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Vitamin E – its history, functions and medicinal properties
Lena Bauer
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Diets Premium Expert • 25.03.2026
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This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| Diets Premium Expert Lena Bauer | min read 6 min | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 25.03.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Tocopherol, tocotriole, vitamin E we distinguish at least eight forms of vitamin E. They are otherwise called tocopherols. Because of their properties, they delay the aging process of the body, which is why they are called the elixir of youth.
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Tocopherol and its salt compounds
Tocopherol, also known as Vitamin E, is one of the most important antioxidants that prevents the aging process of the body. It is a chemical compound that is part of coenzymes and protein enzymes, through which the functioning of the body is possible. However, due to improper diet, interference with absorption or intake of stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, or medications, a deficiency of vitamins, including Vitamin E, can occur. The consequences of hypovitaminosis (deficiency) are chronic fatigue, reduced immunity, muscle and joint pain, fragility of blood vessel walls, apathy, or skin changes.
The tale of vitamin E discovery
The tale of vitamin E dates back to the 1920s when scientists discovered a substance in wheat oil that is essential for rat reproduction. Throughout the course of experiments, despite the use of full-value feed that was enriched with vitamins A, B, C, and D, animals still could not have offspring. Dr. H. Evans and K. Bishop discovered that only the addition of whole grains, and in particular its embryos, to the animals' food leads to fertilization. Based on these analyses, the hypothesis was put forward for the existence of a new vitamin, which was designated with the next letter of the alphabet. Vitamin E is a factor that protects against infertility and disorders in the reproductive process. Its name tocopherol is derived from the combination of two Greek words: tokos - offspring and phero - bear, bring. Today, doctors believe that vitamin E is a source of life, vitality, energy, joy, will to live, and protection against infertility.
Properties of Vitamin E
Vitamin E is composed of organic chemical compounds, including tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, delta, epsylon, neta, eta, theta) and tocotrienols (alfa and others). Both groups share both chemical and physical properties. They belong to the group of fat-soluble vitamins, of plant origin, with a similar chemical structure. It is important to note that they are heat-resistant, but are exceptionally unstable during freezing, prolonged storage, exposure to air, and sunlight. Vitamin E loses its healing properties under the influence of oxygen, peroxides, heavy metals, iron, and oxidized fats. Substances that increase the absorption of vitamin E include vitamins (A, C, and B vitamins), manganese, selenium, phosphorus, and unsaturated fatty acids NNKT. However, there are agents that worsen absorption, including iron(II) sulfate, laxatives, estrogens, thyroid hormones, and contraceptive drugs. It is important to note that the potential amount of vitamin E is limited and highly dependent on its current concentration in the food mixture. No arbitrary amount of vitamin should be absorbed, and the absorption rate depends on the current dose taken. The higher the dose of tocopherol, the lower the percentage of the vitamin absorbed. Additionally, smoking can lower the vitamin E level in the body.
Vitamin E and its significance for bodily functions
Vitamin E, also known as tocopherol, plays a very significant role in our body. Its primary function is the antioxidant effect. Precisely this property makes vitamin E one of the best natural antioxidants. By neutralizing free radicals, it protects cells from damage caused by oxidation, which leads to slowing down the cell aging process. Furthermore, vitamin E supports the circulatory system by reducing the risk of heart and vascular diseases. It also impacts men's fertility and supports the functioning of the immune system. It's worth noting that vitamin E also plays a role in cancer treatment, although it is not an anticarcinogenic compound.
Could it be vitamin E, where to locate it?
Given that vitamin E is produced solely in plants, it is primarily available there. However, there are also animal products on the market where it is stored. Plant-based sources of vitamin E include: vegetable oils (sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, nutmeg oil, corn oil), margarine, nuts (almonds, peanuts and potatoes), seeds, whole grains of cereals, wheat sprouts, leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, lettuce, broccoli) and vegetable additives (carrots, garlic). Animal sources of vitamin E include: liver, eggs, milk. Due to its antioxidant properties, natural vitamin E is used as a food additive (E306). Synthetic tocopherols are used under E307-309. Vitamin E is best absorbed by taking it 30 minutes to 1 hour before meals, but not on an empty stomach. There must be some fat in the stomach in which the vitamins can be dissolved. It should also be noted not to take any medications containing iron or iron-rich foods, as such an environment destroys vitamin E.
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Lena Bauer
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Diets Premium team expert. Specializes in nutrition plans, strength sports, and training plans.
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