Natural Medicine Glossary
Definitions of key terms in naturopathic medicine, herbal research, supplement science, and integrative health.
Adaptogen
A class of herbs and natural compounds believed to help the body resist physical, chemical, or biological stress. Common adaptogens include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and eleuthero. Evidence varies significantly by compound.
Alkaloid
A class of naturally occurring nitrogen-containing compounds produced by plants, fungi, and animals. Many alkaloids have potent biological activity. Examples include berberine, caffeine, and morphine.
Antioxidant
A compound that inhibits oxidation and neutralizes free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage. Examples include vitamin C, vitamin E, curcumin, and quercetin.
Berberine
A bitter alkaloid found in several plants including barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape. Studied primarily for metabolic effects including blood glucose regulation and lipid modulation.
Bioavailability
The proportion of a substance that enters circulation and is available for biological use when introduced into the body. Many herbal compounds have poor bioavailability in standard form, which influences formulation choices.
Botanical Medicine
The use of plants and plant-derived preparations for therapeutic purposes. Also called herbal medicine or phytotherapy. One of the oldest systems of medicine across most human cultures.
Chronic Inflammation
A prolonged, low-grade inflammatory response that persists over weeks, months, or years. Associated with numerous chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. Distinct from acute inflammation.
Clinical Trial
A research study conducted with human participants to evaluate a medical, surgical, or behavioral intervention. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered the highest quality for establishing causation.
Cortisol
A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and low blood glucose. Chronically elevated cortisol is associated with immune suppression, sleep disruption, and metabolic changes. Adaptogens are often studied for cortisol modulation.
Curcumin
The primary bioactive polyphenol compound in turmeric (Curcuma longa). Extensively studied for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic effects. Notable for poor standard bioavailability, addressed by formulations with piperine or phospholipid complexes.
Evidence Grade
A rating assigned to reflect the quality and quantity of scientific evidence supporting a claim. NaturopathicScience.com uses four grades: Strong, Moderate, Preliminary, and Insufficient.
Functional Medicine
A patient-centered approach that focuses on identifying and addressing root causes of disease. Emphasizes nutrition, lifestyle, environmental factors, and biochemical individuality. Overlaps significantly with integrative and naturopathic medicine.
Gut Microbiome
The community of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract. Increasingly linked to immune function, mood, metabolic health, and systemic inflammation.
Herxheimer Reaction
A temporary worsening of symptoms believed to occur when bacteria die rapidly and release endotoxins, overwhelming the body's clearance capacity. Discussed in Lyme disease treatment but scientifically debated in chronic contexts.
Integrative Medicine
A practice that combines conventional medicine with evidence-informed complementary approaches. Emphasizes the whole person, the therapeutic relationship, and natural, less-invasive interventions where possible.
Meta-Analysis
A statistical technique that combines and analyzes data from multiple independent studies to draw broader conclusions. Considered one of the highest levels of evidence when conducted rigorously.
Naturopathic Medicine
A system of medicine that emphasizes prevention, treatment, and optimal health using natural therapeutic methods. Licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) complete four-year accredited graduate programs in North America.
Oxidative Stress
An imbalance between free radical production and the body's antioxidant defenses, leading to cellular and tissue damage. Associated with aging, chronic disease, and inflammation.
Phytochemical
Bioactive compounds found in plants, beyond basic nutrients, that have biological effects in the body. Includes polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and more.
Systematic Review
A comprehensive, structured review of published research on a specific question, following a predefined methodology to identify, appraise, and synthesize evidence. Often paired with meta-analysis.