Institute of Chemical Technology

The way your body defends itself against substances it sees as harmful or foreign. In an immune response, the immune system recognizes the antigens (usually proteins) on the surface of substances or microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, and attacks and destroys, or tries to destroy, them.

A group of organs and cells that defends your body against infection, disease, and altered (mutated) cells. The immune system defends our body against invaders, such as viruses, bacteria, and foreign bodies. It includes the thymus, spleen, lymphatic system (lymph nodes and lymph vessels), bone marrow, tonsils, and white blood cells.

The condition of being protected against or resistant to an infectious disease.

In the laboratory. In vitro is Latin for “within the glass.” When something is performed in vitro, it happens outside of a living organism

In your body. In vivo is Latin for “within the living.” It refers to work that's performed in a whole, living organism.

A substance that has no medicinal effect on your body. Uses of small amounts of inactive ingredients in dietary supplements include holding the tablet together, improving the taste or smell, and increasing the stability of the key ingredients

Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) is an autonomous institution of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare which sets standards for all drugs that are manufactured, sold and consumed in India. Drugs manufactured in India have to be labelled with the mandatory non-proprietary drug name with the suffix I.P.

Redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in an area of your body. It is a protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of tissues.

In a dietary supplement, an ingredient is a component of the product, such as the main nutrient (vitamin, mineral, herb, amino acid, or enzyme) or any binder, colour, filler flavor, or sweetener. In herbal supplements, the common name and Latin name (the genus and species) of the plant is given in the ingredient list. On a dietary supplement label, the ingredients are listed by weight, with the ingredient used in the largest amount first on the list and the ingredient used in the least amount at the end of the list.

Describes a substance that is not of plant or animal origin. For example, minerals are inorganic.

Difficulty in going to sleep or in getting enough sleep.

A condition in which glucose (blood sugar) cannot be absorbed by the cells and used for energy. Instead, glucose builds up in the blood and your body produces more and more insulin (which normally would help glucose get into the cells), resulting in abnormally high blood levels of both glucose and insulin. This can lead to pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and other serious health problems.

Latin Name: Gracilaria Seaweed. Inulin is a type of oligosaccharide dietary fiber called a fructan that are linked to several health benefits, such as improving digestive health, helping control diabetes, and aiding weight loss. Fructans are a chain of fructose (sugar) molecules strung together. Inulin is fermented by bacteria that normalize the colon and is considered a prebiotic. Prebiotics may improve gastrointestinal health as well as potentially enhance calcium absorption. Inulin is found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including wheat, onions, bananas, leeks, artichokes, and asparagus. The inulin that is used for medicine is most commonly obtained from chicory roots. Inulin is not digested or absorbed in the stomach. It goes to the bowels where bacteria are able to use it to grow. Inulin helps decrease your body's ability to make certain kinds of fats, thus aiding in weight loss.

In nutrition, a mineral your body needs to make red blood cells, proteins, and enzymes; and for the control of cell growth and cell specialization. Iron is found in some foods, including red meats, fish, poultry, lentils, and beans.

Short for International Units, IU is a unit of activity or potency of a particular substance. It is the amount of a substance that has a certain biological effect. For each substance there is an international agreement on the biological effect that is expected for 1 IU. This measurement is used for fat-soluble vitamins, certain hormones, and enzymes.

A rating scale that is used to measure the severity of the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, tingling or crawling skin, difficulty sleeping, nervousness, melancholy, dizziness, weakness, joint or muscle pain, headache, and abnormal heart beat.

It is a polyphenol, with high antioxidant properties antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. Kaempferol reduces the risk of chronic diseases, especially cancer and helps increase the body's antioxidant defenses against free radicals.

Research done in a laboratory. A laboratory study may use cells in test tubes or animals to find out if a drug, procedure, or other treatment is likely to be safe and useful. Laboratory studies usually take place before any testing is done in humans.

Bad Cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. A type of protein that carries cholesterol to many tissues throughout your body. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase the risk of coronary heart disease.

