The Antioxidant Activities of Secondary Metabolites in Medicinal Plants: A Comprehensive Review

The antioxidant activity of medicinal plant secondary metabolites is examined in this review. Metabolic activities generate free radicals and unstable molecules; these substances, which include terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, protect vital biomolecules including DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids from harm. Oxidative stress, which includes free radicals, is associated with long-term health problems like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Eleutherine americana, Ocimum sanctum, Syzygium cumini , Dalchini, Saraca indica, Sita Ashok, and Syzygium cumini are some medicinal plants that are high in these antioxidants. Other examples are Baobab, Tulsi, Adansonia digitata , Syzygium cumini , Syzygium cumini , and Red Bulb Plant. In order to use these secondary metabolites in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and medicines, it is crucial to understand their antioxidant processes, as highlighted in the review. When compared to synthetic compounds such as butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxy anisole (BHA), natural antioxidants are a safer bet for health promotion and illness prevention.