Metabolism of Phytochemicals

Several phytochemicals have been developed as medicinal compounds. Extensive research has recently been conducted on phytochemicals such as curcumin, resveratrol, catechin, gallic acid, humulone, quercetin, rutin, diosgenin, allicin, gingerenone-A, caffeic acid, ellagic acid, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, chlorogenic acid, and others. All of these phytochemicals are metabolized in the biological system. To study the metabolic pathways of phytochemicals, studies are done using both in vitro and in vivo techniques. Metabolism is critical in determining phytochemical bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and effectiveness. Metabolism can occur in organs such as the intestine, liver, gut, and spleen. The metabolic process is aided by a variety of enzymes, including cytochrome P450 enzymes found in the organs. This study outlines a few phytochemicals metabolic pathways. Tannic acid, ellagic acid, curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol are selected and explained as examples.