MDidea Extracts Professional:Online Support:General Glossary A




	5-alpha dihydrotestosterone (5AD) see "Dihydrotestosterone(DHT)".



	AA see "Alopecia Areata".



	AAS see "Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids".



	Abduction Movement of a limb away from middle axis of the body, such as extending arms outward at shoulder height from a hanging-down position..



	abiotic factors Physical environmental factors (i.e. water, temperature, soil, light) that influence the composition and growth of an ecosystem..



	Abortifacient Induces the premature abortion of the fetus. Example: pennyroyal, aloe, sandalwood.



	Abs Slang for abdominal muscles..



	Absolute Strength Developed through heavy weight training, typically involving above the 80-85% of maximum effort for each lift. Its 3 components are concentric, eccentric and static strength. No ergogenic aids (e.g., drugs, therapies or nutritional products) are used in training for absolute strength, whereas such ergogens are used to acquire limit strength. 1.Concentric strength refers to the one-rep maximum for a movement 2.Eccentric is the one-rep maximum lowering a weight under control (usually 40% more than concentric) 3.Static is the maximum holding strength in a given position (20% more than concentric) .



	Acclimation A program undertaken to induce acclimatisation to new environmental conditions such as changes in temperature or altitude.



	Acclimatisation The body's gradual adaptation to a changed environment, such as higher temperatures or lower pressures (from high altitude).



	Accommodating Resistance A weight training machine which, through the use of air, fluid or clutch plates in tandem with a flywheel, controls the speed with which you are able to move. By controlling speed, the exertion you are able to deliver is always at maximum throughout the entire range of motion of an exercise. This technology is very useful during rehabilitation, when injuries are present, and also in sports training for speed-strength. (See Isokinetic Resistance, Variable Resistance and Constant Resistance.).



	Acetyl CoA, Acetyl Coenzyme A Condensation product of coenzyme A and acetic acid. Acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA) is a chief precursor of lipids. It is formed by an acetyl group attaching itself to coenzyme A (CoA) during the oxidation of amino acids, fatty acids, or pyruvate.



	Acid-Base Balance The acid-base balance refers to the condition in which the pH of the blood is kept at a constant level of 7.35 to 7.45. The acidity of blood is kept from becoming too acidic or alkaline through respiration, buffers, and work done by the kidney.



	Accumbent Lying against, facing, or extending up something. Contrast DECUMBENT.



	acetylcholine ester of choline and acetic acid, widespread in the body; functions as a neurotransmitter at synapses and neuromuscular junctions.



	Acetylcholinesterase enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of acetylcholine, thus inactivating it. An enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft (the space between two nerve cells) so the next nerve impulse can be transmitted across the synaptic gap. Pesticides of the organophosphate and carbamate types act to paralyze and kill insects by inhibiting their acetylcholinesterase. Abbreviated AChE. Definition of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) :An enzyme present in various tissues, including muscle and red cells, that breaks down acetylcholine (a chemical released by nerves that activates muscle contractions) and helps to maintain proper transmission of impulses between nerve cells and between nerve cells and muscles; also called true cholinesterase. Measuring acetylcholinesterase in amniotic fluid may help confirm a suspected neural tube defect in the fetus.



	AChE Abbreviation for acetylcholinesterase.



	AChE Inhibitors(AChEIs,acetylcholinesterase inhibitors) agents that inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, have been the mainstays of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) therapy.Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common cause of dementia with effects on cognition, mood, behavior, and function. Changes in the acetylcholine system have been reported in brains of patients with DLB, which provides a rationale for trials of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in DLB. They work by increasing acetylcholine concentrations, and thus their availability for synaptic transmission. Previously marketed agents in this class, in the U.S. and Europe, include tacrine (Cognex, Parke Davis), donepezil (Aricept, Pfizer), and rivastigmine (Exelon, Novartis). In clinical trials, most of these products were shown to improve cognitive function modestly and to have acceptable tolerability profiles. The exception is tacrine, which is rarely used because of its potential to induce severe hepatic complications.Unfortunately, the current therapies for AD are only symptomatic and do not halt the progression of the disease. Nonetheless, these agents are the only compounds approved for the treatment of AD; therefore, the development of newer agents that are designed to be more effective and have fewer side effects is a high priority.



	acne an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of the skin characterized by comedones (blackheads), papules, and pustules. Most common type is acne vulgaris, but approximately 20 subtypes are recognized.



	Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) the syndrome of opportunistic infections that occur as the final stage of infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The virus attaches to the CD4 receptor on T lymphocytes, causing their destruction and a progressive loss of immune function.



