Glossary - B
Back to Main Glossary

BALM OF GILEAD (POPULUS CANDICANS)

This herb is from the SALICACEA family. It is also known as Poplar Buds, Balsam Poplar, Mecca Balsam, Gileadensis, and Tacamahac. Balm of Gilead has the compound salicin in it, which is the same component that is in aspirin. Because of this, do not use this herb if you are allergic to aspirin. This herb also has other active compounds, such as gallic acid, tannins, and essential oils.

HISTORY: The Balm of Gilead has been used historically to reduce breast milk production following pregnancy.

INTERNAL USE: This herb can be taken as a capsule, tea, tincture or even as syrup. It is used to help bronchitis, coughs, laryngitis, sore throats, and tonsillitis.

EXTERNAL USE: Use this herb as a compress or poultice to help treat abscesses, arthritis, eczema, psoriasis and rheumatism.

(back to top)

BARBERRY (BERBERIS VULGARIS)

The Barberry plant can grow up to eight feet high and has red or black berries. The fruit is commonly used for making jam or jellies and pies. The root bark of the Barberry plant is used as a medicinal herb. Barberry is high in vitamin C, and contains iron, manganese and phosphorus. This herb also has chemical compounds in it such as arbutin, allantion and tannin. It is not recommended to use this herb if you have any heart diseases, or are pregnant. Barberry’s strength comes from a powerful alkaline component called Berberine, which also a strong alkaloid in Goldenseal.

HISTORY: Barberry is believed to have originated in Europe, but due to its popularity with humans, it is now grown through out North America. Barberry was used in ancient Europe to treat internal infections, stomach disorders and skin conditions.

INTERNAL USE: Use tea or tincture of Barberry to help bacterial infections, bladder stones, bowel problems, cystitis, diarrhea, E-Coli infections, heart burn, high blood pressure, jaundice, kidney stones, nephritis, swollen spleen, stimulation of bile from the liver and stomach problems. Barberry can also help the body by working as an anti-oxidant, which means it helps eliminate free radical electrons in the body. Because of its strong properties, pregnant or breast-feeding women should use caution in taking Barberry.

EXTERNAL USE: Use Barberry as an antiseptic on the surface of the skin to kill bacteria. It can also be used as a mouthwash or gargle to prevent bad breath and as a douche to help fight a vaginal infection.

(back to top)

BASIL (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

This annual herb is from the LAMIACEAE family. The name Basil is from the Greek word "Basileus" which means "King". Basil is also known as St. Joseph wort. At one time in history, this herb was praised more than the King! It is an annual plant, and has thin branchy roots. Basil can grow up to three feet high with flowers that vary widely in color. Basil is used for culinary taste, as well as for medicine. It contains vitamins A, D, and B2, as well as the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.

HISTORY: It is said that Basil can help increase one’s fortune and wealth. Many people believe that by putting a Basil leaf in their wallets, it will attract prosperity.

INTERNAL USE: Use basil to help prevent stomach cramps, gas and alleviate constipation problems.

EXTERNAL USE: A poultice of Basil leaves can help draw out insect, bee wasp, or snake venom. It can help cure acne, heal abrasions, cuts and give a person’s hair a high shine after it is used as a rinse.

(back to top)

BAY (LAURUS NOBILIS)

This Evergreen Tree is also known as Laurel. The leaves of this tree are used medicinally for it’s herbal properties. The Bay Tree has dark green oval leaves, small yellow flowers, and produces dark purple black fruit. It can grow up to fifty feet high, but most Bay Trees only grow a height of 20 feet.

HISTORY: The use of Bay leaves reaches back centuries. Bay leaves were used as a medicinal remedy as well as a cooking herb by different cultures around the world. . Bay Leaves can be found in many soups around the world, as well as in many meat dishes, such as roasts!

Although Bay leaves ad zeal to all foods, the Bay Leaves themselves should not be eaten!

INTERNAL USE: Bay Leaves may be used as a leaf infusion or tincture. This can help indigestion, poor appetite, induce menstruation and prevent gas. Since Bay leaves can induce menstruation, pregnant women should avoid using the Bay herb.

