Ingredient Glossary

The most amazing ingredients from nature aren’t always the easiest to find. At Swisse, we are dedicated to searching the globe for rich ingredients that help you make the most of life.

ANDROGRAPHIS

Overview

An adaptogenic herb, it's the root extract of Andrographis that is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda.

Key benefits

Traditionally used in Chinese Medicine to:

Fun fact

Andrographis is also known as 'The King of Bitters' due to its intensely bitter tasting leaves.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Overview

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is made from fermented apple juice and is traditionally used as a digestive aid.

Key benefits

  • Supports energy levels
  • Helps digestion

Fun fact

In ancient Greece, Hippocrates prescribed apple cider vinegar mixed with honey for a variety of ills, including coughs and colds.

ASHWAGANDHA

Overview

Once of the most widely used Ayurvedic herbs, ashwagandha functions as an adaptogen (a natural substance which helps the body adapt to stress). 

Key benefits

  • Traditionally used in Ayurvedic Medicine to calm nerves and induce sleep  
  • Contains antioxidants which could improve cognitive function

Fun fact

Ashwagandha's name is Sanskrit for the 'smell of the horse', and refers to its unique smell and ability to increase strength and vitality. 

ASTRAGALUS

Overview

Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects, historically used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Key benefits

  • Supports immune system health
  • Traditionally used in Chinese Medicine to promote body tissue regeneration

Fun fact

It's the root of the Astragalus that is used for health care purposes and not the pretty flowers the plant produces.

BETA-CAROTENE

Overview

Beta-carotene is a type of pigment called a carotenoid that is an antioxidant converted to Vitamin A in the body.

Key benefits

Beta-carotene is a type of pigment called a carotenoid that is an antioxidant converted to Vitamin A in the body.

Fun fact

Beta-carotene is found in plants and is a distinctive red-orange colour.

BIOTIN

Overview

Biotin, or Vitamin B7, is one of the essential B vitamins commonly supplemented to support skin, nail and hair health.

Key benefits

  • Supports skin and hair health

Fun fact

Biotin can be found in some meats, egg, seeds, nut and fish.

CALCIFEDIOL

Overview

Calcifediol (also known as Ampli-D) is a potent form of vitamin D that aids calcium absorption in the gut, benefiting the Musculoskeletal area.&l

Key benefits

  • Supports muscle and healthy immune system function 
  • Supports healthy bones and teeth

Fun fact

Vitamin D is often referred to has the happy vitamin, because you need it to encourage serotonin production and release.

CALCIUM

Overview

Calcium is an essential mineral commonly found in dairy products and some bony fish, legumes and nuts.

Key benefits

  • Maintains bone and teeth health
  • Supports neuromuscular health

Fun fact

In the body, calcium is stored in the bones and teeth.

CHLOROPHYLL

Overview

Chlorophyll is a naturally occurring pigment and is considered nature's "greatest superfood". 

Key benefits

Fun fact

Chlorophyll plays a vital role in photosynthesis, it absorbs red and blue light from sunlight and is the reason leaves are green.  

CHROMIUM

Overview

Chromium is a mineral that is naturally found in soil and therefore in a variety of foods.

Key benefits

  • Aids in the metabolism of protein and fats

Fun fact

Chromium helps support cellular uptake of glucose.

CINNAMON

Overview

A common spice used world-wide, cinnamon has outstanding experience delivering health benefits.

Key benefits

Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to: 

  • Relieve menstruation pain
  • Strengthen kidneys

Fun fact

Cinnamon is full of antioxidants, we've sprinkled this key ingredient in our Collagen Balance Powder.

CO-ENZYME Q10

Overview

CoQ10 is a lipid-soluble compound synthesized by the body, it is used to support heart and cardiovascular health.

Key benefits

  • Supports cardiovascular system health
  • Reduce free radicals formed in the body

Fun fact

CoQ10 can also come from dietary sources such as meat, fish, dairy and eggs.

COPPER

Overview

Copper is a trace mineral that is used in many different processes in the body.