	Acromegaly Acromegaly is a chronic pituitary gland disorder developing in adult life characterised by increased massiveness of the bones, organs and other body parts and elongation and enlargement of the bones..



	Actin Actin is one of the fibrous protein constituents of the protein complex actomyosin. It is a protein which, when combined with myosin forms actomyosin, the contractile constituent of muscle..



	active transport movement by a cell membrane of molecules against a concentration or electrochemical gradient. Requires metabolic work. Most amino acids, some sugars, and various ions are actively transported.



	Actomyosin Actomyosin is the system involved in muscle contraction and relaxation which is composed of actin and myosin protein filaments..



	acuminate conical or pointed.



	acupuncture Technique for treating some painful conditions and for regional anesthesia by passing long thin needles through the skin to specific points.



	Acute Sudden, short-term, sharp or severe. cf. Chronic..(Acute condition - having a short and relatively severe course)



	Adaptation a condition or character which afford fitness to a species in a particular environment;The adjustment of the body (or mind) to achieve a greater degree of fitness to its environment. Adaptations are more persistent than an immediate response to the new stimuli of the environment. cf. response.A specific structure or behavior that helps an organism survive and reproduce in a particular environment; the process that enables organisms to become better suited to their environment.



	Adaptogen(adaptogens) a substance that increases resistance to stress and balances and normalizes bodily functions.Herbs that help us adapt to stress by supporting the adrenal glands, the endocrine system, and the whole person. These herbs have immune system enhancers which help the body adjust to change, regulate stress and restore natural immune resistance. Herbs which are used for this purpose include ashwagandha,echinacea, garlic, gingo biloba, ginseng,nettle leaf, sarsaparilla, licorice root,goldenseal, pau d'arco and suma



	Added Calcium(Products Claims / Positioning) a product is classified as having added calcium if it carries an on-pack claim referring to added or extra calcium; when this is selected Vitamin/Mineral Fortified is also selected; excludes items that are naturally rich in calcium..



	Added Fiber(Products Claims / Positioning) a product is classified as having added fiber if it carries an on-pack claim referring to added or extra fiber; excludes items that are naturally rich in fibre (e.g. a breakfast muesli)..



	Addiction as criminal matter;as disease;iatrogenic;treatment;addicts,clinics,perception of;self-image.



	Additives Substances other than a foodstuff present in food as a result of production, processing, storage or packaging. Examples: preservatives, colouring, thickeners (gums), excipients and binders..



	Adduction Movement of a limb toward middle axis of the body. Returning arms to the side from extended position at shoulders..



	adenine 6-aminopurine, one of the two purine bases of DNA and RNA..



	adenocarcinoma a malignant adenoma arising from a glandular organ. Adenomas are neoplasms of glandular epithelia.



	Adenosine monophosphate(AMP) organic compound composed of an adenine base, the sugar ribose, and one phosphate unit. AMP is one of the possible products of the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and is therefore important in the transfer of chemical energy during anabolism. Cyclic AMP, a very close structural relative of AMP containing an additional ester linkage between the phosphate and ribose units, can act as a secondary messenger for several hormones. It also plays a role in the transcription of some genes.



	Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) The body's energiser, an organic compound present in muscle fibres that is broken down through a variety of enzymatic processes. The resultant spark of energy released stimulates hundreds of microscopic filaments within each cell, triggering muscle contraction.The organic compound found in muscle which, upon being broken down enzymatically, yields energy for muscle contraction. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a coenzyme of vast importance in the transfer of chemical energy derived from biochemical oxidations. Other nucleotides (formed from uracil, cytosine, guanine, and inosine) have also been found to act as coenzymes. For example, uridine triphosphate—a derivative of uracil—has been demonstrated to be of great importance in the metabolism of carbohydrates, as in the biosynthesis of glycogen and sucrose. adenosine triphosphate (ATP),organic compound composed of adenine, the sugar ribose, and three phosphate groups. ATP serves as the major energy source within the cell to drive a number of biological processes such as photosynthesis, muscle contraction, and the synthesis of proteins. It is broken down by hydrolysis to yield adenosine diphosphate (ADP), inorganic phosphorus, and energy. ADP can be further broken down to yield adenosine monophosphate (AMP), additional phosphorus, and more energy. When the phosphorus and energy are immediately used to drive other reactions, such as the synthesis of uridine diphosphate (UDP), an RNA precursor, from uridine monophosphate (UMP), the pair of reactions are said to be coupled. New ATP is produced from AMP using the energy released from the breakdown of fuel molecules, such as fats and sugars. Extracellularly, ATP has been found to act as a neurotransmitter. ATP receptors are widespread through the body. On its own it is known to have effects in the arteries, intestines, lungs, and bladder. It is also often released in tandem with other neurotransmitters, perhaps to add chemical stability. See phosphorylation.



