The phosphatides, known as
phospholipids, are usually divided into groups on the basis of compounds
from which they are derived. In addition to fatty acids they contain
phosphoric acid, and further may contain glycerol and nitrogenous bases
such as choline. The most important phospholipids are phosphatidylcholine
(lecithin), phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylinositol (1). Their
function as the principle components of cell membranes makes phospholipids
essential for all vital cell processes. Phospholipids are the most
important membrane building compounds that occur in human, animal and
plant cells (1). All biological membranes consist primarily of
phospholipids and proteins. Phospholipids are amphophilic molecules with
unique physicochemical properties. They are widespread as secretory and
structural components of the body and can mimic or enhance natural
physiological processes.
Human
skin is a sensitive and complex organ utilizing miriad cell processes to
function. Phospholipids contain naturally occurring essential
polysaturated fatty acids, which can contribute to the activation of
cellular metabolism. The most important of these fatty acids is linoleic
acid, present in Seabuckthorn Seed Oil at more than 30%). Phospholipids
can bind both water and fat which make them excellent natural co-solubilizers.
They can also be used as dissolution agents, dispersant, wetting agents
and stabilizers. This ideal combination of physical and chemical
functionality has phospholipids an indispensable component in cosmetic
products.
Phytochemicals
are
chemicals found in plants. Plant sterols, flavonoids (FLAV'oh-noidz), and
sulfur-containing compounds are three classes of micronutrients
found in fruits and vegetables. These compounds may be important in
reducing the risk of arteriosclerosis (ath"er-o-skleh-RO'sis), which
is the buildup of fatty deposits in artery walls. Within these categories
are many possible compounds, most of which aren't well described and whose
modes of action aren't established. Many other plant products may also be
linked to the atherosclerotic process, such as antioxidant vitamins,
phytoestrogens and trace minerals. These plant micronutrients will clearly
be the topic of future research. As work continues on all these compounds,
other unrecognized components in plants will be identified that may have
promise in reducing risk of cardiovascular disease.
The
term "phytosterols" covers plant sterols and plant stanols.
Plant sterols are naturally occurring substances present in the diet as
minor components of vegetable oils. Plant stanols, occurring in nature at
a lower level, are hydrogenation compounds of the respective plant
sterols. An elevated level of blood cholesterol is one of the well
established risk factors for coronary heart disease. Both plant sterols
and plant stanols are effective in lowering plasma total and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and this occurs by inhibiting the absorption
of cholesterol from the small intestine. In order to achieve a cholesterol
lowering benefit approximately 1g/day of plant sterols or plant stanols
need to be consumed. In comparison, normal dietary intake is between
200-400mg/day plant sterols whereas the normal dietary intake of plant
stanols is negligible.
Foods
supplemented with plant sterols/stanols may reduce cholesterol and are a
promising addition to interventions aimed at lowering heart disease risk.
The FDA has approved the following health claim for plant stanol/sterol
esters and reduced risk of heart disease: Diets low in saturated fat and
cholesterol that include at least 1.3 grams of plant sterol esters or 3.4
grams of plant stanol esters, consumed in 2 meals with other foods, may
reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to and in the presence of
the health claim, products with plant stanol/sterol esters may also state
that they can reduce cholesterol levels. Recently, the FDA indicated they
will consider expanding the use of the health claim for a broader range of
eligible food products comprised of free (unesterified) stanols and
sterols. (see
beta sistosterol)
Polyphenols
Polyphenols, particularly the flavonoids, are among the most potent plant antioxidants. Polyphenols can form complexes with reactive metals such as iron, zinc and copper – reducing their absorption. At first glance, this may seem to be a negative side effect (reducing nutrient absorption), but excess levels of such elements (metal cations) in the body can promote the generation of free radicals and contribute to the oxidative damage of cell membranes and cellular DNA. In addition to their chelating effect on metal cations, polyphenols also function as potent free radical scavengers within the body, where they can neutralize free radicals before they can cause cellular damage
Prostaglandin
Prostaglandins are any of a group of about a dozen compounds synthesized from fatty acids in mammals as well as in lower animals. Prostaglandins are highly potent substances that are not stored but are produced as needed by cell membranes in virtually every body tissue. Different prostaglandins have been found to raise or lower blood pressure and regulate smooth muscle activity and glandular secretion. One such substance, which stimulates contraction of the uterus, is used clinically to induce labor; another has been in experimental use as a birth control agent. Prostaglandins also control the substances involved in the transmission of nerve impulses, participate in the body’s defenses against infection, and regulate the rate of metabolism in various tissues. Several prostaglandins have been shown to induce fever, possibly by participating in the temperature-regulating mechanisms in the hypothalamus; they also play a part in causing inflammation.
