Decoding The Chemical Repertoire & Antioxidant Mastery Of Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been integral to traditional medicine systems across the world due to their diverse phytochemical profiles and therapeutic potentials. This paper aims to elucidate the chemical repertoire of medicinal plants and their remarkable antioxidant properties, which contribute to their therapeutic efficacy. We conduct a comprehensive review of the primary and secondary metabolites found in medicinal plants, emphasizing their role in antioxidant defense mechanisms. We discuss various classes of phytochemicals including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, and their mechanisms of action in neutralizing oxidative stress. Additionally, the paper examines recent advancements in analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) that have enhanced our understanding of plant chemistry. By integrating data from current research, this study highlights the potential of medicinal plants as sources of natural antioxidants and their implications for developing novel therapeutic agents.