Key benefits

  • Supports immune system health
  • Collagen formation support
  • Supports the nervous system

Fun fact

Copper's main function is to support enzyme reactions in the body which are involved in supporting energy production.

CRANBERRY

Overview

Cranberries (actually a fruit, not a berry) are a group of evergreen dwarf shrubs that are naturally rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C.

Key benefits

  • Naturally rich in antioxidants
  • Supports urinary tract health

Fun fact

Cranberries are a picky little species and require specific requirements to bear fruit. They grow on low-lying vines in beds, known as 'cranberry bogs'. 

DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID

Overview

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential, unsaturated omega-3 fatty acid found in fish and seaweed. In the human body, DHA is found in high concentrations in the brain and eyes.

Key benefits

  • Supports brain health
  • Supports eye health
  • Supports cardiovascular health

Fun fact

DHA is essential in the retina of the eye, supporting healthy eyesight.

ECHINACEA

Overview

Also known as the 'purple coneflower', echinacea is a herb that's native to areas east of the Rocky Mountains in the USA. 

Key benefits

  • Supports a healthy immune system
  • Traditionally used in western herbal medicine to relieve symptoms of mild respiratory tract infections

Fun fact

Echinacea is a member of the daisy family, cute. 

EICOSAPENTAENOIC ACID

Overview

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid commonly found in fish that is known for supporting general health and wellbeing.

Key benefits

  • Heart health support Supports cardiovascular system health

Fun fact

EPA is primarily found in oily fish, like salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and krill oil.

EVENING PRIMROSE OIL

Overview

Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, which is native to North America. It has a high content of omega-6 fatty acids, specifically linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).

Key benefits

  • Maintains skin health and integrity

Fun fact

Evening primrose has yellow flowers which bloom in the evening after sunset.

FOLIC ACID

Overview

Folic Acid is a synthetic form of Folate, also known as Vitamin B9, used in supplements and fortified foods particularly for its importance in pregnancy and fetal development.

Key benefits

  • Supports a healthy pregnancy
  • Supports cardiovascular system health

Fun fact

Folic acid plays a big role in the development of a baby's neural tube, a structure which exists in the first few weeks of pregnancy and will eventually form into the baby's brain, spinal cord and the bones that enclose them.

Cynara cardunculus

GLOBE ARTICHOKE

Overview

Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), also known as French artichoke and green artichoke is a vegetable that grows thistle-like flowers.  

Key benefits

  • Relieves symptoms of indigestion 
  • Assists with healthy digestion   

Fun fact

Globe artichoke is seasonally available from late autumn to late spring in Australia.  

GLYCOLIC ACID

Overview

Glycolic Acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used in skin care as a chemical exfoliant.

Key benefits

  • Improves appearance of skin tone, texture and clarity

Fun fact

AHA's (like Gycolic Acid) are a group of acids that occur naturally in fruits, sugar cane, and milk.

GRAPE SEED

Overview

Grape seed is an extract made from the crushed seeds of grape plants, it's a popular beauty antioxidant naturally rich in polyphenols.  

Key benefits

  • Helps protect against the effects of free radicals in the body  
  • A rich source of proanthocyanidins 

Fun fact

Grape seeds are pressed to remove the oil and then dried and ground to become an extract for wellness uses.  

Humulus Lupulus

HOPS

Overview

Hops is a plant commonly used for brewing because of its aromatic characteristics, however it has also been traditionally used as a soothing agent.

Key benefits

Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:

  • Reduce sleeplessness
  • Relax the nervous system

Fun fact

Hops are green, cone-shaped flowers that are traditionally grown in the Northern Hemisphere.

HYALURONIC ACID

Overview

Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan (carbohydrate) which is found throughout the body's skin and connective tissue.

Key benefits

Fun fact

Hyaluronic acid products can come in many forms, we've put this powerful ingredient in a serum, powder, tablet and even gummies!

HYDROLISED COLLAGEN

Overview

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and can be found in a variety of animal foods.

Key benefits

Fun fact

Collagen can also be found in soy which contains amino acids that help make collagen when ingested.

