Rubus idaeus
The botanical name for raspberry. Raspberries are a source of antioxidant phytochemicals, including ellagitannins (esp. ellagic acid), anthocyanins and Vitamin C. Raspberries are also a source of raspberry ketone, a food additive and fat loss supplement ingredient.
Raspberry Ketone
Phenolic compound from red raspberries used as a fragrance and/or food flavoring. Raspberry ketone is also added to certain fat loss supplements due to evidence that suggests it has anti-obesity effects. An unpublished pilot study on a proprietary form called Razberi-K™, demonstrated it enhanced post-exercise fat oxidation, although the results were apparently not large enough to be statistically significant.
Raspberry ketone may also be listed on supplement labels by its chemical name: 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl) butan-2-one.
Lepidium meyenii
See Maca.
Maca
Also known as “Peruvian Ginseng.” Maca is the tuberous root of a South American plant, Lepidium meyenii. Maca is used both as a vegetable and medicinal food to improve libido and fertility. Maca is highly nutritious, and has been shown to improve memory/learning and depression in animal experiments. It also has positive effects on menopausal symptoms via non-hormonal mechanisms. One variety, black maca, also increased sperm count and motility in rats.
Maca is often added to “male enhancement” products, although the doses are generally too low for any significant effects.
