Man is not tired of unraveling the hidden truths of nature and exploiting them for his welfare. The greenness of nature can be attributed to a variety of interesting organic substances. Role of these plant derived Natural Products in modern medicine is well established. The world market for plant derived chemicals in the field of pharmaceuticals, fragrances and flavours alone exceeds several billion dollar per year and thus the agriculture of the respective plants is of economic importance. Whereas the whole plant is used as a crude drug in many instances, several species are processed after harvest and the phytochemicals of interest are extracted and either used as extracts, mixtures, or as pure compounds. Among the phytochemicals, polyphenols, which form the largest group, play a vital role. More than 4000 chemically unique flavanoids have been identified in plant sources and many a mile stone in the path of scientific research regarding the biological origin and interplay of flavonoids has been achieved and conquered. Flavonoids, particularly those found in black and green tea, onions, red wine, and apples, may protect against damage done by cholesterol and help prevent blood clots. The initial trials of flavonoid supplements revealed that they are effective agents in preventing blood clots. Consumption of tea even a cup a day appeared to help protect against heart disease.
Organosulfurs found in onions and garlic may have beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. It is well documented that human estrogens have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, and soy protein, high in the phytoestrogens isoflavones, has been associated with lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. It is also reported that the well-known protective effect of red wine against cardiovascular disease may be due to the protective effect of a phytoestrogen resveratrol, which is found in grape skin. Our traditional medicines through proper dietary patterns exploited the phytochemicals hidden in the greenness. But in this era, the eating practices have been greatly modified and the intake of phytochemicals has been drastically reduced. A nutraceutical is any food or food ingredient considered to provide medical or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease