Phytomedicine: Nature's Defense Against Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Secondary metabolites, a diverse group of organic compounds found in various organisms, play a pivotal role in mitigating oxidative stress—a condition characterized by the imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defenses. These compounds, not essential for an organism's basic functions but critical for ecological interactions and defense mechanisms, exhibit an astonishing chemical diversity that encompasses alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, polyketides, glycosides, lignans, and saponins. Secondary metabolites act as antioxidants through multiple mechanisms, including scavenging ROS, metal chelation, enhancing enzymatic antioxidant systems, and regenerating other antioxidants. However, challenges such as bioavailability, standardization, environmental concerns, and regulatory issues need to be addressed to harness the full potential of secondary metabolites. Despite these challenges, secondary metabolites remain a fascinating area of research with the potential to unlock innovative solutions for human health. This comprehensive review examines the mechanisms underlying oxidative stress, explores the antioxidant properties of phytochemicals, and discusses the potential of phytomedicine in preventing and managing oxidative stress-related conditions.