	Adherence Sticking to something. Used to describe a person's continuation in an exercise program. cf. compliance..



	adhesin a protein on the cell surface of some bacteria that causes cellular aggregation;Fibrous tissue holding muscles or other parts together that have been altered or damaged through trauma.



	Adipose Tissue Fat tissue.



	adjuvant that which assists, esp. a drug added to a prescription to hasten or increase the action of the principal ingredient.



	ADP adenosine diphosphate (ADP),see "adenosine triphosphate (ATP)'.ADP can be further broken down to yield adenosine monophosphate (AMP), additional phosphorus, and more energy.



	ADPR American Druggist and Pharmaceutical Record.



	adrenergic term applied to nerve fibers that release epinephrine when stimulated. Includes nearly all sympathetic postganglionic fibers except those innervating the sweat glands.



	Adventitious Root Root that forms on a stem or leaf after it has been cut and planted. In some cases, the cutting is treated with rooting hormone.



	Avisory Council on the Mususe of Drugs (ACMD) Avisory Council on the Mususe of Drugs.



	Aerobic Using oxygen..Any process that requires oxygen.



	Aerobic Activities Activities using large muscle groups at moderate intensities that permit the body to use oxygen to supply energy and to maintain a steady state for more than a few minutes. cf. steady state..



	Aerobic Endurance The ability to continue aerobic activity over a period of time..



	Aerobic Exercise Activities in which oxygen from the blood is required to fuel the energy-producing mechanisms of muscle fibres. Examples are running, cycling and skiing over distance. Aerobic means "with oxygen"..



	Aerobic Power maximal oxygen uptake,The highest rate of oxygen consumption of which a person is capable. Usually expressed in millilitres of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute. Also called maximal aerobic power, maximal oxygen consumption, maximal oxygen intake. cf. o(V,.)O₂ max..



	Aerobic Strength Endurance Force produced footfall-per footfall (or movement-per-movement) in the face of massive oxygen debt, such as that incurred in long distance training or competition (see cardiovascular/ cardiorespiratory endurance). While many factors contribute to aerobic strength endurance, there are at least 9 critical components: 1.Cardiovascular Endurance relates to the efficiency in getting oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood to the working muscles, and "spent" blood back to the heart. 2.Cardiorespiratory Endurance involves the efficiency of the "loop" where the blood goes from the heart to the lungs, gets rid of water and carbon dioxide, picks up oxygen, and returns to the heart for delivery to the body. 3.Max VO2 Uptake: Maximum Volume of Oxygen Taken up by the working muscles, expressed in millilitres of oxygen per kilogram of bodyweight per minute (ml/kg/min). 4.Stroke Volume: The volume of blood pushed out of the left ventricle with each beat. 5.Ejection Fraction: The percentage of the total volume of blood in the left ventricle that's pushed out with each beat. 6.Heart Rate: The number of times your heart beats during each minute. 7.Willingness to endure pain (especially from lactic acid accumulation). 8.Skill (at running, etc.) 9.Total Body Limit Strength: The 8 factors above being equal, the strongest will win.



	afferent carrying impulses toward a center, as in sensory nerves conveying a signal to the brain; also applied to certain veins and lymphatics. Oppsite of efferent..



	AGA see "Androgenetic alopecia".



	Age (Products Claims / Positioning) where appropriate, products are classified according to age group of target market: Babies & Toddlers (0-4), Children (5-12), Teenagers (13-17), Young Adults (18-25), Adults (25-55), Seniors (aged 55+).



	aglycone the non-carbohydrate portion of a glycoside.



	Agonist A muscle which directly engages in an action around a joint which has another muscle that can provide an opposing action (antagonist).



	agonists in pharmacology, a drug which binds to the receptor and stimulates the receptor’s function. Agonists often mimic the body’s own regulatory functions.



	agranolucytosis acute disease characterized by a deficit or absolute lack of granulocytic white blood cells (neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils); Syn.: granulocytopenia.



	agriculture The science or process of farming or cultivating the soil for the production of plants and animals that will be useful to humans in some way..



	Ague Malarial or intermittent fever.



	AIDS see Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.



	AIDSHCS AIDS historical consciousness surrounding.



	alanine aminotransferase (ALT) current term for serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). Present in high concentrations in muscle, liver, and brain. Elevated levels of this enzyme in blood are indicative of possible disease or necrosis in these tissues.