KRILL OIL

Overview

Krill oil is a natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Key benefits

  • Maintains general health and wellbeing

Fun fact

Krill Oil is a supplement that supports joints, bones and cardiovascular need states.

LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS

Overview

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a commonly used probiotic as it is naturally found in the human body, including in the digestive system.

Key benefits

  • Supports healthy digestion
  • Gastrointestinal system support

Fun fact

Lactobacilus acidophilus can reduce the pH in the intestine.

LEMON BALM

Overview

With mint-looking leaves and a pleasant citrus aroma, Lemon Balm is the unsung hero of sleep support, used traditionally for a myriad of health benefi

Key benefits

Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:

  • Reduce sleeplessness
  • Decrease nervous tension

Fun fact

Lemon Balm is native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia.

LUTEIN

Overview

Lutein is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties, known for its benefits in eye health.

Key benefits

  • Supports eye health
  • Supports cardiovascular system health
  • Reduces free radicals formed in the body

Fun fact

Lutein is naturally found in foods such as egg yolks and paprika.

MAGNESIUM

Overview

Magnesium is an important mineral to maintain cardiovascular health, energy production and muscle health. 

Key benefits

  • Relieves tiredness and fatigue 
  • Supports cognitive function  

Fun fact

Magnesium is involved in more than 300 metabolic reactions in the body. 

MANGANESE

Overview

Manganese is an essential mineral involved in several processes in the body and is found in the bones, liver and kidney.

Key benefits

Support healthy bones Supports energy levels

Fun fact

Manganese is naturally found in a variety of foods, with cereal products contributing to a large portion of dietary manganese.

Silybum marianum

MILK THISTLE

Overview

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a powerful detoxifying herb that helps to restore and regenerate the integrity of liver cells.  

Key benefits

  • Supports natural liver cleansing  
  • Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to maintain gallbladder health 

Fun fact

Milk thistle gets its name from the milky-white liquid that is extracted from the leaves when crushed.  

OMEGA-3

Overview

Omega-3 is essential group of fats consisting of 3 types: ALA, EPA and DHA. 

Key benefits

  • Supports healthy eyesight 
  • Maintains healthy brain function 

Fun fact

While omega-3 fats are essential for health, the body can't make them from scratch, so must get them from food.

Passiflora Incarnata

PASSIONFLOWER

Overview

Passionflower has traditionally been used for its calming properties and as a sleep aid. It contains a range of flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Key benefits

  • Promotes a healthy sleep pattern
  • Relieves sleeplessness

Fun fact

Passionflower is a climbing vine with white/purple flowers.

POTASSIUM

Overview

Potassium is an essential mineral found naturally in many fruits and meat and is needed for the proper functioning of all cells and tissues. 

Fun fact

Potassium is an important electrolyte alongside sodium, magnesium, calcium and chloride. You can find it in bananas, watermelon, orange and coconut water.   

ROSEHIP OIL

Overview

Rosehip oil is made using the fruit and seeds of the rose plant (rosa canina rose bush) and is different to rose oil, which is extracted from rose petals. 

Key benefits

Fun fact

Hips are the small fruit seeds that sit behind the flower and are left over once the rose has blossomed and lost its petals. 

Crocus sativus

SAFFRON

Overview

Saffron (Crocus sativus) comes from the Crocus sativus flower and is renowned for its flavour, colour and fragrance. 

Key benefits

  • Helps calm nerves 
  • Helps body adapt to stress 

Fun fact

Saffron per ounce is worth more than gold. Why? Saffron can only be harvested by hand and as each flower produces just three stigmas, large quantities are needed to harvest a usable amount.  

SAGE

Overview

A perennial, evergreen shrub, sage has a multitude of uses, including being an herbal supplement traditionally used for various

Key benefits

Traditionally used in Western Herbal Medicine to:

  • Improve digestive weakness
  • Heal wounds

Fun fact

Burning dried sage is called 'smudging' and has ancient roots as a ritual for energy clearing of a space.

SELENIUM

Overview

Selenium is an essential mineral that in the body, acts as a component of selenoproteins which are involved in major functions of the body such as thyroid metabolism and immune system function.