Dried beans and peas, including kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, navy beans, lima beans, black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), split peas, and lentils. Legumes are good sources of protein, iron, zinc, dietary fiber, folate, and potassium.

Liposomes are nanoparticles or nanocarriers, usually 100-300 nm in diameter. They are formed spontaneously when certain phospholipids are hydrated with water. Liposomes are microscopic lipid vesicles. These mimic the human cell membrane. Because of their unique properties, liposomes are able to enhance the performance of products by increasing solubility and improving bioavailability and stability of active ingredients.

Lutein is a type of vitamin called a carotenoid. It is related to beta-carotene and vitamin A, although your body cannot use it to make Vitamin A. Foods rich in lutein include egg yolks, broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, orange pepper, kiwi fruit, grapes, orange juice, zucchini, and squash. Lutein is absorbed best when it is taken with a high-fat meal.

Latin Name: Lycopersicon esculentum. Lycopene is a plant nutrient with antioxidant properties. It's the pigment that gives red and pink fruits, such as tomatoes, watermelons and pink grapefruit, their characteristic color. Lycopene has been linked to health benefits ranging from heart health to protection against sunburns and certain types of cancers and mens prostrate health. Although Lycopene is a carotenoid your body cannot use it to make vitamin A.

A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. It defends your body against infection, disease, and altered (mutated) cells.

Linoleic acids are polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids - an essential fatty acid found in the oils of corn, wheat germ, soybean etc. They help support heart health, reduce total and LDL cholesterol and improve insulin sensitivity and blood pressure.

It is also referred to as bad cholesterol and makes up most of your body's cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk for heart disease and stroke

Macronutrients are nutrients that provide calories or energy and are required in large amounts to maintain body functions and carry out the activities of daily life. There are three broad classes of macronutrient: proteins, carbohydrates and fats

A type of white blood cell that surrounds and kills microorganisms, removes dead cells, and stimulates the action of other immune system cells.

Magnesium is a nutrient that your body needs to stay healthy. Magnesium is important for many processes in your body, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure and making protein, bone, and DNA. Foods rich in Magnesium are pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, cashews, peanuts and of course bananas

A reduced ability to absorb nutrients properly. It can be caused by injury to the digestive tract, a genetic disease, or other conditions. Malabsorption can lead to malnutrition.

Describes a condition caused by not getting enough calories or the right amount of key nutrients needed for health. Key nutrients include vitamins and minerals.

When a person's diet does not provide enough nutrients or the right balance of nutrients for optimal health. Causes of malnutrition include inappropriate dietary choices, a low income, difficulty obtaining food, and various physical and mental health conditions.

One millionth of a gram; 1000 micrograms is equal to 1 milligram, 1000 milligrams is equal to 1 gram and so on.

The process by which a compound or a specific ingredient (such as actives in a dietary supplement) is able to produce an effect in your body.

As a substance or plant having healing, curative or therapeutic properties

Supplements that provide more than 100% of the RDA of your bodys required vitamnin and minerals

Menopause is the natural cessation, or stopping, of a woman's menstrual cycle, and marks the end of fertility. Most women experience menopause by the age of 52. A woman is in menopause when she hasn’t had a period for 12 months in a row. Also called “change of life.”

Periodic discharge of blood and tissue from the uterus. From puberty until menopause, menstruation normally occurs about every 28 days, except when a woman is pregnant.

One thousandth of a gram; 1000 milligrams is equal to 1 gram

µg or mcg. A unit of weight in the metric system equal to one millionth of a gram.

Micronutrients are one of the major groups of nutrients that your body needs. They include vitamins and minerals. Vitamins are necessary for energy production, immune function, blood clotting and other functions. Meanwhile, minerals play an important role in growth, bone health, fluid balance and several other processes.

An organism that can be seen only through a microscope. Microorganisms or microbes are microscopic organisms that exist as unicellular, multicellular, or cell clusters. They are widespread in nature and while some are beneficial to life, some can cause serious harm. They can be divided into six major types: bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses.

