Phytochemicals and pharmaceutical: Overview

Abstract

Phytochemicals are complex organic molecules that are found in plants. The word “phyto” was derived from Greek word meaning “green pigmented organisms.” They have enamorous biological activities when they are given to other living organism [animals, microorganism, fungal], so they are known as therapeutic constituents. They have vast complex structure, and based on their chemical structure, they are grouped into different classes. They are well discussed in this chapter with suitable examples. Apart from its biological properties, the phytochemicals are also utilized as nutraceuticals in pharma industry. So in this chapter, different categories of phytochemicals, which are used in different forms as nutraceuticals for promotion of health benefits and improve the metabolism of cellular activities, are discussed. This chapter also covers the importance of various phytochemicals employed as bioenhancers in modern medicine. Not only as biological entity and bioenhancers, phytochemicals have also played a crucial role in cosmetics. The applications are also well discussed in this chapter. The phytochemicals are unique compounds which are used for various uses with less or no side effect and are more easily available from natural sources.