Gamma-Linolenic Acid is an omega-6 fatty acid and is the result of first biochemical step of the body in transforming the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid, into important prostaglandins, which are vital to proper functioning of cells, and essential fatty acids formed from Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) are needed for the structure of each cell. It is good for vasodilatation of blood vessels that can decrease high blood pressure. It also reduces abnormal blood clotting that can decrease heart attack and stroke risk. It provides increased regulation of immune response, and defense against abnormal cell proliferation. It helps control common skin disorder like eczema, and slow down certain aspects of normal aging.

Isoflavones consist of the class of organic compounds, which are related to the flavonoids. Many of the Isoflavones acts as the phytoestrogens in mammals. The members of the Fabaceae or Leguminosae family produce Isoflavones. These are formed via the branch of the common phenylpropanoid pathway, which produces flavonoid compounds in the higher plants. The common source of isoflavones is soybeans; and the main isoflavones in soybean are daidzein and genistein. Studies on mice suggest that isoflavones can cause immune system and thymic abnormalities and can also reduce immune system action. However, isoflavones are treated as antioxidants. Some of the isoflavones and isoflavone-rich foods acquire properties that work against cancer, including prostate and breast cancer.

Lignans belong to a group of chemical compounds found in plants, vegetables, bran, whole grains, beans, fruits and seeds such as flax, poppy, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame. It has antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties. It is considered to be phytoestrogens, meaning it mimics and acts like the hormone estrogen. It has the ability to attach itself to where estrogens abound, displacing the estrogen in the body. For instance, this is important especially because when breast cancer cells starts to develop, it attaches itself to estrogens. Lignans reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, reduce the symptoms of menopause, prevent osteoporosis and improve kidney functions.

Monounsaturated Fat or monounsaturated fatty acids are chain compounds with a carbon backbone and have one double bond in their chemical structure. The chain of fatty acids has a carboxyl group at one end and a methyl group at the other end. The presence of a double bond in the structure of the fatty acid gives it a very important quality of being a liquid at room temperature due to its lower melting point. Common examples are the 16 carbon palmitoleic acid and the 18 carbon oleic acid. Monounsaturated fats are less subject to rancidity in the body, promote healthy serum constitution in children and decrease the low density lipoprotein cholesterol providing protection against cardiovascular disease.

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that are considered to be an essential fatty acid. Omega 3 can be found in seafood and fishes such as tuna, and salmon. It is commonly known as fatty acid that is good for the heart. It also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by controlling the cholesterol level and blood pressure level. It plays an important role in the efficient function of the brain. It helps in improving the cognitive functions of the brain such as memory and performance; and also aids in the behavioural function of the brain. It also fights fatigue, prevents diabetes, improves dry skin and blood circulation. It also prevents osteoporosis.

Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid that may be obtained from evening primrose oil, seeds, nuts, and cooking oil. It is also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). It helps promote the generation of skin cells, growth of hair, maintenance of bone health, regulation of metabolism and promotion of reproductive health. A balanced diet of Omega 3 and Omega 6 is important. Excessive omega 6 may promote inflammation. Omega 6 is beneficial in reducing the symptoms of nerve pain in patients with diabetic neuropathy. It also helps in stopping the progression and reducing the pains caused by rheumatoid arthritis such as swelling and stiffness. It also fights allergies, cancer, and eczema and reduces the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Omega-9 is also known as oleic acid. It is monounsaturated fat that the body is able to produce by itself. It is abundant in olive oil. It can be found in various foods such as vegetable oils and animal fats. When the body has insufficient Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, the body tends to produce Omega 9 to compensate for it. It helps prevent arteriosclerosis or the hardening of arteries. It also aids in preventing heart diseases and stroke. It also reduces the insulin resistance. It also helps improve and maintain the blood sugar level. It also improves the immune function and aids in weight loss.

Polyunsaturated Fat, when consumed in moderation, has a wide range of benefits. They have lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Polyunsaturated Fats can be found in fish, nuts, seeds, and vegetables. It is also present in oils such as corn oil, sunflower, and soy. Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids belong to this group of fatty acids that helps improve brain function and ensure the normal and healthy growth and development of the body. It also helps in improving the skin and development of body cells. Polyunsaturated Fats help reduce the cholesterol levels in blood and lowers the risk of coronary heart disease.

Saponins are compounds in which a sugar framework is bonded to groups containing steroid or triterpene framework. One of the natural sources of these substances is liquorice, which is the root of the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra. They have been used in traditional ayurvedic medicine and in tooth care products. Their main quality which makes them useful in medicine is that they are expectorants; this means that they have the ability to dissolve thick mucus and relieve respiratory troubles. They do so by reacting chemically with the mucus and thinning it. It is thus not a surprising fact that they are included in cough syrups.