DEFINITIONS
BETA-GLUCANS
A form of soluble dietary fiber that has been linked to a long list of health benefits, including its ability to lower cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk. The FDA allows products containing at least 750mg of beta-glucans to have a health claim stating that they may help reduce heart disease risk.
BETULINIC ACID
A naturally occurring bioactive compound most commonly found in the barks and leaves of white birch and other trees. Betulinic acid has anti-retroviral, anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties.
DENDRITIC CELLS
A special type of immune cell found in tissues, such as the skin, that boosts immune responses by showing antigens on its surface to other cells of the immune system. A dendritic cell is a type of phagocyte, or cell within the body that is capable of engulfing and consuming bacteria and other small cells and particles.
ENDOCRINE GLANDS
Glands which secrete hormones or other products directly into the blood.
LYMPHOCYTES
A type of white blood cell with a single round nucleus that is part of the lymphatic system. There are two main types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells. The B cells produce antibodies that are used to attack invading viruses, toxins, and bacteria while the T cells attack the body's own cells that have become cancerous or been taken over by viruses.
MITOCHONDRIA
Tiny organelles found in almost all eukaryotic cells, or cells with clearly defined nuclei. The primary function of mitochondria is to produce Adenosine triphosphate, the main energy molecule used by cells. In addition, they generate heat, store calcium, and regulate cell growth and death.
PINEAL GLAND
The Pineal Gland, often referred to as the third eye, is a small endocrine gland in the brain of most vertebrates. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone which modulates sleep patterns in both circadian and seasonal cycles.