Minerals are inorganic naturally occuring nutrients found in the earth or water and absorbed by plants and animals for proper nutrition. Minerals are the main component of teeth and bones, and help build cells and support nerve impulses, among other things. Examples include calcium and magnesium,

To make milder or less painful.

A multivitamin is a preparation intended to serve as a dietary supplement with vitamins, dietary minerals, and other nutritional elements. Such preparations are available in the form of tablets, capsules, pastilles, powders, liquids, or injectable formulations

Melatonin is a hormone produced predominantly by the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle (Circadian Rhythm) and Reproductive cycles. The brain produces Melatonin in response to darkness and is responsible for promoting better sleep.

To introduce a plant from one geographic region to another, and to allow it to establish itself without cultivation, and grow as if it were native to the area.

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit a signal from a neuron across the synapse to a target cell, which can be a different neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell.

A type of white blood cell that protects us from infections. They make up approximately 40% to 60% of the white blood cells in our bodies, and are the first cells to arrive on the scene when we experience a bacterial infection.

Niacin is a B vitamin that's made and used by your body to turn food into energy. It helps keep your nervous system, digestive system, and skin healthy. Niacin is often part of a daily multivitamin, but most people get enough niacin from the food they eat. It's found in some foods, including poultry, beef, pork, fish, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and enriched or fortified breads and cereals. In medicine, it is used as a drug to lower high blood cholesterol levels.

A chemical substance that contains nitrogen and oxygen and is used to preserve food. Nitrates are also used as a food additive to stop the growth of bacteria and to enhance the flavor and color of foods.

Nitric oxide is a colorless gas with the formula NO. It is one of the principal oxides of nitrogen. Nitric oxide is a free radical. Nitric oxide is produced by nearly every type of cell in the human body and one of the most important molecules for blood vessel health. It's a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes the inner muscles of your blood vessels, causing the vessels to widen. In this way, nitric oxide increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

The nitrogen packaging system essentially involves replacing oxygen with nitrogen in food packaging. Nitrogen flushing is a method used to preserve and protect food from damage during shipping and storage.

Nutrients are compounds in foods essential to life and health, providing us with energy, the building blocks for repair and growth, and substances necessary to regulate chemical processes within your body. There are six major nutrients: Carbohydrates (CHO), Lipids (fats), Proteins, Vitamins, Minerals, Water.

A statement on a food or dietary supplement product label that describes the amount of a nutrient or dietary substance in a product. Examples of nutrient claims for dietary supplement products include fortified, high, rich in, excellent source of, good source of, and high potency.

The processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilizes foods necessary for sustenance. The processes combine eating, digesting, and absorbing nutrients (such as protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water) from food to maintain your body, grow new cells, repair tissues, and supply energy. Nutrition is also the science of food, diet, and health.

Having to do with nutrition (eating, digesting, and absorbing the nutrients in food, and the health and disease consequences).

The Nutrition Facts label found on packaged foods and beverages is your daily tool for making informed food choices that contribute to healthy lifelong eating habits. [how to read your label]

During the night, you cycle through two types of sleep: Non-Rapid Eye Movement (non-REM) sleep and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Your brain and body act differently during these different phases. NREM sleep happens first and includes 3 stages. 1st Stage is a light sleep stage and lasts for 5-10 minutes during which time the heartbeat, eye movements, brain waves, and breathing activity begin to slow down. The 2nd stage of NREM sleep further lowers body temperature and heart rate. This sleep stage is when the body prepares itself for deep sleep which is Stage 3 of NREM. During this stage, the body is building bone and muscle, repairs and regenerates tissues and strengthens the immune system.

Neurotransmitters are often referred to as the body's chemical messengers. Their job is to carry chemical signals (“messages”) from one neuron (nerve cell) to the next target cell. The next target cell can be another nerve cell, a muscle cell, or a gland.

A neurodegenerative disease is caused by the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, in the process known as neurodegeneration. Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are the most common neurodegenerative diseases.

