Abstract

Plants are a rich source of nutraceuticals/supplements/phytonutrients/secondary metabolites. There are many industries, health care systems and academic activities involved in their use and promotion. However, many of these key players are peripherally involved in the science and policy behind their production, processing and utilisation. Here we will explore some key concepts related to the science and innovative strategies on the use of plants and their bioactive compounds for promoting human health and fight chronic diseases. Knowledge of how bioactive compounds are biosynthesized in the plant under different stress conditions and their mode of action against chronic diseases are key elements needed for an effective use of plant bioactives or nutraceuticals. This information can be the basis for developing preventive and therapeutic nutraceuticals to promote human health and could open opportunities for consumers to access low cost-effective use of plants as medicine, revalue crops, create new products and open new markets.

摘要

植物是营养保健品/补充剂/植物营养素/次级代谢物的丰富来源。它们的使用和推广涉及许多行业、医疗保健系统和学术活动。然而，这些关键参与者中的许多都外围地参与了其生产、加工和利用背后的科学和政策。在这里，我们将探讨与使用植物及其生物活性化合物促进人类健康和对抗慢性病的科学和创新策略相关的一些关键概念。了解生物活性化合物在不同胁迫条件下如何在植物中生物合成及其对慢性疾病的作用模式是有效利用植物生物活性物质或营养保健品所需的关键要素。