NEW ERA OF MEDICINE: ROLE OF NUTRACEUTICALS IN TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF VARIOUS DISEASES

Nutraceutical is a term coined to describe substances which are not traditionally recognized nutrients but which have positive physiological effects on the human body. Nutraceuticals are derived from various sources such as medicinal plants, marine organisms, vegetables and fruits. Since ancient times mankind has believed in the role played by the appropriate amount of nutrition in maintaining proper health. In the past few years the increasing interest is seen among the consumers, as they feel that it is a relatively safer way to good health. The potential of nutraceuticals/functional foods/food supplements in mitigating health problems. Nutraceuticals are alternative to modern medicine. Development of better characterized and research proven products will help enhance consumer confidence in nutraceuticals. In this review, an attempt has been made to discuss all aspects of nutraceuticals- definition, categories, classification their use in various diseases.