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Tocopherol. D-alpha tocopherol, or tocopheryl; dl-tocopherol. Mixed tocopherols. For most therapeutic purposes, only d-alpha tocopherol is used. Usually measured in International Units (IU); occasionally in milligrams (mg.). One IU equals 1 mg.

Functions

Oxygenates the tissues and markedly reduces the need for oxygen intake. Prevents unsaturated fatty acids, sex hormones and fat soluble vitamins from being destroyed in the body by oxygen. Prevents rancidity when added to other substances. An effective vasodilator – dilates blood vessels and improves circulation. Prevents scar tissue formation in burns and sores. An effective anti-thrombin and natural anti-coagulant – prevents death through thrombosis or blood clot. Can improve circulation in tiniest capillaries. Protects lungs and other tissues from damage by polluted air. Retards the aging processes. Essential for healthy function of reproductive organs. Indispensable for the prevention and treatment of heart disease, asthma, phlebitis, arthritis, burns (speeds healing and prevents scar-building), angina pectoris, emphysema, leg ulcers, “restless” legs, varicose veins, hypoglycemia, and many other conditions. Improves glycogen storage in the muscles. Has been used successfully in the prevention and treatment of reproductive disorders, miscarriages, male and female infertility, stillbirths, and menopausal and menstrual disorders.

Deficiency symptoms

Deficiency may lead to degenerative developments in coronary system, pulmonary embolism, strokes and heart disease. May cause degeneration of the epithelial and germinal cells of the testicles and lead to loss of sexual potency. Prolonged deficiency may cause reproductive disorders, abortions, miscarriages, male or female sterility, muscular disorders and increased fragility of red blood cells.

Natural sources

Unrefined, cold-pressed, crude vegetable oils, particularly wheat germ oil and soybean oil. All whole raw or sprouted seeds, nuts and grains – especially whole wheat. Fresh wheat germ (must be absolutely fresh, less than a week old; rancid wheat germ does not contain vitamin E). Green leafy vegetables and eggs.

MDR (minimum daily requirement):

Official estimated requirement: 15 IU. Expert nutritionists estimate the actual requirement at 100 to 200 IU a day. Therapeutic doses: From 200 to 2,400 IU daily, depending on condition. Persons with high blood pressure, heart conditions or rheumatic heart disease, or those taking more than 600 IU a day, should ask their doctor to determine the best dosage for them. Known antagonists (which interfere with or destroy vitamin E in the body): inorganic iron, estrogen (synthetic estrogen taken as drugs), chlorine, or chlorinated water.

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Ergosterol. Viosterol, Calciferol. Known as the “Sunshine Vitamin.” Measured in USP Units.

Function

Assists in assimilation of calcium, phosphorus and other minerals from   the   digestive   tract.   Necessary for the healthy function of parathyroid glands, which regulate the calcium level in the blood. Essential for the health of thyroid gland. Very important in infancy and adolescence for the proper formation of teeth and bones. Prevents rickets. Helps prevent tooth decay and pyorrhea. Some scientists feel that vitamin D is a hormone rather than a vitamin, as its functions parallel those of hormones.

Deficiency symptoms

Prolonged deficiency may lead to rickets, tooth decay, pyorrhea, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, retarded growth and poor bone formation in children, muscular weakness, lack of vigor, deficient assimilation of minerals and premature aging.

Natural sources

Fish liver oils, egg yolks, milk, butter, sprouted seeds, mushrooms, sunflower seeds. Vitamin D is produced by sunlight on the oily skin and absorbed by the body through the skin.

MDR (minimum daily requirement):

400 USP units. Therapeutically, up to 4,000 to 5,000 units a day for adults, or half of this for children, is a safe dose, if taken for not longer than one month. Can be toxic, if taken in excessive doses, especially by infants.

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