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ORAC* stands for “Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity”. This rating* is established by a laboratory test that attempts to quantify the total antioxidant capacity of a food by placing a sample of the food in a test tube, along with certain molecules known to generate free radical activity and certain other molecules that are vulnerable to oxidation.
After a period of time, they measure how well the food protected the vulnerable molecules from oxidation. The less free radical damage there is, the higher the ORAC score.
Free radicals are atoms, molecules, or ions that contain an unpaired electron. In a process called oxidation, free radicals steal electrons from other molecules altering the structure of the molecule, which can set off a chain reaction damaging the DNA of that molecule. Over time, damage accumulates and contributes to aging and a variety of degenerative diseases.
Antioxidants halt unstable free radical activity, by accepting or donating an electron making them stable, without becoming unstable themselves.
Some antioxidants bind to cells providing enhanced protection against free radical damage.
It's important to note that free radicals are a normal part of the chemical reactions that take place in the body. A healthy lifestyle, including a diet high in antioxidant rich foods, is important to prevent
excess free radical damage. Stress, pollutants, pesticides, deep fried foods, and excess alcohol consumption are just some of the conditions that result in inflammation and high free radical activity.
A diet and supplement protocol that is high in antioxidants is the best defense against aging, inflammation, and disease.
*ORAC ratings are no longer considered valid by the scientific community as results in a test tube might not reflect effects on human cells. It is still a good indicator of potential benefits
| Herb/Supplement | ORAC |
|---|---|
| Astaxanthin | 2,822,200 |
| Ground Clove | 290,283 |
| Rosemary, dried | 165,280 |
| Thyme, dried | 157,380 |
| Cinnamon, ground | 131,420 |
| Black Cohosh | 122,400 |
| Sage, dried | 119,929 |
| Licorice Root | 102,945 |
| Allspice, ground | 100,400 |
| Parsley, dried | 73,670 |
| Nutmeg, ground | 69,640 |
| Basil | 61,063 |
| Triphala | 706,250 |
| Oregano, dried | 175,295 |
| Peppermint, dried | 160,820 |
| Chaga Mushroom | 146,700 |
| Turmeric, ground | 127,068 |
| Vanilla Bean | 122,400 |
| Grapeseed Extract | 108,130 |
| Acai Berry | 102,700 |
| Rose Hips | 96,150 |
| Gotu Kola | 69,978 |
| Green Tea | 62,714 |
Colourful fruits and vegetables are a source of polyphenols, anthocyanins, flavonoids and carotenoids - antioxidants that fight free radical damage and increase cellular integrity.
Avocados, raw seeds and nuts, and their oils are a good source of antioxidant vitamin E which protects the cardiovascular system and keeps skin looking great!
Concentrated forms of antioxidants are available in supplement form such as astaxanthin, grapeseed extract, resveratrol, pine bark extract, lycopene, and alpha lipoic acid.
*Revised February 2023
We have been supporting the wellness of our communities since 1976.
Our highly trained staff are here to help. Our Product Educators have vast knowledge and experience with the products we carry in our stores - whether they take them themselves, have taken brand training, or have received feedback from customers.
Please visit one of our stores to chat with them about we can help support you and get you feeling your best!
