vitamins and their medicinal uses

1. Vitamins and their medicinal uses
Table of Contents
Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 2
Characteristics................................................................................................................................. 2
Functions......................................................................................................................................... 2
Classifications................................................................................................................................. 2
1. Fat soluble vitamins................................................................................................................. 2
1.1. Vitamin A ......................................................................................................................... 2
1.2. Vitamin D......................................................................................................................... 3
1.3. Vitamin E.......................................................................................................................... 4
1.4. Vitamin K......................................................................................................................... 5
2. Water soluble vitamins ............................................................................................................ 5
2.1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)............................................................................................... 5
2.2 B-Complex Vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12) ........................................ 6
Medicinal uses of vitamins ............................................................................................................. 7

2. Vitamins
Introduction
The word "vitamin" comes from the Latin word "vita", means "life". Vitamins are organic
components in food that are needed in very small amounts for growth and for maintaining good
health.
Characteristics
 Vitamins are required in small quantities in the diet because they cannot be synthesized by
the body.
 Water soluble vitamins cannot be stored in human tissues.
 Their excess is excreted with urine.
 Significant amounts of fats soluble vitamins can be stored in adipose tissue and the liver.
 Synthetic vitamins are identical to natural vitamins.
Functions
Vitamins are helpful for the health and life of the body in the following respects:
 They build up the resistance of the body against diseases.
 Prevent and cure various diseases caused by deficiency.
 Help the digestion and utilization of mineral salts and Carbohydrates in the body.
 Stimulate and give strength to digestive and nervous system.
 Help health protection.
 Help maintenance of proper health and normal growth.
Classifications
Vitamins are classified on the basis of their solubility such as;
1. Fat soluble vitamins
2. Water soluble vitamins
1. Fat soluble vitamins
Vitamins that dissolve in fat. Because fat is easily stored on our body, fat-soluble vitamins
can be stored within our fat. This means they can accumulate and be saved for later use. The fat-
soluble vitamins are A, D, E and K.
Here are common sources of these fat-soluble vitamins:
1.1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble essential nutrient that plays a critical role in maintaining various
bodily functions and overall health. Vitamin A plays several important functions in the human
body. Some of its key functions include: vision, cell growth and differentiation, skin health.

3. Vitamin A can be obtained from various animal sources in the form of preformed vitamin
A, which includes retinol. Beef liver (scientific name: Bos taurus), chicken liver (scientific name:
Gallus domesticus), cod liver oil (scientific name: Gadus morhua), eggs, dairy products.
Vitamin A can be obtained from various plant sources, primarily in the form of provitamin
A carotenoids. Here are some plant sources and their scientific names: carrots (scientific name:
Daucus carota), sweet potatoes (scientific name: Ipomoea batatas), spinach (scientific name:
Spinacia oleracea), apricots (scientific name: Prunus armeniaca), papaya (scientific name: Carica
papaya)
1.2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various aspects of health.
Vitamin D is essential for various bodily functions, the most well-known being its role in calcium
absorption and bone health. It helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary
for strong bones and teeth. It also has implications for muscle function, immune system support,
and cell growth regulation.
Vitamin D is primarily obtained through sunlight exposure and is not naturally abundant in
most plant-based foods. However, some mushrooms have the ability to synthesize vitamin D2
(ergocalciferol) when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Additionally, dietary sources include fatty
fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, liver, and vitamin D-fortified foods (like milk and cereals).

4. 1.3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E refers to a group of compounds that include both tocopherols and tocotrienols.
They are naturally occurring anti-oxidant. It is also called anti-aging factor. Vitamin E, a fat-
soluble antioxidant, plays several important functions in the human body such as: antioxidant
protection, neurological health.
Animal sources of Vitamin E are: Atlantic salmon, snails, octopus, goose Meat, cod (dried)
Plants sources of Vitamin E are: wheat germ oil (scientific name: Triticum Vulgare
Aestivum), almonds (scientific name: Prunus dulcis) pumpkin (scientific name: Cucurbita pepo),
mango (scientific name: Mangifera indica), soybean oil (scientific name: Glycine max)

5. 1.4. Vitamin K
Vitamin K refers to a group of structurally similar, fat- soluble vitamins the human body
needs for complete synthesis of certain proteins that are required for blood coagulation, and also
certain proteins that the body uses to manipulate binding of calcium in bone and other tissues.
Sources of vitamin K in animals are chicken liver, meat, egg yolk, broccoli chopped. Plant sources
of vitamin K are kiwi fruit, blueberries, carrot, Leafly green vegetables cabbage.
2. Water soluble vitamins
Vitamins that dissolve in water. Because our body is a watery environment, these vitamins can
move through our body pretty easily, and they can also be flushed out by the kidneys. Water-
soluble vitamins include the B-complex vitamins and vitamin C. There are eight B vitamins,
including vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12.
2.1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays several vital
roles in the human body. Sources are citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and other
citrus fruits are rich sources of vitamin C. Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
are high in vitamin C.

6. 2.2 B-Complex Vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12)
Vitamin B complex refers to a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that play essential roles
in various bodily functions. These B vitamins are often found together in natural food sources and
are crucial for overall health.
 Whole Grains: Whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat, and oats are sources of various
B vitamins.
 Meat: Lean meats, poultry, and fish provide B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2
(riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin).
 Legumes: Lentils, beans, and peas are rich in B vitamins.
 Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt contain B vitamins.
 Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are sources of B vitamins.
 Eggs: Eggs provide several B vitamins, including B2 and B12.

