Scurvy, a potentially fatal condition resulting from inadequate vitamin C (ascorbic acid), has been known and feared since ancient times. Its prevention and cure were associated with consumption of fresh fruits, especially citrus, but it wasn\'t until 1928 that the antiscorbutic factor was identified. Vitamin C is synthesized in almost all species, the exceptions are the primates, including humans, guinea pigs, fish, fruit- eating bats, insects, and more birds. Animals which cannot synthesize this vitamin need a dietary source for their normal keep. The conception that the sole function of vitamin C is to prevent scurvy has been revised in recent years. Small quantities of vitamin C are sufficient to prevent and cure scurvy; however, excessive quantities may be required to keep good health during conditions of adverse environment, physiological stress, and certain ailment. Antioxidant vitamins have received a great deal of attention in that they play important roles in animal and human health whit inactivating dangerous free radicals produced overall normal cellular activity and from diverse stressors.

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