The word Nephro- means “kidney,” So Nephroprotective is anything that protects the Kidney from harm. Nephroprotective agents are material that has the potential to minimize the effects of nephrotoxic agents (any agent that has the potential to generate kidney damage and reduce renal function.)

A main component of fats used by your body for energy and tissue growth. Omega-3s are essential fatty acids in the human diet; they are found in fish oil and certain plant and nut oils and flaxseeds, chiaseeds and walnuts.

Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) Value - is a method of measuring the antioxidant capacity of a food. Antioxidants neutralise harmful free radicals in the body and the higher the ORAC Value of a food, the greater antioxidant capacity it has to effectively neutralise harmful free radicals.

Organic food is food produced by methods complying with the standards of organic farming. These standards vary worldwide, but organic farming mainly practice in cycle resources, promoting ecological balance, and conserving biodiversity. Use of genetic engineering, ionizing radiation, and sewage sludge is prohibited. Cereals, fruits, and vegetables must be grown using natural fertilizers and natural pest control methods. Animals raised for meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products must be fed organic feed and not given antibiotics or hormones to promote growth. Food produced this way can be certified and labeled as organic.

"Oxidation in body is a normal and necessary process . Oxidative stress, on the other hand, occurs when there's an imbalance between free radical activity and antioxidant activity. Oxidation can damage vital molecules in our cells, including DNA and proteins, which are responsible for many body processes. Molecules such as DNA are needed for cells to function properly, so if too many are damaged, the cell can malfunction or die. This is why antioxidants are important. When functioning properly, free radicals can help fight off pathogens. Oxidation in food, is a reaction that occurs in the presence of oxygen and is responsible for the deterioration in the quality of food products, including off-flavors and off-odors. It is affected by processing, packaging and storing methods, as well as product ingredients. "

A scholarly or scientific publication in which an article is reviewed by a board of experts before it is published. The board members determine the accuracy of the article and approve or reject it.

Perimenopause, or menopause transition, begins several years before menopause. It's the time when the ovaries gradually begin to make less estrogen. It usually starts in women's 40s, but can start in their 30s or even earlier. Perimenopause lasts up until menopause, the point when the ovaries stop releasing eggs.

Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a phospholipid attached to a choline particle and found in eggs, soybeans, mustard and sunflower. Phospholipids contain fatty acids, glycerol, and phosphorous. PC is a good source of choline, which is a helpful nutrient that supports cellular growth and metabolism. The phosphorous part of the phospholipid substance, lecithin, is made up of PC. Foods that contain lecithin are the best dietary sources of PC. Although PC is traditionally used to support brain health, it also supports liver function and keep cholesterol levels in check.

A phospholipid is a type of lipid molecule that is the main component of the cell membrane. Lipids are molecules that include fats, waxes, and some vitamins, among others. As membrane components, phospholipids are selectively permeable (also called semi-permeable), meaning that only certain molecules can pass through them to enter or exit the cell. Molecules that dissolve in fat can pass through easily, while molecules that dissolve in water cannot. This helps keep the contents of the cell working properly and separates the inside of the cell from the surrounding environment. They can act as emulsifiers in food applications, which are substances that disperse oil droplets in water so that the oil and water do not form separate layers. For example, egg yolks contain phospholipids, and are used in mayonnaise to keep it from separating. In pharmaceuticals, phospholipids are used as part of drug delivery systems, which are systems that help transport a drug throughout the body to the area that it is meant to affect.

Phycocyanin is a phytonutrient (a protein pigment) which in natural light is blue and is present in Spirulina. Phycocyanin is the responsible component of the blue colour of the blue-green colour of the spirulina microalgae. Phycocyanin is extracted from spirulina. Phycocyanin works as an anti-cholesterol, antioxidant, anti-deposits, regeneration agent for new cells and detoxifier. It is one of the most potent antioxidants and greatly helps the immune system.

