You must have seen all those plants with bright, vivid colors and pleasant aromas but, do you ever wonder that what gives plants such vibrant colors and aromas? Well, phytonutrients are the ones behind the secret.
What are Phytonutrients?
Phytonutrients, also typically known as ‘Phytochemicals,’ are substances produced by plants. These substances help the plants to thrive pathogens and predators. In addition, they also provide the plants with all the rich colors along with their distinctive aromas and tastes. Apart from these, phytonutrients are packed with surprising health benefits.
Types of Phytonutrients
Phytonutrients are categorized in various families on the basis of their distinguishing properties. However, the most common phytonutrient families include lignins, limonoids, carotenoids, flavonols, isoflavonols, phytosterols, catechins, anthocyanins, and hundreds of thousands more.
A combination of various phytonutrients results in giving a plant its specific color. Take the example of resveratrol, phenolics, anthocyanidins, and flavonoids; these four are responsible for producing blue and purple color in fruits or veggies such as blueberries, purple grapes, eggplant, etc. Along with adding colors, phytonutrients enhance some incredible and extremely healthy nutritious benefits in the plants.
Check the infographic for further details on different colors of plants and which phytonutrients are responsible for it. Also, learn the benefits they provide and incorporate them into your lifestyle for a healthier life.
Infographic by: Balanceofnature.com
