Vitamins, minerals, and botanicals: know the difference.

They share a place in wellness conversations, but they are not all the same thing.

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic nutrients with essential functions. Some dissolve in water, others in fat. Needs and risks from excessive intake depend on the particular vitamin.

Minerals

Minerals are elements with nutritional roles, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Amounts, forms, and interactions matter.

Botanicals

These ingredients come from plants. Species, plant part, preparation, and extract can affect evidence and safety. Natural does not automatically mean safe.

Other ingredient families

Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and CoQ10 are not vitamins. Each has its own biology, evidence, and safety considerations.

Food comes first

Supplements may help in some circumstances, but they do not replace the variety of nutrients and other beneficial components of a balanced diet.