PABA (Para Aminobenzoic Acid): May be considered part of the Vitamin B complex. As a coenzyme, PABA functions in the breakdown and utilization of proteins and in the formation of red blood cells.

PANTOTHENIC ACID: A B-complex vitamin necessary for the normal functioning of the adrenal gland, which directly affects growth. It is also essential for the formation of fatty acids. As a coenzyme, it participates in the utilization of riboflavin and in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

PARENTERAL: Not in or through the digestive system, introduced otherwise than by way of the intestines and occurring outside the intestine.

PAU D'ARCO: An herb (Tabebuia avellanedae). Pau D'arco tea is prepared from the bark of various species of Tabebuia, a classification of about 100 broad-leaved, mostly evergreen trees, native to the West Indies and Central and South America. It is referred to in Brazil as ipe or Pau D'arco. This plant has extremely hard wood that is most attractive and virtually indestructible.

PEROXIDATION: A type of oxidation that results in the formation of peroxides in body tissues which contain high proportions of oxygen.

PHENYLALANINE: Essential amino acid. Precursor to tyrosine which is used to manufacture certain hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopa, dopamine) which are important for the transmission of nerve impulses. As neurotransmitters, these substances are believed to influence mood, appetite control and memory.

PHOSPHOLIPID: A fat or lipid containing phosphorus found in high quantities in the brain and very important to the function of cellular membranes and to the nervous system.

PHOSPHORUS: The second most abundant mineral in the body found in every living cell. It is involved in the proper functioning of both muscles and nerves. It is needed for metabolic processes of all cells, to activate many other nutrients, and to form energy-storage and energy-releasing compounds. The phosphorus content of the body is approximately one percent of total body weight. Phosphorus combines with fats to form phospholipids.

PHYTOCHEMICAL: Substances that occur naturally in plants and have been shown in research to possibly prevent or cure disease.

PHYTONUTRIENT: A nutrient derived from a plant.

PHYTOSTEROL: A sterol derived from plants.

PLACEBO: An inactive substance or a less than effective dose of a harmless substance prescribed as if it were an effective dose of a needed medication. It may be a saltwater solution, distilled water or sugar and is used in drug studies to compare with the effects of the inactive substance with those of an experimental drug. It may also be given to a patient who cannot take a potent or real drug.

POTASSIUM: A mineral that serves as an electrolyte and is involved in the balance of fluid within the body. Our bodies contain more than twice as much potassium as sodium (typically nine ounces versus four ounces). About 98 percent of total body potassium is inside our cells. Potassium is the principal cation (positive ion) of the fluid within cells. Potassium is important in controlling the activity of the heart, muscles, nervous system and just about every cell in the body. Potassium regulates the water balance and acid-base balance in the blood and tissues. Evidence is showing that potassium is also involved in bone calcification. Potassium is a co-factor in many reactions, especially those involving energy production and muscle building.

PROANTHOCYANIDINS: A class of compounds found in the family of bioflavonoids.

PROBIOTIC: Derived from the Greek word for "life." Probiotic refers to organisms and substances which contribute to intestinal microbial balance. They are beneficial or "friendly" intestinal bacteria.

PROSTATE GLAND: A gland in men that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra and produces a secretion that liquefies coagulated semen.

PROTEIN: An organic nitrogenous compound that is the major source of building material for muscles, blood, skin, hair, nails and the internal organs. It is made up of amino acids that have the elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen. Some are also made up of sulfur, phosphorus, iodine, iron and other necessary elements of living cells.

PROTEOLYTIC: The property of a substance that breaks down proteins.

PYCNOGENOL: A trademark for specific bioflavonoids extracted from pine bark.

PYRIDOXINE (Vitamin B-6): A B-complex vitamin that plays a role as a coenzyme in the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It facilitates the release of glycogen for energy from the liver and muscles. It also participates in the utilization of energy in the brain and nervous tissue and is essential for the regulation of the central nervous system.

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