Also known as sugar cane.  Beyond serving as a source of table sugar, sugar cane extracts have both supplemental and cosmetic uses.  Sugar cane is also a source of policosanol, which may or may not improve blood lipids.  In addition, sugar cane extracts have antioxidant effects, and are a source of alpha-hydroxy acids used in skin care preparations.

The botanical name for the olive tree (and/or its fruit).  When used in supplements, this typically refers to olive leaf extract.  Olive leaf extract has antibiotic, anti-hypertensive, and antioxidant activities, although not all of these effects have been demonstrated in human subjects.

Tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein are some of the bioactive compounds identified in olive leaf, and commercial extracts are often standardized for one of these compounds.

Also known as Japanese Knotweed.  An invasive plant pest used as a source of resveratrol in commercial supplements.

See L-Tryptophan.

An essential amino acid and precursor to serotonin (neurotransmitter), melatonin (hormone) and niacin (vitamin). High protein foods such as poultry (especially turkey), soy, eggs and fish are good sources of tryptophan.  Tryptophan supplements are used to promote relaxation and sleep, although this has yet to be validated by the appropriate clinical studies.

A West African medicinal plant.  The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia are used as a source of 5-HTP in commercial supplements.

A metabolite of the essential amino acid l-tryptophan and intermediate in the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) as well as the hormone melatonin. 5-HTP is used as an alternative treatment for depression, and included in a number of supplements to improve mood and assist with appetite control/weight loss.

See Andrew Novick’s and David Tolson’s article, “5-HTP” for more information.

A medicinal plant grown in Uzebekistan and source of turkesterone.

See Turkesterone.

Also known as 11,20-dihydroxyecdysone.  Turkesterone is an ecdysteroid and analog of 20-hydroxyecdysone isolated from Ajuga turkestanica, a medicinal plant grown in Uzebekistan. Turkesterone is an ingredient in a number of bodybuilding supplements, although there is only limited Russian research to support its use for building muscle or improving athletic performance.