Introduction to Functional Food Science

In this fourth edition of our textbook, our editorial board has included additional information and resources in order to enhance the learning experience of our readers. These additions include detailed editing of articles, new figures, tables, and pictures, end of chapter summaries for each chapter, test questions with correct answers, an updated glossary with new key words and a chapter discussing viral diseases.Important topics discussed in this new chapter include antiviral properties of plants, the use of probiotics to strengthen the immune system, vitamins and minerals, and other immunity boosting compounds. Several plants and herbs are recognized as having antiviral properties. This chapter takes a closer looks at 15 different medicinal plants as well as Vitamin C & D and Selenium to boost the immune system. Some of these plants include Salvia officinalis (shown above), Chelidonium majus L., Thuja occidentalis, Pelargonium sidoides, Hypericum perforatum L., Psoralea corylifolia, and Broussonetia papyrifera. Salvia officinalis as well as other plants studied proved effective when administered prior to infection as well as during the infection. Data from preclinical and clinical studies is provided in several tables for comparative analysis.