VITAMINS MINERALS & HERBS
VITAMINS
Vitamin A
RDA: 5,000 IU.
Dose: To fight an infection, 50,000 to 100,000 IU daily for two days
One of the most important functions of this vitamin, and one of particular interest
in our text, is that it maintains the health and well-being of the epithelial tissues
of the body. These are generally the tissues that line the openings, skin, and mucous
membranes. All glands and their duct systems come under the protection of vitamin A.
Since these areas come under the protection of Vitamin A. Since these areas are the
first potential sites for bodily invasion by outside microbes, we must maintain these
sites in optimal health; Vitamin A aids in the growth and repair of body tissues, especially
bones; Proper formation and maintenance of tooth enamel and gums are a vitamin A process;
Vitamin A prompts the secretion of gastric juices necessary for proper digestion of
proteins; Vitamin A maintains the proper health of sex glands and the uterus; Night vision
and the general maintenance of the eye is a function of vitamin A; Vitamin A aids in
the synthesis of RNA.
Deficiency Symptoms:
The eyes are obvious indicators of vitamin A deficiency.
One of the first symptoms is night blindness; Other eye indicators of vitamin A deficiency
include dry, itchy, and inflamed eyeballs; Susceptibility to colds, flu, bacterial and viral
infections, especially of the respiratory and urinary tract, are indicators of Vitamin A
deficiency; Sinusitis and abscesses in ears and mouth are also common symptoms, as well as
general repeated infections; Acne; Rough, dry, scaly, prematurely aged skin; Sensitivity to
light; Reproductive difficulties.
Vitamin D
RDA: 400 IU
Dose: 400 IU daily.
Vitamin D is necessary for normal growth of children; In its absence, bones and teeth do
not calcify. Vitamin D is essential for proper utilization of calcium and phosphorus;
Formation of RNA; Formation of certain enzymes; Helps to maintain a stable nervous system,
normal heart action, and normal blood clotting.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Rickets (bowlegs, knock-knees, enlargement of bones); Poor growth and lack of bone development;
Osteomalacia (softening of the bones); Tetany (muscular numbness, tingling, spasm); Thyroid
problems (loss of thyroid hormones); Arthritis; Fatigue.
Vitamin E
RDA: 10 IU
Dose: 400 to 1,800 IU daily.
Plays an important role in cellular respiration of muscles, most especially the cardiac
muscle; Prevents peroxide formation by being an anti-oxidant; Protects all the other fat
soluble vitamins against oxidation; Reduces scar tissue formation both internally and
externally; This is why creams and ointments containing vitamin E are especially effective;
Increases formation of new blood vessels around damaged areas; Stimulates urine secretion,
hence has a lowering effect on some instances of blood pressure; Provides protection against
poisonous substances such as inhalants and internal by-products of metabolism; Assists in
normalizing blood viscosity; Retards muscle degeneration; Protects and ensures permeability
of the capillary system.
Deficiency Symptoms:
First clinical sign of deficiency is the rupturing of the red blood cells; Faulty absorption
of fat and fat soluble vitamins. Evidence shows a link between this condition and the
development of cystic fibrosis and inflammation of the pancreas; Retarded growth in children;
Nutritional muscular dystrophy; Swelling of the cardic muscle which can become necrotic; Women
severely deficient experience frequent miscarriages, as well as premature births; Angina
pectoris; Menstrual discomfort and PMS; In males, a reduced mobility of spermatoza; In females,
uterine degeneration, and in some cases, sterility.
Vitamin K
RDA: 80 mcg
Dose: 100 to 200 mcg daily.
Basic function of vitamin K is to act in the formation of prothrombin, the chemical necessary
in the clotting of the blood. NOTE: Synthetic Vitamin K should never be taken for
any reason!
Deficiency Symptoms:
Hypoprothrombinemia (loss of blood's ability to clot); Internal hemorrhages, especially in
the brain, spinal cord and intestinal tract.; Subcutaneous hemorrhage; Nosebleeds; Can be
a cofactor in cellular disease and diarrhea.
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine)
RDA: 1.5 mg
Dose: 100 to 200 mg daily
Assists in conversion of carbohydrates to glocuse; Necessary for growth, fertility, and
lactation; Controls and feeds nervous system; Stabilizes the appetite; Involved and consumed
in the metabolism of alcohol.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Poor carbohydrate metabolism; Mental instability, forgetfulness, fears, and confusion due
to the build up of pyruvic acid in the blood, creating an oxygen deficit; Cardiac
malfunctions - palpitations, rapid rhythm, enlarged heart, elevated vernous pressure, and
myocardial lesions; Loss of ankle and knee reflexes; Muscular weakness progressing to
atrophy; Fatigue; Reduced or lost appetite; Inflammation of the optic nerve.
Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin)
RDA: 1.7 mg
Dose: 100 to 200 mg daily.
The respiration of cells; Aids in the conversion of tryptophan to niacin; Critical in the
metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats; Needed in the maintenance of skin, nails, and
hair; Helps the eyes in adaption to light.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Shiny tongue; Eye fatigue - burning, itching, with a sensitivity to bright lights; Capillary
congestion in the white area of the eye; Sensation of grit or grinding sand inside eyelids;
Lesions of the lips, scaling around the nose, mouth, and ears; Oily skin; Retarded erythrocyte
formation resulting in anemia; Cataracts; Pellagra factor.
Vitamin B-3 (Niacin or Niacinamide)
RDA: 19 mg
Dose: 500 to 3,000 mg daily.
Plays the active role in the coenzymes that provide an essential ingredient in tissue
oxidations; Necessary for the synthesis of sex hormones; Vital to the activity of the nervous
system; Improves circulation and reduces serum cholesterol.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Pellagra - still a common disease in modern times; Mood swings; Loss of appetite, indigestion;
Schizophrenia; Recurring headaches, especially migraine; Canker sores, and other small ulcers;
Inflammation and irritability of mucosa linings; Insomnia.
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)
RDA: 2 mg
Dose: 50 to 100 mg daily.
Necessary for proper assimilation of Vitamin B-12; Aids in the production of hydrochloric acid;
Required in the metabolism of many amino acids; Involved in the metabolism of fats, especially
the unsaturated fatty acids; Necessary for the conversion of tryptophan to niacin; Helps to
maintain the sodium/potassium balance; Facilitates glycogen conversion to glucose; Must be
present for the production of antibodies and red blood cells; Involved in proper synthesis
and activity of DNA and RNA.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Dermatitis; Numbness of hands and feet; Over production of xanthurenic acid
(green-colored urine); Low blood sugar and low glucose tolerance; Cramps in the
extremities; Kidney stones; Edema; Arthritis during menopause.
Vitamin B-12
RDA: 2 mcg
Dose: 500 to 1,500 mcg daily.
Essential for the functioning of all cells, with emphasis upon bone marrow, nervous tissue,
and the gastrointestinal tract; Aids in the synthesis of many other nutrients such as choline;
Plays a vital role in the formation of nucleic acids; Because of its connection with bone
marrow, it is needed by the body in the formation of the red blood cells.
Deficiency Symptoms:
The really serious lasting side effects from B-12 deficiency can take years to develop.
Soreness and tingling of the extremities, indicating the deficiency is affecting the nervous
system; Sore tongue, weakness, loss of weight; Brain damage over long periods similar to
schizophrenia; Shooting pains, "needles and pins" sensations; Serious apathy; Pernicious
anemia (accompanied by degeneration of the spinal cord); Neuritis, menstrual disturbances;
Mental deterioration and paralysis.
Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic acid is necessary for the makeup of coenzyme A. This factor is necessary during
the intermediary metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Since this nutrient has
an enhancing effect upon the adrenal glands, it becomes an important factor during stressful
conditions. This vitamin is so closely involved with others of the B-group, that the
B-complex group of vitamins should always be taken together as a unit. Single dosages of
isolated B-vitamins can cause a rapid deficiency in others. Once a balanced combination of
all the B-complex group is taken on a daily basis, then mega-doses of isolated B-vitamins can
be administered for specific purposes without the fear of creating an imbalance or deficiency.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Fatigue, headache, changes in personality; Reduction in metabolic processes; Postural
Hypotension, dizziness, rapid heart beat (this is because of the effect of the deficiency
on the adrenal glands); Gastric distress, reduction of HCL and Pepsin leading to
constipation; Burning sensation of hands and feet; Inclination toward hypoglycemia; Involved
in the metabolic breakdown leading to arthritis.
Biotin
RDA: None
Dose: 5 to 10 mg daily.
Acting as a coenzyme, it is essential in the making of fatty acids and in the oxidation
of fatty acids as well as the carbohydrates; Required in the formation of glycogen; Required
in the synthesis of several of the non-essential amino acids by the body; Aids in the
formation of nucleic acids.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Sore tongue and dry skin; Muscular pain; lack of energy; Insomnia; Loss of appetite; Intense
depression.
Choline
RDA: None
Dose: 500 to 1,000 mg daily.
Aids in the metabolism of fats; (It is for this reason that lecithin has shown sometimes
dramatic beneficial results in normalizing cholesterol levels in the blood.); Part of the
chemical acetylcholine, which is essential to normal nerve function; Protects the myelin
sheaths of the nerves; Regulating effect upon liver and gallbladder; Assists in the synthesis
of hormones such as epinephrine.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Fatty degeneration of the liver; Hemorrhaging of the kidneys; High blood pressure; Heart
muscle lesions; Atherosclerosis (the single greatest cause of the bypass operation).
