Plant compounds, also known as phytochemicals, are non-nutritive bioactive molecules naturally synthesized by plants, encompassing a vast array of chemical structures such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenes. These compounds are consumed through the diet and exert diverse biological effects within the human body, often interacting with cellular signaling pathways and the endocrine system. They are recognized for their potential to modulate health outcomes, acting as natural regulators of metabolism, inflammation, and cellular defense mechanisms. The clinical relevance of these compounds lies in their capacity to support optimal biochemistry.
Origin
The term is a simple descriptive compound referring to chemical compounds derived from plants. Their clinical study is rooted in ethnobotany and traditional medicine, where plant extracts have been used for centuries to influence human health. Modern pharmacology and nutritional science now rigorously investigate their precise molecular mechanisms of action to leverage their therapeutic potential.
Mechanism
Many plant compounds function by acting as powerful antioxidants, effectively neutralizing reactive oxygen species and reducing oxidative stress, which is a key driver of cellular
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