Phytochemicals (from Greek phyto, meaning "plant") are chemicals produced by plants, that can be health-protecting. They give the plant color, aroma and flavor, but when we eat them, they work with other phytochemicals and nutrients to fend off cancer, heart disease, age-related eye disease and more. Some phytochemicals stimulate the immune system. Others slow the growth of cancer cells or prevent DNA damage. Phytochemicals (sometimes called phytonutrients) include beta-carotene, lycopene, and resveratrol.

Phytoestrogens or dietary estrogens are naturally occurring compounds found in plants. Many of these plants are already part of a person's diet. Estrogen is a hormone released in a woman's body that regulates her menstrual cycle. your body's endocrine system is responsible for producing this hormone. There are 3 main types of phytoestrogens—the isoflavones (the most potent), coumestans, and lignans. Isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen, are being studied in the prevention of osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms, and some types of cancer. Soybeans are a rich source of phytoestrogens.

Phytonutrients are chemicals produced by plants. Foods with phytonutrients have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Phytonutrients, also called phytochemicals, are chemicals produced by plants. Plants use phytonutrients to stay healthy. Rich sources of phytonutrients are Red, orange and yellow vegetables and fruit (such as tomatoes, carrots, peppers, squash, sweet potatoes, peaches, mangos, melons, citrus fruits, and berries), Dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach, kale, bok choy, broccoli, Swiss chard, and romaine lettuce) Garlic, onions, chives and leeks. Their high anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help in strengthening the immune system, protect cells and DNA from damage that may lead to cancer, reduce inflammation, slow the growth rate of cancer cells, help regulate hormones.

An inactive substance or treatment that has no effect on your body and that ideally looks, smells, and tastes the same as, and is given the same way as, the active drug or treatment being tested. The effects of the active substance or treatment are compared to the effects of the placebo.

Polyols are also called ‘sugar alcohols’ because their chemical structure resembles partly sugar and partly alcohol but they are neither sugars, nor alcohol. Due to their molecular resemblance to sugar, polyols may be used in food either as a low calorie or sugar free sweetener or for technological purposes, e.g. emulsifiers, stabilisers, humectants, thickeners, texturisers and bulking agents. Sugar alcohols are partially resistant to digestion, which means they provide fewer calories per gram than does sugar, they do not promote tooth decay and they do not cause sudden increases in blood glucose levels.

Chemicals found in plants that have antioxidant properties and can support overall health. Polyphenols can be found in food sources such as apples, berries, cherries, dark chocolate, onions and green tea. Polyphenols can protect cells from free radical damage.

Women are considered to be postmenopausal when they have not had their period for an entire year. Having your doctor measure your follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level is another way to see if you are near menopause. The time in a woman’s life when menstrual periods stop permanently is called menopause (“change of life”), and the period after menopause is called postmenopausal.

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that the human body cannot digest. They serve as food for probiotics, which are tiny living microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast. Both prebiotics and probiotics may support helpful bacteria and other organisms in the gut. Prebiotics and probiotics both support your body in building and maintaining a healthy colony of bacteria and other microorganisms, which supports the gut and aids digestion. Prebiotics are present in fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Severe symptoms that occur 1 or 2 weeks before menstruation, including cramping, bloating, and tender breasts; food cravings; mood swings and irritability; and headache and fatigue.

Specially formulated multivitamins that ensure a pregnant woman gets enough essential micronutrients. Prenatal supplements generally contain more folic acid, iron, and calcium than standard adult supplements.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system. We usually think of these as germs that cause diseases. But your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called "good" or "helpful" bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy. A good source of probiotics is from fermented foods like yogurt/dahi, Miso, cheese, sour pickles and sour bread.

Protein is a macronutrient that is essential to building muscle mass. It is commonly found in animal products, though is also present in other sources, such as nuts and legumes.

A substance found in some foods that your body can use to make a vitamin. An example of a provitamin is beta-carotene, which your body uses to make vitamin A. Also called a vitamin precursor.

A phenolic acid is a type of phytochemical, also called a polyphenol. Phenolic acids are found in a variety of plant-based foods; the seeds and skins of fruits and the leaves of vegetables contain the highest concentrations. They are beneficial to your health since they work as antioxidants that prevent cellular damage due to free-radical oxidation reactions. They may also promote anti-inflammatory conditions in your body when you eat them regularly. Other types of polyphenols include flavonoids and stilbenes.

