Back to Basics: The Great Importance Of Antioxidants Revisited

Magazine publications from prominent doctors to fitness experts tell us that we need to consume more foods rich in antioxidants. Artfully colored supplement bottles line grocery store shelves publicizing their product loaded with antioxidants. But, what really is an antioxidant? To put it simply, antioxidants are molecular structures that battle against damaging free radicals that are created in the normal process of oxidation.

The Process of Oxidation

Oxidation occurs from the activity of respiration, metabolism and other bodily functions. The actual process of oxidation is when molecules lose electrons from reacting with other elements or molecules, and become what is known as free radicals. These might damage your cells, vital proteins and DNA, which if left unchecked could cause serious damage.

Although free radicals are a result of normal and necessary bodily functions, outside factors can also instigate the production of these electron scavengers. Such factors as pollution, toxic chemicals in water and food, second and first-hand smoke, bacteria, viruses and radiation can all contribute to a flood-gate of free radical production.

What is of great science interest (and concern) is when the production of free radicals goes beyond the capacity of antioxidants. Scientists are now actively researching the link between free radicals and disease. It is widely acknowledged in medical circles that the overabundance of free radicals is a probable cause of accelerated aging, heart disease and even cancer.

The Need for Antioxidants

As you may well surmise, the presence of antioxidants within the body is essential. Once these heroes have neutralized a free radial (by themselves becoming oxidized), they are removed from the body as waste. Thus, there is a constant need to replenish antioxidant levels.

The natural manufacturing of enzymes (such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) to battle against scavenging free radicals is remarkable, yet they cannot so the job alone. Natural antioxidant enzymes need the assistance of vitamins and minerals such as beta carotene and vitamins C and E to dismantle and neutralize the actions of free radicals as well. Foods such as berries, dark leafy greens, certain citrus and nuts and seeds are regarded as being high in antioxidants. Increasing amounts of research indicated that essential oils, such as clove, thyme, oregano and cinnamon also high in antioxidants and exhibit impressive antioxidant capabilities.

Measuring Antioxidants

The amount of antioxidants that each food contains is typically measured by the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scale with units expressed as micromole (u) Trolox equivalent (TE) per 100 grams. For instance, blueberries have a rating of 6552 uTE/100 g and almonds 4454 uTE/100 g. Essential oils that have been tested range from 69,000 to 1,078,700 uTE/100 g, with clove essential oil being at the top of the list. Wow! Many essential oils can in fact be ingested in small amounts (1-3 drops at a time, a few times per day), and can be utilized as antioxidant supplements in this way. Of course, when in skin-care blends, they impart this same action — hence, Sea Buckthorn Berry essential oil is added to face-care formulas, as it will absorb free radicals directly in the skin.

It is important however to keep in mind that the ORAC scale is per 100 gram sample and that consuming 100 grams of blue berries would be quite different than 100 grams of clove oil. Yet, such readings of clove, oregano, thyme and other essential oils do indicate that they are a powerful source of antioxidants. Of course, no one can read what happens inside the body, so it is a good idea to consume a variety of sources high in antioxidants. Each food and essential oil has their own distinct way of being incorporated into the body.

Antioxidants are truly important for the existence of a healthy life. With new research on the antioxidant properties of essential oils, it is also worth considering a daily dose of essential oils. Since essential oils are so concentrated it only takes a few drops daily. Yet, it is important to remember that there is no one silver bullet antioxidant and to mega dose on any one antioxidant (especially supplements) is contrary to the system. So, eat up, drink up and do so wisely.

The author is the co-owner of anandaapothecary.com – More aromatherapy resources are available on this site.