Inositol
RDA: None
Dose: 12 gm daily.
Plays a great part in the metabolism of fats; Acts as a growth factor; feeds cells of the
brain; Aids hair growth and prevention of thinning and baldness.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Atherosclerosis; Eczema; Constipation.
Folic Acid (Folacin)
RDA: 200 mcg
Dose: 400 to 2,000 mcg daily.
Increases appetite and stimulates HCL production; Enhances liver functions; Necessary for
synthesis of nucleic acids; Necessary for some amino acid synthesis; Prevention of
macrocytic anemia.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Macrocytic anemia (lack of mature red blood cells, or red blood cells that are larger
than normal and contain less hemoglobin levels than normal); Smooth, red, tongue; Poor
growth, and metabolic disturbances; Graying hair; Possible link to certain types of mental
illness; Gastrointestinal disturbances, like diarrhea; Birth deformities; cleft palate;
Toxemia of pregnancy, premature birth.
Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)
Stimulates intestinal bacteria; Acts in the capacity of a coenzyme in the breakdown of
proteins; Assists in the formation of blood cells, primarily red blood cells; Prevents
eczema and vitiligo which is a loss of skin pigmentation; Has been shown beneficial in
burn pain control; Helps to protect the skin against the harmful effects of overexposure
to sunlight.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Sulfa drugs cause a deficiency of PABA; Gastrointestinal disorders; Irritability and
depression; Lupus (mega-doses have shown a positive response in 80% of cases studied);
Loss of sex drive; Constipation.
Vitamin B-13 (Orotic Acid)
This very new addition to the B-complex family is not currently readily available in
the United States. It has been used in Europe quite extensively, however. One of its pioneer
uses has been in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Very little is known about absorption
of this nutrient at this time. We do know that Orotic Acid is involved in the synthesis of
some other members of the B-complex group. It is also involved in restoration
of certain cells.
Pangamic Acid
Stimulates glands and nervous system; Reduces or elinimates Hypoxia (an insufficient supply
of oxygen in living tissue); Protects the liver from fatty deposits; Serves as a powerful
detoxifier; Seems to increase the life span of the cell; Regulates blood levels of
steroids.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Hypoxia; Premature aging; Asthma, emphysema; Fatigue (due to poor oxygenation of
cellular tissue); Recent studies show a link to glaucoma; Heart palpitations,
possibly angina pains.
Vitamin C
RDA: 60 mg
Dose: For colds, 1 to 6 gm daily; higher doses for more serious infections.
The most important function of vitamin C in the human body is in the formation of collagen
protein. Collagen is the glue for specialized tissues that hold us together, such as skin,
cartilage, tendon, and bone; Speeds the healing of wounds; Antihistamine action; Maintains
strength in blood vessels; Fights bacterial and viral infections. Promotes formation of
hemoglobin; Aids in absorption of iron from intestinal tract; Converts folic acid to
folinic acid; Antioxidant action, protecting many other valuable nutrients such as thiamine,
riboflavin, vitamins A and E and patothenic acid against damage from oxidation; Diuretic
action on body cells; Aids in the metabolism of the amino acids, phenylalanine tyrosine,
and tryptophan; Helps the adrenals in the secretion of hormones.
Deficiency Symptoms:
Skin bruising; bleeding gums; Shortness of breath; impaired digestion; Anemia; Joint
pains; Increased healing time of surface wounds; Breaks in capillary walls resulting clots;
Excessive hair loss; Scurvy.
Source: SelfHealth by Dr. Steven E. Whiting
MINERALS
Calcium
RDA: 1,200 mg
Dose: For blood pressure, 1,000 mg daily; for colon cancer prevention, 2,000 to 3,000 mg daily.
Sure, calcium builds strong bones. It also can lower blood pressure, particularly among
people who don't get enough calcium in their diets - and lots of people don't. Interestingly
enough, high salt limits the body's absorption of calcium. Calcium supplements may also
lower the risk of colon cancer.
Chromium
RDA: None
Dose: 200 to 400 mcg daily.
Bodybuilders and dieters swear by chromium. But it's good for other people, too. If you're
concerned about high blood levels of triglyceride, a fat associated with heart disease,
chromium can help lower its blood levels. One study found that chromium picolinate extended
the life expectancy of laboratory rats by one-third.
Copper
RDA: None
Dose: 2 to 5 mg daily.
Most people get enough copper in their diets or through multimineral supplements. But if
your immune system isn't up to snuff, consider supplementing with this mineral. In a
study, men placed on a copper-deficient diet had decreases in protective T cells and
antibody-producing B cells.
Iodine
RDA: 150 mcg
Dose: 150 to 200 mcg daily.
