Natural Health Glossary
Medical Terms, Therapies, Accreditation

Don't forget to check the Herbal Remedies/Herbology 101 reference for more definitions!

gamma-linolenic acid

A downline metabolite of linoleic acid, an Omega-6 oil.

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gastric ulcer

An open sore on the lining of the stomach, usually caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

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genistein

An isoflavonoid derived from soy products having antitumoral properties. It is one of the phytoestrogens along with daidzein.

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geraniol

A primary alcohol found in geranium, citronella, lemon, and many other oils. Used largely in perfumery.

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glucosamine

One of the amino sugars which is thought to be helpful in treating damaged cartilage, particularly in conjunction with osteoarthritis. Studies have shown it to promote the production of proteins that build cartilage.

WARNINGS: Consult a doctor before deciding to take glucosamine if you have diabetes. Do not take if you have shellfish allergies. Do not take if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.   (more info - glucosamine)

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glucose

A simple sugar, which is the body’s main source of energy. Tests for diabetes measure this monosaccharide.   (more info - glucose)

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glucosides

Any of a number of compounds, typically extracted from plants, that can be hydrolyzed (decompose by reacting with water) into dextrose.

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glutamine

An amino acid used in nutrition therapy. It is also being studied for the treatment of diarrhea caused by radiation therapy to the pelvis.

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glycemic index

A measure of how much your blood glucose increases in the two or three hours after eating.

See: http://www.glycemicindex.com

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glycemic response

The effect of different foods on blood glucose (sugar) levels over a period of time. Researchers have discovered that some kinds of foods may raise blood glucose levels more quickly than other foods containing the same amount of carbohydrates.

see: http://www.glycemicindex.com

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glycerin

A thick, sweet syrupy polysaccharide that is soluble in both water and alcohol and is a byproduct of saponification (the soap-making process).

Glycerin is a humectant (it draws moisture from the air to you skin), and is often added to lotions and skin care products to moisturize.

Also called glycerol.

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glycogen

The form in which carbohydrates are stored. A polysaccharide the body uses for energy storage; it is made up of chains of glucose molecules. When the body has depleted the free glucose in the blood, the liver breaks down glycogen into more glucose.

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glycolysis

A process in which glucose (sugar) is partially broken down by cells in enzyme reactions that do not need oxygen. Glycolysis is one method that cells use to produce energy. When glycolysis is linked with other enzyme reactions that use oxygen, more complete breakdown of glucose is possible and more energy is produced.

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glycosaminoglycan

A type of long, unbranched polysaccharide molecule. Glycosaminoglycans are major structural components of cartilage and are also found in the cornea of the eye.

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gouty arthritis (urarthritis)

Also called: gout.
A painful inflammation of the big toe and foot caused by defects in uric acid metabolism resulting in deposits of the acid and its salts in the blood and joints.

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guided imagery

see creative or guided visualization.

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guided meditation

see creative or guided visualization.

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These definitions are not intended as a standalone reference guide; they are linked from other pages for the convenience of the users of this site.

Information on this website is for informational purposes only.
Please consult a qualified health practitioner before taking any course of action.