PHYTOPIGMENTS AS THERAPEUTIC LEADS: THE PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVENCE OF NATURAL PIGMENTS

Phytopigments are naturally occurring bioactive compounds responsible for the coloration of plants and play vital roles in photosynthesis and protection against environmental stress.In recent years, these natural pigments have gained considerable attention as promising therapeutic leads due to their broad pharmacological relevance. Major classes of Phytopigments, including carotenoids, chlorophylls, anthocyanins, betalains, and flavonoids, exhibit diverse biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic effects. These pharmacological actions are primarily mediated through modulation of oxidative stress, regulation of cellular signaling pathways, enzyme inhibition, and gene expression control. Increasing evidence from experimental and clinical studies supports the potential of phytopigments as safe and effective agents for the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Advances in extraction, standardization, and formulation technologies have further enhanced their therapeutic applicability. This review highlights the pharmacological significance of phytopigments and underscores their potential as natural, multifunctional drug leads in modern pharmaceutical and nutraceutical development.