Zrii -- Ayurveda Science

Nutritional Science Definitions

Adaptogens: A class of botanicals attributed with having the property of 'adapting' to various stress levels within individuals through increasing the body's resistance to stress, trauma, anxiety and fatigue. The term was coined in 1968 and referred to a class of 14 botanicals originally studied. This list included Tulsi and Schizandra. Since that time, at least another 10 botanicals have been added to this classification, including the Amalaki fruit.

Antioxidant: Chemical compounds that can bind to free oxygen radicals preventing these radicals from damaging healthy cells. Ascorbigen A tannic acid creating a bound form of ascorbic acid which provides a protective barrier for the Vitamin C. Biochemical Nutrition: The study of the chemical substances and vital processes occurring in living organisms in relation to food and nutrition. Bioflavanoid A large class of antioxidants deriving from compounds abundant in the pulp and rinds of citrus fruits and other foods containing vitamin C. Naturally present in the Amalaki Fruit.

Curcuminoids: A group of polyphenols found in turmeric that have been widely studied for several health benefits. Detoxifying Agent: An agent that aids in the removal of toxic substances from the body. According to Ayurvedic Medicine, Amalaki, Haritaki, Ginger, are Turmeric are considered mild detoxifying agents.

Ellagic Acid: A primary constituent of several tannin bearing plants which produce tannins known as Gallotannins. Ellagic acid is currently being studied for a number of health benefits. Amalaki is one of the most concentrated sources of this acid. Emblicanin A+B: A type of antioxidant found in the Amalaki fruit. Unlike many antioxidants, Emblicanin A+B utilize a multilevel cascade of antioxidant compounds resulting in a prolongation of its antioxidant capabilities.

Gallic Acid: A type of polyphenol/tannin found in several fruits and vegetables associated with health benefits. Naturally present in the Amalaki fruit.

Homeostasis: The ability of an organism or cell to maintain internal equilibrium by adjusting its physiological processes. Metabolic Enhancer: An agent that enhances the chemical processes occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for the maintenance of life. During metabolism, some substances are broken down to yield energy for vital processes while other substances are synthesized.

PhytoNutrient: A general term referring to a wide range of health-promoting chemicals from the plant kingdom. Phytochemicals include carotenoids, polyphenols, and saponins that have strong antioxidant effects.

Polyphenol: A group of chemical substances found in plants that are characterized by the presence of more than one phenol group per molecule and have been shown to have antioxidant properties. Gallic and Ellagic Acids are types of polyphenols found in the Amalaki fruit.

Quercetin: A bioflavonoid that has strong antioxidant properties and other health benefits: it has been shown to inhibit platelet formation and have anti-inflammatory properties. Naturally present in the Amalaki fruit.

Rutin: A bioflavonoid shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as, to assist vitamin C uptake in the body. Naturally present in the Amalaki Fruit.

Tannins: Astringent polyphenols found in the seeds and stems of grapes, the bark of some trees and in tea and other fruits. Naturally present in the Amalaki fruit and other botanicals.

Thermogenic: The generation or production of heat, especially by physiological processes. Botanicals such as ginger and tulsi have been shown to have a thermogenic effect on the physiology.