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 - There are two different species of chamomile used for supplements and balms – the German and the Roman varieties. However, both types have the same effects and are safe for human consumption. It is an herbal remedy since it lacks side effects and offers numerous benefits. Chamomile is a mild relaxant and is commonly used to combat stress, depression, and anxiety. It is also utilized for treatment of other diseases. Chamomile supplements are most commonly used as a muscle relaxant. It can help with menstrual cramps and other muscle complaints. Chamomile can help alleviate the pain and uncomfortable feelings linked with allergies, burns, and other problems.

Choline- Grouped with the Vitamin B complex, choline is deemed an essential nutrient. It is a natural amine and an organic compound, which serves several physiological purposes. Choline improves the structural integrity of cell membranes and provides signaling roles, assisting with the system of communication, which controls basic cellular activities and manages cell actions. Deemed a nootropic drug, choline as a dietary supplement is supposed to increase the cognitive behaviour and alertness. As a building block of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, choline certainly seems to be nootropic, but recently the application of choline as a nutritional supplement helping to reduce body fat because of the activity in the lipid metabolism was observed. Infant formulas that are not derived from cow’s milk are ordered by the FDA to supplement choline.

Chromium is an essential mineral that plays an important role with how the body uses glucose. Chromium may be found in brewer’s yeast, grains, cereal and in some beers. It aids in maintaining the ideal blood sugar level which helps diabetic patients. It also helps in the metabolism and storage of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the body that may help reduce fats. It helps improve muscle tone by burning the fats. It reduces hunger pangs, suppress cravings and appetite. It is help control the blood cholesterol level. It lowers the risks of cardiovascular problems. It also alleviates depression by stimulating the fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis that is important for brain function.

Copper is being considered a mineral with immense medical advantages, copper has been used as a supplement in its gluconate form. Copper is one of the most important constituents of the blood and prevents poly – unsaturated fatty acids from turning rancid. Copper also increases the health of the cell membranes and is actively involved in the formation of hemoglobin. Copper Gluconate is instrumental in treating conditions such as irregular beating of the heart, hypoglycemia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and in lowering the cholesterol levels of the body. Copper Gluconate is known to have side effects and is toxic if taken excessively. In the case of women who are expecting or mothers who are nursing, it is advisable to consult with your docter before taking any Copper based supplements.

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 nutrient that occurs naturally in various forms. The most common form is myo-inositol. Inositol can be produced inside the human body from glucose and it is considered to be very effective. It is direct precursor of phospholipids, a major cellular membrane component. This nutrient helps in maintenance of electrical energy along with the transfer of nutrients across the cell membranes. Inositol also acts as a lipotropic that helps in the changing of fat into useful products. Apart from establishing healthy membranes, Inositol also facilitates the nerve impulses. Experts recommend a low dosage of 500mg capsule of Inositol. You can take several grams at one time only if you have previously tried a lesser amount. Inositol supplements can be beneficial for people with a bipolar disorder, impotence, lung cancer, depression or a panic disorder.

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.

Lutein belongs to the carotene family that is present in many foods. It is a carotenoid that is found in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, broccoli, collards, and spinach. It is also present in eggs. It is an effective antioxidant that scavenges free radicals in the body and prevents them from causing damages to the cell that may lead to diseases. It is becoming popular for its benefits in promoting a healthy eye sight and high visual acuity. It helps regulate blood cholesterol level and keeps the arteries clear. It also helps alleviate the pains caused by osteoarthritis. It is also beneficial to the skin.

Magnesium is the chemical element found in the periodic table with the atomic number 12. This alkaline earth metal is one of ten most common elements in the known universe and also very prominently present in the human body. It manipulates polyphosphate compounds, most prominently the DNA, RNA and the ATP. Numerous enzymes rely on magnesium ions to function properly. Most common application of magnesium in medicine may be the addition to antacids and laxatives. This metal is not found as a free element naturally on Earth, generally the metal is obtained through electrolysis of magnesium salts. The most common deficiency in the United States with staggering two thirds of the population is the magnesium deficiency. Magnesium can be obtained through vegetables, tea, cocoa, cereals, coffee, nuts and spices.

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.

Parsley Leaves assist in water retention as well as regulating blood pressure and with overall bladder health.

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.

Rose Hips- High in Vitamin C, rose hip is the pomaceous fruit or seed pod of the roses. Usually found in red to orange or dark purple to black color, this fruit is not poisonous. However, rose hips from plants that have been treated with pesticides should not be used. Rosa Canina (dog rose), R. moschata and R. rubiginosa are few species referred to as rose hips. With the intake of these fruits in a powdered form, you can get vitamin E, C and K naturally. It not only helps in treating several infections like flu and cold but it can also speed up the healing of skin irritation and bruises. Rose hips taken in capsule form can provide you relief from sore throat and inflammation. It is also useful in treating breast cancer and uterine cramps.

Rutin is a bioflavonoid that consists of the flavonol quercetin and disaccharide rutinose. It also includes hesperidin, eriodictyl and citron that plays an important role in the absorption of Vitamin C. Rutin may be found in vegetables and fruits such as apple peels, citrus, broccoli and onions. It has anti-inflammatory effects that alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and Chrohn’s disease. It also strengthens the capillaries that prevent the hardening of arteries, and high blood pressure. Rutin also contains catechins that fight free radicals from damaging the cells and tissues that may cause diseases such as cancer, strokes, senility, premature aging, and arteriosclerosis. Rutin also aid in controlling the blood cholesterol level.

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays an important role in several metabolic pathways such as glutathione-peroxidise pathway. Selenium works with Vitamin E which gives its strong antioxidant effects and improves the immune system. It protects the body from prematurely aging. It also help prevent free radical damages that may cause heart diseases and cancer. It is essential in the proper function of the thyroid hormones, and promotes efficient metabolism. It is also beneficial in the reproductive health particularly of men because it facilitates in the sperm production, and prevents infertility. Selenium also helps reduce inflammation which is beneficial to those with rheumatism to reduce pain.

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 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, or rather the Vitamin B complex, is a group of vitamins that are all soluble in water and very often coexist in food sources. While every single Vitamin from the B complex group has a name, they are very often referred to by the number added to the Vitamin B group name, like Vitamin B1, which is thiamine, or Vitamin B2, which is riboflavin. Some other compounds have been added to the Vitamin B group at some time, but were later dropped, like adenine, orotic acid or adenosine monophosphate, where later research found that they are either synthesized by the human body or simply no Vitamins. Vitamin B complex supports the metabolism rate, maintains muscle tone and skin, raises functions of the nervous system and the immune system, promotes red blood cells and cell growth and division and much more.

Vitamin B2 , also called Riboflavin, is naturally manufactured by the body. Vitamin B2 is needed for the proper use of oxygen and amino acids, carbohydrates and fatty acids. Vitamin B2 is also utilized by Vitamin B6 in the body and is used to manufacture niacin. Vitamin B2 is especially needed when eating large amounts of protein.

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, also called Pantothenic acid, which is a water-soluble vitamin required by the human body. Vitamin B5 is needed to form coenzyme-A (CoA), and is vital in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

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.

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.