Survival for most plants depends, in part, on the ability to discourage or kill pests. One way most plants do this is by making defensive chemical compounds; this is known as being bioactive. It is through this bioactivity that we find our medicines.

The following are some classes of chemicals found in our garden and, with some exceptions, in most plants. Each compound includes a few realized benefits and some examples of plants containing the compound. There are many more plants and benefits than those listed.

Alkaloids (Stimulant, pain reliever, flavoring)

Coffee sp., Catharanthus roseus, Ilex vomitoria.

Glycosides and glucosides (Antiseptic, cardiovascular therapy)

Asclepias curassavica, Hamelia patens.

Phenols and polyphenols (Laxative, anticoagulant, astringent)

Aloe sp., Monarda sp., Aristolochia sp.

Saponins (Stimulant, anti-inflammatory)

Agave sp., Panax sp.

Essential Oils (Antihistamine, sedative, perfumes, cosmetics,)

Cymbopogon citratus, Pelargonium crispum.