Key benefits

  • Supports a healthy immune system function

Fun fact

You'll find Selenium in Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds and oats.

SPIRULINA

Overview

Spirulina is categorised as a superfood and is a blue-green algae

Key benefits

  • Source of chlorophyll, iron, thiamin, riboflavin and vitamin B6

Fun fact

Spirulina is a common source of protein for those adopting a vegan diet.

SULFUR

Overview

Sulfur is a chemical commonly known for its antifungal, antibacterial and blemish removing properties.

Key benefits

  • Improves the appearance of blemishes
  • Visibly reduces blemish size and redness

Fun fact

You'll find this unique ingredient in our Swisse Beauty Blemish Remedy.

THEANINE

Overview

L-theanine is an organic compound found commonly in plants and used predominantly to help with stress, anxiety and sleep.

Key benefits

Fun fact

The most common form of L-theanine is found abundantly in green tea.

Curcuma longa

TURMERIC

Overview

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a member of the ginger family and contains an active ingredient called curcumin.  

Key benefits

Fun fact

Turmeric stains can ruin an outfit. Try mixing 1 tbsp of liquid dish washing detergent, 1 tbsp of white vinegar and a ½ litre of cold water. Apply to the stain, sponge and repeat.  

Valeriana Officinalis

VALERIAN

Overview

Valerian is a herb native to Europe and Asia. An extract is made from the root of the valerian plant which has been used traditionally for insomnia.

Key benefits

  • Helps mind relaxation
  • Maintain healthy sleeping patterns

Fun fact

Native to Europe and Asia, this flowering grasslands plant can grow to 1.5 metres in summer and bears sweetly-smelling pink or white flowers.

VITAMIN A

Overview

Vitamin A are a group of fat-soluble metabolites found in animal products such as fish, eggs and dairy and plants such as potatoes, carrots, leafy greens.

Key benefits

Supports eye health Supports a healthy immune system

Fun fact

Vitamin A metabolites are involved in cell and tissue growth.

VITAMIN B12

Overview

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is present in animal foods such as fish, meat, poultry, eggs and dairy.

Key benefits

  • Healthy Nervous system support
  • Energy production
  • Supports the function of the nervous system
  • Aids healthy blood cell production

Fun fact

Low vitamin B12 levels can have effects such as low counts of red and white blood cells and fatigue.

VITAMIN C

Overview

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that contributes to normal immune system function and the regeneration of vitamin E.  

Key benefits

  • Supports the immune system to fight illness.  
  • Supports the formation of collagen  
  • Maintains strong and healthy bones and teeth  

Fun fact

The body cannot produce vitamin C on its own, making a diet rich in vitamin C important for overall health.  

VITAMIN D

Overview

Vitamin D is known as the 'sunshine vitamin' and is both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our bodies make.  

Key benefits

  • Maintains healthy bones  
  • Supports healthy teeth 

Fun fact

Vitamin D was discovered nearly 100 years ago and as it was the fourth 'vitamin' discovered, it was named vitamin D. 

VITAMIN D3

Overview
Vitamin D3 is a form of Vitamin D which is one of the essential micronutrients for humans. Vitamin D3 can be synthesised by the skin with UV contact or ingested through foods such as oily fish and eggs.

Key benefits

  • Supports healthy immune function
  • Supports muscle function
  • Supports healthy bones and teeth

Fun fact
Vitamin D3 is also called cholecalciferol

VITAMIN E

Overview
There are eight plant-derived molecules that make up Vitamin E, an essential antioxidant. Vitamin E's main role as an antioxidant is to prevent the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Key benefits

  • Helps reduce free radical damage to body cells

Fun fact
You'll find vitamin E in cooking oils, seeds and nuts, certain fish, vegetables and fruit.

ZINC

Overview
Zinc is one of the most important minerals for our immune system, it cannot be made within the body and is sought out through diet or

Key benefits

  • Maintains healthy immune system function
  • Supports skin repair

Fun fact
Zinc is a trace mineral, meaning although it’s crucial, our bodies don’t need vast amounts of it.

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