A system to ensure that consistency and uniformity are maintained in the manufacturing of a product.

A study in which the participants are assigned by chance to separate groups that compare different treatments. Neither the researchers nor participants can choose which group participants are assigned to. Using chance to assign people means that the groups will be similar and the treatments they receive can be compared objectively.

Recommended Dietary Allowance is a dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of most healthy people.

The organs that are involved in breathing. These include the mouth, nose, throat (pharynx), voicebox (larynx), windpipe (trachea), air passages between the windpipe and lungs (bronchial tubes), and lungs. Also called the respiratory system.

A horizontal stem that grows shallowly underground. At nodes along the rhizome, below-ground roots and above-ground shoots grow into new plants. Rhizomes are often mistaken for roots. Examples include ginger, turmeric, lotus, strawberry.

Riboflavin (also Vitamin B2) is a vitamin that is needed for growth and overall good health. It helps your body break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to produce energy, and it allows oxygen to be used by your body. Riboflavin is needed by your body for growth, cell function, and to make energy from food. It works together with other B vitamins and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from free radical damage. Riboflavin is found in some foods, including liver, mushrooms, spinach and leafy green vegetables, milk and dairy products, eggs, whole grains, enriched breads and cereals, and lean meats.

A condition in children in which bones become soft and deformed because they don’t have enough calcium and phosphorus. It is caused by not having enough vitamin D in the diet or by not getting enough sunlight. In adults, this condition is called osteomalacia.

REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement. During REM sleep, the eyes move around rapidly in a range of directions but don't send any visual information to the brain. REM sleep stage sets in usually about 90 minutes after you fall asleep. During this stage, the brain activity increases, meaning sleep is not as deep. REM sleep is the stage where you will experience intense dreams.

A substance found in some plants. Saponins may help lower cholesterol and may have anticancer effects.

A method of gaining knowledge by making observations, proposing educated guesses (hypotheses) to explain the observations, and testing the hypotheses in ways that have reproducible results.

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) are found mainly in flaxseed and is one of the essential lignans. They have beneficial fatty acids and high fiber content, making flaxseed an important source of functional food. SDG offers several health benefits, including protective effects against cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and mental stress.

A mineral required in very small amounts to make important enzymes that are essential for good health. It plays a critical role in metabolism and thyroid function and helps protect your body from damage caused by oxidative stress. Selenium may help boost your immune system, slow age-related mental decline, and even reduce your risk of heart disease.

Sleep disorders are a group of conditions that affect the ability to sleep well on a regular basis. They cause a consistent disruption of the normal pattern of sleep.

"Latin name: Glycine max. Origin: Southeast Asia A plant that produces beans used in many food products. Soy products contain isoflavones (estrogen-like substances) that are being studied in the prevention of cancer, hot flashes that occur with menopause, and osteoporosis (loss of bone density). Also called soya and soybean. "

"Latin Name: Glycine max. Origin: China Soy lecithin is a mixture of phospholipids and oils derived from soybean oil. It contributes to raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol in your blood. Although it is generally used as an emulsifier, antioxidant and flavour protector in foods, it is commonly used in diets for cholesterol reduction. Choline is an essential nutrient found in Lecithin and is important for preventing organ dysfunction, fatty liver, and muscle damage. "

"Latin Name: Glycine max. Origin: China Soy isoflavones are polyphenols found in soy products. They interact with a type of estrogen (female hormoone) receptor involved in cognitive functions. Isoflavones are also considered phytoestrogens, meaning that they are similar in structure to the female hormone, estrogen, therefore assisting in preventing menopausal and premenstrual syndrome. Isoflavones are also considered anti-oxidant compounds. "

The name of a category that is part of the scientific classification of all organisms. The category species is located in the classification system after kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, and genus. Humans, for example, belong to the genus Homo and the species Homo sapiens.