7. Medicinal uses of vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins
Vitamins A
Vitamin A has several important medicinal purposes due to its role in maintaining various
bodily functions. Some of the key medicinal uses of vitamin A include:
1. Vision Health
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, particularly in low-light conditions. It is
used to prevent and treat night blindness and other vision problems.
2. Immune Support
Vitamin A plays a role in supporting the immune system by promoting the health of epithelial
cells, which act as barriers against infections. It helps protect against respiratory and
gastrointestinal infections.
3. Skin Health
Vitamin A is used in dermatology for treating skin conditions such as acne. It can help reduce
the production of sebum (skin oil) and promote skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for
improving the appearance and health of the skin.
4. Wound Healing
Vitamin A is essential for proper wound healing. It promotes the regeneration of cells and
tissues, aiding in the recovery process after injuries or surgeries.
5. Reproductive Health
In pregnancy, vitamin A is important for fetal development, particularly for the growth of the
eyes and other organs. It is prescribed to pregnant women to prevent vitamin A deficiency-related
birth defects.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D serves several important medicinal purposes due to its role in maintaining
various aspects of health. Some of the key medicinal uses of vitamin D include:
1. Bone Health
Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines, which is
essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. It is used to prevent and treat conditions like
osteoporosis and rickets.

8. 2. Immune Function
Vitamin D plays a role in modulating the immune system. Adequate vitamin D levels are
associated with a reduced risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
3. Mood and Mental Health
There is growing evidence that vitamin D may have an impact on mood and mental health. It
is used in some cases to alleviate symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
4. Chronic Disease Prevention
Adequate vitamin D levels are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart
disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. It is used as a preventive measure for these conditions.
5. Skin Conditions
Vitamin D-based topical treatments are used for some skin conditions like psoriasis and
vitiligo to help manage symptoms and improve skin health.
Vitamin E
Medicinal uses of vitamin E include:
1. Antioxidant Properties
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by
free radicals. This protective effect may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and slow down the
Skin Health
Topical applications of vitamin E are used to promote skin healing and reduce scars. It can be
found in many skincare products and is applied to wounds and burns to aid in the healing process.
2. Heart Health
Vitamin E may have a positive impact on heart health. It's used to prevent and treat conditions
like atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. It may help by reducing the oxidation of low-
density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries.
3. Eye Health
Vitamin E is used to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a
condition affecting the eyes. Its antioxidant properties may help protect the retina from damage.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health.
Its primary medicinal purposes include:

9. 1. Blood Clotting
Vitamin K is essential for the production of proteins involved in blood clotting, specifically
factors II, VII, IX, and X. Without sufficient vitamin K, blood clotting may be impaired, which
can lead to excessive bleeding. Vitamin K is used to treat bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia,
and to reverse the effects of certain anticoagulant medications like warfarin.
2. Newborns
Newborns are often given a vitamin K injection shortly after birth to prevent a rare but
potentially serious condition called vitamin K deficiency bleeding. Babies are born with lower
levels of vitamin K, and the injection helps ensure normal blood clotting.
3. Osteoporosis and Bone Health
Emerging research suggests that vitamin K may play a role in bone health by helping to
regulate calcium metabolism. It is used as a supplement to support bone density and reduce the
risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
4. Vascular Health
Vitamin K may have a role in preventing the calcification of blood vessels, which can
contribute to heart disease. Some studies suggest that it may be beneficial in maintaining vascular
health.
5. Wound Healing
Vitamin K is sometimes used in topical creams and ointments to promote wound healing and
reduce bruising.
Water soluble vitamins
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, serves several medicinal purposes due to its essential
role in maintaining health and supporting various bodily functions. Some of the key medicinal uses
of vitamin C include:
1. Immune System Support
Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties. It helps stimulate the production of
white blood cells, enhances the body's defense against infections, and may reduce the severity and
duration of colds and other illnesses.
2. Antioxidant Properties
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free
radicals. This protective effect may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart
disease.

10. 3. Collagen Formation
Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for the growth,
repair, and maintenance of skin, cartilage, bones, and blood vessels. It is used to promote wound
healing and maintain healthy skin.
4. Iron Absorption
Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods, which can help
prevent and treat iron-deficiency anemia.
5. Allergy Relief
Some individuals use vitamin C supplements to alleviate allergy symptoms, as it may have
antihistamine-like effects.
Vitamin B
Vitamin B refers to a group of water-soluble vitamins, each with its own specific medicinal
purposes. The B-complex vitamins include B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5
(pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). Here are some
of their medicinal purposes:
1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Thiamine is essential for energy metabolism and is used to treat conditions like beriberi and
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, both of which are characterized by neurological and
cardiovascular problems.
2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Riboflavin is vital for normal cell function and growth and can be used to prevent and treat
migraine headaches. It may also aid in the management of conditions like cataracts and anemia.
3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Niacin helps manage high cholesterol and can be prescribed to reduce the risk of heart disease.
It also has a role in treating pellagra, a condition caused by niacin deficiency.
4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Pantothenic acid is used to support skin health and may aid in the treatment of acne and other
skin conditions.
5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Pyridoxine is involved in brain development and function. It can be used to manage
symptoms of conditions like premenstrual syndrome (PMS), nausea during pregnancy, and
some forms of anemia.

11. 6. Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Biotin is important for healthy hair, skin, and nails. It may be used in the treatment of
biotin deficiency and conditions affecting the integumentary system.
7. Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Folate is essential for cell division and is crucial during pregnancy to prevent birth defects.
It's often prescribed as a prenatal vitamin and can also be used to manage certain types of
anemia.
8. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Cobalamin is vital for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. It is used to
treat pernicious anemia and other conditions related to B12 deficiency.