Herbs, Spices and Their Roles in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods

Book excerpt: Herbs, Spices and Their Roles in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods gives an overview of the many pharmacological activities associated with herbs and spices, including detailed coverage on their mechanisms and formulations for the food industry. Chapters focus on key ingredients such as Curcuma longa, Piper Nigrum and Trigonella foenum-graecum, with contributors across the globe providing the latest research and advances for each. This is an essential read for scientists who want to understand the fundamental mechanisms behind the bioactive compounds within herbs and spices. The numerous phytochemicals present in plant extracts have multiple pharmacological activities so there is extensive research into new bioactive compounds. The pharmacological activities of herbs and spices have been thoroughly investigated, and it is crucial that the latest research is organized into a comprehensive resource. - Presents chapters that are organized by specific herb or spice, providing comprehensive coverage of mechanism and innovative formulations - Provides in-depth analysis of multiple pharmacological activities - Includes detailed coverage surrounding the food industry