EXTERNAL USE: An infusion or tincture can be used to help heal bruises, sore joints and prevent dandruff when used as a hair rinse.

(back to top)

BAYBERRY (MYRICA CERIFERA)

The Bayberry herb is an extracted from the Bayberry tree’s bark and roots. Bayberry contains high amounts of vitamin C, and is used as a general blood tonic. The Bayberry tree can grow up to thirty-five feet high.

HISTORY: The Bayberry tree is supposed to bring prosperity and luck to the house it’s planted next to. This is why it is considered good luck to plant a Bayberry tree near your house.

INTERNAL USE: Bayberry extract can help to aid digestion, rejuvenate the adrenal glands, clears sinus passageways, increase blood flow, ward of colds and when combined with the herb Ginger, fight against Cholera. A Douche of Bayberry Tea can treat excessive menstrual bleeding, vaginal infections or a prolapsed Uterus.

EXTERNAL USE: A tea gargle of Bayberry can help sore or infected throats, as well as help stop bleeding gums.

(back to top)

BEARBERRY (ARCTOSTAPHYLOS UVA-URSI)

The herb Bearberry has red flowers and berries and is found around the world, primarily in colder regions. Bearberry contains the glycoside arbutin, which is a chemical compound that has the ability to eliminate bacteria in the Urinary Tract.

HISTORY: Bearberry was smoked with tobacco by many Native American tribes. It was also used as a tea in Northern Asia.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is often taken as a tea or in capsule form. It works well with other alkaline-based herbs or food to help clean out the stomach and intestines of bacteria infections.

(back to top)

BETH ROOT (TRILLIUM PENDULUM)

This perennial herb is also known as Birth Root. Beth root grows to just over a foot in height, has flowers of various colors, and produces red to pink colored fruit.

INTERNAL USE: Beth root can help bronchitis, coughs, diarrhea, hemorrhaging and insomnia. EXTERNAL USE: This herb can be used topically to help alleviate insect bites and stings, skin ulcers and surface tumors.

(back to top)

BILBERRY (VACCINIUM MYRTILLUS)

This plant is also known as Huckleberry or Blueberry. The fruit and leaves of this plant are used medicinally. This herb is commonly found in the colder environments of North America and Europe, where it’s fruit is eaten, and it’s fruit and leaves are used medicinally. The Bilberry plant grows up to a height of eighteen inches, and is found all over the world. The Bilberry plant contains a bioflavonoid complex called anthocyanoside. This compound works by helping rebuild connective tissues in the body, as well as working as an antioxidant in the body, stopping free radical damage.

HISTORY: many pilots, who claimed they could see an improvement in their eyesight after eating this herb, used Bilberry during World War II.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is used for diarrhea, kidney stones, scurvy and urinary infections.

(back to top)

BIOFLAVONOIDS

Hesperetin, hesperidin, eriodictyol, quercetin, quercetrin, rutin

NEEDED FOR:

• Enhanced absorption of vitamin C
• Treatment of athletic injuries due to relief of pain, bruises and bumps
• Reduced leg and muscle pain
• Healthy circulation
• Lower cholesterol levels
• Prevention and treatment of cataracts
• Quercetin
• May treat and prevent asthma symptoms
• Antihistamine qualities
• Lowers risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke
• Antioxidant affect against LDL cholesterol
• May help in preventing colon, ovarian, endometial, breast cancers, also leukemia
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Can be found in unfermented green tea, red wine, apples, onions, green peppers,tomatoes,and broccoli

SOURCES –

White material beneath the peel of citrus fruits, peppers, buckwheat, black currants, apricots, cherries, grapefruit, grapes, lemons, oranges, prunes

Herbs – chervil, elderberries, hawthorn berry, horsetail, rose hips, shepherd’s purse

SUPPLEMENTS –

Not produced in the body so must be supplied through diet or supplements; quercetin is found in blue-green algae and is available in supplement form.

(back to top)

BIOTIN

RDI – 300 mcg

NEEDED FOR –

• Cell growth
• Carbohydrate, fat, protein metabolism
• Healthy hair and skin

ALSO –

• May relieve muscle pain
• Used to treat "cradle cap" in infants
• Works with B-complex vitamins
• May restore weak/brittle nails
• Can help with hair loss

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

Possibly anemia, depression, hair loss, high blood sugar, inflammation of the skin, insomnia, loss of appetite, muscular pain, nausea, soreness of the tongue

DEFICIENCY RISK –

Most people not at risk because wound in many foods, however, biotin absorption is inhibited by diet high in egg whites along with prescription medications, alcohol abuse and anticonvulsant medications.

SOURCES –

Brewer’s yeast, cooked egg yolks, cheese, organ meats, nuts, royal jelly, milk, poultry, saltwater fish, soybeans, whole grains

SUPPLEMENTS –

Generally not needed; consult your doctor.

(back to top)

BIRCH (BETULA ALBA)

This herb is from the BETULACE family. Birch is also known as White Birch and Lady of the Woods. Birch has medicinal extractions made from its bark and leaves. Birch is high in vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2 and in the minerals calcium, chloride, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, silicon and fluoride. Birch also has the compounds betulinic acid, tannin, and glycosides. Since its chemical make up is very similar to natural aspirin, those who are allergic to aspirin should not use this Birch based herbs.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is usually taken as a tea or in capsule form. Birch helps arthritis, bladder problems, blood purifier, boils, gout, kidney stones and worms. It can also be used as a powder to brush teeth.

EXTERNAL USE: Use in an ointment form to treat acne, cuts, dandruff, eczema, psoriasis and wounds.

(back to top)

BLACKBERRY (RUBUS FRUCTICOSUS)

This herb is from the RUBUS family. The Blackberry plant is also known as Dewberry and European Blackberry. The leaves, rootbark, and berries of Blackberry are used medicinally, and contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 C, calcium, iron and chemical compounds called tannins. Blackberries are found growing wild in both North America and Europe.

HISTORY: This herb has been recorded as a remedy for treatment of diarrhea and gout in ancient Greece, as well as a popular food. Worldwide, this herb has been a favorite for centuries in the making of Jams, Jellies, Pies and many other foods.

INTERNAL USE: Use Blackberry as a tea or brandy to stop diarrhea, Dysentery, running noses, sinus problems, sore throats and wounds.

(back to top)

BLACK COHOSH (CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA)

This herb is from the ARISTOLOCHIA family. This herb is also known as Black Snakeroot, Rattle Root, SquawRoot and Bugbane. The root of the Black Cohosh plant is used medicinally, and contains vitamin A, inositol, B5 and large amounts of calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and silicon. Black Cohosh also contains chemical compounds such as estrogen, tannins, resins, starches and natural sugars. This plant is a native of North America where it grows in shady woods, growing up to three feet high with feathery white flowers. Its growing range extends from the United States up into Canada. Black Cohosh acts as a sedative on the central nervous system.

HISTORY: American Indian women used Black Cohosh for internal relief of pain from several different sources. headaches, snake bites, pelvis pain, uterine problems, pelvic conditions, pains and uterine troubles. They shared their medicinal knowledge with European Settlers who took Black Cohosh seeds back to Europe.

INTERNAL USE: Black Cohosh is used to help childbirth pains, coughs, diarrhea, high blood pressure, irregular menstrual cycles, uric acid accumulation, rattlesnake bites, rheumatism, tinnitis (ringing of the ears) whooping cough, and uterine problems. Care must be used in taking Black Cohosh, as an overdose will produce nausea, lowered pulse rate and vomiting.

EXTERNAL USE: Black Cohosh can be used to treat snakebites.

(back to top)

BLACK HAW (VIBURNUM PRUNIFOLIUM)

This tree is from the CAPRIFOLIACEAE family. It is also known as American Sloe, Nannybush, Stagbush and Sweet Biburnum. This tree can grow up to a height of twenty-five feet. The fruit, roots and bark of this plant are used medicinally. Black Haw contains vitamin C, and the chemical compounds amentoflavone, isovaerianic acid, aesculetine, salicin and essential Oils.

HISTORY: This herb was used during the 1700 and 1800’s by slaves to prevent miscarriages.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is taken as a tea, tincture or in capsule form. It is used for arthritis, asthma, diarrhea, dysentery, headaches, high blood pressure, morning sickness, rheumatism and hemorrhaging occurring during childbirth.

(back to top)

BLACK WALNUT (JUNLANS NIGRA)

The herbal compounds that Black Walnut offers to us is derived from the hulls and leaves of the tree. These compounds are rich in organic iodine-B15, calcium, iron, protein, potassium phosphorus, silica, and the chemical compounds juglone, ellagic acid and barium alkaloids. The ellagic acid provides a protective antidote to electrical shock, accidental electrocution and lightening mishaps!

HISTORY: This tree has been prized for centuries for its beautiful hard wood. The fruit of the tree has also been used as a source of food for many cultures around the world.

INTERNAL USE: This herb can help destroy intestinal parasites, fungal infections, dry milk from lactating women, restore tooth enamel, mouth sores and warts.

EXTERNAL USE: Use Black Walnut as a topical antiseptic for acne, eczema, herpes, poison oak, ringworm, skin parasites and other skin problems.

(back to top)

BLESSED THISTLE (CNICUS BENEDICTUS)

Blessed Thistle is also known as the herb Holy Thistle. Blessed Thistle contains vitamin B complex, calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus and potassium. This herb originated in Europe, but is now found commonly in Asia and North America.

HISTORY: It is believed that if Blessed Thistle is spread around your house, that good luck, peace and harmony will fill your life!

INTERNAL USE: Blessed Thistle is used as a general tonic to help blood circulation, cancer, constipation, food digestion, gas, gall bladder problems, increase appetite, liver diseases, menstrual cycle regulation, milk production in lactating women, strengthening internal organs (heart, lung, liver, kidneys) stimulant for the brain, and some menopausal problems.

(back to top)

BLOODROOT (SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS)

This herb gets its name from its bright blood-red colored root. It is this bright red root that is used medicinally.

HISTORY: In addition to its medicinal use, Bloodroot was also used by Native Americans as a source of red dye.

INTERNAL USE: Bloodroot is used to help treat arthritis, some cancers, coughs, rheumatism, and sore throats.

(back to top)

BLUEBERRY (VACCINIUM GLOBULARE)

This plant is from the VACCINIUM family. The Blueberry plant is also known as Huckleberry. The fruit and leaves of this herb are used medicinally. Blueberry plants originated from North America, but due to human transplanting, it can now be found in cooler locations worldwide. Blueberry contains vitamins A and C, as well as compounds such as natural sugars, tannin and anthrocyanosides. Blueberry is also used to make delicious pies, jams, jellies, and muffins.

HISTORY: The fruit and leaves of these plants were used by Native Americans for centuries as food sources as well as medicinally. The dried berries were often used as a source of food during winter months.

INTERNAL USE: Blueberry is used to stop diarrhea, help some forms of diabetes, improve eye health and sooth sore throats.

(back to top)

BLUE COHOSH (CAULOPHYLLUM THALICTROIDES)

Blue Cohosh is found though out North America and contains vitamins E and B complex. It also has the minerals calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and silicon. The roots of this blue flowering herb are used for medicinal purposes.

HISTORY: This herb has been used by Native American Indian tribes for centuries to help women with Menstrual problems.

INTERNAL USE: Blue Cohosh is used to ease childbirth pain, by increasing the elasticity of the uterus, and stimulating uterine contractions. Pregnant women should not use it, except during the final weeks of pregnancy.

(back to top)

BLUE VERVAIN

This herb contains vitamins C, E, the minerals calcium and manganese and a powerful glycoside called verbenalin. Verbenalin is a complex chemical compound which works on the sensory nerves leading to and from the brain.

INTERNAL USE: Blue Vervain acts as a mild sedative on the Central Nervous System. It calms the mind and induces restful sleep for insomniacs. It helps asthma, bronchitis, and also aids in promoting a sweat, stopping fevers, upset stomachs and expelling worms. EXTERNAL USE:

(back to top)

BORAGE (BORAGO OFFICINALIS)

This annual herb can grow up to 3 feet high, and has star shaped blue to pink flowers. The leaves, seeds and flowers of this herb are used medicinally. This herb is not recommended for use by women during their pregnancy.

INTERNAL USE: Borage can be taken as a tea or tincture. It is used to help depression, lower body temperature and alleviate menstrual cramps.

EXTERNAL USE: Use Borage topically to help sooth minor skin irritation and rashes.

(back to top)

BORON

Trace mineral

NEEDED FOR –

• Healthy bones
• Metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium
• Enhanced brain function and alertness

ALSO –

• Improves calcium absorption so may prevent osteoporosis
• May improve estrogen levels in older women
• Men have noticed increase in sexual desire with supplementation

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS–

• Decreased concentration and alertness, increased drowsiness, decreased response time

SOURCES–

• Apples, carrots, grapes, leafy vegetables, pears, grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, wine and beer

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Do not exceed 3 mg of supplement per day

(back to top)

BRIGHAM TEA

This perennial herb is also known as the Chinese herb "Ma Huang". This herb contains the vitamin B-12, and the minerals cobalt, copper, strontium and nickel. It also contains a compound called ephedrine, which is similar to the hormone adrenaline. This compound activates the Pituitary Gland, which conversely stimulates the Central nervous System and the heart. It also produces a slight anesthetic action on all body muscles and membranes. Unfortunately, as with most other substances, which act as a stimulant, there is a "crash" after its use. This is caused when the endocrine system is put into high gear and causes a potassium and sodium depletion. An intake of alfalfa and spirulina with carrot or celery juice will help replace the lost electrolytes. This herb is not recommended for every day use, but as an occasional "pick me up".

HISTORY:

INTERNAL USE: Use the leaves of this herb as a tea. It will provide an energy boost and a slight general anesthetic feeling over the body.

(back to top)

BUCHU

The leaves of this herb are used for its antiseptic properties. It has a very high sulfur content, which is easily smelled in its oils. It contains mucilage resigns, calcium oxalates and a volatile oil containing diosphenol.

INTERNAL USE: This herb helps stop diarrhea, infections in urinary tract, dissolve kidney stones, gas, stabilizes blood sugar levels and neutralizes uric acid build up in the body.

(back to top)

BUPLEURUM (BUPLERUM FALCATUM)

This herb is from the APIACEAE family. Bupleurum is also known as Hare’s Ear Root, Chai-Hu and Chinese Thoroughwax. The root of this herb is used medicinally. The power of Bupleurum comes from its constituent components, which include several glycosides, saponins, flavonoids and a compound called bupleuromol.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is usually taken in capsule form. It is used to treat asthma, gas, fever, hemorrhoids, hepatitis, malaria and PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome).

(back to top)

BURDOCK (ARCTIUM LAPPA)

This herb is from the COMPOSITAE family. Burdock is also known as Great Burdock, Lappa, Fox’s Clote, Thorny Burr, Beggar’s Buttons, Cockle Button, Love Leaves, Philanthropium, Personata, Happy Major and Clot-Bur.The root of Burdock is used medicinally because it contains insulin, mucilage, sugar, lappin resin, fixed and volatile oils, and some tannic acid. It also has vitamins A, B complex, E, P, and the minerals copper, lappin, potassium, silicon, sulfur, mucilage, volatile oils, tannic acid and zinc. It is a lackluster green colored plant growing up to four feet high. Burdock has purple flowers and has large, foot long, heart shaped leaves.

HISTORY: Many American Indian tribes, including the: Iroquois, Hoh, Quileute, Micmac, Potawatomi, Ojibwe and Chippewa Indians used this herbal plant as a food source and a medicine. They dried the roots for winter food, and ate the cooked young leaves during harvest. These and other Indian tribes used Burdock tea’s and poultices to help treat injured and sick members of their tribes.