	Albumin Albumin is a type of simple protein widely distributed throughout the tissues and fluids of plants and animals. Varieties of albumin are found in blood, milk, egg white, wheat, barley and muscle..



	alcoholism alcoholism,treatment..



	alderfly An aquatic macroinvertebrate of the order Megaloptera. Alderfly larvae have projections or filaments, but no wings. They are somewhat sensitive to pollution.



	Aldosterone Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid which functions as the primary electrolyte-regulatory steroid hormone. It is secreted by the adrenal cortex..



	aliphatic class of organic compounds characterized by open chains of carbon atoms rather than by rings; the latter class is termed aromatic.



	Alexipharmic A medicine neutralising a poison.



	algae Varied aquatic protists, or phytoplankton, that lack vascular tissue, and are usually photosynthetic..



	algal bloom An explosive population increase in algae that occurs when large amounts of phosphates and/or nitrates enter a body of water in the presence of warm temperatures..



	Alien a non-native species, especially one introduced to some part of the world through human action.



	alkaline phosphatase (ALP) phosphatases are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphoric acid esters. alkaline phosphatase has an optimum pH of about 9 and functions in the mineralization of bone. It is also elevated in diseases of pancreas, lung, and bone, and in some malignancies.



	alkaloid naturally-occurring nitrogen-containing compounds usu. having heterocyclic structures and displaying pharmacological activity. Alkaloids are usually classed according to the chemical structure of their main nucleus, e.g. indole alkaloids, isoquinoline alkaloids, etc.



	alkylamide an aliphatic organic compound (alkane or alkene) having an amide substituent.



	All Natural (Products Claims / Positioning) a product is classified as "all natural" where it carries a prominent on-pack claim to that effect, and/or states that it is "made from natural ingredients", etc.



	Allergen A substance that causes an allergy or hypersensitivity.



	allergy an acquired, abnormal immune response to a substance (allergen) that does not normally cause a reaction. Requires sensitization through initial contact with the allergen; subsequent exposure can lead to a wide variety of inflammatory responses.



	allopathy 1. system of treating disease by inducing a pathologic reaction that is antagonistic to the disease. 2. a term erroneously applied to the practice of regular medicine to distinguish it from homeopathy.



	alopecia absence or loss of hair, esp. of the head.see "Alopecia Areata"



	Alopecia Areata:(AA) Generally thought to be an autoimmune disorder. Causes "patchy" hair loss, often in small circular areas in different areas of the scalp. A sudden loss of hair in round irregular patches, where the scalp is not visibly inflamed. This type of hair loss occurs in individuals who have no obvious skin disorders or serious disease. The cause is unknown, but may be related to stress or auto-immune disease. Alopecia Areata may be confined to a few areas of the scalp and is often reversed in a few months. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, an estimated four million men, women and children suffer from this type of hair loss.



	Alopecia totalis Total hair loss of the scalp, (an advanced form of alopecia areata).



	Alopecia universalis Hair loss of the entire body, (also an advanced form of alopecia areata).



	ALP see alkaline phosphatase.



	alpha-adrenergic receptors a site in the autonomic nervous system where excitatory responses occur when adrenergic agents such as norepinephrine and epinephrine are released.



	Alpha Ketoisocaproate (KIC) KIC is an alpha-ketoacid of L-leucine. It is well supported in the research literature as a stimulant of lymphocyte blastogenesis and antibody response, and it can also increase muscle growth and decrease fat deposition. Recently, KIC has been used extensively in fat loss preparations and in high-protein supplements used clinically to retard muscle-wasting..



	ALT see alanine amino transferase.



	Alternatives Alternatives are considered useful in altering body chemistry gradually. Herbs with alterative properties stimulate gradual changes in metabolism and tissue function in acute and chronic conditions and increase overall health, energy, vigor and strength. Alternatives are simular to tonics, which help both the overall systems as well as aideingparticular organs, tissues and cells. alterative herbs, include aloe vera, black cohosh, blue cohosh, blue vervain, capsicum, cascara sagrada, chamomile, damiana, dandelion, echnicacea, elecampane, fenugreek, garlic, gentian, ginger, gingo biloba, goldenseal, hawthorn, horsetail, milk thistle, red clover, red raspberry, schizandra, suma, yarro and yellow dock root.



	alterative in phytomedicine, a substance that restores health gradually, similar to a tonic.Medication that gradually overcomes an unhealthy condition. Restoring normal body functions. (Sanskrit: Parivartakas or Rakta Shodhana Karma ) These herbs alter or change a long-standing condition by aiding the elimination of metabolic toxins. Gradually facilitates a beneficial change in the body. Also known as "blood cleansers' in the past, these herbs improve lymphatic circulation, boost immunity, and help clear chronic conditions of the skin. These herbs also heal sores, boils, tumors, cancers; reduces fevers; detoxifies the liver, kills parasites and worms; helps in the treatment of infectious, contagious diseases and epidemics, flu, acne herpes, and venereal disease. Examples are: ginseng,aloe,sandalwood,red clover,burdock,bayberry,black pepper,cinnamon,myrrh,and safflower.



	alveolitis inflammation of the alveoli (pouch-like structures lining the inner wall of the lungs).



