P-T - Glossary

Phaseolus vulgaris

The botanical name for white kidney beans.  Phaseolus vulgaris extracts contain “Phaseolamin”, an inhibitor of alpha-amylase – the enzyme responsible for digesting dietary starches.   In theory, phaseolamin-containing “carb-blockers” can help with weight loss by limiting the carb calories absorbed from foods.  An early study on a commercial supplement, “Phase 2”, showed a non-significant trend...

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Serenoa repens

See Saw Palmetto.

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Saw Palmetto

Common name for the American Dwarf Palm, or Serenoa repens.  Extracts of the fruit are used as an alternative treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia and other conditions, such as chronic prostatitis.  Saw palmetto can inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.  It also has anti-inflammatory effects. Saw palmetto extracts are available in supplemental form. In Europe, Saw palmetto extracts are sold as...

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Pygeum africanum

The botanical name for the African Plum Tree.  The bark is a source of extracts used as an alternative treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).  Pygeum extracts are often used in “male” supplements in combination with other herbal compounds known to be beneficial for BPH, such as saw palmetto and stinging...

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Thioctic Acid

See Alpha-Lipoic Acid.

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R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Also known as R-ALA. The biologically active form of alpha-lipoic acid.

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