INTERNAL USE: Burdock can be taken as a tincture, capsule or in a dried powder form. This herb is one of the best blood purifiers that exist. Use this herb to help arthritis, calfication deposits, eczema, gout, measles, psoriasis, sciatica, skin diseases, uric acid build up, and help fight existing AIDS’s cases. It can also be used as a diuretic, and to help the health of the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands. Burdock is often used with Yellow Dock and Sarsaparilla herbs.

EXTERNAL USE: Leaf poultices of Burdock have been used for backaches, bee stings, boils, cuts, sores, skin disorders, ulcers and rheumatism. Many of today’s shampoo’s, conditioners, hair and scalp tonic treatments are made from extracts of Burdock Root, nettles and Sage.

(back to top)

VITAMIN B1

Thiamin

RDA – 1.5 mg

NEEDED FOR –

• Conversion of carbohydrates to energy
• Healthy brain and nervous system function
• Heart muscle flexibility – healthy heartbeat
• Muscle function of the stomach, intestine and heart

ALSO –

• Enhances circulation and blood formation
• Important for proper digestion
• Has positive effect on energy, growth, normal appetite and learning capacity
• Has antioxidant properties to protect from aging, alcohol consumption and smoking

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

Beriberi, disease of nervous system, caused by thiamin deficiency; constipation, enlarged liver, fatigue, forgetfulness, gastrointestinal disturbances, tiredness, heart changes, irritability, labored breathing, loss of appetite, muscle atropy, canker sores, nervousness, depression, numbness of the hands and feet, pain and sensitivity, poor coordination, tingling sensations, weak and sore muscles, general weakness and severe weight loss.

DEFICIENCY RISK –

• Alcohol abuse, chronic infection, frequent dieting/fasting, pregnant/breastfeeding women, diabetics, elderly men and women

SOURCES –

• Brown rice, bagels, egg yolks, fish, legumes, liver, peanuts, peas, pasta, pork, poultry, rice bran, wheat germ, pasta, whole grains, asparagus, brewer’s yeast, broccoli, cereals, Brussels sprouts, dulse, kelp, nuts, oatmeal, oranges, cauliflower, potatoes, plums, dried prunes, raisins, spirulina, watercress
• Herbs- alfalfa, bladderwrack, burdock root, catnip, cayenne, chamomile, chickweed, eyebright, fennel seed, fenugreek, hops, nettle, oat straw, parsley, peppermint, raspberry leaf, red clover, rose hips, sage, yarrow, yellow dock

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Best to supplement with all B complex vitamins at once; thiamin hydrochloride is form available in most over-the-counter formulas

(back to top)

VITAMIN B2 RIBOFLAVIN

RDA – 1.7 mg

NEEDED FOR –

• Red blood cell formation
• Antibody production
• Cell respiration and growth
• Metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins
• Energy release within cells

ALSO –

• Helps strengthen immune system by keeping digesting and respiratory linings healthy
• Supports nerve, skin, nail, eye health
• May help improve memory
• Can limit cell damage of stroke or heart attack
• Supports treatment of sickle cell anemia
• Used to treat migraines

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

• Cracks/sores on mouth, eye disorders, anemia, inflammation of the mouth and tongue, skin lesions, scaly skin, dizziness, hair loss, insomnia, light sensitivity, poor digestion, retarded growth, slowed mental response

DEFICIENCY RISK –

• Strict vegetarians and lactose intolerant persons may not gain dietary amounts; athletes, pregnant/breastfeeding women, persons taking tricyclic antidepressants, elderly men and women

SOURCES –

• Cheese, egg yolks, fish, legumes, meat, milk, poultry, spinach, whole grains, yogurt, asparagus, avocados, broccoli, brussels sprouts, currants, dandelion greens, dulse, kelp, leafy greens, mushrooms, molasses, nuts, watercress, enriched flour
• Herbs – alfalfa, bladderwrack, burdock root, catnip, cayenne, chamomile, chickweed, eyebright, fennel seed, fenugreek, ginseng, hops, horsetail, mullein, nettle, oat straw, parley, peppermint, raspberry leaves, red clover, rose hips, sage and yellow dock

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Generally not needed because of food content; multivitamins normally contains the RDA, or take a B-complex supplement because B vitamins work together; be sure to take Riboflavin with a meal for better absorption; no toxicity

