acidophilus is lactic bacteria that are one-celled micro-organisms essential in the digestive tract for performing many functions necessary to promote immunity and proper nutrition. It helps digestion, produces natural antibiotics, manufactures vital nutrients, and regulates elimination. Acidophilus also balances digestion, and is a treatment for diarrhea and constipation. It is available as powder, tablets, capsules or liquid, and should be refrigerated when purchased and stored.

alpha hydroxy acids loosen the bond between the top layers of dead skin cells. This loosening stimulates a natural sloughing-off process of the dead cells, allowing new skin cells to emerge, thereby reducing wrinkles and sun damage.

bilberry is an antiseptic and astringent. It enhances eye health, and prevents macular degeneration. It is used successfully as a mouthwash, for treating diarrhea, and for reducing varicose veins. It also strengthens connective tissue. Its use can interfere with iron absorption.

carnitine (L-Carnitine) is a pseudo-amino acid with vitamin status (Vitamin Bt). It helps regulate fat metabolism and lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is very important for the heart, where it prevents fatty build-up. It also prevents the build-up of ketones (fat waste-products) in the blood, and aids in weight loss. Another form, Acetyl-L-Carnitine (see separate listing) plays a key role in maintaining normal brain and nerve functions in the elderly. It is also an excellent anti-oxidant, and increases cerebral blood flow. It improves short-term memory and depression, and stabilizes circadian hormonal rhythms, similar to melatonin.

Citrimax (citrin) is the trade name for the standardized extract of garcinia cambogia fruit (Indian berry). The active ingredient is a compound of hydroxycitric acid (HCA). It aids in weight loss by reducing appetite, increasing metabolism, and inhibiting fatty-acid synthesis in the liver.

collagen is the fibrous protein matrix which provides support for the body in the form of cartilage, bones, and connective tissue. Vitamin C, lysine, proline and silica are necessary for collagen formation. It is the glue of the body.

CoQ-10 is an important vitamin-like nutrient. It is an enzyme that helps produce energy in the cells, and is a potent anti-oxidant. It is used clinically, especially in Japan, for heart disease, high blood pressure, immune-system stimulation, slowing the aging process, periodontal disease, peptic ulcers, muscular dystrophy, and heart disease. There is evidence that it can increase the volume of oxygen in the blood by as much as fifteen percent.

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is naturally produced by the adrenal glands, and is the most abundant hormone in the human body, but its levels diminish with age. It can be converted into estrogen and testosterone. DHEA improves immune function, lowers the risk of heart disease, and enhances mood, memory, and REM sleep. It aids in proper weight maintenance, and may be helpful against cancer, HIV, and lupus. Only a few living creatures, specifically humans and other closely related primates, produce DHEA. Studies show that men with the highest DHEA levels retain better functioning into their later years. DHEA may inhibit tumor growth in pre-menopausal women, but stimulate the growth of breast cancer in post-menopausal women. DHEA supplements should not be taken if there is any indication of liver cancer, or a family history of hormone-related cancers such as those of the breast or prostate gland. DHEA has been used as a treatment for some forms of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid derivative that functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system. It has anti-stress, anti-anxiety, calming and relaxing effects. It has been used clinically for depressed sex drive, prostate problems, and a tranquilizer substitute without any addictive qualities. It is one of the most important neurotransmitters in aiding the control of all convulsive disorders such as Parkinsonism, cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

ginger is a stimulant, and aids in the utilization of other herbs. Ginger inhibits inflammation, breaks down protein, stimulates liver function, and is a tonic for the heart. It is effective for nausea, breaking fevers, and for motion sickness. It is anti-microbial and an anti-oxidant, and is helpful for hot flashes, indigestion, bowel problems, morning sickness and wounds. It helps in the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, and can thin the blood. Use with caution if one is taking anti-coagulants.

glucosamine (glucosamine sulfate) is an amino sugar used to create cushioning fluids and tissues around joints. It repairs damaged arthritic joints, reduces pain, and builds synovial fluids. It is easily absorbed into the bloodstream, and is necessary in the formation of skin, eyes, bones, tendons, nails, ligaments, and parts of the heart. It is used for inflamed discs, sciatica, and many forms of arthritis. It is necessary in the production of mucous as a protective coating in the urinary, digestive, and respiratory tracts.

isoflavones are phyto-estrogens commonly found in soybeans and other legumes. They strengthen bones, counter the effects of chemotherapy, and control excess estrogen. They are anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, blocking angiogenesis (stopping blood to tumors), and aiding proper circulation. Some isoflavones are genistein and daidzen.

kelp contains high amounts of trace minerals and iodine. It dramatically reduces the amount of radiation absorbed by bone tissue. It acts as an antibiotic, reduces cholesterol, and aids in the prevention of breast cancer by enhancing the immune system.

lutein is a carotenoid pigment found in many green vegetables, and is usually derived from marigold flower petals. Researchers have found that adults who consume 6 mg of lutein daily show a significant decrease in their risk of developing macular degeneration of the eyes. Even normal-sighted people who take lutein supplements report reduced glare and sharper vision. This can be helpful for anyone exposed to brilliant sunlight or computer screens on a daily basis. Lutein does not have the Vitamin A activity of beta carotene, and competes with it for absorption and transportation. Therefore, it is wise to take these two nutrients each day at different meals. All carotenoids require a small amount of dietary fat for absorption.

lycopene is a red carotenoid from watermelon and tomatoes. It is especially beneficial for the prostate and testicles. It protects against breast, skin and prostate cancer. It is a very potent anti-oxidant, detoxifier, and helps inhibit the production of cholesterol.

