As we hop around from time to time picking out letters, one at a time, to choose supplements and other natural remedies worth a second (or third, etc.) gander, we savor the chance to make or renew your acquaintance with health-inducing compounds and substances. This time the roulette wheel stops on T. With that, we present you with the following brief summations of five supplements or herbs beginning with the letter ‘T” for your edification and possible use. This is accompanied by a suggestion that you discuss your potential use of any of these with your physician or other healthcare professional:
Tocotrienols are a group of substances that are forms of vitamin E. There are four such tocotrienols: alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol, all of which have significant antioxidant properties. Evidence suggests that boosting your tocotrienol intake can support brain health, and perhaps in the process reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. They could also diminish the chance of developing osteoporosis and/or improve hair and skin health. Sticking to a diet that includes a tandem of a tocotrienol supplement and vitamin E can bolster the benefits of the latter while correcting a vitamin E deficiency.
Turmeric is a healthful spice with a litany of potential benefits, mostly due to its active ingredient, curcumin. Curcumin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support its knack for reducing pain and alleviating symptoms associated with arthritis. In fact, turmeric could prove helpful for almost any condition associated with inflammation. It could help with metabolic syndrome, mitigate high blood cholesterol levels and some degenerative eye conditions, and reduce anxiety.
Tribulus terrestris is a leafy plant that grows throughout the world and has been used in both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine. Among its many potential uses, Tribulus terrestris has historically and commonly been used to enhance urinary tract health. A body of research exists which supports the use of Tribulus for low libido in women, and possibly in men as well. The properties of Tribulus terrestris also make it useful for decreasing high blood sugar levels.
Trans-resveratrol is a modified form of the natural compound resveratrol. Research has shown that trans-resveratrol has notable natural antioxidant properties and other health-supportive properties. It combats oxidation throughout the body in very specific chemical interactions. One of the reasons that a trans-resveratrol supplement could have a significant effect on oxidative damage is that other forms of resveratrol have low bioavailability once they are consumed.
Triphala is the name of an ancient tripartite herbal remedy native to the Indian Ayurvedic medicinal tradition. It is an excellent herbal remedy with multiple potential applications and consists of three herbs called Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). Each of these natural remedies contain a multitude of natural plant chemicals such as polyphenols. Triphala is a strong anti-inflammatory remedy. Research suggests that supplementing with Triphala can also contribute to weight loss or work as a natural laxative.
The above “T” supplements can help with inflammation, disease prevention, and more. Consider how these supplements could help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. It’s recommended that you always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.