	AMA American Medical Association:Council on Pharmacy and chemistry.



	Amara Term used to designate bitter-constituent drugs. Pure bitters are called amara tonica; bitters Containing ESSENTIAL OILS are called amara aromatica; bitters containing acrid substances are called amara acria.



	AMDT Association of Medicinal Drug Traders(Germany).



	amenorrhea absence or suppression of menstruation.



	Amino acids The building blocks of protein. There are 24 amino acids, which form countless number of different proteins. They all contain nitrogen, oxygen, carbon and hydrogen. Amino acids are either essential or nonessential. The "L" isomer of the amino acids has greater biological value, and is distinguished from the "molecular mirror image" isomer which is called the "D" form. Thus, references to the individual amino acids often begin with the prefix "L". Essential aminos must be derived from food. There are eight of them: L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-tryptophan, L-threonine, and L-valine. Two others, L-arginine and L-histidine, are essential for children. Nonessential aminos are manufactured internally in the quantities the body requires. Their names are: L-alanine, L-asparagine, L-aspartic acid, L-citrulline, L-cysteine, L-cystine, L-glutamine, L-glutamic acid, glycine, L-ornithine, L-proline, L-serine, taurine, and L-tyrosine. Some of their roles are: L-arginine - An essential amino for prepubescent children, arginine is converted to ornithine in the adult body. It's usually used in supplement form by adults in combination with ornithine (another amino) for growth hormone stimulation, a practice of unproven efficacy. L-alanine - An energy producer and regulator of blood sugar. L-asparagine - An important factor in the metabolic processes of the nervous system. L-aspartic acid - Involved in the conversion of carbohydrates to muscle energy. A building block of immune system immunoglobulins and antibodies. L-citrulline - Helps detoxify ammonia, a by product of protein metabolism. L-cysteine - Performs detoxification duties in combination with L-aspartic acid and L-citrulline. Helps prevent damage from alcohol and cigarette smoke. Stimulates hair growth. L-cystine - A major partner in tissue anti-oxidant mechanisms. Contributes to improved healing, diminished pain from inflammation, and strong connective tissue.functions as an antioxidant and is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. Cysteine can help slow down the aging process, deactivate free radicals, and neutralize toxins. Cysteine also aids in protein synthesis and prevents cellular change. It is necessary for the formation of the skin, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations. Hair and skin are made up of 10%-14% Cystine. L-glutamine - Lymphocytes and other white blood cells, front-line fighters in the immune system, are strongly dependent on glutamine. Glutamine also helps memory and concentration, and aids in neutralising the catabolic effects of cortisol which is released upon strenuous exercise. L-glutamic acid - An important metabolic factor in energy production, brain function and the immune system. In combination with vitamin B-6, glutamic acid is converted to L-glutamine in the liver, scavenging ammonia in the process. Glycine - Vital for the manufacture of amino acids in the body and in the structure of red blood cells. Glucose and creatine phosphate (CP), two substances pivotal to energy production, require glycine in their synthesis process. L-histidine - Along with growth hormone and certain other amino acids, vital to tissue growth. Important in the production of red and white blood cells. L-isoleucine - One of the three branched chain aminos, so-named because of its branching molecular configuration. The other two are leucine and valine. Together, they are indispensible for muscle growth and recovery. See Branched Chaim Amino Acids (BCAAs). L-leucine - See L-isoleucine. L-lysine - Low levels can slow down protein synthesis, affecting muscle and connective tissue. Has inhibitory affect against viruses and used in treatment of herpes simplex. Function: It ensures the adequate absorption of calcium; helps form collagen (which makes up bone cartilage & connective tissues); and aids in the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. A deficiency of Lysine may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anemia, and/or reproductive problems. L-ornithine - see L-arginine. L-methionine - Removes poisonous wastes from your liver and assists in the regeneration of liver and kidney tissue. L-phenylalanine - Enhances learning, memory and alertness. A major element in the production of collagen, the main fibrous protein tissue in the body. Very useful for pain reduction in its modified D,L,-phenylalanine form. L-proline - A major ingredient in the formation of connective tissue. L-serine - Important for the production of cellular energy and the formation of acetylcholine, a paramount brain chemical that aids memory and nervous system function. L-threonine - One of the amino detoxifiers. Prevents fatty build up in the liver. Important component of collagen. L-tryptophan - Stimulates secretion of serotonin, a brain chemical that has a calming effect on the body. Used in the treatment of insomnia, stress and migraines. This essential amino acid was placed in the "drug" category by the FDA in 1988, an action which rendered virtually all commercially available essential amino acid mixtures worthless. Without any one of the 8 essentials present, none of the others can function. L-tyrosine - Important to the function of adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands. Elevates mood and is used in the treatment of anxiety, depression and insomnia. L-valine - See L-isoleucine. Amino acids are one of the three major sources of energy in the human body, the other two being fatty acids, and monosaccharides such as glucose. Amino acids are linked together in construction of the body's proteins. Most amino acids are incorporated into proteins which are either structural or regulatory in nature. Structural proteins such as collagen and elastin, make up the muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones. Regulatory proteins, called enzymes, control the function of all of the metabolic pathways within the cells of the body. Some enzymes are general in their activity and help break down food. Class-specific enzymes regulate larger-scale processes.



