Abstract:
Plants are phytochemical hubs containing antioxidants, essential for normal plant
functioning and adaptation to environmental cues and delivering beneficial properties for
human health. Therefore, knowledge of the antioxidant potential of different plant species and
their nutraceutical and pharmaceutical properties is of utmost importance. Exploring this
scientific research field provides fundamental clues on (1) plant stress responses and their
adaptive evolution to harsh environmental conditions and (2) (new) natural antioxidants with
a functional versatility to prevent and treat human pathologies. Algeria is a massive country
with a wide variety of landscapes, ecological zones, nature reserves, and national parks. It is
particularly considered by many to be the most unique natural country in the Mediterranean
with rich plant biodiversity harboring a great antioxidant potential. However, the biodiversity
of these plants is largely unknown and therefore underexploited. This natural antioxidant
reservoir can be valorized via plant-derived foods and products in local areas. Besides
opening new avenues for the implementation of sustainable agroecological practices in crop
production, it will also contribute to new strategies to preserve plant biodiversity and
simultaneously improve nature management policies in Algeria. This study provides an
overview of the beneficial properties of antioxidants for plant protection and human health
and is directed to the valorization of these plant-derived antioxidants, emphasizing the need
for biodiversity conservation practices in Algeria
