Natural products chemical compounds derived from plants, microorganisms, marine organisms, and animals have played a foundational role in the history and advancement of medicine. From ancient herbal remedies to modern pharmaceuticals, nature has provided a rich source of bioactive molecules that continue to inspire the development of life-saving drugs.
Natural products are secondary metabolites produced by living organisms that are not directly involved in growth or reproduction but often play roles in defense, competition, or signaling. These compounds exhibit a vast diversity in structure and biological activity, making them valuable leads in drug discovery.