Glossar: P
Do you have questions about specific symptoms or ingredients? Our glossary provides an A-to-Z guide to your health.
P
180 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryPalm Kernel Fat
Palm kernel fat is a plant-based fat extracted from the seed of the oil palm. It is high in saturated fatty acids and widely used in the food and cosmetics industries.
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a naturally occurring fatty acid amide produced by the human body, known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is widely used as a dietary supplement and in pain management.
Pancolitis
Pancolitis is a severe form of ulcerative colitis that affects the entire large intestine.
Panikattacke
Eine Panikattacke ist eine plötzlich auftretende Episode intensiver Angst, die innerhalb weniger Minuten ihren Höhepunkt erreicht und mit starken körperlichen Symptomen einhergeht – ohne reale äußere Bedrohung.
Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is a medication used to treat excess stomach acid, heartburn, and gastric ulcers. It works by effectively blocking acid production in the stomach.
Papanicolaou Test
The Papanicolaou test (Pap smear) is a gynecological screening procedure used to detect cervical cell changes and early signs of cervical cancer.
Pappenheim Stain
The Pappenheim stain is a combined histological staining method used to visualize blood cells under the microscope. It allows the differentiation of various cell types in a blood smear.
Paracelsus
Paracelsus war ein Arzt, Alchemist und Vordenker der ganzheitlichen Medizin. Er gilt als Begründer der Iatrochemie und prägte die heutige Naturheilkunde mit seinem Leitsatz zur Dosis-Wirkung.
Paracetamol
Paracetamol ist ein weit verbreitetes Schmerz- und Fiebermittel, das bei leichten bis mittleren Schmerzen sowie erhöhter Körpertemperatur eingesetzt wird.
Paradoxical Breathing
Paradoxical breathing is an abnormal breathing pattern in which parts of the chest wall move opposite to the normal direction during breathing. It is a serious medical emergency sign.
Parallel Trial
A parallel trial is a scientific study design in which two or more groups receive different treatments simultaneously, allowing direct comparison of their effectiveness and safety.
Paranasal Sinuses
Die Nebenhöhlen (Nasennebenhöhlen) sind luftgefüllte Hohlräume im Schädel, die mit der Nasenhöhle verbunden sind.
Parasite Cleanse
The parasite cleanse is a viral TikTok trend labeled under #parasitecleanse, with over 450 million views.
Parental Leave
Parental leave in Germany is a legally protected period of time off work following the birth or adoption of a child. Parents are entitled to up to three years of parental leave per child.
Parietal Osteopathy
Parietal osteopathy is a branch of osteopathy focused on joints, muscles, fascia, and the musculoskeletal system. Its goal is to restore mobility and relieve pain through manual techniques.
Parietichytrium sp.
Parietichytrium sp. is a marine microorganism from the thraustochytrid group, recognized for its exceptional capacity to produce valuable omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA.
Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects the coordination of movement.
Passive Leg Raise
The Passive Leg Raise is a clinical test used in critical care to assess fluid responsiveness. By raising the legs, venous blood is shifted toward the heart to evaluate cardiac output response.
Passive Leg Raise Test
The Passive Leg Raise Test is a diagnostic procedure used in critical care to assess fluid responsiveness quickly and safely, without administering any intravenous fluids.
Pathogen Inhibition
Pathogen inhibition refers to the suppression or prevention of growth and activity of disease-causing microorganisms in the human body or the environment.
Pea protein
Pea protein is a vegetable protein powder obtained from yellow shelling peas (Pisum sativum).
Pediococcus
Pediococcus are lactic acid bacteria with probiotic potential. Find out more about their effect on intestinal flora, immune defence and their use in food.
PEG-25-PABA
PEG-25-PABA is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreen and cosmetic products. It absorbs UV-B radiation, helping to protect the skin from sun-related damage.
Pelvic Belt
Ein Beckengurt ist ein orthopädisches Hilfsmittel, das zur Stabilisierung des Beckenrings und der Sakroiliakalgelenke (ISG) eingesetzt wird.
Pelvic floor
The pelvic floor is a complex group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue forming the base of the pelvis.
Pelvic Floor Health
Pelvic floor health refers to the strength and function of the muscle group at the base of the pelvis. A healthy pelvic floor is essential for bladder control, stability, and overall quality of life.