progesterone is a hormone that plays a major role in regulating the menstrual cycle. It enhances mood, helps protect against certain cancers, and reduces or stops bone loss (osteoporosis). It is important to know the proper time and dosage which varies with different circumstances.

sea cucumber is an excellent source of glucosamine and chrondroitin sulfate. It also contains a potent anti-inflammatory that promotes the healing of injuries. It is used for arthritis, bursitis and other bone and joint problems.

shark cartilage is obtained from sharks caught for food. It is rich in mucopolysaccharides which are beneficial for arthritis, hemorrhoids and skin allergies. Sharks have a powerful immune system, and its cartilage contains an anti-angiogenesis substance that inhibits the growth of new blood vessels. This seems effective in treating cancer and arthritis. It should not be taken by small children, and pregnant or lactating women, by diabetics, or by someone with a recent heart attack or surgery, unless directed by a health professional.

Vitamin B3 (niacin, niacinamide, nicotinic acid) lowers cholesterol by preventing its buildup in the liver and arteries. Niacin moves fat from tissues for fat metabolism, burning it for energy. It promotes healthy skin, the health of the myelin sheath (the protective covering of the spinal nerves), and good digestion, where it is also vital for the production of hydrochloric (stomach) acid. It is an aid in protecting the pancreas, and is necessary for the health of all tissue cells. Niacin releases histamine that dilates the blood vessels, which produces heat, redness, and occasional itching of the face, chest, back and legs. This flushing aids circulation, is temporary, and usually passes after ten or fifteen minutes. Niacinamide, another form of this nutrient, however, has no flushing effects. Many people dislike the niacin flushing and take the naicinimide form. Niacin also dilates the capillaries of the brain and other tissues. It can help to relieve negative personality behavior such as schizophrenia, depression, delusions, and dementia. Niacin can also help relieve acne, migraines, vertigo, forgetfulness, high blood pressure and diarrhea. Niacin, in synergy with chromium improves blood sugar regulation by helping insulin function. However, high therapeutic doses of niacin, usually above 500 mg per day, should be regulated by a health professional, especially if that person is a diabetic, has peptic ulcers, high uric acid (gout), or a compromised liver. Pellagra is the deficiency disease produced by too little niacin. The deficiency symptoms are dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. The RDA for adults is 13 to 20 mg. The average dose is 50 to 300 mg. The therapeutic dose is 500 to 2500 mg. In special cases, the dose can be as high as 6000 mg. However, some individuals may experience side effects at 500 mg. Time-release niacin can cause liver damage, whereas quick-release niacin does not. The FDA considers niacin both a vitamin and a drug. It is a nutrient that one should monitor carefully if using it therapeutically, especially at high dosages.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, pyridoxamine) is involved in more bodily functions than any other single nutrient. It is required for brain function, the nervous system, red blood cell formation, sodium and potassium balance, for RNA and DNA synthesis, and in amino acid and protein metabolism for energy. Vitamin B6 is a primary immune-system stimulant, is necessary for brain chemistry, and is involved in the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin (an important neurotransmitter in the brain that induces sleep and relaxation). Vitamin B6 can increase concentration, and help with twitching, lethargy and headaches. It is used to help alleviate nausea, especially in pregnancy, air and seasickness, and radiation. It works as a natural diuretic, is beneficial for asthma and allergies by inhibiting the release of histamines, and supports nerve cell health in problems of carpal tunnel syndrome, epilepsy (along with magnesium), and for neuropsychiatric disorders. Vitamin B6 is especially useful in protecting against damage from stress, smoking and environmental pollutants. It helps protect against hair loss, tooth decay, acne, eczema, dermatitis, and skin lesions. Vitamin B6 has a RDA of 1.7 mg. The suggested dose is 30 to 100 mg daily. The therapeutic dose can range from 200 to 500 mg. This dosage is a very safe range, but extremely large doses can cause nerve damage.

Vitamin E is found in every cell of the body, where it prevents free-radicals from damaging the cell walls. It also prevents cancer, cataracts, and cardiovascular disease. It improves circulation, aids in healing wounds and repairing tissue. It is useful in treating fibrosistic breasts and premenstrual syndrome. Vitamin E protects the structure and function of muscle tissues, the pituitary and adrenal glands, the capillaries, red blood cells and sex hormones. It can prevent sterility in males, and protects the lungs and blood cells from ozone damage. The RDA for Vitamin E is 15 IU for men, and 12 IU for women. The usual dose is 400 IU daily, with a therapeutic dose up to 1600 IU. Synthetic E (dl-alpha) has been shown to be as much as fifty percent less effective than the natural form (d-alpha). There is no upper limit of toxicity for Vitamin E. However, if one is on blood-thinning drugs, Vitamin E can make those drugs more effective. It is very important to have your doctor adjust the drug dosage accordingly. Also, it is recommended to avoid Vitamin E two weeks prior to surgery. Post-surgically, it is an aid in healing, and in the reduction of scar tissue.

zeazanthin is a carotenoid from dark green leafy vegetables that is a potent anti-oxidant. It enhances vision, guards against macular degeneration of the eye, and retards the growth of tumors.

5-HTP (L-5-hydroxy-tryptophan) is derived from griffonia (griffonia simplicifolia) seeds, and is the immediate precursor to serotonin, the brain nutrient for relaxation. It is effective in treating insomnia, fibromyalgia, depression, binge-eating, weight loss, and chronic headaches. It can be used in place of the FDA-banned L-Trytophan to increase serotonin levels in the brain.