Vitamin E: The essential nutrient miracle for health and well-being

The discovery of vitamin E can be traced back to 1922, when Herbert McLean Evans and Katherine Scott Bishop discovered the essential importance of this vitamin for reproduction in rat studies. Originally named as a “fertility factor” in the diet, it was later classified as vitamin E due to its role as an antioxidant and its ability to protect cell integrity.

Vitamin E is available in a variety of forms, from natural food sources to supplemental formats such as capsules, tablets and oils. The richest natural sources include vegetable oils (such as wheat germ, sunflower and olive oil), nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.

Dosage varies according to age, gender and individual health conditions. The general recommended daily intake for adults is about 15 milligrams (mg) or 22.4 International Units (IU) for optimal health benefits.

Vitamin E has been shown to be effective in the prevention and treatment of various diseases. It is known for its antioxidant effect, which protects the body from free radical damage that can lead to chronic diseases and ageing processes. In particular, it can:

• Improve skin health and protect against UV damage
• Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving blood lipid levels
• Support eye health and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration
• Improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease

For optimum effect, vitamin E can be combined with other food supplements and medicinal plants. Vitamin C, selenium and zinc are well-known antioxidants that work synergistically to reduce oxidative stress in the body. Medicinal plants such as ginkgo biloba and turmeric, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, can also increase effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of disease.

In naturopathic medicine, vitamin E is often used as a natural remedy. It is valued for its ability to promote skin regeneration, reduce scarring and act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. In the form of oils, it can be used topically for skin treatments or as a dietary supplement to support general health.

Vitamin E is a vital nutrient with a wide range of health benefits. From its discovery as a “fertility factor” to its current recognition as a powerful antioxidant, it offers a natural solution to improve health and prevent disease. Its effectiveness can be further enhanced by combining it with other antioxidants and medicinal plants. It is widely used in naturopathic medicine to support the body’s natural healing processes and promote well-being. It remains an indispensable part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.