Pregnant women who are deficient in iodine risk giving birth to mentally retarded children.
But even moderate deficiencies can empair mental function. Italian researchers found that
low-iodine diets didn't affect thinking processes, but they did slow reaction times in
children. A number of foods can interfere with iodine absorption, including milk, nuts and
turnips.
Iron
RDA: 10 to 12 mg
Dose: 15 mg daily.
There's evidence that large amounts of iron can increase the risk of coronary heart disease
in men, so it might be best to avoid this supplement unless you have been diagnosed with
iron-deficiency anemia. It appears to be less of a problem for women, perhaps because they
lose iron during menses.
Magnesium
RDA: 300 mg
Dose: 400 to 800 mg daily.
This mineral can lower your blood pressure, ease leg cramps and often eliminate dangerous
arrhythmias. Some hospital emergency rooms now give it in intravenous form to heart attack
patients. But it's never too late to start taking it. One recent study found that magnesium
increases the success rate of balloon angioplasties.
Manganese
RDA: None
Dose: 10 to 125 mg daily.
One of your own body's most powerful antioxidants, superoxide dismutase, depends on the
presence of manganese. The body increases production of manganese when it's under assault
by dangerous free radicals. Deficiencies of this mineral can result in abnormal curvature
of the spine, swollen joints and elevate blood sugar.
Potassium
RDA: None
Dose: 99 mg daily.
Many diuretic drugs, prescribed for water retention and high blood pressure, flush potassium
from the body - and set the stage for high blood pressure, stroke and long-term dependence on
medications. The heart's ability to pump blood depends in large part on a balance between
potassium and sodium. Too much sodium (table salt) can tip the scales.
Selenium
RDA: 55 mcg
Dose: 100 to 400 mcg daily.
One recent study at the University of Arizona found that selenium supplements resulted in a
41-percent reduction in cancer incidence and a 52-percent drop in cancer deaths. What makes
selenium so good? It is an essential component of glutathione peroxidase, one of the body's
most powerful antioxidants.
Zinc
RDA: 15 mg
Dose: Approximately 13.3 mg in lozenge form 8 times daily during the onset of a cold.
In one study, patients had a 42-percent reduction in the length of their colds, from
7.6 to 4.4 days, when they took zinc lozenges every few hours immediately after the start of
a cold.
HERBS
Alfalfa
High in chlorophyll and nutrients. Alkalizes the body and detoxifies the
body,especially the liver. Good for all colon
discorders,anemia,hemorrhaging,diabetes,ulcers and arthritis. Promotes
pituitary gland function. Contains an antifungus agent.
Astragalus
Acts as tonic to protect the immune system,as diuretic to reduce edema,and
as an anhydrotic. Aids adrenal gland function and digestion. Increase
metabolism,promotes healing,and provides energy to combate fatigue.
Effective for chronic lung weakness and produces spontaneous sweating.
Barley Grass
High in calcium,iron,all the essential amino acids,vitamin C,the
flavonoids,vitamin B12,and many minerals plus enzyme. Good for stomach and
duodenum disorders and pancreatitis and is an ideal anti-inflammatory
substances.
Bee Pollen
Effective for combating fatigue,depression,cancerand colon disorder.Has an
antimicrobial effect.Honey is an antiseptic and salve for burns.
Bee Propolis
As a supplement,it is an excellent aid against bacterial infections.
Stimulates phagocytosis,helps white blood cell to destroy bacteria. Good
results against inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and the
throat,dry cough,halitosis,tonsillitis,ulcers,and acne and for stimulates
immune system.
Bilberry
Improves circulation, enzyme activity, night vision and its ability to
fight blurred vision, eyestrain and nearsightedness have been confirmed.
Black Cohosh
Helps relieve sinusitis and asthma. Lowers cholesterol levels and blood
pressure. Relieve pain,morning sickness,hot flashes,and menstrual cramps.
Black Thistle
This herb is one of the oldest folk remedies known to regulate the
menstrual cycle, and is often used by folk healers to treat liver
disorders. It is also considered an excellent tonic for the stomach and
heart. It may improve memory by increasing oxygen to the brain through
improved circulation.
Black Walnut
The hulls affect the skin and colon and have been used to rid one of worms
and other parasites. It has also been used for skin rashes, ringworm,
impetigo and herpes and to help Lupus. The hulls contain juglone which is
believed to have an antifungal principle. Classification: Bitter herb. Cool
energy. Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) of which the inner bark, leaves,
fruit, and unripe husk are used in herbology, is a rich source of the trace
mineral chromium and is also high in iodine. The tree grows widely in the
western U.S. and Canada. Herbalists classify it as an astringent because it
is rich in tannin, a toning substance. Historically, the husks have been
used since the time of the ancient Greeks to support the intestinal system.
Herbs page 2