Latin & Common Botanical Names
Labels typically display both the scientific botanical Latin name and common name. The Latin binomial name (genus and species) ensures exact identification across regions and languages. For example, Withania somnifera is the Latin name, commonly called ashwagandha in English or ashwagandha in Sanskrit-origin contexts.
Understanding these names helps verify which specific plant is listed, as common names can vary geographically and refer to different species entirely.
Frequently Used Plant Parts
Labels declare which plant part is used: root, rhizome, leaf, seed, fruit, bark, or aerial parts (stems and leaves). Different parts contain different compound profiles.
- Root - Underground storage organs with concentrated compounds
- Rhizome - Underground stem structure, similar preparation to root
- Leaf - Above-ground foliage, typically lighter character
- Seed - Concentrated nutrient and oil content
- Fruit - Ripened ovary with seeds, often sweet compounds
- Bark - Outer tree layer, distinct extraction profile
Powder vs Extract vs Standardized Extract
Powder (whole herb) - Dried and milled plant material, contains all compounds in their original ratio.
Extract (concentrated) - Plant material processed through solvent or heat to concentrate active compounds. Typically listed as "extract" on labels.
Standardized Extract - Extract where specific marker compounds have been quantified and listed as a percentage (e.g., "10:1 extract" or "40% alkaloids"). Provides consistent potency declaration.
Capsule Shell Types Declaration
Labels specify capsule material:
- Vegetable Cellulose - Plant-derived, dissolves in digestive system
- Pullulan - Fermentation-derived polysaccharide, plant-based alternative
- Bovine Gelatin - Animal-derived protein, when declared as such
Material type affects capsule stability, dissolution rate, and suitability for different dietary preferences.
Mineral Salt Forms
Mineral labels specify the chemical form: citrate, bisglycinate, oxide, gluconate, etc. Each form affects mineral bioavailability and characteristics.
- Citrate - Mineral bound to citric acid, commonly listed
- Bisglycinate - Mineral chelated with amino acid glycine
- Oxide - Pure mineral oxide form, often less costly
- Gluconate - Mineral bound to gluconic acid
Geographic Origin & Certification Marks
Labels often note: country of origin, region specificity, organic certification symbols, or wildcrafted designation. These notations indicate sourcing transparency and farming method.
Organic mark - Third-party certification indicating pesticide-free cultivation. Wildcrafted - Plant harvested from natural growing areas rather than cultivated farms.
Multi-Botanical Formula Convention
In formulas listing multiple botanicals, ingredients are typically ordered by quantity (highest first). Main active botanicals appear prominently, supporting ingredients follow. This ordering helps understand formula composition priority.
Standard Botanical Terms Definitions
Botanical - Plant-derived ingredient listed by Latin or common name.
Marker Compound - Specific chemical identified in standardized extracts to indicate potency level.
Bioavailability - Degree to which a substance can be absorbed and utilized by the body.
Chelate - Mineral bound to amino acid, affecting absorption characteristics.
Common Label Formatting Questions
What does "10:1 extract" mean? - Raw herb material has been concentrated 10 times. 10 kg dried herb yields 1 kg extract.
What is "standardized to 40%"? - The extract has been analyzed and contains 40% of the marker compound by weight.
Why list both Latin and common name? - Ensures exact plant identification regardless of region or language.
Illustrative Composition Examples
Root-Based Capsule
Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) root extract, 400 mg
Single-botanical formula showing Latin name, plant part (root), form (extract), and quantity declaration.
Seed & Fruit Blend Tablet
Lepidium meyenii (maca) root powder 300 mg, Tribulus terrestris fruit extract 200 mg
Multi-botanical formula showing both plant parts (root and fruit), forms (powder and extract), and individual quantities.
Mineral + Plant Powder
Magnesium citrate 100 mg, Zinc gluconate 15 mg, Paullinia cupana (guarana) seed powder 200 mg
Mixed formula showing mineral forms (citrate, gluconate) alongside botanical ingredient with Latin name and plant part.
Liquid Herbal Extract
Eurycoma longifolia (tongkat ali) root extract, Glycerin base, alcohol-free
Liquid formula specifying base carrier (glycerin) and noting alcohol absence. Shows root extraction form.
Final Note on Reading Botanical Information
Label reading focuses on exact declarations: what plant (Latin name), which part (root, leaf, seed), what form (powder, extract, standardized), and what quantity (mg listed). This factual approach ensures clear understanding of composition without interpretation or assumption.
Continue Your Reference
Explore our educational resources to deepen your understanding of botanical and mineral supplements.
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