Pelvic Floor Training
Pelvic floor training involves specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which are vital for continence, posture, and the support of internal organs.
Penicillin
Penicillin ist ein natürliches Antibiotikum, das bakterielle Infektionen bekämpft. Es gehört zur ältesten und bekanntesten Klasse der Antibiotika.
Peppermint
Peppermint has antispasmodic, cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Learn how it helps with digestive discomfort, headaches and skin irritation.
Percussion Hammer
A percussion hammer is a medical examination instrument used to test reflexes and assess body tissues by tapping specific areas of the body.
Perilunate
Perilunate refers to injuries occurring around the lunate bone in the wrist. These serious injuries are usually caused by high-energy trauma and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Perimenopause
Die Perimenopause bezeichnet die Übergangsphase vor der Menopause, die mit hormonellen Veränderungen einhergeht und die Fruchtbarkeit der Frau langsam verringert.
Perineal Massage
Perineal massage is a technique practiced during pregnancy to stretch and soften the perineal tissue, helping to reduce the risk of perineal tears or episiotomy during childbirth.
Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, correctly referred to as periodontitis, is a chronic inflammatory disease of the periodontium.
Periorale Dermatitis
Periorale Dermatitis, auch bekannt als Mundrose, ist eine entzündliche Hauterkrankung im Bereich um den Mund, die Nase oder die Augen.
Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAVK)
Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) is a chronic circulatory disorder of the extremities caused by narrowing or occlusion of arteries.
Periprostatic
Periprostatic refers to the area immediately surrounding the prostate gland. This term is especially relevant in urology and oncology, for example when assessing tumor spread.
Peritoneal Cavity
The peritoneal cavity is a fluid-filled space in the abdomen lined by the peritoneum, which surrounds and protects the internal abdominal organs.
Persistent Hyaloid Artery
Persistent hyaloid artery is a congenital eye anomaly in which a fetal blood vessel in the eye fails to fully regress after birth. It may affect visual development in children.
Pesticide Multi-Method
The pesticide multi-method is a modern analytical technique that enables the simultaneous detection of more than 600 active substances in food and feed.
Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa that usually occurs acutely and is often accompanied by a sore throat, difficulty swallowing and a scratchy throat.
Phenothiazine
Phenothiazine is a chemical scaffold that forms the basis of an important class of drugs used primarily as antipsychotics and antiemetics in clinical medicine.
Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is important for the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the support of mood and cognitive function.
Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid
Phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid is a chemical UV filter used in sunscreens and skincare products to protect the skin from harmful UV-B radiation.
Pheochromocytoma
A pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of the adrenal gland that produces excessive stress hormones, potentially causing dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
Phlebology
Phlebology is a medical specialty focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of venous diseases.
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is a naturally occurring phospholipid found primarily in brain cells, playing a key role in memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function.
Phospholipide
Phospholipide sind eine Klasse von Amphiphilen (doppellipophilen Molekülen), die in allen lebenden Organismen eine zentrale Rolle spielen.
Phosphorus
Phosphor ist ein essenzieller Mineralstoff, der im menschlichen Körper vor allem in Form von Phosphat vorkommt.
Photocarcinogenesis
Photocarcinogenesis is the process by which UV radiation triggers the development of skin cancer. UV light damages the DNA of skin cells and can lead to malignant tumors over time.
Photodermatitis
Photodermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction triggered by UV radiation or visible light. Symptoms include redness, itching, and blistering on sun-exposed areas of the skin.
Photosynthese
Photosynthese ist der Prozess, mit dem Pflanzen Sonnenlicht in Energie umwandeln. Erfahre, wie CO₂ in Glukose verwandelt wird, warum Sauerstoff entsteht und warum dieser Vorgang für alles Leben entscheidend ist.
Phytic Acid
Phytic acid is a natural compound found in plant-based foods that binds minerals and can reduce their absorption in the body.
Phytoestrogens Effect
Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that exert estrogen-like effects in the human body. They bind to estrogen receptors and can naturally influence hormonal balance.
Phytomenadione
Phytomenadione (vitamin K1) is a coagulation-promoting active ingredient from the antidote group. It is an essential vitamin that plays a key role in blood clotting and contributes to bone health.
Phytonutrients
Phytonutrients, also known as secondary plant substances, are compounds that occur in plants and are important for their survival.
