Title: Flavonoids As Promising Natural Antioxidants: Mechanisms, Sources, And Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Ahmed Attahiru, Bashar Attahiru, Ahmed Musa Ahmed, and Nafiu Sani Gulumbe
Volume: 9
Issue: 10
Pages: 91-96
Publication Date: 2025/10/28
Abstract:
Flavonoids are one of the largest groups of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds in plants and are widely recognized for their significant contributions to human health. Over the past decades, they have emerged as vital bioactive molecules with diverse pharmacological activities, of which antioxidant capacity remains the most extensively studied and therapeutically relevant. These compounds are highly effective in neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, modulating oxidative stress pathways, and maintaining cellular redox balance. Such properties place flavonoids at the center of natural product research aimed at disease prevention and management. Increasing scientific evidence has highlighted their roles in mitigating the onset and progression of several chronic conditions, particularly cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the antioxidant actions of flavonoids, while also exploring dietary and medicinal plant sources that serve as rich reservoirs of these compounds. Methodology for reviewing the literature is included, outlining systematic database search strategies, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data extraction procedures to ensure comprehensive and unbiased analysis. Furthermore, the article integrates tables and figures that summarize flavonoid subclasses, sources, and therapeutic effects for enhanced understanding. By presenting both preclinical and clinical findings, the review underscores the potential of flavonoids as promising candidates for antioxidant-based therapies. Finally, it discusses prevailing challenges such as low bioavailability, highlights current advances in delivery systems, and identifies gaps in knowledge that require future investigation to fully harness the therapeutic potential of flavonoids.