Nutraceuticals and Therapeutic Extracts: Bridging Nutrition and Medicine
Introduction In recent years, the intersection of nutrition and medicine has given rise to a new class of health-promoting substances known as nutraceuticals and therapeutic extracts . These bioactive compounds are derived from natural sources, including plants, herbs, and marine organisms, and are recognized for their ability to promote health, prevent chronic diseases, and even support treatment in medical conditions. As consumers seek alternatives to synthetic pharmaceuticals and become more aware of the link between diet and health, nutraceuticals and therapeutic extracts have gained popularity. This article explores their definition, benefits, mechanisms of action, and their role in bridging the gap between traditional nutrition and modern medicine. What Are Nutraceuticals and Therapeutic Extracts? The term nutraceutical is a combination of "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical" and was first introduced by Dr. Stephen DeFelice in 1989. It refers to bioactive ...