Adaptogen -
Entry
Antioxidant -
An antioxidant is a compound which exerts a protective effect on structures in the body from free radicals and oxidative stress. (Wikipedia Entry: Antioxidant)
Free Radicals -
Compounds which can damage the genetic replication process. Increasing the possibility of cancer development as a result. There is a prominent theory among biologists that bases one of the causes for aging to free radicals and the accumulation of damage it does to the body. (Wikipedia entry: Free radical theory of aging)
HPA Axis -
The connection of the Hypothalamus, Pituitary and Adrenal gland. Believed to be one of the underlying structures which adaptogens exert their effect on. Each of these structures are important aspects of the stress response and the hormones which are released as a result.
"The interactions among these organs constitute the HPA axis, a major part of the neuroendocrine system that controls reactions to stress and regulates many body processes, including digestion, the immune system, mood and emotions, sexuality, and energy storage and expenditure." (Wikipedia Entry: HPA Axis)
Monoamine -
Are neurotransmitters and neuromodulators derived from aromatic amino acids by the "action of aromatic amino acid decarboxylase enzymes".
Examples include: Dopamine, Serotonin, Norepinephrine, epinephrine, melatonin, among many others. (Wikipedia Entry: Monoamine)
Myelin -
"Myelin is a dielectric (electrically insulating) material that forms a layer, the myelin sheath, usually around only the axon of a neuron. It is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Myelin is an outgrowth of a glial cell. Schwann cells supply the myelin for peripheral neurons, whereas oligodendrocytes, specifically of the interfascicular type, myelinate the axons of the central nervous system. Myelin is considered a defining characteristic of the (gnathostome) vertebrates, but it has also arisen by parallel evolution in some invertebrates.[1] Myelin was discovered in 1854 by Rudolf Virchow [2]." (Wikipedia Entry: Myelin)
Natural Killer (NK) cell -
"A type of white blood cell that can kill tumor cells and virus-infected cells as part of innate immunity" (Biology: Eighth Edition pg G-24, Campbell, Reece)
NGF -
"NGF is part of a family of proteins that play a role in the maintenance, survival and regeneration of neurons during adult life. Its absence in the adult brain of mice leads to a condition resembling Alzheimer's disease." (The Anti-Dementia effect of Lion's Mane mushroom and its clinical application - Hericium erinaceum - Lion's Mane)
"In the 1970s and 1980s it was discovered that the role played by NGF is likewise essential for primary or secondary cells of the immune system (mastocytes, T and B lymphocytes, macrophages and others) and endocrine system cells (hypophysis, thyroid and endocrine glands).
At the same lime it was discovered that the activity of the NGF molecule was not restricted to peripheral nervous system cells but extended also to cholinergic type central nervous system cells involved in cognitive (neocortical system) and emotional and affective (limbic system) activities. All the neuronal and non neuronal cells receptive to NGF action in the above systems are subjected to programmed death if deprived of the NGF molecule." (The Nerve Growth Factor and the Neuroscience Chess Board [pdf] [html] )
Nootropic -
Entry
Trophorestorative -
Is a word used in marketing herbs and supplements which refers to its use as a restorative compound. Although I've yet to come across it on wikipedia, the terms is used extensively by herbalists. (Terms of the Trade: Trophorestorative)
"A trophorestorative is literally a food for a specific tissue or organ, one that nourishes the tissue, restoring normal function and vitality to the organ." (Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief,
pg. 209) Go Back
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