Phytosterols
Phytosterols are plant-derived compounds that are structurally similar to cholesterol.
Phytotherapy
Phytotherapy is the evidence-based use of medicinal plants and plant-derived substances for the prevention and treatment of diseases. It is a recognised field within modern medicine.
Pilates Ring
Ein Pilatesring, auch bekannt als Magic Circle, ist ein vielseitiges Trainingsgerät aus flexiblem, leichtem Kunststoff mit seitlichen Polstern.
Pineal gland
The pineal gland is a small, cone-shaped gland in the brain that is important for the sleep-wake rhythm and the regulation of the internal clock.
Pipamperone
Pipamperone is an antipsychotic medication belonging to the butyrophenone class, primarily used to treat agitation, sleep disorders, and behavioral disturbances.
Piritramide
Piritramide is a potent opioid analgesic primarily used for the management of severe postoperative pain. It relieves pain by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system.
Pityriasis rosea
Die Röschenflechte ist eine meist gutartige, selbstlimitierende Hauterkrankung mit charakteristischem, schuppendem Hautausschlag.
Pityriasis versicolor
Die Kleienpilzflechte ist eine oberflächliche Hautinfektion durch Hefepilze der Gattung Malassezia, die zu hellen oder bräunlichen, fein schuppenden Hautveränderungen führt.
Plaster Cast
A plaster cast is a rigid supportive bandage used to immobilize broken bones or injured joints, keeping them in the correct position to promote proper healing.
Pneumothorax
A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, causing partial or complete collapse of a lung. It can arise spontaneously or result from injury.
Polarlichter
Polarlichter entstehen durch Sonnenwind und zeigen faszinierende Lichtspiele am Himmel. Erfahre, wie sie entstehen und wo sie am besten zu sehen sind.
Pollen allergy
Pollen allergy, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is an exaggerated immune reaction to flower pollen.
Pollen Season
Pollen season refers to the period when plants release pollen into the air. It is a major trigger of allergic reactions such as hay fever and allergic rhinitis.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic environmental contaminants formed during the incomplete combustion of organic matter such as fossil fuels, wood, or tobacco.
Polyneuropathy
Polyneuropathy refers to a condition in which several peripheral nerves in the body are affected simultaneously and function and sensation are typically impaired
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are plant antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress, inhibit inflammation and are considered key factors for cell protection and longevity.
Polysilicone-15
Polysilicone-15 is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreens that absorbs UVB radiation, protecting the skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage.
Polyzystisches Ovarialsyndrom (PCOS)
Das Polyzystische Ovarialsyndrom (PCOS) ist eine hormonelle Störung, die den Hormonhaushalt, den Zyklus und die Fruchtbarkeit von Frauen beeinflusst.
Poppi-Scandal
The 2025 Poppi scandal involved misleading advertising of prebiotic sodas by the US company Poppi and ended with a multi-million-dollar settlement over false health claims.
Portal Vein
The portal vein (Vena portae) is a major blood vessel that carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver for processing and detoxification.
Postbiotics
Postbiotics are bioactive compounds produced when beneficial gut bacteria ferment dietary fibres, offering a range of positive health effects on the human body.
Postmenopause Phase
The postmenopause phase begins after the last menstrual period and lasts for the rest of a woman's life. Hormonal changes can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Postnatal Recovery Course
A postnatal recovery course helps women after childbirth to strengthen the pelvic floor, abdomen, and back, supporting the body in recovering from pregnancy and delivery.
Postpartum depression
Wochenbettdepression ist eine psychische Erkrankung, die innerhalb der ersten Monate nach der Geburt auftritt und mit anhaltender Niedergeschlagenheit, Erschöpfung und innerer Überforderung einhergeht.
Postpartum Period
Das Wochenbett bezeichnet die Zeitspanne von etwa sechs bis acht Wochen nach der Geburt, in der sich der Körper der Frau von Schwangerschaft und Entbindung erholt.
Postprandial Response
The postprandial response refers to all physiological changes occurring in the body after a meal, including shifts in blood glucose, hormone levels, and metabolic activity.
Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride (KCl) is a potassium compound used medically to treat potassium deficiency and is also found as a dietary supplement and salt substitute.
