Question

What are secondary metabolites? Enlist them indicating their usefulness to man.

Answer 1

Secondary metabolites are organic compounds produced by bacteria, fungi, or plants which are not directly involved in the normal growth, development, or reproduction of the organism. 
The following are a few of the many secondary metabolites that we can consume to receive health benefits.

CAROTENOIDS

Carotenoids are a class of tetraterpenoids that occur naturally in plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria. Fruits and vegetables are a major source of carotenoids in the human diet. Carotenoids are red, orange and yellow and are the source of the bright colors of pumpkins, sweet potatoes, cantaloupes, papayas and tomatoes. Leafy greens such as spinach are also a major source of carotenoids in the body.

FLAVONOIDS

Flavonoids are a group of phenols that occur naturally in plants. Tomatoes, chocolate, and red wine are a major source of flavonoids in in the human diet. Flavonoids consist of a wide range of colors from pale-yellow to blue. Like carotenoids, flavonoids have antioxidative properties. Free radicals injure endothelial walls of the vascular system and can contribute to atherosclerotic changes.

GLUCOSINOLATES

Glucosinolates are a group of compounds derived from amino acids. Dietary sources include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, collard greens, cabbage, and mustard. Glucosinolates can play a role in cancer prevention by inducing apoptosis. Therefore, glucosinolates can help to regulate the number of reproducing cells in an area of uncontrollable cell growth. 

SAPONINS

Saponins are a group of terpenoids found in the allium species, such as onions and garlic. They are also abundant in legumes, tea and spinach. Saponins promote heart health by binding and removing cholesterol from cell membranes. LDL cholesterol intercalates cell membranes and decreases their flexibility. A rigid vascular system puts pressure on the heart and increases their risk for damage. 

In all, although secondary metabolites play a role in plant defense, they also support human health. Secondary metabolites play a large role in disease prevention, health promotion, and aesthetic properties. New plant species have yet to be discovered and therefore, preserving our natural resources is crucial in making new discoveries about human health and plant compounds.

Answer 2

HLO MATE HERE IS UR ANSWER.

⭐. Metabolic products that do not have in the host organism are called secondary metabolites.

⭐. They are Alkaloids , Flavinoids, Rubber, Essential oils , Antibiotics, Coloured pigments, Scents, Gums and spices.

❤. Alkaloids ❤

• Alkaloids from plants have been used as ingredients in portions (liquid medicine) and poisons.
• Ancients people used plant extracts containing alkaloids for treating a large number of ailments including snake bite, fever and insanity.

❤. Falvinoids ❤

• These are widely distrubed group of polyphenolic compounds with health related properties which include anticancer, antiviral , anti inflamatory activities, effects on capillary fregility and can ability to inhibit human platelet aggregation.

❤. Rubber ❤

• Uncured rubber is used for cements for adhesive , insulating and friction tapes.
• The flexibility of rubber is often used in hose , tired and rollers for a wide variety of devices.
• Its elasticity makes it suitable for various kinds of shock absorbers.
• It is impermeable to gases, it is useful in the manufacture of articled such as air hoses, balloons, bulls and cushions.

❤. Essential oils ❤

• An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants.
• These are also known as volatile oils , etheral oils or aertherolea .
• These are used in aromatherapy.

❤.Antibiotics ❤

• Antibiotics are defined as chemical of natural organic that will kill certain harmful pathogens.
• They should no be toxic or have side effects to the host.
• An antibiotic is a substance that harms or destroys the bacteria that cause infectiom and disease. We take antibiotics to fight bacterial infections.

❤.Spices ❤

• Asafoetida is a good remedy for whooping cough and stomach ache caused due to gas.
• Candamon(elachi) helps to control bad breath and digestive disorder.