The species are said to have tranquilizing and antispasmodic effects. S. lateriflora is a member of the family Lamiaceae and the overground parts of this plant are known as Scullcap. S. baicalensis is a native of East Asia and commonly used in Europe. An essential mineral involved primarily in enzymes that are antioxidants. The prostate contains a selenium-containing protein and semen contains relatively large amounts of selenium.
Clinical studies show that selenium is important in lowering the risk of several types of cancers.
A non-essential mineral. Collagen, the protein glue that holds us together, contains silicon in silanolate form. While vitamin C functions only as a catalyst in the formation of collagen, silicon is actually a structural part of collagen. Silicon containing substances are found in all cartilage and in the material binding cells together. Silicon may be needed for proper bone structure and growth.