Potassium Citrate
Kaliumcitrat ist das Kaliumsalz der Zitronensäure und wird häufig in der Medizin und als Nahrungsergänzungsmittel verwendet.
Potassium Deficiency
Kaliummangel (medizinisch: Hypokaliämie) bezeichnet einen zu niedrigen Kaliumspiegel im Blut, der die Funktion von Nerven, Muskeln und Herz beeinträchtigen kann.
Potassium Iodide
Potassium iodide is an inorganic salt of potassium and iodine used medically for thyroid blocking, iodide therapy, and radiation protection.
Potassium Toxicity
Eine Kaliumvergiftung (Hyperkaliämie) entsteht, wenn der Kaliumspiegel im Blut deutlich über den Normwert von etwa 3,5–5,0 mmol/l ansteigt.
Powassan Virus
The Powassan virus is tick-borne and can cause encephalitis. Learn about its symptoms, transmission routes, risk groups and prevention strategies.
Pre Formula
Pre formula is a starter infant formula closely modeled after breast milk and suitable as the sole source of nutrition from birth onward.
Prebiotic Foods
Prebiotic foods contain indigestible fibers that selectively nourish beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are indigestible dietary fibres that serve as a food source for the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote the growth and activity of these microorganisms.
Precision Fermentation
Precision Fermentation produziert tierfreie Proteine mit Gentechnik. Trotz Innovation: Kritik wegen GMO, Energieverbrauch und fehlender Langzeitstudien bleibt berechtigt.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a preliminary stage of type 2 diabetes mellitus in which the blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range.
Prednisolone
Prednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is widely used to treat inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions.
Preeclampsia
Präeklampsie ist eine schwere Schwangerschaftserkrankung, die vor allem nach der 20. Schwangerschaftswoche auftritt und sowohl für die Mutter als auch für das ungeborene Kind gefährlich sein kann.
Pregabalin
Pregabalin is a prescription medication used to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and generalized anxiety disorder. It works by calming overactive nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord.
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) is a condition where the ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40, leading to hormone deficiency and reduced fertility.
Premenopause
Premenopause marks the beginning of hormonal fluctuations before menopause. Learn about symptoms and how to support your body naturally.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Das prämenstruelle Syndrom (PMS) ist eine Gruppe von körperlichen und emotionalen Symptomen, die in der zweiten Hälfte des Menstruationszyklus einer Frau auftreten, typischerweise zwei bis zehn Tage vor der Periode.
Pressure Palsy
Pressure palsy is a temporary weakness or paralysis of a nerve caused by prolonged mechanical compression of nerve tissue. It is usually fully reversible.
Prevalence
Prevalence describes how many people in a population are affected by a disease or health condition at a specific point in time or over a defined period.
Prick Test
The prick test is a widely used skin test procedure for diagnosing allergies. Small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin and briefly pricked in to detect immune reactions.
Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can have a positive effect on intestinal health when taken in sufficient quantities.
Probiotics for Acne – Gut-Skin Axis
Probiotics may improve acne-prone skin by positively influencing the gut-skin axis. Learn how beneficial bacteria help reduce inflammation and support clearer skin.
Procaine Benzylpenicillin
Procaine benzylpenicillin is a depot antibiotic from the penicillin group, administered by injection, which allows for a slow and sustained release of the active substance.
Progesteron
Progesteron ist ein zentrales Hormon im weiblichen Zyklus. Erfahre mehr über seine Funktion, Symptome bei Mangel und natürliche sowie therapeutische Ansätze zur Regulation.
Progesterone Decline
A progesterone decline refers to a drop in the level of the hormone progesterone in the blood. It can occur naturally during the menstrual cycle, after childbirth, or during menopause, and may cause a range of symptoms.
Progesterone Deficiency
Progesterone deficiency refers to abnormally low levels of the hormone progesterone in the blood. It can cause irregular cycles, fertility issues, and menopausal symptoms.
Proliferation
Proliferation refers to the multiplication of cells through cell division. It is a fundamental biological process involved in growth, tissue repair, and the development of cancer.
Promethazine
Promethazine is a first-generation antihistamine and phenothiazine derivative used to treat allergies, nausea, and insomnia.
Propionic Acid
Propionic acid is a short-chain fatty acid that occurs naturally in metabolism and is used as a food preservative (E280) to prevent mold growth.