	Ammonia Scavengers Combinations of certain amino acids (especially glutamic acid in combination with vitamin B-6) and minerals that help remove ammonia from the blood. Ammonia is a toxic by-product of intense training (caused by the breakdown of amino acids for energy) and endurance events which can accumulate to cause severe fatigue.



	Amoebicidal For amoebic dysentery.



	AMP adenosine monophosphate (AMP),see "adenosine monophosphate".



	Anabolic Pertaining to the putting together of complex substances from simpler ones, especially to the building of body proteins from amino acids.



	anabolism the constructive phase of metabolism whereby nutrient substances are utilized for the repair and growth of the organisms. The metabolic processes which build up living body substances, that is, the synthesis of complex substances from simple ones. Example: muscle-building by combining amino acids together. Anabolism uses the available energy generated by catabolic processes to form the chemical bonds which unite the components of increasingly complex molecules. Anabolism is the opposite of catabolism. Opposite of catabolism.



	Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) A group of synthetic, testosterone-like hormones that promote anabolism, including muscle hypertrophy. Medical uses include promotion of tissue repair in severely debilitated patients, but their use in athletics is illegal in the USA and many other countries, and is considered unethical and therefore banned by almost all international sports governing bodies. Abuse and misuse of this potent class of drugs carry numerous health risks..



	Anaemia A subnormal number or haemoglobin content of red blood cells caused when blood loss exceeds blood production. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale complexion, light headedness, palpitations, and loss of appetite. Anaerobic Exercise - Short-term activities (usually highly intense) in which muscle fibres derive contractile energy from stored internal compounds without the use of oxygen from the blood. These compounds include ATP, CP and Glycogen. Short bursts of "all-out" effort, such as sprinting or weightlifting are examples of anaerobic activities. Anaerobic activities, then, are activities using muscle groups at high intensities that exceed the body's capacity to use oxygen to supply energy and which create an oxygen debt by using energy produced without oxygen.



	Anaerobic Means "without oxygen." cf. oxygen. Speed Endurance involves maintaining maximum speed over times lower than 3-4 minutes (e.g., 100, 400, 800 meter dashes in track & field). Strength Endurance is exerting maximum muscular effort time after time with no appreciable decline in force output. Football linemen display this quality play-after-play for four quarters. Two other forms of anaerobic strength are limit strength and speed-strength, both of which derive energy from the ATP/CP pathway of muscular energetics.



	Anaerobic Threshold The point where increasing energy demands of exercise cannot be met by the use of oxygen, and an oxygen debt begins to be incurred..



	Anagen Phase the initial growth phase of hair, usually lasting about 1000 days. It regularly occurs in most of the hairs on the human head. Approximately 85% of the hair on your head grows one inch per month. During this phase, hair is very sensitive to nutrition and environment.



	Anagen effiuvium Generally due to internally administered medications, such as chemotherapy agents, that poison the growing hair follicle.



	analeptic 1. a drug that stimulates the central nervous system; 2. a restorative agent.



	Analgesic or anodynes a drug or procedure that relieves pain.(Sanskrit- Vedana shamana) These herbs reduce or eliminate pain (e.g., digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous system, nerve, muscle, tooth pain, nervous digestion, headaches). Some herbs are strong pain relievers, often working best against pains of specific causes.analgesic herbs are used to relieve pain without loss of consciousness. Some of the herbs commonly used as analgesics include cabbage leaves,Camphor,chamomile,cinnamon,cloves,echinacea,feverfew(feverfew herb), lobelia, mullein, pau d'acro, skullcap, willow bark and wood betony,lavender flower,wintergreen leaf ,passionflower herb and flower.