Quercitin
Quercitin is a potent bioflavinoid and anti-oxidant and has been shown to reduce the risks associated with high cholesterol levels. Bioflavinoids are the compounds that give color to vegetables. Quercetin gives red and rose wines its distinctive color and may the reason the men who drink wine red and rose wines appear to have a lower incidence of prostate problems and heart and circulatory problems as well, the so-called "French Paradox". Quercetin may be the strongest of natures anti-inflammatories. Numerous studies have shown it effective in treating a wide range of problems, including macular degeneration, arthritis, joint inflammation, and asthma. A recent published study demonstrates quercitin provides long-term symptomatic relief with few side effects to men that are afflicted with nonbacterial prostatitis. The Mayo Clinic announced on March 26 the results of an extensive study demonstrating that quercetin may prevent the development of prostate cancer cells. Quercetin also increases absorption of Vitamin C, which may also aid immunity & tendon problems. It also has anti-viral properties & is often used to treat respiratory & sinus problems.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is type of medicine called a keratolytic. It works by breaking down keratin, which is a protein that forms part of the skin structure. In conditions such as psoriasis and chronic eczema, excessive amounts of keratin in the skin cells causes these cells to harden, and makes the skin become thickened and scaly. This not only makes the skin itchy and inflamed, but also reduces the degree to which anti-inflammatory medicines can penetrate through the skin to treat the inflammation.
Superoxide
Superoxide
is a reactive anion
(negatively charged ion) and free
radical, formally O2-. It has an unpaired electron,
is not particularly stable, and spontaneously decomposes into peroxide
over time. Superoxide has also been implicated in the mechanisms of aging
and the peroxidation of lipids. Superoxide is scavenged by the enzyme superoxide dismutase, or SOD. Although the rate
of reaction of SOD is so close to the spontaneous disassociation rate that
some have questioned the biological need for SOD, the absence of SOD can
lead to a form of anemia
in humans.
Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)
A
zinc and copper or manganese containing enzyme which reacts with
superoxide radicals to convert them to less dangerous chemical entities. SOD1
is a gene found in human cells that produces superoxide dismutase (SOD),
an extremely potent antioxidant enzyme that fights cellular damage from
reactive singlet oxygen molecules, also known as free radicals. Research
suggests that SOD may be the most important enzyme in our body for the
control of free radicals, keeping our cell membranes young, supple, and
healthy.
When administered therapeutically, SOD has been shown to exert strong regenerative effects on tissues that have become hardened or fibrotic because of age, disease, or injury (Lefaix, 1993). SOD therapy has been used successfully to treat fibrotic scaring of organs after radiation therapy; to prevent further heart damage in cardiac patients; and to improve severe rheumatoid arthritis. But, from recent research reported in the journal Nature Genetics, and discussed in a USA Today article, it appears that SOD’s most beneficial application may be in the anti-aging arena. SOD is the main antioxidant in the eye lens and is one of the body’s two natural antioxidant enzymes. Zinc, copper, selenium and manganese are required for synthesis. Reduces high blood pressure and prevents cataracts. In animals of any species, those with the highest levels of SOD live the longest.
Vitamin E (Tocopherols and Tocotrienols)
Tocopherol, or vitamin E, is a fat-soluble vitamin that is an important antioxidant. Vitamin E is often used in skin creams and lotions because it is claimed by the manufacturers to play a role in encouraging skin healing and reducing scarring after injuries such as burns.
Natural vitamin E exists in eight different forms or isomers, four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. All isomers have a chromanol ring, with a hydroxyl group which can donate a hydrogen atom to reduce free radicals and a hydrophobic side chain which allows for penetration into biological membranes. There is an alpha, beta, gamma and delta form of both the tocopherols and tocotrienols. Each form has its own biological activity, the measure of potency or functional use in the body.
Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of the body’s metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Studies are underway to determine whether vitamin E might help prevent or delay the development of those chronic diseases.