Proprioception
Proprioception is the body's ability to sense its own position and movement in space. It is essential for balance, coordination, and safe movement.
Prostheses
A dental prosthesis is a removable dental replacement designed to restore chewing, speech, and aesthetics by replacing missing teeth or entire dental arches.
Protein powder
Protein powders are concentrated forms of protein that are obtained from various sources, such as whey, eggs, pulses or plants like rice and peas.
Protein-rich foods
Protein-rich foods are important for muscle building, cell regeneration and metabolic processes. Proteins are made up of amino acids, some of which are essential and must be obtained from food.
Proteinkinase PLK1
Die Proteinkinase PLK1 ist ein Enzym, das eine zentrale Rolle bei der Zellteilung spielt.
Proteinogen
Der Begriff proteinogen bezeichnet Aminosäuren, die direkt am Aufbau von Proteinen beteiligt sind.
Proteolysis
Proteolysis is the enzymatic breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids.
Proton Gradient
The proton gradient is an electrochemical difference in hydrogen ion (proton) concentration across a membrane, used by cells to generate energy in the form of ATP.
Protopathic
Protopathic refers to a primitive, undifferentiated form of sensory perception that detects crude stimuli such as pain, heat, and cold, but does not allow precise localization.
PRP-Behandlung (Eigenbluttherapie)
Die PRP-Behandlung (Platelet-Rich Plasma) ist ein medizinisches Verfahren, bei dem körpereigenes, plättchenreiches Plasma therapeutisch eingesetzt wird.
Pseudocroup
Pseudocroup is an acute, usually viral inflammation of the upper respiratory tract that mainly affects infants between 6 months and 6 years
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease caused by psoriasis. Find out all about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and modern treatment strategies here.
Psychoneuroimmunology
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI or also known as KPNI) is an interdisciplinary field of research that investigates the interactions between the nervous system, immune system and psyche.
Psyllium husks
Flea seed husks come from the plant Plantago ovata (Indian plantain) and are a particularly soluble source of fibre with excellent swelling properties.
Pterostilbene
Pterostilbene is a natural plant compound from the stilbene family, found primarily in blueberries and grapes. It is a bioactive polyphenol known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pterygomandibular Space
The pterygomandibular space is an anatomical connective tissue compartment in the jaw region, playing a key role in inferior alveolar nerve blocks used in dentistry.
Public Health Index
Ein Public Health Index ist ein messbarer Kennwert, der die Gesundheit einer Bevölkerung anhand verschiedener Indikatoren beschreibt.
Puffer Fish
The puffer fish is a marine fish whose organs contain the potent neurotoxin tetrodotoxin. Poisoning is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Pulmonary Emphysema
Pulmonary emphysema is a chronic lung disease in which the air sacs are permanently overinflated and destroyed, causing progressive breathlessness.
Pulmonary fibrosis
Lung fibrosis is a chronically progressive lung disease in which hardening and scarring of the lung tissue occurs.
Pulmonary function test
Ein Lungenfunktionstest ist eine diagnostische Untersuchung zur Messung von Atemvolumen, Luftfluss und Leistungsfähigkeit der Lunge.
Pulmonary-Renal Syndrome
Pulmonary-renal syndrome is a life-threatening condition combining diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, most often caused by autoimmune diseases.
Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla bezeichnet in der Naturheilkunde die Pflanze Pulsatilla pratensis, auch bekannt als Küchenschelle oder Kuhschelle.
Pulse Pressure
Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It is an important marker for vascular health and cardiovascular risk.
pumping breast milk
Pumping breast milk means extracting milk from the breast using a pump or by hand. It allows mothers to store milk and feed their baby at a later time.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, essential fatty acids and plant sterols. Discover their benefits for prostate health, immunity and inflammation control.
Pycnogenol
Pycnogenol is a plant extract from French maritime pine bark, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vascular-protective properties. Learn about its evidence-based uses.
Pyelonephritis (inflammation of the renal pelvis)
Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the kidneys that is associated with high fever and pain in the back.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PA)
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are natural plant toxins produced by species such as ragwort (Senecio), borage, or comfrey.
Die neusten Einträge
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryBraxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, usually painless uterine contractions during pregnancy that help prepare the body for labor but do not indicate true labor.
Die meistgelesenen Einträge
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.