Vitamin C
What is it?
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant which helps combat free radical damage in the body. Free radicals damage cells, cell membranes and DNA in the body and can be neutralized with antioxidants. A diet seriously deficient in ascorbic acid will lead to scurvy, a disease prominent among sailors prior to the late 1700's.
Where is it from?
Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources for ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is found in berries, citrus fruits, and green vegetables. Natural vitamin C is usually extracted from rose hips, the fleshy base of the rose. Rose hip is a highly concentrated source of the vitamin, but vitamin C derived from it confers no special benefit. Humans are one of the few creatures that do not produce their own vitamin C, and must obtain it entirely from their diet.
What is it used for?
Aside from being a strong antioxidant, Vitamin C promotes the healing of wounds, fractures, bruises, and isolates infections. It also stimulates the adrenal glands to manufacture cortisone, which is involved in healing and helps to combat stress. Vitamin C also supports immunity by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which fight infections.