Caralluma fimbriata, an edible cactus, has been traditionally employed by tribal Indians to curb hunger and boost endurance. The impact of Caralluma extract was evaluated in overweight individuals through a placebo-controlled randomized trial.
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Botanical name: Capsicum annuum
Other name: bell, poblano, cayenne, pimiento (including those used to make paprika), jalapeño, serrano, and various other chili peppers.
Capsicum Extract (Capsaicin) finds extensive applications in medicine, the military, and the chemical industry. Natural capsaicin production is predominantly utilized in the research and development of medicine, leveraging its potent pain-relieving effects. Additionally, it has been noted to enhance the production of serotonin in the brain.
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Botanical name: Myrciaria dubia
Other name: camu-camu, caçari, araçá-d’água, or camocamo
Known for its tangy flavor, camu camu is replete with vital vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, notably abundant in vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. Typically available as a powdered extract, nutritional information is commonly provided based on weight in grams or teaspoon measurements.
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Botanical name: Camellia oleifera Abel
Other name: Green Tea
Derived from the Camellia oleifera plant, green tea leaf extract hails from a variety that originated in China but is now cultivated globally. Similar to its counterpart, Camellia sinensis (the most widely recognized type of green tea), it serves as a bountiful source of antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to various skincare products.
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Botanical name: Coffea arabica
Naturally present as an alkaloid in tea and coffee shrubs, caffeine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant believed to function as an antagonist for adenosine receptors on neurons. Its solubility in hot water enables extraction from brewed coffee grounds or tea leaves.
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Botanical name: Theobroma cacao L.
Derived from raw cacao beans and nibs, cacao powder undergoes a process involving fermentation and subsequent roasting before being milled into a fine powder. Notably, this processing occurs at significantly lower temperatures compared to the beans used in the production of cocoa powder. The resulting cacao powder exhibits a pronounced bitterness but preserves a greater portion of the original nutritional value inherent in the cacao bean.
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Botanical name: Petasites hybridus
Other name: Butterbur
Butterbur stands out as a well-known herbal remedy employed for the management of migraine headaches, allergic rhinitis, and respiratory ailments. Extracted from the roots of the butterbur bush, this herbal preparation requires meticulous processing to eliminate naturally occurring pyrrolizidine alkaloids, ensuring its safety for use.
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Botanical name: Ruscus aculeatus
Other name: knee holly or piaranthus
Butcher’s broom, a compact evergreen shrub belonging to the Liliaceae family, is attributed with diuretic and mild laxative properties in both its leaves and rhizome. Extracts from this plant are commonly employed for the treatment of conditions such as varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and lymphedema.
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Other name: Powdered pineapple or pineapple powder
Bromelain, an enzyme blend derived from the stem or fruit of the pineapple plant Ananas comosus, has been employed by healers for centuries. In contemporary times, bromelain is commonly available for purchase, with retailers offering it as both a health supplement and a component in skin creams.
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Botanical name: Brassica Oleracea Italica
Extract from broccoli has the potential to enhance digestion and promote intestinal health. During the digestion process, broccoli produces a compound known as indolocarbazole (ICZ). ICZ, upon breakdown in the body, binds to specific receptors in the intestines, playing a role in regulating probiotic flora. This regulation is essential for the absorption of nutrients from food.
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