Phytochemicals: Investigating Bioactive Compounds for Antifungal Uses and Quality Issues in Functional Foods and Therapeutics
Sonali Dhiman
Abstract
The medicinal potential and functional dietary and nutraceutical uses of phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring substances sourced from plants, have attracted considerable study.With an emphasis on their bioactivity and possible in the fight against fungal infections, this review delves into the various functions of phytochemicals, including terpenoids, saponins, phenolic compounds, coumarins, and alkaloids.Terpenoids, which can be found in plants like Artemisia and Cannabis, have antifungal qualities that show promise.On the other hand, phenolic compounds and saponins are very effective against a variety of fungal infections.Our understanding of natural antifungal mechanisms is further enhanced by coumarins and alkaloids, such as those found in Phyllanthus amarus and Alstonia scholaris.A new avenue for increasing therapeutic efficacy has been identified in the review: the synergistic effects of mixing phytochemicals with conventional antifungal medications.Notwithstanding these benefits, there are still obstacles to overcome in terms of standards, toxicity, and production.Research in the future should be on finding better ways to make phytochemicals, making sure they are of high quality, and looking for new ways to combine them to treat fungal infections.