OTHER –

• Use of oral contraceptives and strenuous exercise increase body’s need for Riboflavin; destroyed easily by light, antibiotics and alcohol

(back to top)

VITAMIN B3 NIACIN/NIACINAMIDE

RDA- 20 mg

NIACIN CAN PREVENT –

Heart disease & high cholesterol by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, raising HDL(good) cholesterol levels, lowering triglycerides amounts in the bloodstream; also helps prevent clotting that leads to strokes and heart attacks

ALSO –

• Is essential in 50 bodily processes
• Needed for proper circulation and healthy skin
• Aids in functioning of nervous system
• Affects metabolism of carbohydrates, fat, proteins to energy
• Produces hydrochloric acid for digestive system
• Involved in normal secretion of bile and stomach fluids
• Lowers cholesterol
• Improves circulation
• Can be helpful in treatment of schizophrenia
• Can be a memory-enhancer
• May be used to treat dizziness and tinnitus
• Important for healthy skin and nervous system

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

• Pellagra, canker sores, dementia, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, halitosis, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, limb pains, loss of appetite, low blood sugar, muscular weakness, skin eruptions and inflammation

DEFICIENCY RISK –

• Strict vegetarians/vegans, alcohol abuse, if low on Niacin, usually low on all B vitamins from poor diet

SOURCES -

• Beef liver, turkey, brewer’s yeast, broccoli, carrots, cheese, corn flour, dandelion greens, dates, eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, pork, potatoes, tomatoes, wheat germ, whole wheat products.
• Herbs- alfalfa, burdock root, catnip, cayenne, chamomile, chickweed, eyebright, fennel seed, hops, licorice, mullein, nettle, oat straw, parsley, peppermint, raspberry leaf, red clover, rose hips, slippery elm, yellow dock

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Skin flush normally appears after supplementation; Only Niacin will provide heart/cardiovascular benefits; body does not need a great deal – supplements of more than 500 mg can have detrimental side effects resulting in liver damage; consult your doctor before supplementing with Vitamin B3, Niacin or Niacinamide.

(back to top)

VITAMIN B5, PANTETHINE, PANTOTHENIC ACID

RDA – 10 mg

CAN PREVENT –

• Certain forms of anemia
• Heart and artery disease - Pantethine lowers triglycerides and LDL cholesterol and raises HDL with no side effects; helps heart and arteries by supporting enzymes that break down fat; increases omega-3 fatty acids and reduces clot-promoting fats in cell membranes; raises Coenzyme A to increase metabolism in the heart and strengthen heart contractions and slow heart rate.

ALSO –

• Needed to make hormones and healthy blood cells
• Known as "anti-stress" vitamin due to its role in the production of adrenaline
• Helps convert fats, carbohydrates and proteins into energy
• Required by all cells in the body and is concentrated in organs
• Enhances stamina
• Needed for normal intestinal function
• Can be used in treating depression and anxiety
• Involved in production of neurotransmitters
• Can have anti-inflammatory effects used to treat arthritis and colitis
• Pantethine helps beneficial bacteria grow in intestines

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

• Fatigue headache, nausea and tingling in the hands

SOURCES –

• Beef, brewer’s yeast, eggs, fresh vegetables, kidney, legumes, liver, mushrooms, nuts, pork, royal jelly, saltwater fish, torula yeast, whole rye flour, whole wheat

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Pantethine can be most effective in treating high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease; Pantothenic acid helps convert fats and carbohydrates to energy; consult your doctor for supplement advice

OTHER –

• Deficiency is very rare because B5 is found in almost every food; be sure to supplement all B-complex vitamins in balance with each other for best results

(back to top)

VITAMIN B6 PYRIDOXINE

RDA – 2 mg

CAN PREVENT –

• Blood clots
• Growth of melanoma
• Depression
• Calcium oxalate kidney stones (with magnesium)
• Eye damage and vision loss

ALSO –

• Can affect physical and mental health
• Necessary for production of hydrochloric acid and absorption of fats and protein
• Aids in maintaining sodium and potassium balance
• Promotes red blood cell formation

Required by the nervous system, needed for normal brain function and for the synthesisof nucleic acids RNA, DNA, which contain genetic instructions for the reproduction of all cells and for normal cellular growth. Affects immune system function and antibody production

• Supports cancer immunity
• Can prevent arteriosclerosis
• Inhibits production of homosysteine – high levels linked to heart disease
• Can reduce PMS symptoms
• Can help in treating allergies, arthritis, asthma
• Vital for manufacturing prostaglandins which are responsible for dilating blood vessels and opening bronchial passages to help asthma sufferers Can stabilize blood sugar
• Encourages cells to metabolize blood glucose
• Helps control blood sugar
• Acts as a diuretic reducing water retention to lower blood pressure
• Can be beneficial in treatment for uterine fibroids, endometriosis or fibrocystic breast disease
• Has been used in treatment for sleep disorders and carpal tunnel syndrome

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

• Anemia, convulsions, headaches, nausea, flaky skin, sore tongue, vomiting – possibly acne, anorexia, arthritis, conjunctivitis, cracks or sores on the mouth and lips, depression, dizziness, fatigue, hyperirritability, impaired wound healing, inflammation of the mouth and gums, learning difficulties, weak memory, hair loss, hearing problems, numbness, oily facial skin, stunted growth, tingling sensations, carpal tunnel syndrome

DEFICIENCY RISK –

• Take prescription medications, alcohol abuse, smokers, strict vegetarians, pregnant/breast-feeding women, persons taking prescription medications

SOURCES –

• Brewer’s yeast, carrots, chicken, eggs, fish, pork, beef, dairy products, peas, spinach, sunflower seeds, walnuts, wheat germ, avocados, bananas, beans, blackstrap molasses, broccoli, brown rice, whole grains, cabbage, cantaloupe, corn, dulse, plantains, potatoes, rice bran, soybeans
• Herbs- alfalfa, catnip, oat straw

SUPPLEMENTS –

• Can be toxic at high levels (above 200 mg in some cases); recommended amount is 50 mg daily; overdose could cause neurological problems; always supplement B-vitamins with each other to maintain healthy balance

OTHER -

• Antidepressants, estrogen therapy, oral contraceptives may increase B6 needs; diuretics and cortisone drugs block absorption of vitamin by the body

(back to top)

VITAMIN B12, COBALAMINE

RDA – 6 mcg

CAN PREVENT –

• Nerve damage
• Blood vessel damage
• Heart Disease – lowers homocysteine levels that increase risk of heart disease and stroke

ALSO –

• Used to treat anemia
• Aids folic acid in regulating formation of red blood cells
• Also needed to make white blood cells to strengthen immune system
• Helps utilize iron
• Needed for proper digestion, absorption of foods, synthesis of protein
• Contributes to metabolism of carbohydrates and fats
• Aids in cell formation and cellular longevity
• Can prevent nerve damage
• Essential in male and female fertility
• Strengthens lining of nerve cells that can inhibit mental function
• Linked to production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that assists memory and learning
• Can be used in relief of asthma, bursitis, depression, low BP, multiple sclerosis and mental disorders
• Helps relieve sleeping problems by aiding in production of melatonin
• Works with pyridoxine and folic acid to converts carbohydrates, fat and proteins to energy

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS –

• Early signs of deficiency include: tingling in hands/feet, memory loss, moodiness/depression, dizziness, dementia, problems sleeping. Also can cause abnormal gait, chronic fatigue, constipation, depression, digestive disorders, hypersensitive skin, dizziness, drowsiness, enlargement of the liver, eye disorders, hallucinations, headaches, inflammation of the tongue, irritability, labored breathing, memory loss, moodiness, nervousness, neurological damage, palpitations, pernicious anemia, ringing the ears, spinal cord degeneration

DEFICIENCY RISK –

• The elderly and those with digestive disorders due to malabsorption, strict vegetarians, pregnant/breast feeding women, smokers

SOURCES –

• Brewer’s yeast, clams, eggs, herring, kidney, liver, mack

(back to top)