Herbs are made up of active and inactive compounds. The medicinal parts of an herb, the parts that provide benefit to your body, are the active compounds. Since the quality (in terms of composition) of a whole plant can widely vary according to the environment where it grew, the climate, the harvesting period and so on. Therefore the process of standardization ensures that each time active compounds are extracted, it is done in a controlled and standardized process to be able to manufacture a consistent product. By consistent, we understand a finished product that will have reproducible composition.

Natural steroids are compounds that mimic the steroids that human bodies naturally produce, such as the hormones testosterone, progesterone, and cortisol. These are found in plants, herbs, and other natural sources that mimic human hormones or steroids. Natural steroids may carry fewer side effects than traditional anabolic steroids. These are compounds that build and repair muscle by increasing the production of testosterone. Some examples of natural steroids are Ashwagandha, Safed Musli, Ginseng, Zinc, Magnesium, DHEA, Gokhshru, and fenugreek.

Synthetic steroids are a man-made version of the hormones that are normally produced by the adrenal glands (2 small glands found above the kidneys.). When synthetic steroids are taken in doses higher than the amount your body normally produces, they reduce redness and swelling (inflammation). This can help with inflammatory conditions such as asthma and eczema. Synthetic steroids also reduce the activity of the immune system, which is your body's natural defense against illness and infection.

A substance that increases brain activity, alertness, attention, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and energy.

Superfoods are foods — mostly plant-based but also some fish and dairy — that are thought to be nutritionally dense and thus good for one's health. contain a variety of nutrients, such as antioxidants, which are thought to ward off cancer. They also have healthy fats, thought to prevent heart disease; fiber, thought to prevent diabetes and digestive problems; and phytochemicals — the chemicals in plants responsible for deep colors and smells, which can have numerous health benefits. Popular superfoods include, Blueberries, Kale, Beans, nuts, spirulina, salmon, chia seeds, Gojiberries, avocado, broccoli, eggs, walnuts

A dietary supplement is a product you take to supplement your diet. It contains one or more dietary ingredients such as vitamins; minerals; herbs or other botanicals; amino acids etc

Made by combining parts to make a whole, rather than occurring naturally; usually having to do with substances that are artificial or manufactured.

Slow-wave sleep (SWS) refers to phase 3 sleep, which is the deepest phase of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep

In case of formulations: synergistic effects are the effects when chemical substances or biological structures interact with each other resulting in producing an overall effect that is greater than the sum of the individual effects of any of them. Synergistic effects are the combined effects of 2 or more ingredients or substances making an impact that is significantly greater than either of them could have shown individually.

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme found in all living cells, which helps speed up certain chemical reactions within the body. They are generated naturally by the white blood cells in the body. Superoxide dismutase helps break down potentially harmful oxygen molecules in cells. This prevents damage to tissues.They constitute a very important antioxidant defense mechanism against oxidative stress in the body.

Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter that also acts as a hormone. It is often called your body’s natural “feel good” chemical. When serotonin is at normal levels, you feel more focused, emotionally stable, happier and calmer. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression. It also carries messages between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the body. Serotonin plays several roles in the body, including influencing learning, memory, regulating body temperature, sleep, sexual behavior and hunger. Serotonin is made from the essential amino acid tryptophan.

The beneficial response or outcome of a treatment or prevention measure.

Thiamin or Vitamin B1, is a water-soluble B vitamin that is needed by your body to turn food into energy, keep the nervous system healthy, and for cell and muscle function. Thiamin is found in some foods, including enriched breads and cereals, legumes, liver, nuts, pork, and whole grains.

A gland located in the front of the neck, below the larynx (Adam’s apple). The thyroid makes hormones that circulate in the bloodstream and affect brain development, metabolism, weight, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, nervous system functions, body temperature, muscle strength, skin dryness, menstrual cycles, and cholesterol levels.

