Medicinal plants and human health: a comprehensive review of bioactive compounds, therapeutic effects, and applications

Abstract Medicinal plants continue to serve as a vital source of structurally diverse bioactive compounds with broad therapeutic potential. This review synthesizes recent advances in the field, emphasizing how modern technologies are reshaping natural product research and translational applications. Omics platforms—including genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and spatial omics—enable comprehensive mapping of biosynthetic pathways, regulatory networks, and spatial chemical distributions, accelerating the discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds. Artificial intelligence-driven approaches in predictive modeling, automated metabolite annotation, and optimized cultivation strategies are examined as transformative tools for improving research efficiency and reproducibility. In parallel, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are highlighted for their ability to enhance bioavailability, target specificity, and therapeutic efficacy, particularly against complex diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. The review also addresses critical challenges, including biodiversity conservation, contamination and adulteration of herbal products, and gaps in regulatory oversight. Finally, we discuss future perspectives where integrative, multidisciplinary strategies are poised to advance personalized medicine, promote sustainable harvesting, and drive innovative phytopharmaceutical development. By bridging traditional knowledge with state-of-the-art technologies, this review underscores the evolving role of medicinal plants in next-generation healthcare solutions and their transformative potential for global health. Graphical abstract