orthomolecular

[ awr-thoh-muh-lek-yuh-ler ]

adjective

1. being or pertaining to the treatment of disease by increasing, decreasing, or otherwise controlling the intake of natural substances, especially vitamins. Compare megavitamin ( def 1 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of orthomolecular¹

1965–70; ortho- + molecular, referring to “the provision of the optimum molecular environment for the mind,” according to term's originator, Linus Pauling