Fenugreek- Greek hay is known as fenugreek and Trigonella foenum-graecum, where the leaves are being used as an herb and the seeds are being used as a spice. It is not really clear where fenugreek originated, but reports of the use go back to almost four thousand years Ante Christum. Traditionally it was used by the Chinese herbalists to treat digestive problems, wounds, bronchitis, arthritis and male sexual dysfunctions. In current times it has been observed that fenugreek seems to inhibit cholesterol absorption and synthesis. Fist application of the fenugreek extract in nutritional supplement industries was conducted under the name Testofen, whose manufacturer conducted several studies on humans. They reported that fenugreek seems to cause the body to produce androstenedione, whereby lean muscle mass, sex drive and strength appeared boosted.

Indole-3-Carbinol is formed by the breakdown of Glucosinolate glucobrassicin that may be found at comparatively high quantity in cruciferous vegetables. It is the subject of study of current Biomedical research into its probable antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and anti-atherogenic effects. The researches on indole-3-carbinol have been performed primarily using cultured cells and laboratory animals. Only few, inconclusive and indecisive human studies have been reported. The latest analysis of the biomedical research found that the proof of an association between the intake of cruciferous vegetables and prostate or breast cancer, in human beings is inconsistent and limited. Controlled and randomized trials are required to establish if indole-3-carbinol supplements have health benefits.

Piperine, an extract that comes from the fruit of the black pepper plant “Piper Nigrum” and “Piper Longum,” sets the stage for the activities in the body that lead to digestion and intestinal absportion by increasing the metabolic process. It is a pungent substance that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for treatment of various diseases and is commercially available. Piperine forms monochenic needles, is slightly soluble in water and even more so in alcohol, ether, or chloroform. It significantly enhances the body’s ability to absorb nutrients into the blood stream, and supports the body’s natural thermogenic activities. It inhibits human CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, which are enzymes that are important for transport of xenobiotics and metabolites. Piperin has been found to stimulate skin pigmentation when exposed to UVB light. Caution should be used by those on other medications if taking this extract because of piperin’s effects on drug metabolism.

Quercetin is a flavanoid derived from plants and is widely used as a nutritional supplement. There are many studies which are being conducted to exactly determine the benefits of Quercetin. It is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and hence is being tested to help curb and cure terminal diseases like cancer. The high intake of fruits and vegetables is good for cancer treatments. Many researchers believe that these qualities of Quercetin are what allow it to be used for treating cancer as well. Quercetin is classified into the IARC group 3; which categorizes food and drugs as that which are not carcinogenic.