	Anaphrodisiac (opp:Aphrodisiac)Herbs that decrease or allay sexual feelings or desires.



	anaphylaxis a type I allergic or hypersensitivity reaction to an allergenic antigen, mediated by interactions between mast cells and immunoglobulin E (IgE).



	Anatomy The science of the structure of the human body..



	androgen substance producing or stimulating the development of male characteristics, e.g. testosterone.



	Androgenetic alopecia(AGA or or pattern hair loss) Also known as male or female pattern hair loss. This is the most common type of hair loss.



	anecdotal hearsay evidence presented to support a scientific hypothesis.



	anesthetic an agent that produces anesthesia; subdivided into general or local, depending on their action.For surgical anesthesia. Anesthetics are used for their ability to cause physical insensitivity. Examples of herbs with this property are ashok,calamus, caraway,gudmar,jatamanshi,kava and tea tree.



	aneurysm localized, abnormal dilatation of a blood vessel, usually an artery, due to congenital defect or weakness of the wall of the vessel.



	Angina A gripping, choking, or suffocating pain in the chest (angina pectoris), caused most often by insufficient flow of oxygen to the heart muscle during exercise or excitement. Exercise should stop, and medical attention should be obtained..



	angina pectoris severe pain and a sense of constriction about the heart; caused by a deficiency of oxygen supply to the heart muscle.



	angiotensin vasopressor substance produced when renin is released from the kidney. The physiologically inactive form, angiotensin I, is converted to the active form, angiotensin II, by angiotensin converting enzyme.



	animal experiment moral;transferability of findings to humans.



	anions an ion carrying a negative charge.



	Anodyne Relieving pain.(Sanskrit- Sula-orasa-mana) Herbs that relieve pain and reduces the sensitivity of the nerves. (See analgesic)Herbs with this property have the ability to soothe and reduce the intensity of pain. Herbs with this ability include anise,Ashok,barberry,cedar,chamomile, cloves,ginger,juniper, pleurisy root and rosemary.



	anorectic a state of having no appetite. Substances that promote anorexia are anorexigenic.Anorectic herbs help to reduce appetite. herbs with this asset include chickweed, ephedra, fellel, garcinia and guarana.



	anorexia loss of appetite; associated with depression, malaise, fevers and illnesses, alimentary disorders, and as a consequence of alcohol and drug abuse, esp. of cocaine.Anorexia is a condition where a person experiences a loss of appetite; it is distinguished from anorexia nervosa (below).



	Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia nervosa is a psychological and physiological condition (most commonly among young women) characterised by inability or refusal to eat, or an extreme aversion to food, leading to severe weight loss, malnutrition, hormone imbalances, and other potentially life-threatening biological changes..



	antacid an agent that neutralizes acidity, esp. in the stomach and duodenum.Neutralizes the acid produced by the stomach. Helps the stomach lining recuperate to accommodate the healthy gastric acid needed for good digestion. an antacid is used to neutralize acids in the stomach and intestinal tract. Herbs used for this include dandelion,fennel,ginger,kelp,Iceland moss,marshmallow root and leaf,meadowsweet herb,hops flower,slippery elm and sweet flag.



	antagonist that which counteracts the action of something else, as a muscle or drug;A muscle that can provide an opposing action to the action of another muscle (the agonist) around a joint.



	Anthelmintic (Sanskrit: Krumighana karma or krimighna) Herbs that destroys and dispels worms, parasites, fungus, yeast See also: vermicide, vermifuge. herbs with anthelmintic agents either expel or destroy worms in the body. Other similar terms to describe such agents include vermifuge,mermicide and taeniacide. Herbs with these fighting abilityies include ajwan,black cohosh,blue walnut,cayenne,gentian, goldenseal,mandrake, Pau d'arco,peppers,prickly ash,pumpkin seed,senna,wormseed,wormwood.



	anthocyanidins the aglycone form of anthocyanins..



	anthocyanins a class of red to blue flavonoid pigments that lend the characteristic color to many flower pigments, but also occur in other plant parts and are widespread in the plant kingdom. The aglycone forms are given the suffix nidin, glycosides are given the suffix in. Example: pelargonin is the glycoside form, pelargonidin is the aglycone form..



	Anti-asthmatics anti-asthmatics are used to help relieve the symptoms associated with asthma. some of the anti-asthmatic herbs are elecampane, ephedra, gotu kola, lobelia, prickly ash, wild cherry and yerba santa..



	Anti-bacterial (Products Claims / Positioning) a product is classified as "anti-bacterial" where it is formulated with a substance which has the property of destroying or stopping the growth of bacteria.Antibacterial herbs are those that fight and destroy bacteria and include alfalfa, basil, chamomile, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, parsley, peppermint, rhubarb, tumeric, uva ursi and yucca.



	anti-aggregatory an agent that prevents or reduces platelet aggregation..



	antiarrhythmic a drug or procedure that acts to control or prevent cardiac arrhythmias..



	antibacterial destroying or stopping the growth of bacteria..



	Antibilious Herb that combats nausea,abdominal discomfort, headache, constipation, and gas that is caused by an excessive secretion of bile. (These symptoms are called biliousness.)



	antibody complex glycoproteins produced by B lymphocytes in the presence of an antigen. Antibodies, all of which are immunoglobulins can combine with specific antigens to destroy or control them, providing protection against most common infections..



	Antibiotic Inhibits the growth of germs, bacteria, and harmful microbes.Herbs that work as natural antibiotics help the body's immune system destroy growths of micro-organisms. Some herbs commonly used as natural antibiotics include buchu, chaparral, echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, myrrh, red clover,Turmeric and yellow dock.



	Anticatarrhal these are herbs which help dissolve and eliminate, as well prevent the formation of mucus and inflammation of the mucus membrane. herbs that are considered to be anticatarrhal include comfrey, elecampane, ephedra, funugreek, licorice, lobelia, marshmallow, mullein and wild cherry.



	anticoagulant an agent that delays or prevents blood coagulation.Anticoagulant herbs help the body prevent clotting of the blood. Herbs with this constituent include garlic, turmeric and yellow melilot..



	Antidiabetic Examples of herbs: Amalaki,blackberry,fenugreek,gudmar,senna,and shilajit.



	Antidiarrhea An alterative. Examples are: Blackberry,comfrey,gentian,red raspberry,and yellow dock,black pepper,and ginger.



	Antiemetic (Sanskrit: Chherdinashana) Prevents or alleviates nausea and vomiting. Antiemetics prevent vomiting, and herbs with this ability include clove, coriander, ginger,Iceland moss, raspberry and spearmint.



	Antiepileptic Herb that combats the convulsions or seizures of epilepsy.



	Antifungal Antifungal agents act against and destroy various fungi. Herbs in this gategory include alfalfa, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, kava kava, kombucha, parsley, St. John's wort, skullcap, thyme and turmeric.



	antifungal an agent that prevents or inhibits the growth of fungi.



	antigen a protein marker on the surface of cells that identifies the cell as "self" or "non-self"; antigens stimulate the production of antibodies by B lymphocytes which can neutralize or destroy the antigen-bearing cell, and also can stimulate cytotoxic responses by granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes..



	Antigalactagogue herbs with this property work opposit to herbs with galactagogue properties. Sage and black walnut are examples of herbs in this category.



	antigonadotropic an agent that blocks the action of gonadotropins, hormones which stimulate the gonads (female and male sex glands)..



	Antihydrotics Antihydrotics reduce levels of perspiration. Herbs with this ability include astragalus and sage.



	anti-inflammatory an agent or procedure that counteracts inflammation.Herbs with this ability reduce inflammation in the body without acting directly on the cause of the inflammation. Herbs in this category include birth, chicory, cranberry, elder flowers, eucalyptus, fennel, feverfew, ginger, licorice, marshmallow, papaya, passion flower, peppermint, pine tree bark, queen of the meadow, rhubarb, rosemary, safflower, turmeric, wild yam and witch hazel..



	Antilithic Aids in preventing the formation of stones in the kidneys and bladder.Antilithic herbs work to prevent the formation of stones in the gall blader and kidney, as well as aiding the expulsion of those already formed. Antilithics are similar to lithotriptics. Some herbs used for this purpose are buchu leaves, hydrangea and uva ursi leaves.



	antimicrobial an agent or procedure that destroys or prevents the development of microorganisms.Antimicrobials helps the body destroy microbes by affecting their growth and multiplication, Herbs with this ability include fennel, fevergfew, myrrh, pau d'archo, rhubarb, tea tree and uva ursi.



	Antineoplastic Herbs with this quality destroy, inhibit and prevent tumors. Herbs in this category include aloe vera, black walnut, burdock, cat's claw, chickweed, flaxseed, garlic, hops, horsetail, ho-sho-wu,