Tryptophan is an amino acid needed for normal growth in infants and for the production and maintenance of the body's proteins, muscles, enzymes, and neurotransmitters. It is an essential amino acid. The body cannot produce it, so it must be received from your diet. Tryptophan is the necessary precursor of melatonin production and release.

A nonprofit authority in the United States that sets standards and certifies supplements that meet certain quality, strength, and purity standards, some of which are called the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Many supplements carry the USP symbol on their label.

"Latin name: Valeriana officinalis. Origin: Europe, parts of Asia and North America. The roots of this plant are used by some cultures as an ingredient in mild sedatives and sleep aids for nervous tension and insomnia. It is currently being studied in improving sleep in patients undergoing treatment for cancer."

A nutrient that your body needs in small amounts to function and maintain optimum health. Vitamins are naturally found in plants and animals and are vital to growth, energy, and nerve function. There are two types of vitamins used by your body to support health: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Examples are vitamins A, C, and E.

A general term for a group of compounds that includes provitamin A carotenoids (found in foods that come from plants) and retinol (preformed vitamin A found in foods that come from animals). your body can use retinol to make retinal and retinoic acid (other forms of vitamin A). Vitamin A plays an important role in vision, bone growth, reproduction, immunity, cell development, and skin health. Vitamin A is found in some foods, including eggs, liver, fortified milk, cheese, leafy green vegetables (such as spinach, kale, turnip greens, collards, and romaine lettuce), broccoli, dark orange fruits and vegetables (such as apricots, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, papaya, mango, and cantaloupe), and red bell pepper.

Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine is a water-soluble vitamin. It is involved in protein metabolism, is needed for the nervous system and immune system to work efficiently, and is needed to make hemoglobin (a molecule within red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues). It also helps maintain blood glucose (sugar) within a normal range.

Vitamin deficiency is the condition of a long-term lack of a vitamin. When caused by not enough vitamin intake it is classified as a primary deficiency, whereas when due to an underlying disorder such as malabsorption it is called a secondary deficiency. The symptoms of a vitamin deficiency are fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, weight loss, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, anemia, brittle nails, bleeding gums, etc.

Vitamin D, also called calciferol and fondly called the sunshine vitamin, is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in a few foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. It is also produced by your body when ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight strike the skin and trigger vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut and enables normal bone mineralization. It is also essential for strong bones and bone growth. Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin and brittle. Vitamin D sufficiency prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Together with calcium, vitamin D also helps protect older adults from osteoporosis. Vitamin D is found in some foods, including some types of fatty fish, and milk and breakfast cereals that are fortified with vitamin D.

Vitamin E, also called tocopherol, is a fat-soluble nutrient that is important for vision, reproduction, and the overall health of your blood, brain, and skin. It has high antioxidant properties and therefore aids to protect your cells from damage. This essential nutrient occurs naturally in many foods. Since it is fat-soluble, your body stores and uses it as needed. The term “vitamin E” describes eight different compounds. Alpha-tocopherol is the most active one in humans. A nutrient needed by your body to help keep the immune system healthy and to repair damage to DNA. Vitamin E is found in some foods, including vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, fortified breakfast cereals, and spinach, broccoli, kiwi, and mangos.

Refers to vitamins that are soluble in water like B-6, C, and folic acid and are easily absorbed by your body. Your body uses the vitamins it needs, then excretes excess water-soluble vitamins through urine. Because excess amounts of these vitamins are not stored in your body, there is less risk of toxicity than with fat-soluble vitamins but a greater risk of deficiency.

Withanolides are naturally occurring steroids and an active ingredient in ashwagandha plant. The most potent extractions of withanoloids are from the ashwagandha root. Ashwagandha's benefits work best when it includes a high concentration of withanolides, which research shows can have multiple benefits, including reducing anxiety and stress, helping fight depression, boosting fertility and testosterone in men, and even boosting brain function.

A mineral found in most cells of your body. It helps enzymes work properly, helps maintain a healthy immune system, helps maintain the senses of taste and smell, and is needed for wound healing, making DNA, and normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc is found in some foods, including oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, certain seafood, whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals, and dairy products.