Phenolic compounds are the most abundant secondary metabolites of plants broadly distributed in the plant kingdom. Phenolic compounds are mainly produced through the shikimate and phenylpropanoid pathways, in general have a chemical structure with one or more aromatic rings with one or more hydroxyl groups. The different type of phenolic compound includes phenolics acids, flavonoids, tannins and the less common stilbenes and lignans. These compounds are involved in the plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, such as the protection against solar radiation and strengthen of defense mechanism against pathogens and herbivores. They are responsible for the flower and fruit pigmentation, important aspects for reproduction, and seed dispersal. Plant polyphenols are important in human nutrition and health due to their potent antioxidant properties and effects to prevent oxidative stress.

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